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    Best hikes in Indian Peaks

    Hikes in Indian Peaks Wilderness

    Region in Colorado, United States

    Straddling the Continental Divide, and covering the spectacular Front Range just to the south of the Rocky Mountain National Park, the Indian Peaks Wilderness is one of the best places for outdoor adventures in Colorado. This rugged wilderness is characterized by jagged, windswept peaks, serene alpine lakes and lush forest, which you can explore on 133 miles of beautiful hiking trails. Hiking in the Indian Peaks Wilderness is an adventure you’ll never forget.

    So-named for the Native American tribes that once gave their names to many of the peaks of the Front Range, the Indian Peaks Wilderness is a remarkable part of Colorado, and one of the best hiking destinations in the region. You’ll have the opportunity to hike through a remarkable landscape, passing from dense, atmospheric forests to windswept alpine tundra and rocky ridges. The highest point in the area is North Arapaho Peak, which tops out at an elevation of 4115m – as you may imagine, the views here will take your breath away.

    This remarkable region is known for its unusual flora and fauna, including many stunted trees and alpine plants that have learned how to survive in the stark conditions of the alpine tundra. If you’re lucky, you’ll also have the opportunity to spot amazing animals such as moose, black bears, and mountain lions.

    The Indian Peaks Wilderness area is a remarkable, rare and important wild landscape in the United States. Hiking here is a real privilege, and an opportunity to witness the natural world at its most beautiful. If you’re tempted to explore this majestic region, don’t hesitate! To give you a little inspiration for your next adventure, we’ve put together a list of all of the best trails and places to visit in the Indian Peaks Wilderness.

    Top Hikes In The Indian Peaks Wilderness

    As the name suggests, the Indian Peaks Wilderness is the perfect place to get away from it all and out into the wild! This vast, lush country is the ideal place to reconnect with nature and experience some of Colorado’s most beautiful landscapes. You’ll find rugged trails that climb high into the mountains, passing pristine alpine lakes and wildflower-strewn meadows. These strenuous hikes are perfect if you’re looking for a challenge or a place to get into training for one of Colorado’s epic 14ers.

    However, you don’t need to be a particularly fit or experienced hiker to enjoy a little of what this beautiful region has to offer. You’ll find plenty of short, family-friendly and easy hikes that provide some jaw-dropping mountain views, without the need to expend too much effort. Whatever your age or hiking ability, the Indian Peaks Wilderness has a trail for you!

    Easy Hikes In The Indian Peaks Wilderness

    Rainbow Lakes Trail Hike: This family friendly trail is one of the best easy hikes in the Indian Peaks Wilderness! The route packs plenty of incredible sights into a short distance, passing by four scenic mountain lakes. These lakes are surrounded by dense forests, rushing creeks, and lush marshland, creating a beautiful setting for a relaxing hike.

    Family Hikes In The Indian Peaks Wilderness

    Lost Lake Hike: This easy, family-friendly hike is perfect for an afternoon out with the kids! The trail begins at the historic mining town of Hessie Townsite, before passing through a series of pretty aspen and pine groves. This relatively easy hike offers spectacular views for relatively little effort, making this one of the best family hikes in the Indian Peaks Wilderness.

    Day Hikes In The Indian Peaks Wilderness

    Lone Eagle Peak Hike: This stunning hike is one of the best day hikes in the Indian Peaks Wilderness! The rugged trail passes through picturesque scenery and past tumbling waterfalls, before arriving at Lone Eagle Peak. The mountain is perfectly reflected in the crystal waters of the lake, creating one of the most dramatic and beautiful views in Colorado. Bring a picnic and linger a while to admire this incredible scenery.

    Challenging Hikes In The Indian Peaks Wilderness

    Arapaho Glacier Trail Hike: This strenuous hike will lead you all the way to an incredible viewpoint overlooking the Arapaho Glacier, with a vista that extends over the Continental Divide and the Indian Peaks Wilderness. The route passes from a dense pine forest to an open path above the treeline, offering fabulous views as you hike. This is a tough hike, so make sure you come prepared: bring hiking poles, plenty of water, and be prepared for high winds on the exposed trail.

    Other Great Hikes In The Indian Peaks Wilderness

    Diamond Lake Trail Hike: This beautiful route will take you all the way to a stunning alpine lake with unparalleled views over the mountains. The trail ascends gently through a fragrant pine forest before descending into a valley and crossing a picturesque creek. The hike up the other side of the valley is a pure delight, and the reward is the beautiful Diamond Lake, which reflects the surrounding peaks like a mirror.

    Pawnee Pass Hike: This strenuous hike is an Indian Peaks classic, and a wonderful way to experience the breathtaking scenery of the Continental Divide. The trail begins by rising gently to Long Lake, before proceeding to a series of steep switchbacks and emerging at a scenic alpine meadow. Here, above the treeline, the views are extraordinary, and just keep getting better and better as you hike. The rocky, rugged terrain of the Continental Divide makes this route somewhat challenging, but the views make it one of the best hikes in the Indian Peaks Wilderness.

    Blue Lake Trail Hike: This lovely route to Blue Lake passes through some of the most picturesque alpine meadows in Colorado. The trail is littered with gorgeous wildflowers, which makes this one of the best hikes in the Indian Peaks Wilderness. Blue Lake is your destination, and it’s a fitting reward for your exertions, with the looming Mount Toll towering in the background.

    Long Lake Trail Hike: This short, easy hike is perfect whatever your age, fitness level or hiking ability. The trail skirts around Long Lake, passing through lush wildflower meadows. You’ll enjoy fabulous views over the Indian Peaks Wilderness, but this easy route won’t sap your energy. Make sure to start early to avoid getting caught in any afternoon storms.

    Lake Isabelle Trail Hike: This beautiful trail will take you all the way to a stunning alpine lake with views over the Isabelle Glacier. It’s a deservedly popular route, and widely considered one of the best hikes in Indian Peaks Wilderness, so get here early to avoid the crowds! At the lake you’ll have a remarkable view of Navajo Peak, which dominates the mountain cirque. Make sure to come prepared for all weather conditions, as this trail is somewhat exposed to the elements.

    Lake Dorothy Hike: Lake Dorothy is one of the prettiest lakes in the Indian Peaks Wilderness, sitting at the base of Mount Neva, and surrounded by some truly fabulous mountain scenery. This route ascends gradually through a dense, scented pine forest, before reaching a flat alpine meadow with expansive views over the Indian Peaks Wilderness. The route is long and strenuous in places, but the sight of the gorgeous lake at your destination is worth all the effort!

    When Is The Best Time To Hike In The Indian Peaks Wilderness?

    The Indian Peaks Wilderness straddles the Continental Divide, offering some truly spectacular hiking territory. Like other high-elevation regions, the best time to hike in the Indian Peaks Wilderness is between May and October, when the trails are free of snow, the weather is warm and sunny, and you’ll be able to enjoy this wild country at its best! Spring can be somewhat wet and muddy, and late snows can often disrupt higher-elevation hikes. July and August are the most popular months for hiking, but the trails can be busy, and you may need to plan well in advance to secure backcountry permits. When autumn comes and the leaves turn, the region glows with golden colors and the trails are much quieter, so we think this is perhaps the best time to hike in the Indian Peaks Wilderness area. In winter the park is covered in snow, but this leaves plenty of opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing!

    Other Outdoor Activities In The Indian Peaks Wilderness

    Hiking and backpacking are some of the most popular things to do, but if you’re looking for other outdoor activities in the Indian Peaks Wilderness, you won’t have to look very far! This stunning natural region is the perfect place to try your hand at trail running and rock climbing, as well as wildlife watching and stargazing. In winter, the landscape is transformed by heavy snow, creating a magical winter wonderland where you can go snowshoeing, cross-country and downhill skiing, snowboarding and ice climbing. Whatever time of year you visit, there’s an outdoor adventure for you.

    How To Plan A Trip To Indian Peaks

    If the Indian Peaks Wilderness is on your hiking bucket list (and we think it should be), it’s time to start dreaming of the trail! Our guide to planning a trip to the Indian Peaks Wilderness should be your first port of call for all the information you’ll need to start planning your trip. We’ve put together tips on how to get there and around the region, where to stay, and all the best hiking trails in the area. All you need to do is grab your gear and start dreaming of your next wilderness adventure!

    Frequently-Asked-Questions About Indian Peaks

    Do you need a permit to go hiking in the Indian Peaks Wilderness?
    The Indian Peaks Wilderness is a fragile, protected area, and during peak season there are certain restrictions placed on larger hiking groups. You’ll need a permit to stay overnight in the Indian Peaks Wilderness between June 1 and September 15.

    How did the Indian Peaks Wilderness get its name?
    The Indian Peaks Wilderness is named for the eight well-known peaks in the region, which took their name from the different Native American tribe who previously lived there.

    How big is the Indian Peaks Wilderness?
    The Indian Peaks Wilderness covers 77,932 acres of spectacular landscapes, including mountains, streams, lakes, and hiking trails. It covers part of the Continental Divide, and part of the Rocky Mountain National Park, and is most located within the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests.

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    Best Hikes in Indian Peaks Wilderness

    Showing 1 to 20 of 63
      Open details for Lone Eagle Peak Hike

      Lone Eagle Peak Hike

      Very Hard
      24.4 km
      624 m
      6-8.5h

      Lone Eagle Peak is a rugged hike, but it’s also one of the best hikes in Colorado. You’ll walk past many waterfalls including Cascade Falls. At the end, you’ll see Lone Eagle Peak towering over Mirror Lake and dominating the mountain landscape. This beautiful reflection makes it one of the most scenic views in Colorado.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      10.0
      Technical Difficulty
      Intermediate (Square)
      Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Advanced (Diamond)
      Suitable for advanced experience level looking for a solid adventure.
      Open details for Arapaho Glacier Trail

      Arapaho Glacier Trail

      Very Hard
      20.9 km
      851 m
      6-8.5h

      The hike on this high alpine trail leads you to an overlook of Arapaho Glacier and one of the best views of the Continental Divide and Indian Peaks. Trail ends at the saddle of South Arapaho Peak. It’s a tough hike though; you'll want to bring hiking poles for this one.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      10.0
      Technical Difficulty
      Intermediate (Square)
      Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Advanced (Diamond)
      Suitable for advanced experience level looking for a solid adventure.
      Open details for Lake Dorothy

      Lake Dorothy

      Hard
      12.5 km
      594 m
      4-5.5h

      This hike through the Indian Peaks has an awesome reward: Lake Dorothy. Lake Dorothy is a beautiful alpine lake at the base of Mount Neva. The stunning mountain backdrop of Mount Neva is something special.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.8
      Technical Difficulty
      Intermediate (Square)
      Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Intermediate (Square)
      Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
      Open details for Lake Isabelle Trail

      Lake Isabelle Trail

      Moderate
      16.0 km
      354 m
      4-5.5h

      The fantastic Lake Isabelle trail is one of the best Nederland hikes, and one of our favorites in the Indian Peaks Wilderness! You’ll need to arrive early, as the parking lot tends to fill up very quickly in peak season; however, this beautiful alpine lake with views of the Isabelle Glacier is well worth the trouble.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.8
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Open details for Lost Lake Hike

      Lost Lake Hike

      Easy
      6.8 km
      248 m
      2-2.5h

      This is a popular, family-friendly hike, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth checking out. Lost Lake is a moderately easy hike that begins at the historic Hessie Townsite (an old mining town, high in the Rocky Mountains). This hike offers a lot of bang for your buck: not a lot work for a lot of great sights.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.6
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Open details for Pawnee Pass

      Pawnee Pass

      Hard
      18.7 km
      529 m
      5-6.5h

      This is a burly hike that can be done as either a long day-hike, or it can be stretched out into a multi-day backcountry camping trip, with access to the Continental Divide. There’s lots of elevation to be gained, so be prepared.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      10.0
      Technical Difficulty
      Intermediate (Square)
      Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Intermediate (Square)
      Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
      Open details for Long Lake Trail

      Long Lake Trail

      Very Easy
      6.5 km
      38 m
      1.5-2h

      This is a short and relatively easy hike with mild elevation gain. What’s even better is that it also offers amazing views around a scenic, lower alpine lake. This is a hike for all ages.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.1
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Open details for Blue Lake Trail

      Blue Lake Trail

      Easy
      6.0 km
      195 m
      1.5-2h

      The Blue Lake Trail in Indian Peaks, Colorado, is an epichike that takes you through some of the best alpine meadows in the region. We hope you like wildflowers because in the summer this trail has them in spades. To top it off, the grand finale of this trek is the beautiful Blue Lake with Mount Toll sitting in the background.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.8
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Open details for Diamond Lake Trail

      Diamond Lake Trail

      Moderate
      9.9 km
      361 m
      3-4h

      Diamond Lake Trail is a nice, half-day hike that takes you out to a crystal clear alpine lake with stunning mountain views. We love this longer hike because the terrain is exciting, and Diamond Lake is remarkable. We recommend putting in the hours for this trek. It’s worth it.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.7
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Open details for Rainbow Lakes Trail

      Rainbow Lakes Trail

      Very Easy
      5.0 km
      84 m
      1-1.5h

      The Rainbow Lakes Trail is a nice family-friendly hike that will - in a short amount of time - take you to four scenic mountain lakes. The trailhead leaves at the Rainbow Lakes Campground, so if you want to plan a trip with the kids, this is a great activity to wear off all those s’mores you ate the night before.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.9
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Open details for Brainard Lake Hike

      Brainard Lake Hike

      Easy
      10.1 km
      169 m
      2.5-3h

      The Brainard Lake Hike delivers panoramic views of Brainard Lake, Indian Peaks, the Continental Divide and surrounding alpine forests! This popular trail is spectacular in the summer but can be equally enjoyed in the winter as a snowshoeing trail in the off-season.

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      Open details for Devil’s Thumb Pass

      Devil’s Thumb Pass

      Hard
      11.1 km
      672 m
      4-5.5h

      Steep and scenic are two words often used to describe the Devil’s Thumb Pass hike. Reserved for experienced hikers, this trail is not for the faint of heart. A lengthy and steep ascent through pine forests and meadows rewards hikers with breathtaking views above the tree line. The Devil’s Thumb Pass is a demanding excursion that summits the Continental Divide.

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      Open details for Blue Lake and Little Blue Lake Hike

      Blue Lake and Little Blue Lake Hike

      Moderate
      10.6 km
      440 m
      3-4.5h

      The Blue Lake and Little Blue Lake Hike is a perfect excursion for adventurers who appreciate the ambiance of a serene lake and babbling brook but crave the excitement of scrambling and going off the beaten path. This trail is a perfect balance between tranquil and exhilarating. Starting the trek through pine woodlands, the trail progresses through wildflower meadows, past waterfalls and lakes, over rocky ridges and exposes 360° panoramic views of the Indian Peaks and the Continental Divide.

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      Open details for Stone Lake and Upper Lake Trail

      Stone Lake and Upper Lake Trail

      Hard
      19.3 km
      1,186 m
      6.5-9.5h

      Stone Lake and Upper Lake Trail is a gratifying hike in Indian Peaks Wilderness. The extreme elevation gain is no joke; this trail is not for the faint-hearted! However, the steep climb through lush pine forests and rocky terrain is well worth the effort when Stone Lake reveals an awe-inspiring view of the Continental Divide and Indian Peaks. It’s a tough hike, so you’ll want to bring your hiking poles for this one!

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      Open details for King Lake Hike

      King Lake Hike

      Moderate
      19.6 km
      775 m
      5.5-8h

      King Lake Hike is a stunning day hike up the boundary of the continental divide. Challenging, but not exhausting, this is a great excursion for novice and experienced hikers alike. The King Lake Hike can be enjoyed year-round with proper snowshoes and equipment but is most frequented in the summer months. Surprisingly, King Lake is one of the most popular fly-fishing destinations in the Indian Peaks Wilderness.

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      Open details for Corona Lake Trail

      Corona Lake Trail

      Very Easy
      3.2 km
      137 m
      1-1.5h

      Adventure to the Corona Lake Trail in the James Peak Protection Area, you will not be disappointed. Flanked by the Continental Divide in the west, this short trail outshines many with its unparalleled vistas of the mountain ranges and alpine lakes. Laden with fresh streams and wildflowers, the walk to the vantage point is just as picturesque.

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      Open details for Strawberry Lake Hike

      Strawberry Lake Hike

      Easy
      6.0 km
      272 m
      2-2.5h

      Strawberry Lake Hike is a perfect adventure through shaded lush woodlands to a quintessential alpine lake. Ensure to watch your step when you approach the lake as it is surrounded by fragile wetlands! Don’t worry though, there is a dock that allows visitors to revel in the dramatic backdrop of Colorado snow-dusted summits without compromising the integrity of the delicate environment. This hike is definitely one for the books.

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      Open details for Mitchell Lake Trail

      Mitchell Lake Trail

      Very Easy
      2.9 km
      68 m
      0.5-1h

      Mitchell Lake Trail will guide visitors through the picturesque alpine forests toward awe-inspiring views of the lake and the Indian Peaks. Suitable for hikers of all skill levels and ages, this trail is a crowd favorite! As you progress along the path be on the lookout for wildlife as hikers often encounter moose in this area. Snap a few pictures but maintain a safe distance from these large creatures!

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      Open details for Monarch Lake Hike

      Monarch Lake Hike

      Very Easy
      6.4 km
      85 m
      1.5-2h

      Monarch Lake Hike is simple and enjoyable. The easy hike up to the lake does not mean that it won’t deliver amazing sights. This family friendly trail passes through shaded aspen forests, over creeks and along the shoreline of the lake. Be sure to pack a swimsuit on a warm day, as the lake is quite refreshing! If you prefer winter outings, the Monarch Lake Hike is a great option for a snowshoe and cross-country skiing excursion!

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      Open details for Buchanan Pass and Camp Dick Hike

      Buchanan Pass and Camp Dick Hike

      Easy
      13.3 km
      307 m
      3-4.5h

      The Buchanan Pass and Camp Dick Hike is a stimulating trail interspersed with dense forests and expansive meadows. Following the curves of the St. Vrain creek, hikers are treated to the calming ambiance of babbling waters as they ascend towards Buchanan Pass. With limited elevation gain, this trail is great for novice hikers and families! This hike is a tad lengthy so make sure to pack snacks and water to refuel! Four-legged friends are also more than welcome, as long as they stay on-leash!

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