Colorado is absolutely chock-full of amazing places to hike, camp, rock climb, and other adventure sports. Whether you visit for business or pleasure, finding time for at least a couple of hikes will greatly enhance your trip. It’s hard to choose just a few trails because they are countless all over the state, but here are three of the best to check out.
Royal Arch
Located at the century-old Chautauqua nature and culture center, the Royal Arch is a popular hiking destination among locals and tourists alike. The natural arched rock formation is found at the top of several different trails, where you can see amazing views of the Flatirons. Be sure to look at a map of the trails and plan your route up from the Chautauqua Trailhead.
Ouray Perimeter Trail
With amazing views of the town of Ouray’s amazing pastoral environment, this trail is great for both longer and shorter hikes: since it’s a loop around town it’s possible to just hike smaller sections of the trail rather than going all the way around. This one features many awesome natural phenomena such as natural pools, caves, and waterfalls.
Rattlesnake Canyon
If you love desert views and getting away from society, then this is a great place to start. You’ll need to drive off-road or hike over from another trail just to reach this hiking area, which features sandstone-layered rock and the red-orange marvel of pure desert.