Fort Collins – Greyrock Mountain
This strenuous 7.6 mile hike outside of Fort Collins, CO features some gorgeous and expansive 360 degree views from the summit into Rocky Mountain National Park and the surrounding mountains.
Category: Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests
Indian Peaks Wilderness – Blue Lake
The 5-mile out-and-back hike to Blue Lake is absolutely beautiful, with views of multiple alpine lakes along the way. The destination in particular is striking and photogenic, a dark blue lake above the treeline, surrounded by twelvers and thirteeners.
Indian Peaks Wilderness – Mount Audubon Attempt
Mount Audubon is a serious thirteener and we can only recommend it for experienced hikers. The breathtaking views near the summit are worth the climb. However, between the high winds and rocky trail, be prepared for some uncomfortable conditions to get there.
Indian Peaks Wilderness – Lake Isabelle Wildflowers
Lake Isabelle is a beautiful alpine lake all on its own, but if you’re a fan of wildflowers, the hike to and around the lake features an amazing variety of wildflowers in the summertime. The Jean Lunning Trail that skirts Long Lake on the way out in particular is a wildflower goldmine.
Indian Peaks Wilderness – Lake Isabelle & Isabelle Glacier Trail
Lake Isabelle is a stunning alpine lake, and any hike that includes it is bound to be amazing. Adding different views of the lake by hiking further on Isabelle Glacier Trail further enhances the experience. The wildflowers are amazing now, and should reach peak bloom in the next couple weeks.
Indian Peaks Wilderness – Buchanan Pass Trail & Red Deer Lake Backpacking Trip
Our trip backpacking in the Indian Peaks Wilderness section of Buchanan Pass Trail was perfect in every way. We got plenty of exercise, were close to a water source, had amazing views of the mountains and sky from our meadow campsite, saw the Milky Way, and encountered wildlife.
RMNP – Twin Sisters Peaks
This hike featured some of the best panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains that we’ve seen since moving to Colorado. From such a high vantage point, it’s amazing how much you can see in all directions.
Indian Peaks Wilderness – Snowshoeing to Brainard Lake and Long Lake
I would definitely recommend this snowshoe trek to anyone who wants to go a bit further than Brainard Lake. You can see one more gorgeous alpine lake and get even more great exercise.
Indian Peaks Wilderness – Coney Flats Trail Snowshoeing Adventure
Our Colorado Mountain Club Snowshoeing Routes of Colorado’s Front Range book recommended Coney Flats Trail for snowshoeing, so we decided to give it a go. This was the first trail we went on with my new Sony telephoto lens, and I was excited to test it out.
Indian Peaks Wilderness – Brainard Lake Showshoe Trail
The Brainard Lake Snowshoe Trail is an excellent place to visit for beginner snowshoers. The terrain is not difficult, the length of the trail enough for good exercise without getting exhausted, and the alpine scenery is beautiful.