Front Range

Hikes in Front Range

Region in Colorado, United States

Hikes within the Front Range are perfectly balanced between exhilarating summit hikes and family-friendly strolls. This expansive range covers thousands of trails from southern Wyoming all the way down to southern Colorado. Spanning over 482.8 km north to south, there is no shortage of hikes. The diversity of the terrain along the Front Range necessitates assorted adventures of varying difficulties.

Travel through alpine tundra, along grassy meadowlands, or under aspen groves. The Front Range is unique in that it includes different regions with different landscapes and climates. Adventure the Rocky Mountain National Park or the Indian Peaks Wilderness; travel along the Continental Divide or explore river canyons. There is no comparable experience to hiking the Front Range. The only way to describe the Front Range adventures is scenic, diverse, and abundant. You will just have to come see for yourself.

Whether you are seeking a meadowland stroll or a scramble up a technical peak, the Front Range delivers. Inexperienced hikers and avid adventurers alike can enjoy the best of what Colorado has to offer. Hike amongst locals and visitors as you adventure the trails amongst the Front Range.

The 20 Greatest Hikes in Colorado’s Front Range Region

  1. Paradise Cove Swimming Hole Trail - The Paradise Cove Swimming Hole Trail is an epic-adventure the whole family will enjoy. Hike the short, woodland path to a scenic swimming hole, nestled among the granite cliffs of the Guffey Gorge. This excursion is the perfect recovery incubator after a long journey up to Pikes Peak the day before. Veg out and relax next to the jade-colored swimming hole, and if you are feeling daring, jump off the vertigo inducing bluffs.
  2. Mount Evans via Chicago Creek Hike - Hike up to a Colorado 14er. The Mount Evans via Chicago Creek Trail may just be one of the most demanding, but picturesque hikes in the Front Range. Hike up through the postcard-worthy scenery of the Mount Evans Wilderness to the namesake’s summit. Trek past several shimmering blue-hued lakes and through the alpine tundra before ascending Mount Evans. Though challenging, the mountain top vistas are undoubtedly rewarding.
  3. Loch Lomond Trail - Hike the Loch Lomond Trail to a crystalline alpine lake hemmed by snow-dusted, craggy peaks. The Loch Lomond Trail is a shared OHV route through towering pine trees up to the mountain cirque. Hike, bike, or drive, we love this trail because of its versatility. Situated high on the Continental Divide, the lake offers panoramic views of the encompassing peaks and sights of the diverse Colorado landscape below. Don’t forget to bring your fishing rod if you have a permit!
  4. Diamond Peaks Hike - The Diamond Peaks Hike is an exciting backcountry excursion through the Colorado wilderness. Hike the steep, but scenic primitive trail up to the summit of North Diamond Peak and the Montgomery Pass. This stimulating trek will guide adventures through dense woodlands, lush meadows, through alpine tundras, and up steep trails to summit the North Diamond Peak. From atop the mountain enjoy 360-degree panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountainous landscape that flanks the lush subalpine forests below.
  5. Grizzly and Cupid Peaks Hike - Hike the Front Range to not one, but two snow-capped summits. The Grizzly and Cupid Peaks Hike is an ambitious adventure along the Continental Divide to summit the peaks. This excursion is incredibly scenic. Enjoy breathtaking vistas as you make your way along the ridge of the pass and notice the prominent Torreys and Grays Peaks in the distance. Though demanding, this venture to Grizzly and Cupid Peaks is well worth the effort.
  6. Loveland Pass Lake Trail - The Loveland Pass Lake Trail is a family-friendly nature walk nestled among the demanding summit hikes in the area. Admire shimmering alpine lakes that sit in the foreground of the encompassing snow-dusted peaks and consider having lunch in the scenic picnic area. Adventure this hike with your little ones and keep an eye out for pika, marmots and even mountain goats as you walk the path.
  7. Colorado Mines Peak Hike - Explore the Berthoud Pass Automated Weather Observing System atop Colorado Mines Peak. The Colorado Mines Peak Hike is a stimulating adventure along the Berthoud Pass up a winding service road. Navigate the seemingly endless number of switchbacks up to the summit of the Colorado Mines Peak and revel in the expansive mountainous vistas. Don’t forget to check out the weather station equipment that the Colorado Mines School uses to help aviation navigation through the Front Range.
  8. Greyrock Trail - There is no denying that the Greyrock Trail lives up to its name. Hike the meadow-cloaked trail up through an aspen grove to the summit. Explore the pile of granite rocks that structure Greyrock Mountain. Appreciate the grandeur of the surrounding Rocky Mountains and the forested river valleys below. There is no wonder why this trail is so popular, this hike features all the best environments that the Colorado wilderness has to offer.
  9. Blue Lake Hike - The Blue Lake Hike is a stunning adventure through the Roosevelt National Forest. Travel along the soft, forested floor, past a babbling creek and small cascading waterfalls before ascending the rocky ridge to the blue-hued lake. The Blue Lake Trail is a charming family friendly adventure up to Blue Lake, hemmed by craggy peaks. Get an up close and personal view of Cameron Peak and vistas of Clark Mountain in the distance.
  10. Cheesman Canyon Hike - Cheesman Canyon Hike is one of our favorite adventures! Follow the curves of the South Platte River up to the Cheesman Reservoir. Walk along the river’s edge whilst enjoying the tranquility of the running river and sights of anglers fishing the picturesque waters. Thousands of fly fishermen flock to the South Platte River yearly to fish the abundant waters for trout. If you have a permit, bring your fishing rod and join them!
  11. Berthoud Pass Trail - The Berthoud Pass Trail is an unforgettable experience up the Continental Divide. This adventure will guide you up various alpine environments to the pass. Hike through the towering fir and spruce trees before ascending the exposed alpine tundra to the Divide. Trek along the ridge and feel as though you are in a movie as you walk the trail set against the picturesque Colorado backdrop. Surround yourself with the incredibly beautiful scenery and the path will reward you with a new perspective of the Colorado wilderness with every step you take.
  12. Devil’s Head Lookout Trail - Located in the Pike National Forest, the Devil’s Head Fire Lookout is the last of the original seven fire lookouts that dotted the granite peaks in the Front Range. This unique excursion up to the ranger’s cabin and historic fire overlook is an ideal family friendly adventure that kids will love. Blow off some steam as you track up 143 steps to the stunning lookout where you will be rewarded with striking views of the Rampart Ranges and the surrounding Colorado landscape.
  13. Kenosha Pass North Hike - There is no arguing that the Kenosha Pass North Trail is the best place to immerse yourself in the golden aspens in the fall. Bring the whole family on this scenic nature walk through lush aspen groves to a meadow that exposes you to expansive vistas of the encompassing Front Range peaks. Though this trail can be adventured year-round, the autumn vibrance is unforgettable.
  14. Butler Gulch Trail - The Butler Gulch Trail is a scenic expedition through the Arapaho National Forest. The diversity of this hike will astound you, travel up through towering pine and fir trees, past small waterfalls, along a babbling creek up to the alpine tundra. Ascend the timberline and the path will reveal panoramic vistas of the encompassing snow-capped peaks that hem the verdant forested valleys.
  15. Pinewood Reservoir Hike - Hike the shoreline of the Pinewood Reservoir along this family-friendly nature walk. The Pinewood Reservoir offers several outdoor activities that outdoor enthusiasts of all sorts will enjoy, hike, bike, kayak, fish, snowshoe, or canoe. Hike the woodland path around the lake’s edge and bask in the impressive vistas. The Pinewood Reservoir Trail and the surrounding recreational area is ideal for a weekend adventure into nature!
  16. Echo Lake Trail - Located near the Mount Evans Byway, the Echo Lake Park and trail is a popular spot. The Echo Lake Trail is short and sweet. Weave along the shore’s edge and through dense pine forests. This easy to navigate, well-maintained trail is perfect for hikers of all-skill levels and young kids. Adventure this path on your next trip to the Mount Evans Wilderness
  17. Horsetooth Falls Hike - Hike up to Horsetooth Falls and enjoy the ambiance of the waterfall. This adventure is a crowd-favorite in the Horsetooth Mountain Open Space. This trail is the perfect excuse to get your whole family out into nature. Trek the incredibly scenic path along plains abundant with wildflowers, through a pine forest and to a cascading waterfall. Dip your tired toes in the waterfall pool and enjoy the relaxing sounds of the cascading waterfall.
  18. Herman Gulch Trail - Hike the Herman Gulch Trail up to a crystalline alpine lake hemmed by snow-capped mountains. The Herman Gulch Trail is an unforgettable experience up a forested creek valley to unobstructed views of a crystal-clear lake hemmed by the Continental Divide. Challenge yourself as you ascend the rocky terrain to Herman Lake. Explore the lake’s shore and bask in the beautiful scenery that surrounds you.
  19. Mount Flora Hike - The Mount Flora Hike is a wonderfully scenic trail along the ridgeline of the famous Continental Divide. This adventure demands high effort, but the stakes are highly rewarding. The Mount Flora Trail is an unforgettable adventure through the diverse terrain of the Arapaho National Forest and up to the summit Mount Flora. Revel in the expansive panoramic views of the surrounding mountainous landscape from atop the summit.
  20. Chief Mountain Hike - The Chief Mountain Hike is an easily manageable summit adventure in the Front Range region. This excursion ascends the woodlands up to the rocky summit. Navigate the switchbacks up to the peak where you will be rewarded with views of the Mount Evans Wilderness and the dozens of peaks that dot the Colorado landscape below.

Scroll down to see all of the hiking trailers in the Front Range.

When Is the Best Time to Visit the Front Range?

As Coloradans often preach, the state has the best weather all the time. This answer isn’t wrong per se, but it isn’t exactly true. Like the state of Colorado, the Front Range has two major tourist seasons- the winter months and the summer. Each season attracts a different type of adventurer, so depending on what you intend on doing, dictates the best time of year to visit.

The Front Range can be enjoyed year-round, but if you are hoping to backpack, camp, bike, or hike, consider heading out to the mountain range in the summer. Summers in the Front Range region see vibrant wildflowers, verdant vegetation and optimal fishing or swimming weather. It is worth noting that along with the warm air and lush greenery presents the increased possibility of getting caught in an afternoon thunder and lightning storm. These afternoon occurrences are notorious among the sky-scraping peaks in the Front Range.

Our favorite month to visit the Front Range might just be autumn. The thinning crowds and the crispness of the fall air appeals to us. Enjoy the sights of the vibrant aspen trees and trek along the crispy leaves that line the paths. Note that the autumn at high elevation warrants snowfall so though it may be warm at the trailhead, an autumn summit hike will usually culminate on a snow-dusted peak.

The winter months are equally as busy as the summer months in the Front Range. Adventurers trade their hiking boots for snowshoes or skis as they explore the snowy mountain range. There are plenty of ski resorts that litter the Front Range region and intrepid adventurers can even backcountry ski down the impressive peaks. The Colorado Front Range is a crowd-favorite for a reason, and the versatility of its peaks attract adventurous spirits year-round.

Other Outdoor Activities in the Front Range

The Front Range offers much more than just breathtaking wilderness hikes and summit treks. There are outdoor activities to satisfy all sorts of outdoor enthusiasts, and hiking is just one. There are plenty of exciting opportunities to participate in, like off-roading up one of many certified OHV summit trails, backcountry skiing down the Berthoud Pass or snowshoeing through Homestead Meadows.

There are also many reservoirs, alpine lakes, and rivers perfect for fishing! The Cheesman Canyon is not only an awesome hike, but a renowned fishing destination. Like we said, this region has it all and will please all sorts of adventurous spirits.

Frequently-Asked-Questions About the Front Range

How long is the Front Range?

The Front Range is approximately 482.8 km long. The Front Range spans from Casper, Wyoming all the way down to Pueblo, Colorado.

How many peaks are there in the Front Range?

There are 917 named mountains in the Front Range.

What is the highest peak in the Front Range?

Grays Peak is the highest mountain in the Front Range that stands at about 4,352 m in elevation. Grays Peak is also the highest summit along the Continental Divide.

What is considered the Front Range?

The Front Range includes the Rocky Mountain National Park, Indian Peaks Wilderness, Medicine Bow, Laramie Mountains, Pikes Peak, Mummy Range, and more. The expansive mountain range also borders the cities of Denver, Fort Collins, Boulder, and Colorado Springs.

Is Breckenridge the Front Range?

Yes, Breckenridge Mountain is located within the Front Range region. The Breckenridge Ski Resort’s highest summit peaks at 3,962 m, awarding it the title of the highest ski resort on the Front Range.

Adventures Tours in Colorado

Bummer, we have yet to create a Front Range adventure package…ensure to keep an eye out as we are working to add more tours in the area! Until then, take a look at our other epic Colorado Adventure Tours, like the Rocky Mountain National Park Hiking Tour.

Find other amazing hiking regions in Colorado

Download the 10Adventures App

View Hikes in Front Range on Map

View Map

Best Hikes in Front Range

Showing 141 to 160 of 203
    Open details for Disappointment Falls via Molly Lake Road

    Disappointment Falls via Molly Lake Road

    Easy
    7.7 km
    205 m
    2-2.5h

    The Disappointment Falls via Molly Lake Road Hike is a stunning adventure through the Cache La Poudre Wilderness. Escape into nature as you hike along the diverse terrains Colorado has to offer. This stimulating adventure is a wonderful day-hike for the whole family.

    User Ratings
    No Reviews
    Open details for Gateway Natural Area Overlook Trail

    Gateway Natural Area Overlook Trail

    Very Easy
    1.3 km
    54 m
    0.5h

    The Gateway Natural Area Overlook Trail is a short but sweet walk to a scenic overlook of the Cache La Poudre River and Canyon. Revel in the vertiginous cliffs that line the river valley and enjoy the views of the mountainous landscape.

    User Ratings
    No Reviews
    Open details for Wintersteen Trail

    Wintersteen Trail

    Easy
    6.6 km
    139 m
    1.5-2h

    The WIntersteen Trail is an impressively diverse adventure that the whole family will enjoy. Hike along the Cache La Poudre River up to a rushing dam and along the shoreline of the Seaman Reservoir. This excursion is great for hikers of all skill-levels and kids!

    User Ratings
    No Reviews
    Open details for Cirque Meadows Hike

    Cirque Meadows Hike

    Easy
    11.6 km
    269 m
    3-4h

    The Cirque Meadows Hike is a stunning woodland adventure through the Comanche Peak Wilderness. Hike through the forestlands, past a waterfall, along a stream and to an open meadow. This scenic adventure deserves to be savoured, consider camping at one of seven backcountry campsites that dot the meadows.

    User Ratings
    No Reviews
    Open details for Limber Pine Trail

    Limber Pine Trail

    Moderate
    12.1 km
    361 m
    3-4.5h

    The Limber Pine Trail is a stunning nature hike through diverse landscapes to a breathtaking overlook. This unique trail will guide adventurers through meadows, aspen groves, past granite outcropping and up to Kreuger Rock. From the summit revel in the impressive lookout over Estes Park from high above.

    User Ratings
    No Reviews
    Open details for Pole Hill Hike

    Pole Hill Hike

    Easy
    6.8 km
    180 m
    1.5-2.5h

    Shared with off-road vehicles and mountain bikers, the Poll Hill Trail is an epic adventure to satisfy outdoor enthusiasts of all sorts. If you are seeking an awesome outdoor adventure, then immerse yourself in nature along the Poll Hill Hike.

    User Ratings
    No Reviews
    Open details for Moose Meadows Hike

    Moose Meadows Hike

    Very Easy
    6.6 km
    152 m
    1.5-2h

    Leave the city in the rear-view mirror and escape into nature as you adventure the Moose Meadows Trail. This excursion in the Hermit Park Open Space is a wonderful nature hike that the whole family will love! Enjoy the stunning mountainous scenery and abundant wildflower fields.

    User Ratings
    No Reviews
    Open details for Lion Gulch to Irvin Homestead Hike

    Lion Gulch to Irvin Homestead Hike

    Moderate
    14.8 km
    545 m
    4-6h

    Lion Gulch to Irvin Homestead Hike is a scenic adventure up a forested gulch to a meadow dotted with historic homesteads. History buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike will be impressed by this scenic trail. Hike through the beautiful Colorado greenery alongside a creek, up beneath an aspen grove to the ruins set against a mountainous backdrop. This hike checks all the boxes.

    User Ratings
    No Reviews
    Open details for Saddle Rock via Button Rock Trail

    Saddle Rock via Button Rock Trail

    Hard
    3.4 km
    354 m
    1.5-2h

    If you are seeking an exciting adventure in the Colorado wilderness, then you may have found your match. Scramble up through the ponderosa pines to Saddle Rock via Button Rock Trail. This excursion is not for the faint of heart, so make sure you are prepared to do some off-roading and scrambling if you attempt this exciting trail.

    User Ratings
    No Reviews
    Open details for Button Rock Mountain Trail

    Button Rock Mountain Trail

    Moderate
    14.2 km
    442 m
    3.5-5h

    Put your navigational skills to the test as you maneuver the network off trails that lead up to the summit of Button Rock. The Button Rock Mountain Trail is a stimulating adventure through the Roosevelt National Forest that will guide you through diverse Colorado terrains up to a stunning overlook. Lace up those hiking shoes and get your GPS ready!

    User Ratings
    No Reviews
    Open details for Stout Loop Trail

    Stout Loop Trail

    Easy
    9.5 km
    349 m
    2.5-3.5h

    The Stout Loop Trail is one of many adventure opportunities in the Horsetooth Mountain Open Space. Hike through grassy meadows, along pine lined trails and up to a stunning overlook of the Horsetooth Reservoir below and the Horsetooth Rock towering above. This charming route packs a punch.

    User Ratings
    No Reviews
    Open details for Shoreline Loop Trail

    Shoreline Loop Trail

    Very Easy
    6.0 km
    177 m
    1.5-2h

    The Shoreline Loop Trail is a wonderful excursion that the whole family will enjoy. Hike the meadowland trail alongside horseback riders and bikers! Enjoy views of the encompassing rolling hills and the shimmering reservoir. This adventure is a great excuse to get out into nature.

    User Ratings
    No Reviews
    Open details for Horsetooth Rock via Wathan Trail

    Horsetooth Rock via Wathan Trail

    Moderate
    14.0 km
    673 m
    4.5-6h

    The Horsetooth Rock vis Wathan Trail is a diverse hike through several types of terrains. Hike through grassy meadows, along rocky creeks and up under the coverage of ponderosa pines. This exciting adventure culminates at Horsetooth Rock, which overlooks the Horsetooth Reservoir and Fort Collins.

    User Ratings
    No Reviews
    Open details for Horsetooth Rock Loop Trail

    Horsetooth Rock Loop Trail

    Moderate
    12.7 km
    594 m
    4-5.5h

    Hike through the Horsetooth Mountain Open Space and through a network of trails up to the summit of Horsetooth Mountain. The Horsetooth Rock Loop Trail is one of many scenic adventures in the Open Space, but with the perfect ratio of scenery and strenuous terrain, this one is at the top of our list.

    User Ratings
    No Reviews
    Open details for Stout Trail via Horsetooth Falls

    Stout Trail via Horsetooth Falls

    Easy
    11.4 km
    383 m
    3-4.5h

    Travel through all the best scenery that the Horsetooth Mountain Open Space has to offer. The Stout Trail via Horsetooth Falls is a scenic adventure the whole family will enjoy. Explore the cascading waterfalls before trekking through the grassy meadows, abundant with vibrant wildflowers and set against the mountainous Colorado backdrop. Lace up your shoes! What are you waiting for?

    User Ratings
    No Reviews
    Open details for South Ridge Hike

    South Ridge Hike

    Moderate
    7.9 km
    424 m
    2.5-3.5h

    The South Ridge Hike is a more technical adventure in the Horsetooth Mountain Open Space. Ascend the rocky terrain up the south side of Horsetooth Mountain and revel in the expansive scenery along the way. If you are seeking a more challenging excursion in the Open Space, then consider the South Ridge Trail.

    User Ratings
    No Reviews
    Open details for South Ridge and Audra Culver Hike

    South Ridge and Audra Culver Hike

    Moderate
    7.6 km
    369 m
    2.5-3.5h

    The South Ridge and Audra Culver Hike is an awesome introductory hike for those seeking to train for more intense summit hikes in the Front Range. Hike through the Horsetooth Mountain Open Space and ascend the rocky ridge to the summit Horsetooth Mountain. The rewarding views will make up for the effort.

    User Ratings
    No Reviews
    Open details for Inlet Bay Trail

    Inlet Bay Trail

    Very Easy
    6.9 km
    84 m
    1.5-2h

    The Inlet Bay Trail is an easy out-and-back excursion in the Horsetooth Mountain Open Space. Hike it or bike it—this trail is a perfect excuse to get the family out into nature. Enjoy the sights of Horsetooth Rock towering above as the trail weaves you between meadows and alongside the shore of the shimmering reservoir.

    User Ratings
    No Reviews
    Open details for Ginny and D.R Trail

    Ginny and D.R Trail

    Moderate
    16.6 km
    524 m
    4.5-6h

    The Ginny and D.R Hike is an exciting adventure through the Bobcat Ridge Natural Area. Living up to its name, don’t be surprised if you see a bobcat or mountain lion as you traverse this trail. The dry climate is inviting these and many other types of Colorado wildlife.

    User Ratings
    No Reviews
    Open details for Eden Valley Hike

    Eden Valley Hike

    Very Easy
    5.8 km
    94 m
    1.5-2h

    The Eden Valley Hike is an undulating path that will guide you across the Bobcat Ridge Natural Area. Short and sweet, this adventure is ideal for family adventure into the wilderness. Kids will love the rocks sculpted with wildlife that line the path.

    User Ratings
    No Reviews

    Essential Tools for Any Adventure

    Find a hotel in some of the most beautiful locations on earth.

    Book your own car to have complete freedom on your next adventure.

    Gear-up for your next adventure.

    This page may include affiliate links. We may get a small commission for the purchases made through these links at no additional cost to you.
    We only recommend tools we personally think are great.

    Detailed Route Guides
    Real GPS Coordinates
    Reliable Trail Reports
    Experienced-Based Travel Tips
    GPS App
    Extensive Travel Guides

    Subscribe to our newsletter

    Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

    Tours

    Routes

    Blogs