Bear Peak (8,459′) and South Boulder Peak (8,549′) are two of the highest and most famous peaks in the Boulder area. Any permutation of doing Bear Peak, South Boulder Peak, or both is a strenuous hike with gorgeous views at the top to reward you for your efforts of climbing up a few thousand feet. This 7.15-mile, 3,400’+ elevation gain loop hike that includes both Bear Peak and South Boulder Peak was both beautiful and a great workout.
The Arthur’s Rock – Howard Trail loop at Lory State Park is 4.2 miles long with 1,233 ft elevation gain. The path is relatively straightforward and the moderate climb offers great views of Horsetooth Reservoir and Fort Collins below.
Although some of the most striking scenery that I’ve seen before on these trails was not fully visible on this hike due to snowy conditions, the hike retained its charm as a beautiful winter hike. It was made all the better with great company – the Boulder Hiker Chicks!
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.
McIntosh Lake is a scenic lake located in Hygiene, CO that is half surrounded by housing, half by farmland. It has excellent views of the Front Range, particularly Rocky Mountain National Park and the towering Mt. Meeker and Longs Peak.
Since moving to Colorado, we’ve seen so many wonderful places. Every time I go out on a new trail, and even on trails I’ve hiked several times, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for being able to live here and experience these hikes. I’m sure 2020 will also be filled with wonderful adventures.
You may have noticed that uploads to this website have stalled for a while. Back on October 16 my mother passed away suddenly and unexpectedly from a heart attack. It’s been a difficult time for us all.
Nearly every new hike we go on in Rocky feels like we’ve discovered a special place, but Thunder Lake in particular was one of the most beautiful alpine lakes we’ve seen so far in RMNP, and in Colorado. This 13-mile hike is not one to miss.
A relatively easy, and even family-friendly hike, Herman Gulch Trail provides a range of jaw-dropping views of the Continental Divide mountains. The beauty of the area is well known, leading to high traffic on the trail, but it is definitely a place that is worth going to see.
Although the hike to the summit of Flattop Mountain is strenuous, when you get there, the 360 views of the Rocky Mountains on both sides of the Continental Divide are amazing. The Emerald Lake Overlook on the way is itself also a great hiking destination.
