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Elk Mountains

Hikes in Elk Mountains

Activities in Elk Mountains

Arguably one of the most picturesque mountain ranges in all of Colorado, the Elk Mountains are a rugged stretch of peaks and valleys that sit on the western edge of the Continental Divide, close by to the ski resort towns of Aspen and Crested Butte. While there are plenty of popular mountains to be climbed throughout the range, the tallest are its 6 fourteeners: Castle Peak, Maroon Peak, Capitol Peak, Snowmass Mountain, Pyramid Peak, and North Maroon Peak.

Historically, the area was central to the various Colorado silver rushes that occurred during the 1800s; however, after that industry collapsed, the towns and mining settlements fell into a state of decline. It was only during the 20th Century, when ski resorts began to crop up, that the area began to prosper once again. Nowadays, the Elk Mountains are a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, and are situated within the White River National Forest, Gunnison National Forest, Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, and Raggeds Wilderness areas.

10 Amazing Hiking Routes In the Elk Mountains

Featuring dramatic mountain peaks, beautifully scenic valleys, and charming alpine lakes, the Elk Mountains are a true hikers paradise. Throughout this breathtaking area you will find a wide variety of hiking trails that range from beginner strolls along the riverbank to challenging summits of some of the most difficult fourteeners in the State of Colorado. If you are looking to plan a fun outdoor adventure in Colorado, but aren’t sure where to start, then check out this awesome list of hiking routes in the Elk Mountains below:

  • Capitol Peak Hike: Featuring challenging mountain terrain and breathtaking alpine views, the Capitol Peak Hike will lead you to the summit of arguably the toughest fourteener in Colorado, and is only recommended for very experienced climbers.
  • Oh Be Joyful Trail: This charming long-distance adventure will lead you uphill through a valley that is flanked by rugged mountain peaks, to arrive at the shores of a serene alpine lake with stunning views of the surrounding area.
  • Green Lake Trail: Another fun journey to a lovely lake, this hiking route will take you from the town of Crested Butte to the shores of Green Lake that sits nestled beneath the looming slopes of Mount Axtell.
  • Lost Lake Trail: This quick and easy adventure is perfectly suited for a fun family excursion, as the trail will lead you around several woodland lakes to arrive at the secluded shores of Lost Lake that lies between two hills.
  • Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail: As the name implies, the Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail is one of the most scenic hikes in the Elk Mountains that is geared towards casual adventurers, as it leads around the shores of Maroon Lake for stunning alpine views.
  • Devils Punchbowl Waterfall Trail: This short trail will take you through the mountains along a rugged ATV road in order to experience the views overlooking a series of stunning waterfalls.
  • Anthracite Pass Hike: Located in the Raggeds Wilderness Area, this stunning hike will take you uphill through beautiful aspen groves and serene meadows for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains from Anthracite Pass.
  • Crystal City Road #314: A fun route that sets out from the town of Marble, this hike will see you traverse a rugged road through the mountains to reach an historic mill from 1892 that sits precariously above a river.
  • Brush Creek Trail: A popular hiking route for casual outdoor enthusiasts and families with children, the Brush Creek Trail will take you through the valley floor alongside the East River for views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Smuggler Mountain Overlook Trail: A quick and relatively easy hike in Aspen, the Smuggler Mountain Overlook Trail will lead you up a winding road to an observation deck with stunning views looking out across this iconic ski resort town.

When is the Best Time to Hike in the Elk Mountains?

While there might be a small number of trails that are available for hiking in the winter, the best time to visit the Elk Mountains for a fun hiking trip is during the summer months, after the threat of avalanche conditions has gone away and the ski season is over. During the May-October period, a good portion of the snow along the trails will have dissipated to reveal lovely alpine valleys and peaks for climbing; however, some of the higher elevation trails will only be available for a brief window between July and August.

Other Outdoor Activities in the Elk Mountains

While hiking is the primary activity in the Elk Mountains during the summer months, there are a wide variety of other exciting things to do in the area, such as mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, swimming, canoeing, and kayaking. When the vast blankets of snow and ice cover the region in the winter, the focus of outdoor activities shifts largely to skiing/snowboarding on the rugged mountain slopes and cozying up in the lodge afterwards for a warm drink!

Fantastic Adventure Tours Near the Elk Mountains

Hiking through the breathtaking terrain of the Elk Mountains is an amazing experience, and for some outdoor enthusiasts, planning that adventure is all a part of the journey; however, if you are unfamiliar with the area it can be a tricky thing to navigate. If you are looking to explore the dramatic mountain peaks and stunning alpine valleys of Colorado without the hassle of planning every little aspect of your journey, why not check out one of these amazing adventure tours in Colorado and leave the leg work to the professionals.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Elk Mountains

Is Crested Butte in the Elk Mountains?

The mountain peak of Crested Butte and the town located along its lower slopes can be found in the Elk Mountain Range of Colorado.

What mountain range is Maroon Bells in?

The Maroon Bells (Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak) are two mountain peaks that can be found within the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area of the Elk Mountain Range.

Is Aspen in the Elk Mountains?

The Elk Mountains are arguably the most picturesque in Colorado, and can be found close to the ski resort towns of Aspen and Crested Butte.

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Route guides for Hiking in Elk Mountains

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Elk Mountains

Crystal City Road #314 Route Guide

The Crystal City Road #314 is a great hiking route in Marble, Colorado that follows along a mountain road to reach a historic site. While out hiking the trail, you will gain elevation along the rugged road as it runs parallel to the Crystal River, passing through the mountains to arrive at the site of an old mill dating to 1892. Walkers should take note that this route is not accessible during the winter months due to dangerous conditions.
Moderate
14.5 km
424 m
3.5-5h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Capitol Peak Hike Route Guide

The Capitol Peak Hike is a rugged and extremely difficult hiking route in the Elk mountains of Colorado that will take you up to the summit of the toughest fourteener in the state. While out hiking the trail, you will trek across the landscape to Capitol Lake, before climbing up a steep saddle and traversing a dangerous ridge to reach the summit. Hikers should take note that this is an extremely challenging route that should only be undertaken by experienced climbers, as it has seen a number of fatalities due to the rugged and exposed nature of the terrain.
Very Hard
24.3 km
1,533 m
8.5-12h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Oh Be Joyful Trail Route Guide

The Oh be Joyful Trail is a wonderfully scenic, long distance hiking route in the Elk Mountains of Colorado that will take you up to a charming lake. While out walking the trail, you will pass through a valley that is flanked by rugged mountain peaks, as you follow the Oh Be Joyful Creek up to the tranquil shores of Blue Lake. This route and the surrounding area are not accessible in the winter months, due to snowy and dangerous conditions.
Hard
22.4 km
697 m
6-8.5h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Green Lake Trail Route Guide

Hiking the Green Lake Trail is an exceptional outdoor activity in Crested Butte, Colorado that will see you climb uphill through the forest to reach a charming lake. While out on the trail, you will leave the town behind and traverse the serene woodlands, working through several tough climbs to reach the shores of Green Lake beneath Mount Axtell. This is a beautifully scenic route that can only be done in the summer months due to dangerous avalanche conditions in the area.
Moderate
13.7 km
553 m
4-5.5h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Lost Lake Trail Route Guide

Hiking the Lost Lake Trail is a fantastic outdoor experience in Mesa Lakes, Colorado that the entire family will be able to enjoy. While out on the trail, you will pass through tranquil stretches of woodland terrain while experiencing beautiful views overlooking several emerald lakes spread throughout the area. This is a great trail, but you will definitely want to bring plenty of bug repellent to keep the critters at bay!
Easy
5.6 km
131 m
1.5-2h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall Trail Route Guide

The Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall Trail is a short, albeit extremely rugged, adventure near Crystal, Colorado that will take you along a rocky ATV road to reach a series of waterfalls. While out on the trail, you will carefully navigate a rugged mountain road and keep an eye out for passing vehicles, before arriving at the scenic location of the cascading Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall. Although this route is pretty short and the elevation gain is fairly low, this route is still not suitable for children, due to the rugged nature of the ground underneath.
Easy
3.5 km
155 m
1-1.5h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail Route Guide

Hiking the Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail is a spectacular family-friendly adventure near Aspen, Colorado that will take you around the shores of a charming lake with views of nearby mountain peaks. While out on the trail, you will skirt around the edge of Maroon Lake and pass by a beaver dam, taking in the amazing Rocky Mountain views as you complete a short loop over some rapids along Maroon Creek. Although there is ample parking at the trailhead, you will likely want to arrive early to beat out the crowds and enjoy the scenic views.
Easy
3.1 km
49 m
0.5-1h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Anthracite Pass Trail Route Guide

The Anthracite Pass Trail is a gorgeous hiking route in the Raggeds Wilderness Area of Colorado that will take you uphill through the forest for stunning views of the valley. While out on the trail, you will leave the banks of the Crystal River behind, climbing uphill through beautiful aspen trees and several steep inclines for views of the impressive mountains nearby. The best time for this hike is during the fall, when the changing colors of the leaves blanket the surrounding landscape in a myriad of reds, oranges, and yellows.
Moderate
10.6 km
639 m
3.5-5h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Smuggler Mountain Overlook Trail Route Guide

The Smuggler Mountain Overlook Trail is a great little hike in Aspen, Colorado that will take you up the mountainside for views of the town and surrounding area. While out hiking the trail, you will make your way along Smuggler Mountain Road as it winds uphill towards the observation deck, where you will enjoy stunning views of the surrounding Elk Mountains. While this route isn’t a true hike due to the nature of the trail being a dirt road, the views are breathtaking and absolutely worth an afternoon of exploring Aspen.
Moderate
4.3 km
238 m
1.5-2h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Ashcroft Ghost Town Hike Route Guide

The Ashcroft Ghost Town Hike is a short adventure south of Aspen, Colorado that will take you through an historic site surrounded by mountain views. While out walking this trail, you will meander along the streets of a forming silver mining town that was abandoned in 1885, investigating the various buildings that stand as a reminder of the fleeting nature of the mining booms experienced in the region. This quick and informative walk is perfectly suited for a fun family adventure in the Elk Mountains.
Very Easy
0.6 km
10 m
0.5h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Nolan Lake Trail Route Guide

The Nolan Lake Trail is an exceptional adventure in Colorado that will take you to the shores of a charming lake set in the mountains. While out hiking the trail, you will climb uphill through the forest alongside Nolan Creek, passing by mature aspen trees and scenic mountain views, before arriving at the shores of Nolan Lake. This route features a good amount of elevation gain and an intermediate length, making it suitable for casual hikers looking to push themselves.
Hard
9.8 km
519 m
3-4.5h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Huntsman Ridge Trail Route Guide

The Huntsman Ridge Trail is a great hiking route near Marble, Colorado that will take you uphill above McClure Pass for some great views of the surrounding mountains. While out on the trail, you will climb up the steep trail through dense aspen groves, traversing the ridgeline before arriving at a scenic meadow with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. This hike is entirely uphill; however, the grade of the slope evens out further along the trail and there are some great places to pause for a rest on the way up.
Moderate
6.9 km
513 m
2.5-3.5h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Brush Creek Trail Route Guide

The Brush Creek Trail is a great family-friendly hiking route near Crested Butte, Colorado that will lead you through a valley for beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. While out on the trail, you will traverse the lower slopes of Crested Butte and follow along the banks of the East River, enjoying views across the valley that encompass nearby peaks like the Teocalli and White Rock Mountains. This is a laidback route that will certainly make for a fun day outdoors.
Easy
7.7 km
114 m
1.5-2.5h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Whetstone Vista Loop Route Guide

The Whetstone Vista Loop is a pleasant hiking route in Crested Butte, Colorado that will see you traverse a forested hillside for views across the Slate River Valley. While out hiking the trail, you will meander uphill along the lower slopes of Crested Butte Mountain, passing through the tree cover to enjoy beautiful views of nearby Whetstone Mountain. The latter portion of this trail does follow alongside the road, so make sure that you are being mindful of passing vehicles, especially if children or dogs are present.
Moderate
4.3 km
159 m
1-1.5h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

The Copper Creek Trail to Copper Lake Route Guide

The Copper Creek Trail to Copper Lake is a lengthy hiking route near Gothic, Colorado that will take you along a creek to visit a charming mountain lake. While out hiking the trail, you will take in the cascading waters of Judd Falls, before following along Copper Creek as it gradually climbs through the mountains to reach Copper Lake. Hikers should take note that this route is inaccessible during the winter, as the area is blanketed in snow and conditions are dangerous.
Moderate
19.3 km
741 m
5.5-7.5h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Kebler Pass and Lake Irwin Hike Route Guide

The Kebler Pass and Lake Irwin Hike is a short adventure in the Elk Mountains of Colorado that features a scenic lake and views of the surrounding mountains. While out hiking the trail, you will work your way around the shores of Lake Irwin, taking some time to visit a small waterfall at its north end before looping around the south side and taking in the views of nearby peaks. Lake Irwin is also a popular spot for paddleboarding, so if you feel like heading out onto the water then don’t forget your gear.
Easy
3.5 km
30 m
0.5-1h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Gothic Mountain via Trail 403 Route Guide

The Gothic Mountain via Trail 403 is a fun, albeit challenging, adventure in the Elk Mountains of Colorado that will lead you up a rugged summit with stunning views of the Rockies. While out hiking the trail, you will trek through the subalpine and work your way over three false summits before reaching the top of Gothic Mountain. Hikers should take note that this route is closed during the winter months due to dangerous conditions.
Hard
12.2 km
914 m
4.5-6.5h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Kannah Creek Trail Route Guide

The Kannah Creek Trail is a lengthy and physically demanding adventure in Grand Mesa National Forest that will see you gain considerable elevation through rough terrain. While out hiking the trail, you will climb uphill through the forests alongside Kannah Creek, gaining over 4200ft of elevation to arrive at Carson Lake. Hikers should take note that this is a very long and arduous journey, and while it can be done in a single day for those with great physical fitness, many people break it up into a multi-day backpacking trip.
Hard
26.1 km
1,281 m
8-11.5h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Judd Falls Trail Route Guide

The Judd Falls Trail is a laidback adventure near Gothic, Colorado that features beautifully scenic views of the surrounding Elk Mountains and the chance to visit a cascading waterfall. While out on the trail, you will wind through some light forest cover to the southeast, before arriving at the viewpoint overlooking Judd falls along Copper Creek. This quick and easy route is perfectly suited for a fun family adventure.
Easy
3.5 km
141 m
1-1.5h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Crag Crest National Recreation Trail Route Guide

The Crag Crest National Recreation Trail is an amazingly scenic hiking route in the Elk Mountains of Colorado that will take you uphill for sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. While out on the trail, you will climb uphill to traverse a long ridge that offers an amazing sightline over the surrounding forests and lakes, before looping around through the terrain that you had just surveyed from above. The undulating terrain and beautiful lakeside scenery make for a fun day on the trails near Grand Mesa, Colorado.
Moderate
16.6 km
472 m
4-6h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Crested Butte to Aspen via West Maroon Pass Hike Route Guide

The Crested Butte to Aspen via West Maroon Pass Hike is a challenging, yet beautifully scenic adventure in Colorado that will take you through a rugged mountain pass for amazing views. While out hiking the trail, you will steadily climb uphill and make the steep push up through West Maroon Pass, before descending alongside West Maroon Creek to the Maroon Bells Recreation Area. Hikers should take note that this is a one-way trail, meaning that you will need to either utilize a shuttle from the Maroon Bells Recreation Area or arrange a pick up.
Hard
16.6 km
683 m
5-7h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Mesa Lakes Trail Route Guide

The Mesa Lakes Trail is a great family-friendly hiking adventure in Mesa Lakes, Colorado that will provide scenic views of several emerald lakes. While out hiking the trail, you will meander along a relaxing woodland pathway, while taking in the views of Mes Lake, South Mesa Lake, and Lost Lake. With several campgrounds nearby, this is a fantastic adventure to combine with a fun weekend of camping in the Colorado wilderness.
Easy
4.5 km
121 m
1-1.5h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Peanut Lake Lower Loop Route Guide

The Peanut Lake Lower Loop is a fun intermediate length hike from Crested Butte that offers beautiful views of Peanut Lake and the surrounding mountains. While out walking the trail, you will traverse the valley floor alongside the Slate River, taking in the picturesque views as you pass by Peanut Lake and gaze out upon Snodgrass Mountain. This is a great hike if you are looking for a longer route that isn’t too difficult to complete.
Easy
11.8 km
145 m
2.5-3.5h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Beaver Ponds 516 Trail Route Guide

The Beaver Ponds 516 Trail is an amazing hiking route in the Elk Mountains of Colorado that is perfectly suited for a fantastic family adventure. While out walking the trail, you will climb uphill through a wonderfully atmospheric stretch of forest, before visiting a series of charming ponds along the lower slopes of Ohio Peak. This is a fantastic route if you are simply looking to get outdoors and enjoy reconnecting with nature.
Easy
1.6 km
75 m
0.5h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Pyramid Peak Trail Route Guide

The Pyramid Peak Trail is a challenging hiking route in the Elk Mountains of Colorado that will take you up to the summit of an ultra-scenic fourteener. While out hiking the trail, you will make your way across a rocky ravine and climb up a steep switchback trail to a cirque, before traversing boulder fields and scrambling up to the summit of Pyramid Peak for spectacular views. Hikers should take note that this is a very challenging route that should only be undertaken by those with plenty of experience. Additionally, you will need a vehicle permit if you are planning on driving into the trailhead.
Hard
11.6 km
1,341 m
5.5-8h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Capitol Creek Trail Route Guide

The Capitol Creek Trail is a challenging hiking route in the Elk Mountains of Colorado that should only be undertaken by experienced outdoor enthusiasts. While out on the trail, you will hike through a beautifully scenic valley alongside Capitol Creek to reach Capitol Lake, before traversing a mountain pass to the west for stunning views of Capitol Peak. Although it may be long and difficult, the landscape views on this epic adventure are truly breathtaking.
Hard
26.7 km
1,594 m
9-13h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Lindley Hut and Cooper Creek Road Hike Route Guide

The Lindley Hut and Cooper Creek Road Hike is a fairly laid back outdoor experience near Ashcroft, Colorado that will lead you into the mountains along an old mining road. While out hiking the trail, you will follow along Cooper Creek Road as it winds uphill towards Lindley Hut to offer some splendid views across the valley and its mountainous surroundings. Although this route does feature a moderate amount of elevation gain, it is still easy enough for a fun family adventure.
Moderate
10.1 km
355 m
3-4h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Three Lakes Trail Route Guide

The Three Lakes Trail is an amazing family-friendly adventure in the Elk Mountains of Colorado that will take you around several charming lakes with mountain views. While out hiking the trail, you will meander along the shores of Lost Lake Slough, before climbing uphill past the edge of Lost Lake and Dollar Lake. This is a fantastic hiking route through the forest that is perfect no matter your age or skill level.
Moderate
5.5 km
157 m
1.5-2h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Schofield Pass to Crystal Mill Hike Route Guide

The Schofield Pass to Crystal Mill Hike is a scenic trail in the Elk mOuntains of Colorado that will lead you along a rugged off-road vehicle route to reach an interesting historical site. While out hiking the trail, you will head through Schofield Pass and take in the views of Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall, before arriving in the small village of Crystal to view an historic mill from 1892. Although this route follows a road, the surface is very rough and rocky, making sturdy hiking boots a necessity.
Hard
10.1 km
432 m
3-4h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Lost Lake Campground Walk Route Guide

The Lost Lake Campground Walk is a short adventure in the Elk Mountains of Colorado that will lead you along well-maintained paved pathways through the forest. While out on the trail, you will leave the shores of Lost Lake Slough behind and follow the path through a stretch of light forest. This is an extremely easy hiking route that is suitable for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels.
Very Easy
0.6 km
6 m
0.5h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Crested Butte Upper and Lower Loop Route Guide

The Crested Butte Upper and Lower Loop is a great hiking trail outside of Crested Butte, Colorado that will lead you through a valley for scenic views of the surrounding Elk Mountains. While out on the trail, you will hike through the valley alongside the banks of the Slate River, before looping around to traverse the foothills of Mount Emmons on the return leg. This moderate length route doesn’t feature much in the way of elevation gain, making it suitable for casual adventurers.
Moderate
7.4 km
103 m
1.5-2h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Castle and Conundrum Peaks Hike Route Guide

The Castle and Conundrum Peaks Hike is an exceptional hiking route in Colorado that will lead you to the tallest summit in the entire Elk Mountains Range. While out on the trail, you will hike alongside Castle Creek and traverse permanent snowfields on the way to the basin, where you will then climb to the top of a rugged ridge that will lead you to the summit. This is a beautifully scenic trail; however, the dramatic terrain and permanent snow fields along the route mean that it is suitable only for very experienced hikers.
Hard
19.8 km
1,521 m
7.5-11h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Turkey Flats Loop Trail Route Guide

The Turkey Flats Loop Trail is a wonderful intermediate length hiking route in Colorado that will lead you through a beautiful stretch of woodland terrain in the Grand Mesa National Forest. While out hiking the trail, you will traverse some undulating terrain and take in the natural beauty of the forest, before visiting the Fruita Reservoir No. 1 on the return leg. This is a great adventure if you are looking to lose yourself and reconnect with nature.
Moderate
14.2 km
350 m
3.5-5h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Scarp Ridge to Mt Emmons Hike Route Guide

The Scarp Ridge to Mt Emmons Hike is a rugged adventure in the Elk Mountains of Colorado that will take you along a ridgeline for summit views. While out hiking the trail, you will climb sharply uphill from the Lake Irwin Lodge in order to reach the top of Scarp Ridge, before following it east to the breathtaking summit of Mount Emmons for views of the surrounding landscape. This trail is only accessible in the summer month, as snowy conditions in the winter make the area prone to avalanches.
Moderate
13.4 km
786 m
4.5-6.5h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Snodgrass Mountain Trail Route Guide

The Snodgrass Mountain Trail is a spectacular hiking route in the Elk Mountains of Colorado that will provide a nice challenge and offer lovely valley views. While out hiking the trail, you will work your way uphill through meadows and woodlands, enjoying the intermittent views of the surrounding area before arriving at a summit that lacks a proper viewpoint. This is a great trail for casual and seasoned outdoor enthusiasts alike, although it should be noted that the route is closed in the winter due to snowy conditions.
Moderate
9.3 km
486 m
3-4h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Walrod Loop Trail Route Guide

The Walrod Loop Trail is a fun hiking route near Crested Butte South, Colorado that will take you uphill above a valley for views overlooking Cement Creek. While out hiking the trail, you will make a steep ascent of the hillside to visit a series of rock caves, before traversing the elevated positions and making the return loop through the valley alongside Cement Creek. There isn’t much protection from the sun on this trail, so be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and water!
Moderate
7.2 km
311 m
2-3h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Beckwith Pass Trail Route Guide

The Beckwith Pass Trail is a pleasant hiking route in the Elk Mountains of Colorado that will lead you through charming meadows and aspen stands for beautiful views of the surrounding area. While out on the trail, you will leave behind the shores of Lost Lake Slough to traverse the rolling hills, forests, and creeks of the surrounding landscape. This is a fantastic intermediate length trail without much in the way of challenging terrain if you are simply looking to get out and explore nature.
Moderate
10.3 km
270 m
2.5-3.5h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Woods Walk Route Guide

The Woods Walk is a laid back, family-friendly adventure in the Elk Mountains of Colorado that will take you from the town of Crested Butte to Peanut Lake. While out hiking the trail, you will work your way through lovely forests and some open grassy stretches of land, before taking in views overlooking the waters of the lake. This is a great trail if you are looking to stretch your legs outdoors without straying too far from town.
Easy
4.7 km
54 m
1-1.5h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Copley Lake via Gunsight Pass Trail #585 Route Guide

The Copley Lake via Gunsight Pass Trail #585 is a fun, albeit steep, hiking route in the Elk Mountains of Colorado that will see you climb sharply uphill to reach the serene shores of a small lake. While out hiking the trail, you will traverse the forests and meadows alongside Elk Creek, climbing uphill until you arrive at the picturesque subalpine destination of Copley Lake. If you don’t mind a bit of leg burn, this is an exceptional hiking route with spectacular views.
Moderate
6.0 km
340 m
2-3h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Dark Canyon Trail Route Guide

The Dark Canyon Trail is a rough and rugged journey through the Elk Mountains of Colorado that is only suitable for very experienced hikers. While out on the trail, you will climb uphill through the canyon alongside the waters of Anthracite Creek, working your way through the rugged terrain of the mountains while enjoying wonderfully scenic views of the surrounding peaks. As this is a one-way trail, you will need to arrange a pick up at the endpoint of the route, or else you will need to back track the entire distance to return to your vehicle.
Hard
21.2 km
10,399 m
32-45.5h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Dark Canyon, Irwin, and Dyke Loop Trail Route Guide

The Dark Canyon, Irwin, and Dykle Loop Trail is an exceptional excursion in the Elk Mountains of Colorado that will produce stunning views of the surrounding mountain landscape. While out hiking the trail, you will climb uphill through the forest across some rugged mountain terrain, enjoying lovely views of the surrounding landscape through the intermittent breaks in the aspen trees. You will certainly want to wear proper hiking boots, preferably a waterproof paor, as the terrain here is fairly rugged and often muddy.
Moderate
9.5 km
450 m
3-4h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Lupine, Gunsight, Connection, and Lower Loop Trail Route Guide

The Lupine, Gunsight, Connection, and Lower Loop Trail is a lengthy adventure in the Elk Mountains of Colorado that will take you around the edges of a valley for scenic views. While out hiking the trail, you will leave the town of Crested Butte behind and head to the northwest, enjoying the views of Mount Emmons and other nearby peaks as you loop around the valley and traverse the slopes on either side. While this is a long hike, it can also be broken up into a multi-day adventure with an overnight stay at the Oh Be Joyful Campground.
Hard
21.2 km
420 m
5-7h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Lost Lake and Mesa Lakes Hike Route Guide

The Lost Lake and Mesa Lakes Hike is a fantastic outdoor excursion in Colorado that will lead you around the shores of several woodland lakes. While out hiking the trail, you will meander past Mesa Lake and Mesa Lake south, before climbing slightly uphill to reach the secluded Lost Lake. Hikers should take note that, although the trail is fairly laid back, there are still some sections of uphill walking along rugged terrain that will require proper footwear.
Moderate
3.5 km
129 m
1-1.5h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Granby Reservoirs from Island Lake Hike Route Guide

The Granby Reservoirs from Island Lake Hike is a laidback adventure in Colorado that will take you along a forest service road to visit several charming lakes. While out hiking the trail, you will cut across the undulating woodland landscape along a well-maintained road, before taking in the beauty of a number of bodies of water, including the Granby Reservoirs. This is a great route if you are looking for a bit of a longer route through the forest without a lot of difficulty.
Moderate
13.2 km
236 m
3-4h
No Ratings
Elk Mountains

Lake of the Woods Trail Route Guide

The Lake of the Woods Trail is a great adventure near Grand Mesa, Colorado that offers a fantastic variety of terrain and some pleasant views. While out hiking the trail, you will traverse plenty of woodland terrain, cross several streams, and make your way through lovely meadows on the way to the shores of Cottonwood Lake. Be sure to bring plenty of bug spray for this hike, as there will certainly be plenty of critters along the trail.
Moderate
14.5 km
286 m
3.5-4.5h

1-45 of 62 routes

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