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Colorado Backpacking Tours

Explore the Rocky Mountains on an all-inclusive adventure into Rocky Mountain National Park or the Flat Tops.

Our Colorado backpacking program focuses on two areas that provide quite different experiences. First is Rocky Mountain National Park, the heart of the Colorado Rockies. Backpacking in “Rocky” features amazing high country views, pristine creeks and lakes, and a stunning section of the Continental Divide. The other area we offering backpacking trips in Colorado is the Flat Tops Wilderness in the west-central part of the state. “The Flat Tops” massif is a tremendous high mountain plateau that towers up to 12,000+ feet, and is characterized by alpine lakes, creeks, solitude and pristine wilderness.

We’ve listed our Colorado backpacking trips below, and you can always give us a call at 800-715-HIKE (4453) 7 days a week to learn more!

Colorado Backpacking Trips

Longs Peak Loop

Across the Divide

Thunder Lake

Alpine Peaks, Lakes and Waterfalls Thru Hike

Rocky Mountain High Alpine Adventure

Wild Basin Explorer

Flat Tops Explorer

Chinese Wall Loop

Colorado backpacking.

There is no better way to enjoy Colorado's amazing Rocky Mountains than on a backpacking trip. Escape the cities, highways and crowds, and venture into a land of creeks, lakes, waterfalls, wildlife and intense natural beauty.

More About Colorado Backpacking Trips

The Colorado Rockies are best explored on foot from June through September. Depending on the snow pack, June can be too early, but July through September are months you can 100% count on. The busiest month of the year for backpacking in Colorado is July, and you’ll find fewer other groups in the backcountry in August, especially after the first week. September is often overlooked as a month for mountain backpacking, but for guides and locals it’s one of the best. You can often have the mountains much to yourself, the rut is on and elk can be bugling, towards the end of the month the willows and Aspen leaves are changing colors, and early in September the temperatures are usually perfect for hiking and backpacking.

THE WILDLAND COLORADO BACKPACKING EXPERIENCE

Wildland Trekking started in 2005 as a backpacking company – it was our first niche. Since then we’ve expanded to offer llama treks, portered treks, inn-based tours, camping-based tours and day hikes. Hiking and trekking are still our specialty, and Colorado is a perfect destination for us because on foot is the best way to discover the Rocky Mountain State.

Our backpacking tours are all-inclusive, so you can focus 100% on enjoying your experience. The guides do all of the cooking, water filtering…etc., giving guests time to relax in the evenings and soak up the magic of their surroundings. (Wildland Trekking meals by the way are famous for being exceptional!) We also handle local transportation, permits, fees and more so you don’t have to. If hiking with experts and letting them handle the tedious details of planning a trip sounds good, then a Wildland backpacking trip is your answer.

SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS

The main safety considerations on backpacking trips in Colorado are black bears and thunderstorms.

First we’ll address bears. We carry all food in bear-proof containers called bear canisters, and the guide carries bear spray a proven deterrent. We also keep very clean camps, travel in groups, and make noise when moving through thick willows or foliage.

Now for thunderstorms. These are most dangerous when above treeline in the alpine zone. Most of our trips venture into or across the alpine zone at various times. Some of these forays are day hikes from a base camp to summit a peak or reach a high pass, and others are with full packs moving camp to a new location. The key strategy to keeping guests and staff safe from thunderstorms is to get an early start and be back in the trees before the storms begin, which is usually in the afternoon. The guides check the weather forecast before the trip begins and have a good idea of the timing that’s needed to maximize safety. If we’re caught above treeline by a quickly approaching thunderstorm, we will get back down into the trees as quickly as possible via the most immediate route.

WHAT’S INCLUDED & NOT INCLUDED

Our backpacking tours include nearly everything. We provide you with top-of-the-line gear from brands like Deuter, Osprey, Mountain Hardward, Thermarest, Kelty, Big Agnes and MSR. These items include a multi-day backpack, tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, bear canisters, kitchen equipment, water filter and more. The few things that we ask guests to provide are a headlamp and water bottles (2 liters), and personal items like clothing, rain gear, footwear…etc.

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Learn how to backpack in the Colorado wilderness:

Get Outdoors

Safely. confidently. guided..

On your guided trip you will learn how to backpack into the Colorado wilderness, stay overnight and return with confidence.

All trips include a drink & cheese meet-and-greet a few days ahead of time, including a gear review of your essential backpacking equipment.

• Include a meet-up in Denver beforehand to coordinate and check gear
• Involve an overnight in the wilderness
• Are limited to a small number of backpackers
• May allow for exclusive groups
• Require some key personal gear

WHAT’S NOT COVERED

• Sherpa services
• Guaranteed bigfoot or UFO sightings

On your trip you will learn how to backpack into the wilderness, stay overnight and return with confidence.

This includes hands-on instruction ahead of time on choosing solid gear, adopting the right approach to your adventure, and practicing the core skills needed to backpack safely in the Colorado wilderness.

• Include an overnight in the wilderness
• Are limited to a small number of hikers
• Require independent travel to the trailhead

WHAT IS NOT COVERED

Overnight Backpacking Adventures

High valley overnight, difficulty: easy, super fun, waterfalls distance: near trailhead (<1 mile) elevation gain: 603 ft. (183 m) elevation loss: 132 ft. (40 m) altitude avg: 9,835 ft. (2,998 m).

DIFFICULTY:   DISTANCE: 1.62 miles (2.61 k) per day ELEVATION GAIN: 425 ft. (130 m) ELEVATION LOSS: 617 ft. (188 m) ALTITUDE AVG: 11,191 ft. (3,411 m)

DIFFICULTY:        DISTANCE: 3.26 miles (5.25 k) per day ELEVATION GAIN: 1,526 ft. (465 m) ELEVATION LOSS: 546 ft. (166 m) ALTITUDE AVG: 10,839 ft. (3,304 m)

ON THE UFO TRAIL

Difficulty: distance: 3.04 miles (4.89 k) per day elevation gain: 568 ft. (173 m) elevation loss: 114 ft. (35 m) altitude avg: 11,472 ft. (3,497 m), holy cross wilderness, difficulty:     distance: 4.12 miles (6.63 k) per day elevation gain: 705 ft. (215 m) elevation loss: 779 ft. (237 m) altitude avg: 10,429 ft. (3,179 m).

PORCUPINE LAKE

Difficulty:     distance: 5.06 miles (8.38 k) per day elevation gain: 2,557 ft. (779 m) elevation loss: 1,140 ft. (347 m) altitude avg: 11,123 ft. (3,390 m).

CAMP HALE HIGHLANDS

Difficulty:       distance: 15.2 miles (24.46 k) total elevation gain: 4,532 ft. (1,381 m) elevation loss: 4,374 ft. (1,333 m) altitude avg: 11,087 ft. (3,379 m).

MULTI-DAY ADVENTURES

Adventures spanning several or more days are available. each trip is personalized based on individual or group skill level. some prior backpacking experience is recommended., coming soon.

At night the wilderness transforms into a place rarely experienced by humans. Otherworldly and dreamlike, walking the forest at night requires added safety but can be rewarding and even transformative.

Guided trips.

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14 Scenic Backpacking Trips in Colorado You’ve Got to Try

• March 2, 2023
• By foxintheforest

Last Updated on March 31, 2024 by foxintheforest

Backpacking in Colorado is a bucket-list activity for locals and visitors alike. The best backpacking trips in Colorado can be found all over the state. There’s a trail for all ability levels, making Colorado an epic place to backpack.

There’s something magical about spending the night in the Rocky Mountains.

Green valleys butt against beautiful rocky peaks streaked with snow. Backpacking in the alpine offers stunning beauty and plenty of challenging terrain.

I’ve lived in Colorado for over 13 years and I’ve had the privilege of going on some amazing backpacking trips in Colorado. It’s my mission to give you the inside scoop on the best Colorado backpacking trips so you can get out there like a local, not a tourist.

Not to mention, I write about the outdoors for a living, meaning I’m a literal pro at backpacking in Colorado. Be sure to check out the insider tips in this guide to the best backpacking in Colorado.

About this Guide to the Best Backpacking Trips in Colorado

When it comes to the best backpacking trips in Colorado, this is the ultimate local guide. You’ll find info on 13 amazing backpacking trails in Colorado including:

• A locally-curated list of amazing backpacking trips in Colorado
• Difficulty, duration, and location of each trail
• Local tips for hiking in Colorado

Is Colorado Good for Backpacking?

Colorado has long been considered a backpacking mecca. One of the reasons Colorado is so great for backpacking is that water is readily available.

Not to mention, there is a wide range of trails to choose from. You can backpacking in the mountains, desert, and lush pine forests throughout the state.

Do You Need a Permit to Backpack in Colorado?

That depends. Some trails require you to purchase a backcountry permit in order to go backpacking in Colorado. Particularly national parks, and special wilderness areas such as the Indian Peaks Wilderness require advanced permits.

However, most trails don’t require any permits. Just note that as Colorado becomes more popular with backpackers, more and more places are becoming permit-only. Always check your specific trip before you go!

When Can You Start Backpacking in Colorado?

There are a limited amount of backpacking trails in Colorado that you can use year-round. However, if you’re planning to backpack in the mountains, particularly at higher elevations, you should look to start your backpacking trip around mid-June at the earliest.

High elevation trails tend to be snowy from October through mid-June most years. By about mid-September, the nights get below freezing, so be prepared with the proper gear. So, yeah, don’t go in April in Colorado and expect to enjoy a snow-free trip.

Where are You Allowed to Backpack in Colorado?

Most public lands are open for backpacking in Colorado. The big exception to this tends to be state parks, many of which do not offer any overnight camping options, including backpacking. Places you’re allowed to backpack include:

• National Forests
• Wilderness Areas (permits may be required)
• National Recreation Areas (permits required)
• National Monuments (permits required)
• National Parks (permits required)
• Limited state parks

Backpacking Loop Guides

I get asked a lot about backpacking loops in Colorado. Frankly, loops are hard to find in this state. This is often because trails run out and back to alpine cirques.

However, I’ve got two amazing resources I use to plan loops. If you don’t see what you’re looking for here, you can snag the Southern Colorado Backpacking Loop and Northern Colorado Backpacking Loop guides.

A few trails from each are featured on this post, but for the most part, these topo guides show you cool trips you can take in different wilderness areas.

What I love about this is that you can quickly choose a route on a whim! Now that I’m a mom, I frequently use these guides when we have a quick weekend with childcare. These guides give us an adventure on short notice!

A Map of the Best Backpacking Routes in Colorado

Get oriented with this map of featured backpacking trips in Colorado. These pins mark the trailheads described below. Be sure the check out the interactive map for planning.

The Best Time to Backpack in Colorado

Backpacking in Colorado is possible year-round depending on where you go and how much you’re willing to deal with the snow and cold during times like March in Colorado .

However, if you are planning to head to the mountains, the best season for backpacking is from July through September.

June is still pretty snowy in the high alpine, although trails at lower elevations are typically snow-free.

Temperatures start to drop in October, although you can still sneak in a warm-weather weekend, just be prepared for the cold once the sun goes down.

July is considered a monsoon season in the mountains. This means you should be prepared to encounter quick and violent thunderstorms in the afternoon. Stay below the treeline to avoid getting hit by lightning.

Amazing Beginner Backpacking Trips in Colorado

New to backpacking? Start here! These easier Colorado backpacking routes give you all the beautiful mountain scenery without too much pain for gains.

1. Early Season Backpacking in the Lost Creek Wilderness

The Lost Creek Wilderness, located near Denver, off of Highway 285, used to be one of Colorado’s best-kept secrets. Unfortunately, the cat is out of the bag, but with a wide variety of trails, it’s easy to find solitude here in the early season.

Since it’s lower in elevation, the snow melts here first. So if you’re itching to get out in April, May or even early June, check out the Ben Tyler Trail.

The 11.8-mile, difficult trail winds its way through the Lost Creek Wilderness, terminating with some spectacular views. Be sure to check up on water sources before heading out.

Local Tip: Want more mileage? The Lost Creek Wilderness Loop is a 28.3-mile loop that circumnavigated the greater wilderness area.

2. Best Beginner Backpacking Route in Colorado in Fairplay

Buffalo Peaks Loop, located just south of Fairplay is an excellent high-alpine beginner backpacking loop. Loop trails in Colorado are a rarity, so enjoy the fact that you’ll never see the same thing twice along this route.

The trail spends most of its time in the aspen and pine forests before popping up into a high alpine valley with gorgeous views.

There are plenty of spots to camp and excellent water sources throughout the trail. Beginners can opt to break the trail into two nights, or more avid backpackers can choose to make this a quick overnight jaunt.

Distance: 11.4 miles Elevation: 2,024 feet, mostly done in two steep sections Average time to complete: one night

3. Mohawk Lakes Backpacking near Breckenridge

As one of the top hikes near Breckenridge, many people head to Mohawk Lakes. For a real adventure, give this 8-plus-mile roundtrip hike an overnight to really soak in all the views.

You’ll start at the Spruce Creek Trailhead as you wind your way up several steep sections.

The trail passes by four distinct lakes, providing for an opportunity to rest your weary legs. Take your time until you reach Mohawk Lake, where you’ll find plenty of amazing places to pitch a tent.

From here, you can drop your bags and continue upwards to upper Mohawk Lake for even more dreamy views.

Distance: 8.6 miles from the lower lot, the upper lot cuts about a mile or so off each way (see Crystal Lake) Elevation: 2,129 feet from the lower lot (see Cyrstal Lake) Average time to complete: one night

Local Tip: This area sees a lot of traffic and is considered a moderate hike. It’s probably one of the tougher beginner backpacks. But with so many places to stop and enjoy the lakeside views, a beginner will find this trail rewarding.

Moderate Backpacking Trails in Colorado to Check Out

Looking for a challenge, but without feeling totally spent? Then be sure to check out these moderate backpacking trails for your backcountry fix.

4. Backpacking to Lone Eagle Peak

The drama of seeing Lone Eagle Peak reflected perfectly on Mirror Lake is well worth the nearly 15-mile journey deep into the Indian Peaks Wilderness.

The sky-piercing Lone Eagle Peak is an absolute icon and the surrounding dramatic cirque will take your breath away. In fact, it’s one of the best lake hikes in Colorado.

Hike from Cascade Creek to Mirror and Crater Lakes. It is possible to day hike this trail, however, you should spend the night here.

Climbers and mountaineers will love the opportunities for nearby alpine trad routes, a rugged class 4 route to the top of Lone Eagle, and plenty of couloirs.

Overnight trips require a permit, so be sure to reserve yours in advance, since you are only allowed to camp in designated sites.

Keep in mind, this area is moose territory (we saw 5 when we hiked here), so if you bring your pup, keep them leashed.

Distance: 14.6 miles Elevation: 2,375 feet Average time to complete: overnight

5. Wildflowers Galore from Crested Butte to Aspen

In the July months, the high alpine of Colorado comes to life. The Maroon Snowmass Trailhead that goes from Crested Butte to Aspen is a wildflower lover’s dream.

This moderately-strenuous trail blooms with color in the summer months. This is the best backpacking trip in Colorado for those seeking dramatic alpine views without tons of ass-kicking el-gain.

Most people hike one way and bus their way back (or swap rides with friends headed in the opposite direction). But it’s just as nice as an out-and-back.

Distance: 10.45 miles one way, 20.9 round-trip Elevation: 3,322 feet of gain Average time to complete: An overnight or weekend.

6. Backpack Colorado 14ers in the Chicago Basin

One of the best ways to backpack in Colorado is to combine your backpacking trip with a couple of peaks.

The Chicago Basin in the San Juan Mountains is an excellent place to backpack and climb some of Colorado’s famed 14,000-foot peaks .

The journey starts with a scenic train ride to the Needleton trailhead (how freakin’ cool is that?!??).

Next, walk a 1/2 mile from the train stop (you’ll purchase a backpacker’s ticket, it’ll be obvious when to jump off) and then continue 6 more miles to the Chicago Basin.

From here, you can set up a base camp and climb Elous, Windom, and Sunlight Peak.

Although you can hike in, a round-trip train ticket will run you about $70 and is certainly worth the extra few days of hiking.

Local Tip: Due to the heavy use of this area, you are required to carry out your human waste, camp only in designated sites, and use bear protection for your food. Be sure to check in for the most up-to-date info.

Distance: 15 miles to the basin and back to the train stop. Peak mileage varies. Elevation: 4,393 feet to the basin from Needleton Average time to complete: A long weekend or 3 nights recommended

7. Rito Alto Four Pass Loop Fall Backpacking in Colorado

If you can stomach 6 miles of road walking, the Rito Alto Four Pass Loop is an amazing, crowd-free affair in the mighty Sangre de Cristos.

Furthermore, this (rare) loop trail is the perfect fall backpacking foray. Challenge your alpine skills with four distinct passes complete with stellar mountain scenery.

Distance: 23-mile loop Elevation: 5,843 feet of gain Average time to complete: 2 nights or one burly overnight

8. Savor the Views at Willow Lakes in the Gore Range

For a drool-worthy adventure with a big payout, head to Willow Lakes outside of Silverthorn. Located in the heart of the Gore Range, this incredible lake system bumps right into the impressive Zodiac Spire rock formations. 

When it comes to backpacking Colorado, this trip needs to be on your list. Don’t be fooled, it’s an epic slog to make it here – the Gore Range always makes you earn it. But you’ll be rewarded with out-of-this-world mountain drama. 

Local Tip: You’ll be hiking over a mile uphill through deadfall, so start early to beat the heat and save yourself from suffering too much.

Distance: 11.9 miles round trip Elevation: 2,716 feet of gain Average time to complete: Overnight.

Challenging Backpacking in Colorado

Ready for a real butt buster? These Colorado backpacking trips are all burly outings. Expect long days on the trail with endless uphills. The reward? Some of the most solitude you can find!

9. Backpacking Gore Lake The Best Alpine Lake in Colorado

If you’re looking for a dramatic alpine lake with unbelievable mountains, take a weekend to backpack to Gore Lake . The Gores have a special appeal for the adventurous backpacker looking to tackle tougher terrain. As a dog-friendly hike featuring incredible Colorado wildflowers , you’ll be spoiled along this epic backpacking route trail.

Even a moderate hike in the Gores will feel like a total butt-buster. Trails are often not well maintained, and this area is a pristine wilderness. This means that you should take extra care to follow Leave No Trace principles when venturing out here.

Distance: 12.5 miles out and back Elevation: 2,890 feet, with a large majority of that gain in the last two miles. Average time to complete: Overnight

10. Aspen’s Four Passes Loop

You can’t talk about the best backpacking in Colorado without mentioning the 4 Passes Loop. This iconic trail winds its way over four distinct passes all while delivering breathtaking views of the Elk Range.

This is certainly a more strenuous backpacking loop, but it’s worth it. Keep in mind that parking fills up early, and you’ll have to plan your entry and exit with a bus service that runs daily.

Bear cans are required on this popular loop. be sure to check with the Forest Service for the most up-to-date information.

Distance: 26.8 miles Elevation: 8,115 feet Average time to complete: 2 nights or a long weekend

11. The Colorado Trail: The Highest Thru-Hike in America

The Colorado Trail winds its way from Denver to Durango over 486 of mountainous terrain. This is the United State’s highest thru-hike, with a majority of the trail above 10,000 feet.

If thru-hiking isn’t your thing, it’s certainly possible to section hike this incredible trail (I’ve done over 120 miles of section hiking with my dog).

Segment 6, segments in the San Juans, and the Sawatch Range are a few of the most beautiful parts of the trail. I’d highly recommend picking up the Colorado Trail Guide book and Field Guide .

Distance: 486 miles. Each segment is between 12 and 20 miles on average Elevation: 89,000 feet! Average time to complete: One month as a thru-hike. Most segments can be completed in a day or a weekend.

12. Best Backpacking Route in Rocky Mountain National Park

Hop on the iconic Continental Divide Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park to hit all the highlights of Colorado’s most famed National Park.

No visit to Rocky Mountain National Park is complete without spending the night in the backcountry.

Hop on the iconic CDT  as it makes its way from Mexico to Canada, crossing through the state of Colorado. The trail tops out on Hallet Peak, Flattop Mountain, and Ptarmigan Peak.

This 30-mile stretch of the trail can be looped from the Bear Lake trailhead or you can hitch a ride back to your car on the opposite end of the park.

Keep in mind that no dogs are allowed on the trails in Rocky Mountain, you’ll need to book your permits in advance, and the entire loop takes around 5 days to complete.

Distance: 30 miles of Continental Divide Trail, 45 miles as a loop Elevation: around 11,600 feet of gain Average time to complete: 5 days

13. Winter Backpacking at Rattlesnake Arches

You may be surprised to learn that Colorado is home to some beautiful sandstone canyons. Backpacking to Rattlesnake Arches , just outside of the Colorado National Monument in Fruita is one of the best trails for backpacking in Colorado.

What makes this one of my favorite backpacking trips in Colorado is that you can make the trip year-round. The trail treats you to epic canyon views along with plenty of amazing rock formations and arches.

You’ll likely want to camp at the water source, below the final climb. The water source typically runs through mid-spring, so be sure to check up on local conditions before heading out (otherwise, you’re carrying your water with you).

After that it’s a sustained, grueling march to the arches, but wow is it worth it.

In 2020, it recently became illegal to camp at the Rattlesnake Arches, but you can find camping in the gulch before you climb the hillside leading to the arches.

Local Tip: Don’t forget, you’re in the desert and you’ll need to pack in all of your water. You can aslo enjoy some of the best things to do in Grand Junction afterward. 

Distance: 14 miles round trip Elevation: 2,444 feet of gain Average time to complete: Overnight.

14. Zirkel Circle

Located near Steamboat Springs, this challenging climb is one of the best backpacking trips in Colorado that takes you through the Zirkel Wilderness and on a loop hike past Gilpin Lake and along the Gold Creek Lake Trail. 

It’s also a great trip for anyone looking to get off the beaten path since a lot of travelers don’t stop here to check out area’s amazing mountains, stunning alpine lakes, and vast meadows – area’s of natural wonder that come alive with vivacious summer and fall colors. 

Also, while this trail can be hiked in either direction, hiking counterclockwise will result in a bit more of a gradual climb. 

Additionally, while Gilpin Lake is super picturesque, Gold Creek Lake is better for swimming if you need a spot to cool off during the summer. 

Distance: 10.6 miles round trip Elevation: 2,444 feet of gain Average time to complete: Overnight.

Tips for Backpacking in Colorado

Backpacking in the Rocky Mountains is certainly a rewarding experience. However, if you’re new to mountain environments, take these tips into consideration before backpacking in Colorado

Always follow Leave No Trace principles , fire bans, and bear protection regulations. Every year backpackers encounter wildlife, start wildfires, and leave pristine wilderness areas a mess. Don’t be that person.

Be sure to check recent trail conditions by either calling a local ranger station or checking AllTrails.com. Snow can linger late into summer on some trails, so be prepared.

Protect your food against unwanted wildlife . This goes for tiny critters too! Always hang your food and keep it stored in odor-proof bags. Some areas require the use of bear cans, so know the rules before you go.

Plan to start early if you are going above treeline. You want to be below the trees by noon. Storms roll in quickly in the mountains and hikers die each year from being struck by lightning.

Follow all drone regulations . Drones are banned from most wilderness areas in Colorado, so please respect the area you are traveling in.

Colorado is home to some of the most beautiful backpacking trips in the US. Backpacking in Colorado can be a bit tougher with the altitude, but the views and mountain scenery make the extra effort worth it.

What to Pack 

• Water and snacks for the car – it’s always nice to have a treat at the end!
• Sunscreen, sunhat, sunglasses
• First Aid Kit 
• Noncotton socks
• Hiking footwear with good traction that you are comfortable wearing all day. 
• Non-cotton shorts for hiking
• Non-cotton, pants for hiking. Convertible pants are great too!
• Electrolyte powder – optional but nice to have!
• A water bladder capable of carrying at least 2 liters of water.
• Camera clip to strap to your back
• Glove liners
• Fleece layer
• Puffy layer
• Hiking poles (optional, but recommended)
• A toilet kit: shovel, WAG Bag (if you plan to travel above treeline), hand sanitizer, TP/baby wipes, a small plastic baggy to pack out TP and sanitary items
• Pee funnel – optional
• Pee rag – optional.
• GPS navigation 
• emergency communication device
• Wind/rain layer
• Sleeping pad
• Sleeping bag or sleeping quilt
• Backpacking pack (I like to use at least a 60L bag, but I’m usually carrying technical gear and a tripod)
• Backpacking tent. 
• Water filter 
• Odor-proof bag for food
• Hang bag and line to hang your food
• Personal items
• A change of underwear (preferably non-cotton)
• Backpacking stove and fuel
• Backpacking utensils
• Lightweight packable daypac k for day hiking
• Long underwear for sleeping
• Extra pair of socks
• Pair of warm socks for camp
• Pocket knife

Additional Colorado Backpacking Resources

Want to get to know the REAL Colorado? Then check out these local hiking resources for the Centennial State:

• Incredible Alpine Lakes in Colorado
• Must-See Places in Colorado
• The Ultimate Guide to Backpacking Gear for Beginners

Meg Atteberry

Meg is a long-time Colorado local and outdoor industry professional. She's spent the last 15 years hiking, climbing, mountaineering, and canyoneering all over Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and Nevada in search of the best views. She's written for Outside Magazine, REI, Backpacker Magazine, and appeared on the Weather Channel.

Let’s connect!

Meg aka Fox is a 30-something who's born to explore. Toddler mom, queer, and neuro-spicy her favorite things to do are climb in the alpine and camp in the desert. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure.

Backpacking & Multi-Day Hiking

Colorado Wilderness Rides And Guides designs, guides, and provides private and custom Colorado backpacking adventures for everyone.

Home » Guided Adventures » Backpacking & Multi-Day Hiking

Colorado Backpacking

Rocky mountain magic, what length trip are you looking for, popular trips:.

Hike + Fly Fish: Flat Top Wilderness Area (7 day)

Hike: Big Meadows (3 day)

 2 day trips:.

Hike: Weekend Escape

 3 day trips:.

Hike: Secluded Southern Traverse (3 day)

Hike: Thunder Lake (3 day)

Hike: Continental Divide Trail Traverse (3 day)

Hike: Mt Alice (3 day)

HIKE: SANDBEACH LAKE BACKPACKING (3 DAY)

HIKE: EAST INLET FISHING (3 DAY)

 4 day trips:.

Hike: Big Meadows to North Inlet (4 day)

HIKE: EAST INLET BACKPACKING (4 DAY)

Hike: Wild Side w/ Mt Alice Peak Ascent (4 day)

 5 day trips:.

Hike: Continental Divide Loop (5 day)

HIKE: FINCH AND PEAR LAKES

Hike: Front Range Best Kept Secrets (5 day Camping)

Hike: Front Range Best Kept Secrets (5 day Hotel)

 6+ day trips:.

Hike: Big Meadows to North Inlet (6 day)

Hike: Epic Summit Series (6 day)

 custom trip length:.

Custom Outdoor Adventures

Description.

These amazing trips are sure to give you a taste of a “wilder side” of Colorado! Our trips are designed from our in-depth local knowledge and our 20+ years of experience guiding backpacking trips on seven continents. No one else knows Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) better than we do. We are now booking for summer 2024.

Join us in 2024 as we design our guided adventures from solo adventures to groups of 12 or more who want to explore the wilderness with the knowledge and expertise of a professional guide. Our expert guides are trained in wilderness education and safety and provide an in-depth understanding of the geography, history, wildlife, and vegetation of the local area. We will plan an itinerary that meets your group’s goals and objectives. We have a multitude of different backpacking trips and locations from which to choose. Whether your focus is on wildlife viewing, majestic vistas, geology, or fly fishing, we can design a trip that exceeds your dreams. Your itinerary will also be based on your group’s time requirements, physical fitness level, and desired level of exertion or challenge. With our ability to create custom trips maybe you could try whitewater rafting after your backpacking trip or a day of climbing before you hit the trail.

Participants will not need technical gear. Your group will receive roundtrip transportation to/from Boulder, Denver, or Estes Park, Colorado, and your expert local guide will remain with you from the beginning of your backpacking trip until the end. These trips are all-inclusive. We are a one-stop-shop and the only guide service legally operating in RMNP that is also authorized by the State of Colorado and the National Park Service to transport passengers within the Park.

frequently asked questions

The services of a professional guide(s); national park permit and backcountry camping permits; transportation between Boulder and the wilderness trailheads; all food during the backpacking trip; a re-supply drop, if necessary; gear for water purification and cooking; bear canister, tent, and medical kit; SPOT personal locator beacon, and contingency and emergency support.

Meals while in the front country (breakfast on Day 1 and dinner on the last day); laundry; alcoholic beverages; hotel overnight before your trip and at trip’s conclusion; personal equipment (sleeping bag, sleeping pad, backpack – these items are available to rent); and gratuities for your guide(s) – while this is at your discretion, the recommended amount is 20%. We recommend optional trip insurance.

• Transportation to and from Boulder at the beginning and end of the trip. If you arrive from Denver International Airport, we will arrange transportation for you for an additional charge. If you are staying in Estes Park, we can pick you up and drop you off from your hotel or a central location. If you are staying in Denver, we will help arrange transportation to/from a central Boulder location. If you arrive by car, we can arrange for your car to be left, while we are out on the trip.
• Equipment rental cost for a 3-day backpacking trip: personal backpacking gear: backpack ($25); sleeping pad ($14); sleeping bag ($25).

Optional:   Fly fishing ($100 per person). Extra cost is due to the guide and equipment needed. Fly fishing license ($9 – $27 pp) is not included.

We take pride in providing excellent meals in remote settings. Remember, we are far from the road and trailheads, so our foods are not right out of the refrigerator. We accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences.

Mornings will consist of cereals, bagels, burritos, etc. Lunches will include meat and non-meat sandwiches, hummus, veggies, etc. Dinners will include protein and carbohydrates to recover and refuel for the next day.

Colorado weather is an especially lively conservation as conditions can swing from calm and sunny in the morning to harsh and precipitous by lunchtime on any given day. Snow and sleet at higher elevations are common year-round, even in mid-summer, and one-day temperate swings of 50 degrees or more happen frequently. Ensuring a safe and enjoyable outdoor excursion must always include careful consideration of quickly changing weather conditions. The following is a general overview of what to expect during each of the four primary seasons.

Spring (March 20 - June 20): Average monthly High/Low temperatures in Boulder - March: 57/30. April: 64/36. May: 72/42.

In early spring the soil is thawing along the Front Range and Foothills while the high country continues to welcome fairly high doses of snow into May. April marks the beginning of wildflower season at lower elevations and May brings more precipitation on average – 8 inches - than any other month.

Summer (June 20 - September 20): Average monthly High/Low temperatures in Boulder - June: 83/53. July: 89/59. August: 87/57.

The warm, sunny days of summer make Colorado an ideal playground. Rivers and streams reach their highest levels in June. Afternoon temperatures rise into the 80s and 90s in July and August as we begin to see our foothills transition from green to golden hues. While the high country calls with the promise of cooler temps and arguably the greatest wildflower show on earth, we remain aware of the possibility of strong afternoon winds, sudden and severe storms, and the looming threat of wildfires into the Autumn season.

Autumn (September 20 – December 20): Average monthly High/Low temperatures in Boulder - September: 79/49. October: 67/39. November: 55/29.

September is arguably the most pleasant month in Colorado with low precipitation, ample blue sky days, and average daily temperatures in the 70s. In the high country, the tundra above the tree line turns to rustic shades of orange and reds, aspen groves turn whole mountainsides into bright waves of yellow, orange, and pink, and we begin to see the first dusting of snow along the Continental Divide. Through October and November, daily temperatures and weather conditions can swing wildly at all elevations. It is not uncommon to be comfortable in shorts and t-shirts one day, shivering in full winter garb the next, and back into a t-shirt again within a couple of days.

Winter (December 20 – March 20): Average monthly High/Low temperatures in Boulder - December: 47/23. January: 47/22. February: 49/24.

Shorter days and colder temperatures are no reason to stay inside. The sun still shines on Colorado in the wintertime far more often than you might expect and the mountain wilderness is rarely more quiet and peaceful than in the winter season. Snow comes and goes in the Front Range and Foothills throughout the winter season. In the high country, snow comes and grows...and stays. Covering your head and neck, wearing layers, and staying dry is key to winter season comfort.

Everyone asks this question, and for good reason. It all depends on the equipment you bring and the care you take in packing. We will help go through your gear before starting the trip and get rid of any luxury items not needed. These items can be stored with us and retrieved at the end of the trip.

Personal and group gear should weigh less than 35 lbs for each person. For women, we recommend all  personal  gear weighing under 13 lbs, and under 20 lbs for men (this includes your backpack, sleeping bag and pad, and clothing). Regarding food weight, plan on 2-3 lbs per person per day. So, 2 days of food will be 4-6 lbs. Tent and fuel should weigh around 4 lbs per person. We will divide tent, food, and fuel evenly among the group. Your guide will carry a tarp, group medical kit, water purification, and communication device. Every group is required to carry enough bear canisters to hold all food and toiletries. Water weighs 2.2 lbs per liter. Plan on carrying 2 liters throughout the day.

An equipment list will be provided when you book your trip. Please bring only what is on this list. The less weight, the better.

We will send you a recommended exercise program and an outline designed for backpacking. If you have any questions about your fitness level or recommendations/questions about a fitness program,  please call us .

The best airport to fly into is Denver International Airport. Driving time between the airport and Boulder is 45 minutes to 1 hour; central Denver is 30 minutes; and Estes Park is about 2 hours.

If you are driving, we will e-mail directions to you.

Expect to be tired at the end of each day. This is normal, especially if you’re not acclimated to the altitude and exertion at altitude. You can expect living in close proximity to other trip members and guides for very full days. All trips are different because each trip is made up of different personalities, weather conditions, etc. Your guides will prepare each trip to suit the abilities and desires of the participants. You can expect a trip into Colorado’s backcountry that you’ll remember for the rest of your life.

Our Difficulty Ratings for backpacking trips are based on a scale of Easy to Extremely Difficult (Easy, Moderate, Difficult, Very Difficult, and Extremely Difficult).

Easy   –  On our easy trips, you will hike 2-4 miles a day with 25-35 pound backpacks on maintained trails. Elevation gain/loss may be as much as, but not more than, 1500 feet. Altitudes range from 5,000 – 9,000’.

Moderate  – On moderate trips, you will hike 3-6 miles a day with a 25-35 pound backpack on maintained trails. Elevation gain/loss may be as much as, but not more than, 2250 feet. For a moderate trip, you should be comfortable hiking 6-8 miles in hilly or mountainous terrain with a backpack.

Difficult  – On difficult trips, you will hike up to 8 miles a day with a 25-35 pound backpack. Elevation gain/loss may be as much as 3000 feet on maintained trails, or up to 2000 feet on more-rugged trails. For a difficult trip, you should be comfortable hiking 6-8 miles a day in hilly or mountainous terrain with a 25-pound backpack at altitudes of 7000’ – 10,000’.

Very Difficult  – Very difficult trips take place on rugged, unmaintained trails with larger backpacks (30-40 pounds). The hiking is often steep and steady with daily distances of up to 10 miles and an elevation gain of up to 4000 feet. For these trips, you should be comfortable hiking for several hours (3 – 6 hours) without many breaks and have previous experience exercising and sleeping at elevations of 7000’-11,000’. Trips take place at altitudes of 7000’ – 13,000’.

Extremely Difficult  – Extremely difficult trips involve hiking on very rugged trails or off-trail with backpacks of 35-45 pounds. These trips demand prolonged hiking with very strenuous, difficult sections. Terrain can be steep, loose, rocky and/or exposed (3 rd  class terrain). If you are considering an extremely difficult trip, you must be able to exercise vigorously for long periods (5-10 hours) and have previous experience exercising and sleeping at elevations of 10,000‘ – 14,000’. Trips take place at altitudes of up to 14,400’.

Note on altitude : If you live at less than 2000’ in altitude, at 5000’ you will need to increase your exertion by 15% to achieve your normal pace; at an altitude of 10,000’ you will need to increase your exertion by 25% to achieve your normal pace; and, at an altitude of 14,000’ you will need to increase your exertion by 35% to achieve your normal pace.

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Backpacking

Featured tours.

What To Bring

Being prepared for your Colorado backpacking tours will ensure you maximize enjoyment and minimize snafus while in the wilderness. Here’s a list of what we recommend to outfit yourself with for your Colorado backpacking trip.

• Hiking shoes/boots.
• Sunscreen and SPF Chapstick.
• Sunglasses.
• Snacks (think nuts, fruit that doesn’t bruise easily, jerky, carrots, etc. We’ll provide the rest!).
• Recommended clothing (we’ll send a detailed list based on the season once you book).
• Reusable water bottle. Colorado is a very dry state, and altitude can amplify hydration needs – we’ll have refills for you along the way.
• Any required medications or medical supplies.

Optional items:

• Light second pair of shoes (sandals, flip-flops, etc.).
• Book, Journal/Pen.
• Headphones.
• Portable battery pack (for charging phone).
• Hiking poles (can be provided for you).

Still have questions? Email [email protected] , or give us a call at   (720) 583-0654.

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Tour you want.

Jed was very knowledgeable about the ecosystem and history of each town we visited and the trails we hiked. Jed was also very accommodatiive to everyone's needs.

wrote a review

Hiking Adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver

This was an excellent way to see Garden of the Gods and pike's peak. Our guide Mike was very knowledgeable about the area and was wonderful to talk to. I would highly recommend this outing!! See you on my next trip.

October 1, 2022

Pikes Peak Cog Railway & Garden of the Gods Tour

Excellent …service here we back next time for sure, I recommend thiscome here……we love this place.

November 16, 2022

The hike was great we didn’t have a lot of time so taking this hike with a guide was perfect. Ty was so nice and knowledgeable, we learnt so much and he made it fun for the kids too. Highly recommend!

My experience was incredibly remarkable. I have never seen a view like this before! Definitely worth going to and recommending.

July 1, 2022

This tour was well worth it. Our guide, Paul, was fantastic. He was very knowledgeable about the sites on this tour. I would recommend this tour to anyone. My family and I really enjoyed our day.

Private Pikes Peak & Garden of Gods Tour

The tour was amazing. It was everything that I thought it would be and more. Our guide Jed was knowledgeable and fun! The sites were breathtaking. The stops were long enough to see the sites but not so long as to get boring. As far as I'm concerned, this is the only way to get to the top of a "fourteener".

July 1, 2020

When in Denver, the problems withCovid 19 were enormous. With Two -rescheduled tours cancelled, we found Aspire for a private tour. Absolutely wonderful and well worth the premium for a private tour.Our tour director, Jed, was one of the most knowledgeable people (not guides, but people) I had ever met.

July 9, 2020

Our group of 6 had a great time on a beautiful day. Jed was an excellent tour guide and knowledgeable about more than just the sites. He knew geology, history, local plants, and weather patterns.

February 20, 2022

This was a very entertaining/informative tour. Our guide for the day, Paul, was very informative about so much along the way. He also had great a way of starting and keeping conversations going. The time flew by. Personally, I think he had a way of working some magic too.

July 4, 2022

Phil from Philly was a great tour guide. Very knowledgeable of the area and fun! Beers options were excellent for IPAs and sours. Had a great group of people to tour with. Would recommend this to beer lovers.

May 11, 2022

Brews 'n Views

Mike was an excellent guide, taking us to 3 different brewerys around the area that otherwise my husband and I would not have thought to go. Allowed ample time at each stop. Asked for our input on each brewery as to make any tweaks in the future. A fun and relaxing day

July 20, 2021

Fun breweries and amazing views. Dylan was a wonderful guide, giving history and showing rock formations we wouldn't have known to seek out otherwise!

July 21, 2021

Great tour. Whole experience was very enjoyable. Nick was a terrific guide. There was only one other couple on the tour and we hit it off with them. Besides the good beer the “views” were great too. We have been to CO numerous times but Nick knew the back roads and showed us countryside we hadn’t seen before. If we are in CO again we would definitely take another trip with Nick.

December 20, 2022

I had a great time on this tour. Every brewery we went to had great beers that were paired with amazing views. Phil was our tour guide and he definitely helped make the tour memorable. Transportation is in a small bus/van, water is provided. It's a good idea to go on this tour well-hydrated. Definitely recommend to put on your to-do list if you're visiting Denver.

October 18, 2022

We enjoyed the beautiful views! It was refreshing to see a different part of Colorado, as we were staying in downtown Denver. Ryan (our tour guide) was so hospitable and informative. We appreciated learning about the culture of the area. It was wonderful sightseeing with such a knowledgeable guide! Definitely recommend this tour!

October 19, 2022

Denver, Red Rocks, and Beyond

Our tour guide Paul was so friendly, informative and very enthusiastic about all the info he shared we us. He even pulled over for us to view a herd of buffalo and a deer in someone’s driveway! I would recommend this tour to anyone. I especially loved his quiz at the end of the tour to see if we were paying attention! Great tour!

November 13, 2022

I went by myself and Michael went out of his way to help me get great pictures. He was knowledgeable and friendly and just made our trip a wonderful experience.

December 13, 2022

Steve was a great tour guide! It was a great little escape on what was looking like a gloomy rainy day. Once we got into the foothills it turned into a winter wonderland! Loved the cute coffee shop and the buffalo burger was tasty as promised.

October 20, 2022

I was in Denver for a business trip with little time to plan my stay. This tour was perfect for a half day get away to get to know about Denver and its history. Our guide, Kyle, was knowledgeable and helpful. The scenic views are amazing and breathtaking. It was stress free and very enjoyable.

November 15, 2022

24 hr stop over in Denver so looked for a shorter Rockies experience. This trip didn’t disappoint. The four hours flew by and took in some great mountain scenery and spots. Tour guide Elsa was great fun, really knowledgeable, excellent taste in music, and has converted my into a major Aspen (tree) fan 👍 Would recommend. Many thanks. Pete S (UK)

October 13, 2022

Half-Day Rocky Mountain Escape

We loved this excursion! Our guide, Jed, was such a genuinely nice person who was very knowledgeable about the area and nature. We felt safe in his care as we traveled into the Rockies and experienced the twists and turns of the the ride up! We learned many things about the history of Denver, indigenous species of animals and trees and many, many other things. The write-up describing this tour is exactly what we expected - we did not need to be Olympic athletes to enjoy a mild walk through some of the most picturesque views of the area. We will definitely come back and enjoy another tour from this company when in Denver again. Highly recommend.

July 12, 2022

This has been an amazing experience. In a trip that takes only 4 hours, we were able to see, enjoy and feel overwhelmed about the wonders of Mother Nature. This experience was unique with the guide of Aaron. He is very well versed about the mountains in Colorado, so kind and made feel great with all the participants. This is a highly recommended tour.

AnaBessie_T

From start to finish, this tour was wonderful. Our guide Gentry was very kind and considerate in addition to being extremely knowledgeable about all things geology and meteorology. She knew much about the Rocky Mountains and took us to some excellent sites for photos. This tour was so fun that next time we plan to do the whole day tour! Kudos to Gentry for all her excellent driving down those steep roads; she is a highly competent driver!

My best friend and I loved this escape!!! Watching the ice fishing and our walk through Idaho Springs was amazing. Gentry was fantastic. Highly recommend this trip!

Booked the 1/2 day fly-fishing trip and had an absolute blast!! It was my first time fly-fishing and David was a great instructor, sharing different techniques that allowed me to become really comfortable trying something new. His passion for the sport is infectious and he was always encouraging. We had a great day, caught several fish, laughed a lot, and I felt like I was hanging out with a friend, rather than just another guide doing his job. Can’t recommend enough.

November 26, 2019

My daughter and I did a one-day fishing trip to Buena Vista. We stayed in a hotel the night before. David, our guide, picked us up at 8:45. We went and picked up the boots and waders. The mile-long fishing area was about 10 minutes from Buena Vista. David was very helpful and positive. We caught a total of 7 brown trout, ranging from 8 inches to about 15 inches. All of the fish I caught fought and jumped out of the water during the fight. Although the day was quite windy and rainy at times, David was patient and helpful (my daughter had never fly fished previously). We fished both dry and wet flies. We made sandwiches for lunch and the company was actively working on the road to the site as we fished. There is a highway not too far from the fishing area, so you could year car sounds - I found I didn’t think it was overly disruptive. They plan on building cabins in the next year. Currently it is very primitive. Overall the experience was excellent and fun! Thank you!

October 28, 2019

I cannot write enough good things about our guide, David, and our half day fly fishing trip in RMNP. David was friendly and attentive. We talked a few times before the trip so he could make sure he had our sizes for attire, snacks we preferred, and plans for pick up time. We had never been fly fishing and David was knowledgeable and patient teaching us the basics to make us fly fishing enthusiasts for life! I was sad to leave the park and left wishing I had booked a full day trip. I will recommend this trip to all friends and family and this will become an annual trip for me!

September 22, 2019

As a recent transplant to Denver, I have now found my go-to tour company, Aspire, to learn all the things Denver (& Colorado) has to offer. I had always heard Colorado is known for its fly fishing, therefore, I signed up for this trip with ZERO experience. By the end, I am confident I could go out with my friends without a guide! Brian, the co-owner of Aprire and my guide for the day, went out of his way to make this a fantastic experience. I would not miss out on this special Colorado Fly Fishing Trip - I am already looking forward to my next one with Brian & the Aspire Team!

December 10, 2017

I took the hiking tour to the Rocky Mountains and it was hands down one of the best experiences I've ever had in life. Our guide Win was awesome. Fun, knowledgeable and with an extraordinary attitude and respect towards nature and people. His serene positivity really puts you in the right state of mind to hike the Rockies and immerse yourself in their pristine nature. We learned about the territory, its nature, animals and trees and I came back enriched. We also spotted a moose taking a bath in a pond, which really made my trip unique. I really recommend going on a hike with Aspire Tours if you want to get the best out of the Rockies.

August 21, 2019

Private Rocky Mountain National Park Hike

Mel was awesome! I recommend this tour if ur solo with friends or family! They make it easy with pickup in Denver and boulder. The hike was doable just bring proper footwear, sunblock and plenty of water. Our tour guide Mel was so accommodating, knowledgeable, kind and down to earth! I can’t wait for my next tour with Aspire!

August 26, 2019

The hike was beautiful to say the least. Our guide Austin was soooo full of knowledge from every aspect of the tour From history of every building we passed on our drive to the mountain and info about each town. He knew every mountains name and how each was formed and how old everything was. The knowledge was superior ! His personality was contagious ! He made the tour so wonderful! The hike is just enough beauty and challenge! We got to see and elk and her baby;) the van we rode in was clean and nice. I highly suggest Aspire Tour company and Austin! Thanks for a wonderful experience

September 4, 2019

Wow!!! I was looking for a family friendly tour of Rocky Mountain National Park, and thanks to Aspire tours and our guide Kyle H our trip was spectacular!! Aspire had excellent customer service, and the convenience of pick up in Denver coming from the east coast was wonderful. Our guide Kyle was simply fantastic, he was friendly, knowledgeable, and fun, and he customized our two days perfectly for our family. We loved the iconic Trail Ridge Road experience, the kids smiles as they lept over the Colorado River at the source were priceless, and the hike to Dream Lake was phenomenal. Thank you Aspire and Kyle for a wonderful tour in this majestic place!

June 23, 2022

We took a full day private tour from Denver to Rocky Mountain National Park with Mel. She was absolutely awesome. From the moment she picked us up at our hotel everything was perfect. Mel was personable, informative and simply a wonderful tour guide. We went for a long hike to a waterfall. Lunches were packed and provided. The view was spectacular and the information constant. We saw multiple elk. We also learned a great deal about Denver and Colorado in general.

September 16, 2019

Kyle was an excellent tour guide! I was looking for a way to see RMNP while visiting Denver and traveling alone with my son. We only had one day to explore the park and wanted to maximize our time and feel safe. The private tour provided just that - I was able to relax and take it all in, not having to worry about navigating. Kyle knew the park and could help us pack as much into our day as possible. We had a blast hiking, viewing wildlife, and seeing the beautiful terrain.

October 16, 2022

We enjoyed our private day tour trip with Dylan as our tour guide. He took us to Trail ridge road with the scenic views and pass. We also went to Lily Lake - quite exquisite serene lake. On the way over we were lucky to see heard of elk in the meadows passing by Trail ridge road. Its an amazing experience and Dylan is very knowledgebake about the area. Very educational trip about Rocky Mountain Park. We love it as our first time to the beautiful national Park 🥰⛰ ✨ Amazin experience for first timers.

June 27, 2022

We had a fantastic day exploring with Kyle, our guide. He has a sixth sense on what's happening in the park from where the sun is shining to where the moose are gathering. So much so that we nicknamed him the "Moose Whisperer". We went deep into the park and found the sun at 12,000 feet on Trail Ridge Road and drove all the way to the Continental Divide. Lots of amazing views of the mountains above the clouds. Great tour!

September 10, 2022

Our guide Aaron was excellent. He was very passionate about everything he showed us and very much interested in making sure we enjoyed the whole experience. We saw, a Lynx eating a mouse, Elk, Deer, Eagles, an Owl, Turkeys on a tree. a water fall, we learned about the rocks, and trees so much more. Highly recommend.

Jed was amazing! We had the best day and my 3 boys say it was the best day of their life! Unfortunately the only wildlife we saw were deer but that's just the way it goes sometimes. We will be back and will recommend to everyone we know!

December 17, 2022

We absolutely loved our tours. We did the Breckenridge with Michael and loved it so much we booked the rocky mountains. It was totally worth the price and being able to see everything. Michael was so accommodating and enjoyable to hang with. Thank you guys so much for making our trip rememberable!!!

February 28, 2021

What a great time!!! Well worth the money. We had Ryan as our tour guide and he was fantastic and very knowledgeable. Haven’t been to Breckinridge in 30 years and it was wonderful. Love the little village vibe. Red Rock was amazing and will return this summer for a concert. Thanks for a great time!

March 20, 2021

This tour was well worth it. We were very impressed with this tour company, especially our tour guide JED. He was very personable, knowledgeable and professional. He had great stories and was very informative. We felt safe as he navigated and drove our group on this tour. We spent an adequate amount of time at the different places on this tour and never felt rushed. We would definitely use this company again!!

March 29, 2021

Steve gave a great tour with his 58 years of local knowledge. Awesome day of seeing Red Rocks Amphitheater, mountain towns, the Continental Divide, Breckenridge gondola ride and sledding as well as Izak Heartstone troll and a lot more. Definitely a great day with our 10 & 12 year old sons. They really enjoyed it. Make sure to bring water and there is more water bottles available.

Randy Magoo

April 5, 2021

The tour was amazing, spectacular, beautiful, my children and I enjoyed every part where we stopped. This was the first time my children saw Snow and they really enjoyed it. Our tour guide was Mason, a safe driver, friendly person with extensive knowledge of each place we went. 100% recommended.

December 21, 2021

Ryan was an amazing guide. So knowledgeable, personable and accommodating. Beyond the amazing views we learned so much about the ecosystem, culture and history. Definitely recommend a trip with Ryan

Elizabeth S

March 7, 2022

Jed was an amazing tour guide. He impressed everyone in my party of 5 with his extensive knowledge about Colorado (Denver and the tour sites), safety and overall professionalism. The tour was a long - 8 hours felt like the whole day - but there was something for everyone in my group to enjoy. I'd say that the most popular stops were the Loveland Pass and the Red Rock Amphitheater. Because it was my first time in Colorado, I enjoyed the opportunity to drive around and learn about all that there was to do and see from small towns to ski towns to beautiful mountains. I highly recommend this tour for people of all ages, if you're new in town and want a safe way to explore, if you want to learn more about things to do and see, if you have a lot of time to kill... Do it!

December 15, 2021

We had a fantastic time on this tour! our guide Kyle was super knowledgeable about the area and kept us on time the whole way! Red rocks was beautiful, plenty of time to see the museum and the amphitheater! Idaho springs was a very cute town and the local coffee shop kyle suggested was really good! Finally he took us to see the troll at Breckenridge and gave us several good suggestions and showed us we’re we could take the gondola. It was a beautiful day and I can’t recommend it enough. Also, the drive back to union station was a perfect time to take a little nap or enjoy his fantastic playlist while watching the mountains pass by! You can’t go wrong with this one!

April 20, 2022

This your was so fun! We signed up for it hoping to see the Rockies and got so much more! Our guide, Ryan, was very knowledgeable and made the experience really enjoyable. The sights and activities were amazing. He even gave great restaurant recommendations after the tour was over. We had originally planned to do the half day, but moved to the full day last minute. We were so glad we did. A half day wouldn't have been enough. So worth the time and money!

March 16, 2022

Definitely a trip I will always remember every stop we made was wonderful and worth every penny spent. Our tour guide was amazing had fantastic recommendations during and after our tour. Highly recommend next time you are Denver!

Elizabeth P

Great experience and Dylan did a great job of making the trip both entertaining and educational. 4-5 stops with options to be as active as you see fit. Each stop was 30-40 minutes with incredible views. Would highly recommend for all ages.

September 21, 2022

Travelled solo but still had loads of fun. Group of at most 10 people with a guide. Paul was awesome and he really managed to create such a fun atmosphere. The views were breathtaking and the organization of the trip was spot-on, exactly 8 hours as specified online.

Brilliant day, great host and amazing scenery. Would highly recommend to anyone wanting to experience the Rocky Mountains in a day. So lucky to see so many animals including the Colorado State animal, the Bighorn Sheep!

September 14, 2022

First of all, Jeff was an AMAZING tour guide. He was an excellent driver and very personable. He was present with us for the entire day and gave us his best. This tour is an absolutely wonderful way to see Rocky Mountain National Park without having to drive it yourself. We were fortunate to get up to about 11,700 feet on Trail Ridge Road. We saw many deer, and 2 herds of elk. Jeff pulled over for us to take time to look and take pictures!

We had a fabulous time on our Rocky Mountain tour. The highlights were the fantastic scenery, of course, and our driver/guide Nicholas. He is a careful, skilled driver and has an encyclopedic knowledge of the Rocky Mtns.. He was able to discuss so many topics: history, folklore, geography and flora and fauna of the region. His love and knowledge of the Rockies was very evident. Highly recommend the tour company, and Nicholas

Aaron was a great tour guide. He showed us all the main spots in the park and also stopped frequently to spot wildlife. He was friendly, professional and hiked with us to all the spots. We would definitely take this tour again when we visit Denver.

Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and informative during the entire trip. The drive from Denver did not even feel long. The views from the Van were amazing. I love how time was given to explore some of the stops before ,during, and after the Rocky Mountains. Would definitely recommend this trip to anyone visiting for the first time or in town.

One of the most beautiful places I ever seen, great people I got to eat elk burgers I will come back for the summer .

What an awesome way to spend the day hiking while taking in spectacular views! This hiking adventure does not disappoint!

Hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park - Picnic Included

Amazing adventure, Mike is just incredible and knows everything about the region and its history. The group atmosphere was great also.

Our guide was Aaron. He was very friendly and knowledgeable, always accommodating and caring. I learned a lot about the landscape and wildlife and history of the park. The best part was using all the senses to explore the environment. I would recommend this trip to anyone who enjoys the outdoors and wants a fun day in nature!

August 10, 2022

Aaron was an amazing guide! He was extremely knowledgeable but even more importantly entertaining! This was a great way to get a taste of RMNP without renting a car.

July 13, 2022

We had the best day-it was a wonderful experience with our knowledgeable, friendly guide. We enjoyed the hike and cannot recommend this day in Rocky Mountain national park enough!

July 19, 2022

This tour was definitely a highlight of my short weekend trip to Denver..I am so glad I decided to do this tour. Communication with Aspire Tours ahead of time was quick and easy, and our guide Ty was top-notch! He gave lots of interesting information about Colorado history and the various ecosystems we encountered on our trip. He also made sure we were adequately hydrated and periodically checked on everyone to make sure they were feeling good and no altitude sickness. The hike was perfect in terms of difficulty level and pace. We had plenty of time to enjoy the beautiful scenery and take photos. This tour takes the guesswork out of visiting the Rockies, especially if you are on a time constraint. I would recommend this tour to anyone looking to enhance their Colorado experience.

August 2, 2022

From start to finish, this trip was an incredible journey! Jed, like Jedi but without the i (inside joke), was the best guide! His knowledge of the Denver area, the Rocky Mountains, and the hike itself were amazing. The hike was easily the most incredible hike I’ve ever had. The views, far exceeded our expectations, and our expectations were high. I couldn’t recommend this trip enough! Do it, you won’t regret it!

I will always remember the most breathtaking views hiking with my daughter in the Rocky’s! It was such a beautiful day and Nick our tour guide with awesome! He was so fun, kind and informative. He knew where to stop and get great pictures and picked a wonderful place for us to hike. I would recommend this tour to anyone that is coming to visit the Denver area, my daughter and can’t wait to come back!

August 4, 2022

The views were beautiful and Phil was knowledgeable, patient, and fun. We had a great time. Signedup for another tour this afternoon!

October 23, 2022

A must-do if you are remotely interested in hiking, and that goes for for locals and Colorado visitors alike. Ryan was a phenomenal, passionate tour guide. He's not only intelligent about the area, but had a fun sense of humor. His guidance ensured I got to experience an especially scenic trail, filled with fun facts and stories about the individual mountains, the wildlife/birds, and the plants/nature along the way. If I'd of ventured to Rocky Mtn National park and tried to find my way solo, I'd likely of missed out on the extra-amazing photo opps, and my brain definitely would have missed out on learning dozens of fun facts about the area I just hiked through. The pickup/dropoff from downtown Denver was convenient as well.

November 1, 2022

Our guide Clyde was so knowledgeable about tips for adjusting to the high altitude, flora and fauna of the area, other areas to visit, and places to eat. He showed us incredible spots around several lakes, and we even spotted elk! Clyde was prepared with Yeti traps for each of us as it had just snowed the day before, also with chains/sand for icy driving conditions. And I loved my lunch that catered to my dietary restrictions!

November 7, 2022

We had a great time with our guide. Enjoyed the scenery, took great pictures, and our guide gave us plenty of time for us to enjoy ourselves at every station. Highly recommend to people who are traveling to Denver for the first time.

December 19, 2022

We went on the full day hiking trip to the Rocky Mountain national park and had a fantastic time! We felt well prepared based on the information we’d been given. Paul Kullman was an amazing guide! We saw beautiful views, had such a fun day, and we felt in good hands the whole day. We spotted elk and birds. Paul was incredibly knowledgeable and we learnt so much. It was our first time in the Rockies so we appreciated how convenient the trip was. We would definitely recommend this trip!

November 24, 2022

Great tour of three breweries in the Denver mountains, tour guide was very knowledgeable and great company. Lovely selection of beers too. Would highly recommend.

Gentry was extremely knowledgeable & just an over all super friendly tour guide. Would highly recommend!

The whole experience was amazing! Gentry was so helpful and informative! You will not want to miss this! Gorgeous views! Just make sure to layer up!

This was a great experienceI love the history Love the viewLove the fellowship Love seeing the mountains Love the driving and waking experience

THE INSIDE HOOKUP

• Colorado Trail
• Backpacking and Trekking in Colorado

Colorado Trail Backpacking

• description
• CT sections
• training & followup
• what sets us apart

A Guided Trip on the Classic CT

Completed in 1987, the Colorado Trail spans the state from Denver to Durango over almost 500 miles. The Colorado Trail is widely considered one of the finest long-distance trails in the United States and even the world.  San Juan Mountain Guides is very fortunate to guide the final 94 miles of the trail – Segments 24-28.

These final 5 Segments are a highlight reel of some of the most beautiful terrain in all of Southwest Colorado: the Weminuche Wilderness, dense wildflower displays contouring around Lime Creek between Molas and Rolling Passes, the lush, remote Cascade Creek drainage, the jaw-dropping amphitheatre below Blackhawk Pass, the gentle traverse of the West Hermosa Creek drainage, the rugged La Plata Mountains and the final, long descent to Durango along rushing Junction Creek. This is some of the most premier backcountry you will ever find.

Itinerary Note

We have scheduled our 2013 Colorado Trail Backpacking dates so that you have multiple options with regard to what sections you would like to combine.  For example, if you would like to do each section we offer (CT Sections 24 – 28), then our dates run consecutively so that you can plan your trip to Colorado’s San Juan Mountains accordingly.

• As always, we are able to schedule  Private Guided Backpacking  trips and itineraries throughout the summer if you would like to coordinate your own dates on Colorado’s classic trail!

Just a quick word to say thanks for all you did to make my past several days truly rewarding. - D. Mrozek

Colorado Trail Sections

2 -day, sections 24.

These 2 days are spent in the glorious Weminuche Wilderness. Segment 24 begins from Stony Pass and quickly descends off the Continental Divide on near vertical terrain into the Elk Creek drainage with hanging waterfalls and rugged mountain peaks all around us. Later, views of Vestal and Arrow Peaks in the Grenadier sub-range open up before our final push to Molas Pass from the Animas River.

3-Day, Sections 25 & 26

Molas Pass to Hotel Draw . Our total mileage over 3 days is a bit under 32 miles including two wonderful, high-mountain campsites along the way. Despite the higher altitude, these trail segments do not require an abundance of uphill hiking and subsequently can be tackled by a relatively fit individual or even family.

4-Day, Sections 27 & 28

Hotel Draw to Durango . We’ll begin a rolling, gentle traverse above the West Hermosa Creek drainage. Views of the La Plata Mountains open up as we make our way to Indian Trail Ridge. From Kennebec Pass we begin our long descent to Durango through the Junction Creek drainage. This final Segment is a study in ecological zones as we start near treeline and finish in high desert scrub oak.

7-Day, Sections 25-28

Molas Pass to Durango . This trip combines the 3-day and 4-day options into one 7-day trip on Segments 25-28.

9-Day, Sections 24-28

Stony Pass to Durango . This trip combines all of the sections from the Weminuche Wilderness to Durango in one amazing trip!

Backpacking Equipment List

• Backpack : Internal frame, 50-80 liters. Guides’ pick: Osprey Aether 60
• Sleeping bag: Down or synthetic bag rated between 15-30 degrees with compression stuff sack. Guides’ pick : Neutrino Endurance 400
• Sleeping pad: Guides’ pick: Thermarest NeoAir
• Bowl, spoon, cup: Plastic/lexan
• Pocket knife: 2-3 inch blade, simple, light
• Small thermos: Optional, but nice to have
• Water bottles: 2 liters combined capacity; bottles or bladder. Guides’ pick: Nalgene or Osprey
• Water purification system: We recommend simple iodine tablets, but pumps are acceptable. Guides’ pick: Potable Aqua

Clothing and Personal Equipment

• Hiking boots: Sturdy, waterproof, comfortable boots. Please contact us with questions or further recommendations.
• Socks: 2-3 pair of medium weight wool or synthetic blend socks.
• Base layers: Synthetic t-shirt and synthetic underwear
• Soft shell pants: warm enough for cool mornings and nights, yet light enough for warm days. Guides’ pick: OR Ferrosi
• Soft shell jacket: light weight. Guides’ pick: OR Ferrosi
• Insulated vest : down or synthetic. Guides’ pick: OR Transcendent
• Hard shell jacket: waterproof and breathable, no insulation. Guides’ Pick: OR Helium
• Hats: one with brim, one for warmth
• Sunscreen and lip balm: water/sweat-proof
• Headlamp: with extra batteries. Guides’ pick: Black Diamond Spot
• Toiletries: Toilet paper, baggie for used TP, toothbrush/paste, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, etc.
• Personal first-aid kit: for your personal meds/needs; guide will have a large one as well
• Stuff sacks: for convenient packing
• Lunch food: Everything you eat between breakfast and dinner. May include: bagels, dried meats, cheese, trail mix, candy bars, peanut butter, etc…

Training & Follow Up Programs

As always, being in excellent physical shape is an important component of our our programs. A good mixture of cardiovascular fitness, muscular fitness, and especially core strength will help you to maximize the potential rewards that are possible on a great trip.

1 Before Your Trip img.sc_image_wrap { box-sizing: border-box; padding: 5px; margin: 5px 10px; border: 1px solid #e7e7e7; }

In order to successfully carry a 35 lb. pack up to 7 miles a day, endurance is key. Cardiovascular activities such as running, swimming, and cycling are great to build heart and lung endurance. Taking day hikes with your loaded backpack at a local park will help train your legs for the mileage you will do in the mountains.

2 Follow Up Programs

• Best of the Weminuche Backpacking
• Intro to Alpine Climbing

If and when I decide to tackle the big mountains I will call you guys for sure. I was very impressed with the guides and the service on my last class. Thanks again! - Chris N.

Durango, Colorado: Getting Here

Durango is located in the SW corner of Colorado, at the intersection of the sandstone towers of the desert, and the jagged, San Juan Mountains. A mecca for climbing, hiking, cycling, and foodies; make sure you plan to spend some time in town before and after your SJMG trip.

rexer Flights: The best option for flying to the area is to fly into Durango – La Plata County Airport. Multiple airline options exist, and most connections originate from Denver, Phoenix, or Dallas. The airport is a 20 minute drive from our office. Many hotels offer a free shuttle pickup. Buckhorn Limousine offers a shuttle as well.

rexer Driving: Below are some approximate driving times if you’d like to drive to Durango. If you plan on renting a car, please consider the winter weather when selecting your vehicle and at a minimum choose something that offers either front wheel or all-wheel drive.

• Denver, CO: 6 hours
• Albuquerque, NM: 3 hours

rexer Hotels: Durango has a number of great hotels, suites, and vacation rentals for you to stay in while you’re in the area. Give our office a call at 800-642-5389 if you have any questions about what would suite you best for this trip! Below are just a few options catering to different lodging styles and preferences.

• The Strater
• Durango Lodge
• Durango Hometown Hostel

Additional Information

There are several options for guided/supported backpacking on the Colorado Trail. Here’s what makes San Juan Mountain Guides’ experience different:

· Local Knowledge – we specialize in these final Segments and know them like the back of our hand.

· Pack Weights Kept to a Minimum  – We utilize the most advanced lightweight backpacking gear possible on this program, and combined with our stout guides and re-supplies throughout the trip the packs remain light (around 30 lbs.) throughout!

· Reasonable Days – Unlike other options out there, we don’t have any 20+mile days to reach camp. These areas should be savored and enjoyed, not rushed past – our days max out at 11 miles.

· Resupply – Our longest stretch without resupply is 2 days, which enables us to carry excellent camp meals and for you to carry minimal (but fresh!!) personal day snacks.

· Wide Array of Options – From 3 days to 9 days we probably have the right trip for you. We can even customize for your group if you have a particular goal!

· Easy Logistics – All of our trips begin and end in Durango, CO!

• Cost Includes :
• Guides/trip leaders
• All dinner and breakfast meals
• Group camping and cooking equipment
• Incredible mountain scenery.
• Not Included :
• Hotel costs before, during, or after the trips
• 5% land use surcharge, trip cancellation insurance
• Personal camping equipment
• Trail lunches
• Guide gratuity
• Registration and Cancellation :
• Advance Registration is required for this program.  You have the option to either call our office and register via phone, fill out our pdf Registration Form and send it in via fax or email, or utilize our secure Online Reservation System.  All participants must read and sign an Assumption of Risks/Liability Waiver and agree to our Reservations and Cancellations Policies.

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• Multi-Day Trips

Colorado Backcountry Adventures

Explore colorado’s backcountry.

Surround yourself with breathtaking mountain scenery on one of our incredible Colorado Backpacking trips. Explore the mountains and the beauty they behold as you backpack through spectacular alpine meadows filled with gorgeous wildflowers and serene alpine lakes. Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of God’s creation from one of Colorado’s extraordinary peaks on this phenomenal Multi-Day Adventure .

Life Changing Excursions

Our guided backpacking trips are challenging and fun catalysts that can take your group to new levels in community and purpose as you seek a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ. Surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Colorado’s high mountains and infused with solid, Biblical teaching, these guided wilderness trips are nothing short of life changing.

Trip Details

Ages: 10 - Adult Skill Level: Beginner - Advanced Duration: 3 - 8 Days Cost: Please Call For Price

Why Backpacking?

• Throughout the ages, God has used wilderness as a training ground for those He was preparing for service. Moses, Paul, Elijah, David, and yes, even Jesus spent significant time in the wilderness before beginning their life of service.
• Simply being in the wilderness removes many of the distractions that can steal our focus, replacing them with focused time in God’s Word and a supportive and encouraging community.
• Backpacking can give you focused, intentional time to invest in each person in your group. Did you know that 6-day backpacking trips give a youth pastor or leader more time with each student than they typically get with an entire year of youth group meetings? This is why backpacking trips are so effective! 

What Our Guests Are Saying

What to Expect

Fully customize our Backpacking Trips for your group

Ministry Content

Our guided backpacking trips are designed to bring the focus to Jesus Christ. Mornings begin with breakfast and time to be alone with Jesus in the peaceful mountain meadows. Throughout the day, engage in deep spiritual conversation with your guide as you take in the beauty of the terrain. Our guides love to use God’s creation as a foundation for their teachings and will share several Spiritual Analogies throughout the week using the wilderness as a tool. Evenings are spent together around a campfire as we worship and grow, learning from God’s word with a message prepared for you by one of our guides.

Our guides have a true heart for Christ and are intentional about making Him known. The activities, schedule, and spiritual content in these Colorado backpacking trips are fully customizable to the meet needs of your group.

Sample Itinerary

• Monday:  Arrive at 9am, checkout gear, drive to trailhead, and get a few miles in on the trail before dinner.
• Tuesday:  Hike up along a beautiful creek to a meadow or alpine lake campsite.
• Wednesday:  Hike over a ridge, drop packs, and climb to the summit of a peak. After some time on the summit, descend to another campsite just below tree line.
• Thursday:  Spend the day backpacking to the trailhead as you enjoy the wildflowers along the way.
• Friday:  Enjoy a Solo time in the morning before backpacking out to the trailhead and driving back to our Texas Creek or Royal Gorge headquarters.
• Saturday:  Raft Bighorn Sheep Canyon or the Royal Gorge and then depart after we share lunch together.

About the Routes

Backpacking locations.

Our guided backpacking trips take place in Colorado’s beautiful and rugged mountain ranges such as the Sangre de Cristo Mountains or the San Juan Mountains.

These backpacking trips last 3-8 days and average about 5 miles a day. Most treks start above 9,000 ft. in elevation; reaching ridges as high as 12,000 ft. and peaks above 13,000 ft.

Build the Perfect Adventure

All of our backpacking trips are fully customizable. Adding activities such as whitewater rafting , inflatable kayaking , and rock climbing makes this an unforgettable adventure for your entire group.

What's Included & What to Bring

What’s included.

All tents, meals, and necessary group gear are included with all of our guided backpacking trips. Backpacks and sleeping pads are available upon request at no additional charge.

All you need is your personal clothing, rain gear, sleeping bag, quality hiking footwear, and any additional personal items you would like. Download a comprehensive packing list.

You May Also Like:

Basecamp Style Wilderness Adventure Trips

Multi-Day Whitewater Rafting Trips

Overnight Rafting Trip in Bighorn Canyon

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• Backpacking

Offering Guided Backpacking Trips and Guided Day Hikes in Colorado!

"I highly recommend Rocky Mountain Hiking Company to tailor an outdoor experience for you and your group. Carly was exceptionally responsive, enthusiastic, and creative in the planning process, and she and her team led us on a hiking trip that felt unifying, challenging, and accommodating at the same time. I can’t wait to work with RMHC again!" - Catherine R., Villanova University 

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Testimonials  

"This was my first backpacking trip! Hiking with Carly was truly incredible. She was supportive and encouraging, which enabled the trip to feel both like being home and a genuine adventure." - Shaina U., Los Angeles, CA

"If you didn't already love backpacking and hiking, you will now. Carly's expertise, joy, and love for the outdoors are matched by her energy. You will laugh, you will sweat, and you will have an unforgettable time." - Elizabeth Z., New Orleans, LA "Carly helped me plan my 2019 PCT thru-hike. I could not have done it without her. Logistical resources, practical advice, emotional guidance, gear planning. Everything I needed to be successful. An unbelievable value for the money."  Bob D., Tampa, FL "Carly is a force of nature both on and off-trail. She's one of the most accomplished, but also one of the friendliest, most humble hikers I know. She's always happy to share her knowledge and expertise with others." Susanna B., Sacramento, CA "Carly’s expert advice and recommendations regarding my equipment selection helped me keep my backpack lightweight. She was responsive, knowledgeable, and an absolute delight. I love that Carly had real experience on the John Muir Trail where I’ll be hiking using some of the equipment we discussed. She is organized and concise and she sent me great details about the equipment she suggested I consider. Carly is passionate about sharing her experience and knowledge." - Vicky S., Asheville, NC

"After sustaining a back injury 1,400 miles into my Appalachian Trail thru-hike, it seemed like there was no way to finish and everything was lost. So I reached out to Carly for coaching. She guided me all the way through Maine and New Hampshire to the finish line!" - Mr. Clean, New York, NY

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15+ Epic Backpacking Trips in Colorado for Overnight Hikes

• By jesse.sumrak

Backpacking in Chicago Basin is a dream come true. Imagine…

• Massive peaks
• Rushing rivers
• Fields of wildflowers
• Alpine lakes

Check, check, check—Chicago Basin has it all.

Accessing Chicago Basin requires a journey that begins with the historic  Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad . Starting from Durango, Colorado, the scenic train ride takes you deep into the wilderness, passing through breathtaking landscapes of towering peaks and cascading rivers. The train drops off hikers at the Needleton stop, the gateway to Chicago Basin.

From Needleton, the real adventure begins with a hike along the Animas River. The trail starts pretty mellow before climbing up into the beautiful Chicago Basin. 

Chicago Basin is famous for being home to not one but four stunning fourteeners (mountains with peaks over 14,000 feet): 

• Sunlight Peak (14,059 ft)
• Windom Peak (14,082 ft)
• Mount Eolus (14,083 ft)
• North Eolus (14,039 ft)

Each peak presents its own set of challenges and rewards for hikers and mountaineers. Windom is an easy(ish) Class 2 14’er, while Sunlight’s crux is considered the most difficult of  all  the Colorado fourteeners.

Experienced climbers can attempt the “Chicago Basin Grand Slam” by conquering all four summits in one day. But it’s a  beast .

Camping options abound in Chicago Basin, and this is one of the few areas in the Weminuche Wilderness where camping is allowed above treeline. There are several established campsites, but it’s essential to secure a train ticket well in advance due to the high number of visitors.

2. Lost Creek Wilderness Loop

The Lost Creek Wilderness Loop offers a challenging and diverse backpacking experience in the heart of Colorado’s Lost Creek Wilderness. The loop is a picturesque trail system that winds through a mesmerizing landscape of unique rock formations, lush forests, meadows adorned with wildflowers, and babbling creeks.

It’s called “Lost Creek” because the creek wanders under boulder fields and rocks, making it difficult to keep track of as it winds through the wilderness.

The Lost Creek Wilderness Loop can be accessed from various trailheads, but the Goose Creek Trailhead is one of the most popular starting points. Located approximately 60 miles southwest of Denver, reaching the trailhead involves a scenic drive through the foothills. 

The loop comprises several interconnected trails, providing backpackers options for different trip lengths and difficulty levels. The most common route covers approximately 25 to 30 miles, but depending on your preferences, more extended or shorter variations are possible.

One of the highlights of this wilderness area is the exceptional rock formations known as the “Lost Creek Wilderness granite domes.” These massive granite rocks, sculpted by millennia of erosion, create a surreal landscape that seems straight out of a fiction novel. The imaginative names of some of these formations, such as “The Sphinx” and “The Castle,” add to the charm.

You’ll encounter several creek crossings, adding an element of adventure to the journey. Yes, you will get wet. Some crossings may require careful navigation, especially during the spring snowmelt or after heavy rains. Take your time, and scout for safer opportunities.

On the bright side, it’s never hard to find water, so you can keep your pack light(er).

3. Colorado Trail

The Colorado Trail is a legendary long-distance trail that spans over 500 miles, winding its way from the outskirts of Denver straight through the heart of the Rockies to Durango. If you want to see the best of what Colorado has to offer, this is the backpacking trail for you.

The trail is divided into 28 segments, each varying in length and difficulty. Ranging from relatively easy sections appropriate for day hikers to challenging portions for experienced backpackers, the Colorado Trail caters to adventurers of all levels.

Hikers on the Colorado Trail will experience dramatic elevation changes, with several high mountain passes exceeding 12,000 feet. This means weather conditions can change rapidly, and it’s crucial to be prepared for sudden temperature drops, afternoon thunderstorms, and even snow in higher elevations (even during the summer).

Water sources can be scarce in some segments, especially during dry seasons. Do your research to plan ahead, and pick up a copy of the  Colorado Trail Guidebook . It’s regularly updated and covers everything you need to know to survive your trip.

The trail offers numerous opportunities for backcountry camping, but hikers must follow Leave No Trace principles and abide by established regulations for camping in designated areas. Some segments may require permits, so it’s crucial to research and plan ahead.

4. Maroon Bells Wilderness

The Maroon Bells Wilderness offers a wide range of hiking trails catering to different skill levels and interests. From short day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips, there’s something for everyone. 

Popular routes include the Maroon-Snowmass Trail, West Maroon Trail, and the Four Pass Loop, a challenging but incredibly rewarding 27-mile circuit that takes you over four high mountain passes.

However,  everyone  wants to go backpacking in the Maroon Bells Wilderness, so you’ll need to get in line and fight to earn yourself a permit. Some adventures want to backpack to beautiful alpine lakes, others want to do the Four Pass Loop, and many want to bag the area’s iconic (and scary) 14-thousand-foot peaks. 

5. Wild Basin, Rocky Mountain National Park

Wild Basin is the lesser-visited area of Rocky Mountain National Park. It can get busy, but it’s far less crowded than Bear Lake Road and the northern areas of the park—yet, it has so much to offer. However, you have to work a bit more for everything. 

There isn’t a shuttle to drop you off at every lake and waterfall.

Located on the southeastern side of Rocky Mountain National Park, Wild Basin is accessible through a separate entrance station. From the trailhead, visitors can choose from a variety of hiking trails, each offering its own unique charm and adventure.

Wild Basin is an excellent place for backcountry camping, with several established campsites available for anyone seeking a more immersive wilderness experience. Permits are required for backcountry camping and can be obtained through the Rocky Mountain National Park’s backcountry office.

I’ve backpacked to Thunder Lake, and it’s a relatively gradual trail that meanders through most of the basin. Thunder Lake is a gem, and we had the whole lake to ourselves when we visited. It serves as a great base camp for hiking (or climbing) Mt. Alice and Chiefs Head Peak. We also threw in Tanima Peak, just for fun. 

6. Ice Lake Basin

Backpacking at Ice Lake Basin is a true alpine adventure, offering hikers a glimpse into one of Colorado’s most strikingly beautiful and pristine wilderness areas. Situated near the town of Silverton in the San Juan Mountains, Ice Lake Basin is renowned for its awe-inspiring turquoise-colored lakes, rugged mountain peaks, and breathtaking wildflower meadows.

The trailhead to Ice Lake Basin is accessible from the South Mineral Creek area, just a short drive from Silverton. The journey to the basin begins with a moderate ascent through a dense forest, gradually revealing glimpses of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

Eventually, you’ll make your way up to Ice Lake, a beautiful blue lake with rugged, craggy peaks surrounding it. From here, you can find a camp spot, and you can also go climb Class 2 Vermillion Peak (one of Colorado’s 100 tallest peaks). You can also take a short adventure around the mountain’s corner to Island Lake, a smaller lake with a little island in the middle.

The San Juan Mountains Association (SJMA) recommends camping in the Lower Ice Lake Basin for the following reasons:

• Protecting Fragile Alpine Vegetation:  Exercise caution when setting up tents in the Upper Basin, as the delicate alpine vegetation can be easily damaged.
• Challenges of Cat Holes in Alpine Tundra:  Digging a cat hole for waste disposal becomes problematic in the alpine tundra, and privacy options are limited.
• Discouraging Fires in the Upper Basin:  Fires are highly discouraged in the Upper Basin due to several reasons. Firstly, wood is scarce, necessitating the need to carry it in. Additionally, open fire scars are unsightly and can take years for revegetation.
• Exposure to Elements in the Upper Basin:  The Upper Basin lacks tree cover for protection, leaving backpackers exposed to storms and strong winds.

7. Continental Divide Trail

Backpacking the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) is a true backcountry odyssey that takes adventurous hikers on an epic journey along the spine of the Rocky Mountains. 

Stretching over 3,100 miles from Mexico to Canada, the CDT offers an unparalleled wilderness experience, immersing backpackers in diverse landscapes, rugged terrains, and some of the most remote and unspoiled areas in the United States.

Colorado contains a large portion of the CDT, offering unique opportunities to camp in fantastic backcountry settings. However, be aware of each area’s specific regulations and permit requirements. Due to the trail’s remote nature, self-reliance and Leave No Trace principles are essential to minimize your impact on the environment.

8. Conundrum Hot Springs

Backpacking to Conundrum Hot Springs is a rewarding journey with rushing creeks, views of rugged mountain ridges, and (of course) natural hot springs. 

The trailhead to Conundrum Hot Springs begins at the Conundrum Creek Trailhead, located near Aspen, Colorado. The trail winds through dense forests and wildflower-laden meadows. 

After a challenging 8.5-mile hike, you’ll arrive at Conundrum Hot Springs. Here, you’ll find two natural hot spring pools. You get to soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters while gazing at the epic alpine scenery—it really doesn’t get better than this.

You  might  even feel refreshed on your descent hike back to Aspen…maybe.

9. Lone Eagle Peak, Indian Peaks Wilderness

The journey to Lone Eagle Peak typically begins at the Monarch Lake Trailhead near Granby, Colorado. The trail winds through dense forests and opens up to reveal stunning vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

Stop by Mirror Lake and Crater Lake  for awesome views of Lone Eagle Peak reflecting in the water. This majestic granite spire rises dramatically from the alpine landscape—it looks like something out of a movie. 

The Indian Peaks Wilderness is known for its remoteness, providing a sense of isolation and solitude that connects hikers with the raw beauty of nature. While the trail is popular among adventurers, the vastness of the wilderness ensures that you can find solitude, too. 

Camping opportunities abound in the Indian Peaks Wilderness, offering backpackers the chance to spend the night beneath the starlit skies. Obtain the necessary permits for overnight stays and adhere to Leave No Trace principles to protect the fragile alpine environment.

10. Crested Butte to Aspen

This multi-day trek offers backpackers a chance to immerse themselves in the untamed beauty of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness and the Elk Mountains while connecting two mountain towns. 

The adventure begins in the charming town of Crested Butte, where the West Maroon Pass trailhead awaits. The most popular route is the West Maroon Trail, which takes hikers through a lush valley adorned with wildflowers and towering peaks. Another option is the East Maroon Trail, providing a slightly different but equally scenic route.

Plan transportation logistics in advance, as the trailhead and endpoint are in different locations. Shuttles and private transportation services are available between Crested Butte and Aspen, letting you enjoy a no-stress point-to-point journey.

11. South Colony Lakes

The trailhead to South Colony Lakes is accessible from the South Colony Lakes Road near Westcliffe, Colorado. The initial part of the trail takes hikers through dense forests, gradually opening up to reveal spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.

South Colony Lakes is the gateway to two of Colorado’s most challenging and iconic 14ers: Crestone Needle and Crestone Peak. You can also bag Humboldt (another 14er) or do a little bit more adventuring to get Columbia Point (a centennial).

You’ll find plenty of backcountry campsites close to Lower South Colony Lakes. You can camp up at the Upper South Colony Lakes, but the area is above treeline and exposed to the elements.

12. Zirkel Circle

This iconic loop trail offers backpackers the chance to experience the raw beauty of the Rocky Mountains, with alpine lakes, rugged peaks, and diverse landscapes that showcase the essence of Colorado’s remote wilderness. 

The Zirkel Circle typically starts from the Slavonia Trailhead, near the town of Steamboat Springs. The loop covers approximately 10 miles, passing through some of the most picturesque areas of the Zirkel Wilderness. You’ll get amazing views of Mount Zirkel and pass by Gilpin Lake and Gold Creek Lake on your loop through the wilderness.

13. Rainbow Trail

The Rainbow Trail stretches approximately 100 miles as it takes hikers from Salida all the way to the Sangre de Cristo mountain range. The Rainbow Trail can be accessed from various trailheads, but the most popular starting point is near the town of Salida, Colorado. The trail is divided into several sections, each offering its own unique scenery and challenges.

Backpackers can camp in designated areas along the trail or utilize backcountry shelters in some sections. Backpacking the entire length of the Rainbow Trail requires thorough planning and organization. Arrange transportation and resupplies accordingly to ensure a smooth and successful journey.

Embarking on a backpacking expedition along the Rainbow Trail offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Colorado wilderness. The trail’s diverse landscapes, mountain vistas, and opportunities for solitude make it a genuine adventure for backpackers.

14. Colorado National Monument Traverse

The Colorado National Monument Traverse starts at the park’s east entrance, near the town of Grand Junction. Hikers will follow a combination of established trails and off-trail routes to traverse the entire length of the monument.

As you venture through the monument, you’ll encounter a super-cool display of geology, with massive red sandstone formations, steep canyons, and striking rock spires. The terrain can be rugged, and hikers should be prepared for some scrambling and challenging sections. Carry a detailed map, a GPS device, and a compass to navigate effectively.

The monument has several designated backcountry camping areas, allowing backpackers to spend the night amidst the canyons. The desert environment of the Colorado National Monument can be harsh, with hot temperatures during the day and cooler temperatures at night. Be prepared for sudden weather changes, carry sufficient water, and protect yourself from the sun.

15. Sand Ramp Trail, Great Sand Dunes National Park

Backpacking the Sand Ramp Trail in Great Sand Dunes National Park is an adventure that takes backpackers through the tallest sand dunes in North America. This lesser-known trail takes hikers through diverse landscapes, from the sandy dunes to the rugged mountains—you won’t find that in many other places on the planet.

The Sand Ramp Trail begins at the Mosca Pass Trailhead on the east side of Great Sand Dunes National Park. While the trail mostly avoids dunes, prepare to get sandy. The Sand Ramp Trail rewards hikers with stunning vistas that provide panoramic views of the vast dune fields, the towering Sangre de Cristo Mountains, and the sweeping San Luis Valley.

Find Something Shorter Than a Backpacking Adventure

Looking for something more tame than a backpacking trip? Don’t worry—Colorado has that, too. Check out our guide to the  Best Places to Camp in Colorado  for a mix of glamping, yurts, campgrounds, and other backcountry adventures. 

Learn everything you need to know about Lair o’ the Bear Park and the surrounding hiking and mountain biking trails.

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Discover the best bouldering in Colorado! Explore iconic venues and thrilling problems across the Centennial State’s rocky wonders.

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Rocky Mountain National Park Backpacking Trips

Guided backpacking trips near estes park, colorado, backpack rocky mountain national park with expert guides.

Backpacking Rocky Mountain National Park is an incredible way to see wilderness that has barely been touched by human beings, a task that is becoming more and more difficult these days. Travel safely through the backcountry of the Rocky Mountains with one of our professional Estes Park tour guides to see a whole new side of Colorado.

What Can You Expect On Your Guided Backpacking Trip in Rocky Mountain National Park?

• Be ready to wake up early!
• See birds, elk, deer, and tons of other wildlife.
• Witness serene mountain lakes and waterfalls surrounded by towering mountains.
• Hike through the Rockies with just the bare essentials strapped to your back.
• Our Rocky Mountain National Park guides will set up camp, prepare meals, and provide fishing assistance if needed.
• We provide tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, food, and any other necessary equipment.

Discover the beautiful Rocky Mountains with overnight Colorado backpacking trips from Kirks Mountain Adventures. Each guided backpacking trip offers a professional Rocky Mountain National Park guide to keep you safe while guiding you through the unforgettable wonders that are the Colorado Rockies. Each certified Estes Park hiking guide is experienced and can accommodate a backpacker of any experience level and each trip can be fully tailored to fit your personal needs.

Rocky Mountain National Park offers over 200,000 acres of breathtaking scenery for an unforgettable backpacking experience, including hiking well-maintained trails or traveling rugged backcountry routes with isolated campsites. We can take you to serene high mountain lakes, cascading waterfalls or to the summits of towering peaks. Some of our most popular backcountry routes include traveling over the Continental Divide or summiting the majestic Longs Peak , at a staggering 14,259 ft. We have a hike for almost every skill level!

Kirks Mountain Adventures will provide all of your necessary equipment, including tents, sleeping bags, backpacks and food, reserve your backcountry sites and your guide will set up camp and prepare all of the meals.

An Unforgettable Rocky Mountain National Park Backpacking Experience!   

8 Colorado Backpacking Trips You Shouldn’t Miss

This Colorado backpacking guide was brought to you by Gregory , the makers of backpacking packs that fit comfortably and fit all of your gear for your next backcountry adventure.

It’s impossible to think of Colorado without picturing the Rocky Mountains. The steep and stunning landscape of Colorado has brought skiing fanatics to its infamous slopes for decades. More recently, however, Colorado has become one of the most moved-to states in all of the country partly due to its year-round adventure access. One of the most holistic, soul-filling and challenging ways to experience this beautiful state is through backpacking.

The summer and fall in Colorado offer particularly glorious views and conditions, so for those seeking to explore more of Colorado’s wilderness areas, we’ve identified some of our favorite backpacking trips.

Whether you call the Centennial State your backyard or you’re planning an adrenaline-filled vacation, these Colorado backpacking trips will keep you bright-eyed and challenge your athleticism. These eight trips vary in distance, difficulty and seasonality, so make sure you are prepared for your Colorado backpacking trip.

1. Conundrum Hot Springs

Image from The Dyrt camper Anthony P.

Trailhead: Conundrum Creek Trailhead Distance: 16.7 miles Elevation Gain: 2,791 feet Route Type: Out and Back Season: June – October Permit Required?: Yes (year round)

This out-and-back trail has become wildly popular in the past few years and as a result, now requires a permit. Though popularity is a deterrent for some backpackers, backpacking to Conundrum Hot Springs is well worth the hype. Now that this year-round permit system is in place, solitude and peace have been restored to this gorgeous valley.

The 102-degree hot spring is the obvious highlight feature of this backpacking trail, but you’ll find plenty of beauty in the 8.5 miles to the springs. While climbing 2,791 feet, you’ll pass a myriad of wildflowers in July and shimmering, golden aspens in September and early October. You may even see moose, bears or marmot. Bear canisters are required for this trail as well.

The climb to the springs is difficult, so be prepared for a challenge and remember to pack light, and condense your items as much as possible. The Rockies are infamous for erratic weather, so be prepared for rain or snow depending on the time you go and pack warm layers for night time. There are three major creek crossings, two of which have bridges built for you and one that will require you to cross it. That said, there are plenty of water resources along the trail, but remember to be carrying at least two liters at any given time.

Once you reach the hot springs, you’ll have the opportunity to soak in the steamy pool with your friends and make some new friends if you’re so inclined. This soaking pool is clothing optional, so be prepared to see those embracing nudity or trying it out for yourself. You can enjoy the panoramic views of the breathtaking valley below and enjoy the presence of the towering Cathedral, Conundrum, and Castle Peaks. There are 20 campsites with varying group sizes.

Post Hike: Try Hops Culture in Aspen for a beer and pizza or a juicy hamburger.

2. Four Pass Loop

Trailhead: Maroon-Snowmass Trailhead Distance: 27.1 miles Elevation Gain: 7,327 ft. Route Type: Loop Season: No Permit Required?: No

This Colorado backpacking trip is true to its name – it skirts over four high-elevation passes in 27 miles in the striking Maroon Bells Wilderness and Elk Mountains. This trail is a favorite among Colorado residents and is typically done as a three to four-day backpacking trip but can be completed in one day as a challenging trail run. This loop is particularly popular in the fall, as the aspens are innumerable and entrance hikers with trails lined in gold, red and orange hues. This is a more challenging route, and best for intermediate to advanced backpackers.

You will begin at the trailhead at Maroon Lake, which you can access via your own personal vehicle before 8am or after 5pm. If you want to access the trail during those hours, you’ll have to take a shuttle and pay a $10 entrance fee. If necessary, hikers can camp at West Maroon Portal before beginning the journey.

Along the journey, you will witness incredible alpine scenery as you climb four 12,000+ foot mountains, walk among oodles of wild flowers or fall foliage, depending on the season. Be prepared for challenging terrain and many uphill battles. The incredible scenery will keep you motivated, but be aware of your skill level and be prepared for altitude sickness if you are sensitive to high elevation hiking.

Post Hike: Grind in Glenwood Springs offers gourmet burgers for meat enthusiasts and vegan/vegetarians alike.

3. Zirkel Circle

Trailhead: Slavonia Trailhead Distance: 10.3 miles Elevation Gain: 2,463 ft. Route Type: Loop Season: June – September Permit Required?: No

Northern Colorado are still somewhat off the beaten path, so trails will likely greet you with more solitude and silence than backpacking trips in the Front Range of Colorado. This trail near Steamboat Springs, Colorado can be done in a day or done as a short, two-day backpacking trip. The Zirkel Circle is a favorite among Northern Coloradans and is only moderately trafficked. The highlight of this trail is easily Gilpin Lake, a shimmering lake surrounded by rugged mountains, a view that easily mimics alpine scenery of Switzerland. The lake is about half-way along the trail, making it an ideal place to camp. Hikers must camp at least ¼ mile away from the lake.

We recommend hiking counterclockwise. Gold Creek Lake is a great place to stop for lunch on the way to camp at Gilpin Lake. Additionally, hiking counterclockwise has a lower sustained grade. Along the trail you’ll encounter lakes and streams that are fantastic for fly fishing. You may also encounter black bears, so a bear canister is recommended, but not required.

Post Hike: Aurum in Steamboat Springs is great for fancy cocktail to treat yourself for all of the hard work.

4. Venable-Comanche Trail and Phantom Terrace

Trailhead: Alvarado Trailhead Distance: 12.3 miles Elevation Gain: 3,884 ft. Route Type: Loop Season: May – November Permit Required?: No

Located in the heart of the Sangre de Cristo mountains, this Colorado backpacking trip is popular in fall as the trail winds through aspen groves that famously boast their shimmering golden leaves come September. Bring your fishing pole and fish in Venable Lakes or Comanche Lake. This trail offers sweeping views of The Sangre de Cristo Mountains, a rugged and narrow range in Southern Colorado.

You’ll begin at Venable Trail and have the option to camp at Alvarado Campground before hiking or go ahead and begin making your way. Make sure to look for open, flat areas where it looks like campers have camped before for best Leave No Trace practices. On the trail, you’ll skirt along the very narrow trail known as Phantom Terrace. Its spooky name originates from the trail being difficult to see and the seemingly steep drop off from the trail. But the trail is wider than it looks once you’re on it. Starting on the Venable Lake side of the loop (counterclockwise) will allow you to go down the Phantom Terrace, rather than making the hefty climb up.

Post Hike: Chappys Mountain View Bar & Grill in Westcliffe has mouth-watering burgers and steaks to enjoy the flavors of Colorado’s western heritage.

5. Baker Gulch to Bowen Gulch Lake

Trailhead: Bowen/Baker Trailhead Distance: 19 miles Elevation Gain: 4,757 ft. Route Type: Loop Season: April – October Permit Required?: No

This dynamic, challenging and scenic Colorado backpacking trail is great for beginner backpackers interested in a higher-mileage backpacking trip. The trail begins in Rocky Mountain National Park , so you will have to pay the $20 entrance fee if you do not have a pass. You’ll drive along the tallest road in the U.S., the Trail Ridge Road, which offers incredible views of the Rocky Mountains by vehicle. Once at the trailhead, hikers have the opportunity to trek over a 13,000 foot mountain, brush up against the abundant, knee-high wildflowers, witness a moose mother and baby, and catch a fish for dinner.

Anyone interested in backpacking will enjoy this trail, but a fly fisherman will be particularly delighted by the casting opportunity on the trout-laden alpine lakes. Parika Lake and Bowen Lake offer some of the best early-season cutthroats of the season in the Never Summer Wilderness, so make sure to bring a lightweight rod and cook up a fresh-caught dinner.

Moose are another fauna that roam proudly and in large numbers in the Never Summer Wilderness. You will likely see a mother moose and her baby or a small herd of male moose. Be sure to be wary of their presence and follow moose safety protocol . Do not bring your pets on this trail, as they can cause moose to become aggressive.

A great place to camp or enjoy a bite to eat is Parika Lake, if you’re going counterclockwise. There are plenty of water resources along the way, so water should not be an issue.

Post Hike: Nepal’s Cafe in Estes Park is fantastic for authentic, delicious Nepalese food.

6. Silver Basin Loop

Trailhead: Horse Ranch Lake Trailhead Distance: 15 miles (with option to add 6 miles to Oh Be Joyful Pass) Elevation Gain: 3,677 ft. Route Type: Loop Season: July – September Permit Required?: No

If you are searching for a backpacking trip with endlessly panoramic views, the Silver Basin loop near Crested Butte is the Colorado backpacking trip for you. This trail is great for beginners, as it is rated moderate because it is relatively short as backpacking loops go, and the elevation gain is low grade. This trail is fantastic in the fall as it boasts Colorado’s famous aspens. Along the trail you’ll witness the Ruby Range, characterized by their deep shades of red. This range is composed of the Maroon Formation, giving it a red hue, similar to the Maroon Bells near Aspen.

You’ll have the option to add 6 round trip miles to your trip by climbing up to Oh-be-Joyful pass. If you don’t mind adding mileage to your trip, this detour is highly recommended. You will be greeted with incredible alpine scenery and panoramic views of a glacial valley and countless peaks along the Ruby Range.

After this pit stop, the trail becomes relatively easier. You will continue your last leg along the Dark Canyon Trail, which follows a creek for any water you’ll need on the last day. You’ll also experience the Devil’s Stairway which drops 1,200 feet in .75miles. After that, the trail continues at a relatively easy grade from 8,640 feet to 9,400 feet over 7 miles before returning to Horse Ranch Lake trailhead.

There are plenty of water resources along the trail, but water should be treated before drinking. Be cautious of afternoon thunderstorms in the summer months. And, as with any backpacking trip, make sure you bring along more than enough backpacking food and easy options for meals to go .

Post Hike: The Secret Stash in Crested Butte will leave you thinking about their pizza for weeks to come.

7. The Last 23 Miles of The Colorado Trail (Southbound)

The San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado are arguably the most beautiful pocket of Colorado. Even Colorado residents don’t explore much of this range because it is hard to access, but that in turn helps keep it a remote wilderness area.

The 485-mile Colorado Trail epically ends in this gorgeous mountain range, and is argued to be some of the most beautiful sections of the trail. If you’re interested in the Colorado Trail, but don’t have a month to spend walking, this is a great Colorado backpacking trip to experience the last four sections of this stunning trail.

These sections of the Colorado trail are so beautiful because they are at or above timberline for most of the hike. The trail contours around monstrous peaks with and passes a line of stunning dark volcanic cliffs.

There are lots of water resources along this hike, but it should be treated. The hike is exposed to make sure to be wary of lightning.

8. Rawah Lakes Loop

Trailhead: West Branch Trailhead Distance: 23.2 miles Elevation Gain: 4,022 ft. Route Type: Loop Season: July-October Permit Required?: No

This Colorado backpacking trip is best completed in late summer or early fall, as there is typically a lot of snow until the late summer season. Summer offers emerald green mountains and pleasant temperatures. The fall permits trails lined with tall aspens in mass amounts in a fiery palette. The loop can be completed in 2-3 days with Upper camp lake, Rawah Lakes and Twin Crater Lakes being a great spot for lunch or camp depending on your route. Hikers can begin their journey from the parking lot and camp in well-used areas, or camp at Tunnel Campground before beginning the journey.

Post Hike: Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you probably know New Belgium Brewing Company makes some of the best beer in the U.S. Check out their employee-owned brewery and sip a brew on their lively patio.

This article about Colorado backpacking trips was brought to you by Gregory .

Photo from Gregory Packs

The makers of the best hiking backpacks on the market.

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Emily Gallegos

Emily Gallegos is a travel-lover, backpacker and is generally curious about all this world has to offer. She grew up in the front range of Colorado where she fell in love with snowboarding, fishing and being outside as often as possible. She has studied Spanish in Spain and Argentina and has written for magazines in Boulder, CO such as Elevation Outdoors.

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Luxury Colorado Expeditions

Explore and discover the majestic mountain wilderness of the colorado rocky mountains.

Explore the alluring Colorado Rocky Mountains; majestic peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and adventure around every aspen tree.  Inquire with our office to design a luxury basecamp, backpacking, or rustic experience in Colorful Colorado

Luxe Glamping

Luxe backpacking.

Colorado Guided Backpacking Trips

Explore the backcountry of rocky mountain national park with a professional guide.

Our Colorado guided backpacking trips offer an unforgettable backcountry experience to see some of the most pristine streams, lakes, and mountains in Rocky Mountain National Park. With over 250,000 acres of breathtaking scenery in RMNP, it's easy to see why it's one of our most coveted Rocky Mountain National Park tours that we offer!

Our Rocky Mountain National Park backpacking and fly fishing trips take you deep into the Colorado backcountry to explore remote, high-mountain lakes and streams, where fish thrive and wildlife is abundant. Kirks Flyshop will completely tailor your Colorado fly fishing trip to each angler’s preference. We will take into account distance, destination, and backpacking ability. Some of our favorite Rocky Mountain National Park guided backpacking routes include trekking over the Continental Divide, hiking to the remote Hutcheson Lakes, or fishing for the Native Greenback Cutthroat Trout in Thunder Lake. Call our Estes Park fly shop  to learn more about these fantastic destinations or to find out more about other spectacular backcountry routes.

Overnight Backpacking / Fly Fishing Rates $350/guest/day Minimum 2 people or $700/day for 1 guest

All equipment included (backpacking & fly fishing). All food is included. Your guide will set up camp for you and prepare all of your meals. Don't miss this once in a lifetime opportunity to fish legendary trout waters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about guided backpacking in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Our backcountry trips go out, rain, snow or shine. If you cancel within 48 hours of your scheduled trip you will lose your deposit. Trip deposits will be refunded, minus 10%, if canceled more than 48 hours before your scheduled trip. You may reschedule your trip if it is more than 48 hours before your scheduled trip.

You can inquire by clicking "INQUIRE NOW" above or call us directly .

We visit a variety of different locations in RMNP depending on your desired experience. From iconic destinations and beautiful alpine lakes to secret spots and scenic views, the park is our backyard and we know it like the back of our hand.

To have the best campsites at the right destinations, we need reserve the backcountry camping permit in advance. We encourage you to book your backpacking trip with as much lead time as your plans allow so that we can reserve the proper permits ahead of your desired dates.

Nope! We provide all gear for you and your guide will set up camp plus prepare all of your meals.

Nope! If you are a non-angler, you are not inclined to go fly fishing if you do not want to. If you would like to learn, we are happy to bring the proper gear for your trip.

Yes! Call our shop directly to work out the details.

Have a question about Colorado Guided Backpacking Trips? Please fill out the form below or call our Estes Park fly shop at (877) 669-1859.

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• Please let us know what you're looking for!
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Guided Hiking in Colorado & Arizona

Week-long trips in arizona.

Choose one of the sections below for more information and details on how to register.

Week-Long Trips on the Colorado Trail

Week-long trips in winter park and san juan mountains .

Choose one of the sections below for more information and details on how to register.

A Brief History of the Colorado Trail Trekking Program

The Colorado Trail was conceived in the 1970’s by a collaboration of private citizens and USFS personnel as a way to link the state together and give backcountry enthusiasts a way to see the best and most remote parts of Colorado.  It was completed in the 1980’s, although it is still a work in progress (as all the best things in life are).  The Trekking Program began informally in the 1990’s when Gudy Gaskill, referred to by many as the “Mother of the Colorado Trail” started to lead through-hikes.  Within a few years, this had morphed into a rudimentary supported hike program, allowing hikers to hike with only a daypack, although still quite a rugged, no-frills approach.

Run on a shoe-string, Mac & Cheese and broken down trucks were the norm for this original program.  However, the program had soon become quite popular and upgrades were made continually.  Since 2000, the Trek Program has been run by Colorado Mountain Expeditions, in conjunction with the CTF.  Improvements over the years include gourmet meals, increased dietary choices, more spacious tents and camping arrangements, and professionally trained, certified guides and support staff.  The Treks now offer all the amenities and safety standards that other professional guide services do, with a high focus on customer satisfaction and safety.

What People are Saying:

"It was a most excellent experience! This CME trip afforded me an extended stay in the back country that I would not be able to do on my own.  CME gives aging backpackers a great alternative to remain out in the wilderness."

"Of all the vacations I have taken, the Colorado Trail trips have always been my favorite and most memorable. I look forward to seeing you next year."

"Without reservation I would recommend CME for any fit hiker. The diversity of the group was a big plus and CME does a good job of making sure that the participant hikers know what they are undertaking when they sign up."

Newslet ter Sign Up

Sign up for our newsletter to receive special offers, discount codes, insider information, and more, $(document).on('submit','#tform_3526', function(event) { var response = grecaptcha.getresponse(); if (response) { event.preventdefault(); //prevent form submit $(this).attr('data-submit-please', 'true'); grecaptcha.execute(); } else { var $thefield = $(this).find('input[name="g-recaptcha-response"]'); $thefield.val(response); $(this).append($thefield); } }); function recaptcha_submit(token) { var $form = $('form[data-submit-please="true"]'); $form.find('input[name="g-recaptcha-response"]').val(token) $form.submit(); } submit, required reading, welcome to the colorado trail trekking program.

The Colorado Trail Trekking Program treks allow you to hike 10-20 miles a day on The Colorado Trail while carrying only a daypack.  Your tent and personal gear are transported to the next campsite where crewmembers set up camp including; a kitchen tent, toilet tent and shower tent.  All meals are planned and cooked for you.

Helpful Links

The Colorado Trail Foundation Osprey Packs in SW Colorado Colorado Search and Rescue Fund Backcountry Experience in Durango Chinook Medical Gear in Durango

Getting to the Trailhead

We will pick you and your gear up on Sunday (prior to the first day of hiking) at one of the central locations as described below. We will transport the entire group (who signed up for that week) to Sunday night’s base camp (trailhead where the hike will begin on Monday).

The driving time in the van from the central meeting location to the first nights base camp (Sunday night) varies from one hour to two and a half hours depending on which section.

You are responsible to arrange your own transportation to and from the central meeting location. Some suggestions are offered below. Please call Dan & Emily at 970.726.0963 if you need some directions or the suggestions explained. We will be happy to answer any questions.

Everyone must meet at the central meeting location on Sunday at the specified time.

The exact time at which you must arrive on Sundays central location will be available on the website the end of April. (For approximate planning purposes, most of the meeting times have been after 1pm with the exceptions of sections 6 and 7 whereupon the meeting times have been around 11 am.)

No lunch is provided at the Sunday meeting location. Please bring your own lunch (or eat prior) for that day.

An evening meal is provided for Sunday (prior to the hike on Monday).

Sunday's Central Meeting Locations for each week section:

• Section 1 - Jefferson County: Jefferson Countey Community Center - Map it
• Section 2 - Leadville:  Colorado Mountain College -  Map it
• Section 3 - Leadville: Colorado Mountain College -   Map it
• Section 4 - Poncha Springs:  Visitor's Center -   Map it
• Section 5 - Southfork:  Visitor's Center -  Map it
• Section 6 - Durango:  Colorado Mountain Expeditions -  Map it
• Section 7 - Durango: Colorado Mountain Expeditions -   Map it

Your vehicle (owned or rented) will remain at this central location for the duration of the week. Vehicles have been left at these locations in past years without theft or damage. We hope this trend will continue, but we cannot guarantee ultimate security since these parking locations are not in a totally secure environment. To be on the safe side, we recommend not leaving valuable items in the vehicle. You will be brought back to this central location as scheduled after the week’s trekking.

How Do I Get To The Various Meeting Locations? You can drive your own vehicle, rent a car, or take a shuttle (shuttle available for sections 2, 3, 6 and 7).

Driving Time to the various meeting locations:

From Denver to:

• Leadville: 3.5 hours
• Poncha Springs: 3.5 hours (Salida Colorado is just ten minutes away)
• South Fork: 4.5 hours (Creede is an additional 30 minutes)
• Durango: 6.5 hours

From Colorado Springs to:

• Leadville: 2.5 hours
• Poncha Springs: 2 hours (Salida is just ten minutes away from Poncha Springs)
• South Fork: 3.5 hours (Creede is an additional 30 minutes)
• Durango: 5.5 hours

From Durango to:

• SouthFork (section 5): 2 hours

From Albuquerque N.M. to:

• SouthFork (section 5): 3 to 4 hours

What if I Live Outside the State of Colorado? You need to arrive at least four days early to get acclimated to the higher altitude. If you do not arrive four days early, it will be most likely that you will get altitude sickness, which will prohibit you from hiking.

Travel Suggestions Close

Sample Food Menu

Sample appetizers

• Griddled Polenta with Pesto and Tomato
• Cheese Quesadillas with Olives, Green Chiles and Green Onions

Sample side dish

• Edamame Salad
• Wild Rice Salad
• Creamy Parmesan and Spinach Orzo
• Ceci Bean Salad

Sample main dish

• Chicken Tenderloin with Cheddar Cheese, Sautéed Peppers, and Onions
• Pasta served with Rose Sauce and Ground Turkey and Sausage

Sample dessert

• Luscious Lemon Bars
• Double Chocolate Rum Cake

What to Bring

Advice for the colorado mountains.

The following list is intended to help you understand the gear and supplies you will need for safety and comfort on the Colorado Trail.

MOUNTAIN WEATHER IS BE EXTREME!  BE PREPARED FOR COLD, WET WEATHER! When packing, remember that it may be sweltering at your house, but the mountains will certainly be different!   Pack warm, fast-drying clothes.  Weather is something we cannot predict. Be prepared for all extremes; sunny and hot, or cold, wet, windy and stormy.

SPACE IS LIMITED ON THE TRUCKS We need to fit a week’s worth of camp gear, food, water and personal belongings for eighteen people onto two trucks.  There is not an abundance of room for extra “stuff”. We want you to pack what you will need to be comfortable for the week but PLEASE only bring what you need.

You will be limited to TWO soft duffel bags (up to 35 lbs each) and your day pack.  Please don’t bring hard suitcases.  This would be a good week to use dry bags if you own them.  We will do everything in our power to keep you gear dry, but wet weather can be insidious!

PERSONAL FOOD We supply and prepare large, healthy breakfasts and dinners.  Lunches are packed buffet style, with many options from sandwiches to fruit to candy!  If there is a specialty food item that you really need or enjoy, feel free to bring it and we can store it for you.  Please notify us (via Health Form) if you have dietary restrictions.

BEVERAGES We provide an assortment of beverages; coffee, tea, soft drinks, Gatorade, juices, milk and of course potable water.  We encourage you to increase your water consumption a few days prior to the trip and during the entire trip.

Alcohol is not provided. However, you may bring your own alcohol and keep it in our coolers. Cans and box wines are preferred rather than bottles.

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Foot Care Basics

By John Vonhof Author of “Fixing your Feet: Prevention and Treatment for Athletes”

Being Proactive or Reactive Every hiker, from the first-timer to the experienced, must make the choice to be either reactive or proactive in managing blisters. Being reactive means taping hot spots and fixing blisters when they develop. It means making fixes under less than ideal conditions, with less than adequate materials and in a manner that does not work for your particular foot problem. Being proactive, on the other hand, means discovering before a trip, what works for your feet and knowing how to treat any potential problems before they develop. This means knowing what resources are available to use and trying out blister fixes before the hike. It can also include pre-hike taping of your feet where hot spots and blisters typically develop. Being proactive means doing your homework.

It is essential to have shoes that fit properly, are broken in, and are appropriate for the terrain and weather you will encounter. Find the best socks for your feet, preferably ones that wick moisture away from the skin. Some racers like single-layer socks, others like double-layer, and still others use a two-sock combination.

Preventing hot spots and blisters requires knowledge of what is best for your feet. Some feet respond well to lubricants while others are best when powders keep them dry. Others require taping to protect hot spots and blister prone areas. There are several types of tape to use on the feet and there are several combinations of products that make the feet more resistant to blisters. All of these must be tried before a hike.

The First Line of Blister Defense There are several blister-reducing options that should be our first line of defense. The first goes without saying - good proper fitting shoes or boots. This is more important than anything else. Secondly, do not go on a long hike with new boots that are not broken in!

Proper socks are next. Moisture-wicking socks are available from almost every sock manufacturer, and given a choice, should always be picked before an all-cotton sock. We recommend two pair of socks or double-layer socks offer an inner layer that moves against the outer layer, reducing friction to the skin. Try several different types of socks of various weights and fabrics.

Lubricants are next on the list. Most hikers grew up using a lubricant, usually the age-old standby, Vaseline. Another favorite is Bag Balm, a salve with healing properties. Newer, state-of-the-art lubricants may contain silicone, pain-relieving benzocaine, or antifriction polymers. The trick with lubricants is to reapply them frequently, being sure to clean off the old layer before another application. Remember that lubricants and grit don’t mix. The grit will quickly become an irritant, then a hot spot, and finally a blister. If your skin becomes too tender from the softening effects of the lubricant, then powders may be better for your feet.

Powders can help reduce friction by absorbing moisture. This reduces friction between the feet and the socks. Dry skin is more resistant to blister formation than skin that has been softened by moisture. Beware of powders that cake up and cause blisters. A good powder, like Zeasorb, will absorb many times its weight in moisture. Simple and readily available cornstarch also works.

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Getting Into Shape

Thank you for your interest in the treks on The Colorado Trail. We would like to remind you that all of our trekking sections are relatively arduous. You need to be serious about getting in condition to hike! This letter offers some guidelines to achieve that objective.

We want you to enjoy your trek on The Colorado Trail, but in order to do that you MUST be in good physical shape. The better shape you are in, the happier your body will be and the more fun you will have. You will not be able to “get in shape on the trail”. That doesn’t work well and it’s hard on your body, spirit and hiking companions. We have had hikers arriving at camp after dark, exhausted, in pain and unhappy. This creates a dangerous situation for you, the other trekkers, and the staff.

Please plan ahead and get in good hiking condition NOW! Every section on The Colorado Trail has at least one advanced day, so you need to be prepared. Remember that most of The Colorado Trail starts at 9,000 ft. and goes UP!!! If you are coming from a lower altitude, try to come to Colorado two to three days early to become acclimated. At high altitude, your heart and lungs must work harder to get enough oxygen into your body. You tire more quickly, your body slows down, and your muscles can stiffen. This can easily ruin what was to be a good experience.

We all have busy schedules, and sometimes it is hard to fit in a workout, but it can be accomplished. Walk as much as you can on a daily basis. Find a co-worker who would like to walk with you on your lunch hour. Take an aerobics or spin class. Ride a bike. Jog. Swim. Be as active as you can! Every little bit helps. Work out at least 4 days a week for 6 weeks prior to your trek departure. Devote your weekends or days off to longer workouts. Make sure you can comfortably hike as many miles as the longest day on your CT week. Put your day hiking gear and 3 liters of water into your day pack and climb hills, exposing yourself to as much altitude as possible. Your Colorado Trail trek will be a fun, yet physically demanding adventure. Please do your part to help make your trek as safe as possible for everyone involved.

Your Action Plan For A Well-Prepared Week:

• WATER: Drink plenty of water during all of these activities. Being hydrated will help you think clearly and alleviate sore muscles. Do not wait until you are thirsty before drinking. Take a drink of water at regular intervals. By the time you are thirsty, you could already be in trouble.
• FOOTWARE: One of the first things to do is to break in your boots/trail shoes. If you have a pair you are planning to use, check them carefully. If you need to replace them, do it now. Hiking in a pair of fairly new boots can be painful and blister producing. You can wear them around the house, on your lunch hour walk, or at any other time. Gradually wear them for longer and longer periods. Get your boots soaking wet and then walk in them. This will help them to form to your feet. You MAY choose to bring 2 pairs of boots, to use on alternating days.
• SPEED: Your goal is to be able to hike at a 2 to 3 miles per hour rate, carrying weight and going up and down hills. Start slowly so you do not get sore or pull muscles. Be pleasantly tired, but not exhausted. Push your limits every day and you will be surprised how quickly you expand your hiking ability.
• DURATION: Start out hiking one hour a day and build up to 3-4 hours a day, with more hours on weekends. Most treks are 6 to 8 hours each day, so you must be prepared for longer hikes. Note: you should be working out four days a week for 6 weeks prior to your trek departure.
• WEIGHT: Put about 10 pounds in your backpack when beginning your conditioning schedule. Gradually build the weight up to 20 lbs.
• CONSISTENCY: Walk EVERY day. Hike EVERY weekend. Consistency and frequently builds stamina gradually so you do not injure yourself.
• HIKE HILLS! Train on hills, stairs, or whatever is available. For Section 6 or 7, increase your pack weight to 25 lbs. Plan more extended climbs with steeper inclines.

If you would like to take a rest day during your trek week, just let us know. You are welcome to ride with the crew. It is best to not hike a day if you feel overtired, have foot problems or need a break. You do not want to become a danger to yourself or others.

Finally, enjoy your hike. Don’t feel rushed if others hike faster than you. This is not a competition. Hike at a comfortable pace, but don’t plan to take a nap on the trail, especially on a long day. We get an early start in order to avoid afternoon thunder and lightening storms. It is nice to get to camp early enough to relax, have a shower, socialize, and set up your tent before dinner.

Welcome Package

Mornings: The mornings can be the most hectic part of the day. We will usually do a wake-up call around 5:30 am. The time of the wake-up call depends on the length and difficulty of the hiking day.

At this time, you have four major challenges: eat breakfast, pack your daypack, take down your tent, and pack personal gear for us to load onto the truck. Lunch will be prepared the evening before and stored in a cooler. Please remember to grab your lunch… or you’ll have to beg for scraps from your new friends on the trail! You can avoid some of the morning chaos by doing some ‘evening prep’. Fill your water bottles, pack your daypack, have your next day’s clothes ready, and pack all unneeded items in your duffle.

A hot breakfast is served between 6:00 and 6:30. French toast, hot cereal, pancakes, scrambled eggs or omelet will be some of the offerings during the week. Also available every morning are cold cereals, fresh fruit, yogurt, bagels, cream cheese, instant oatmeal, milk, juice, coffee, teas and hot chocolate.

After breakfast, the crew will be loading up the community camp. If you haven’t already taken your tent down and packed, do it NOW! If your neighbor is running late, consider lending a helping hand. We give extra brownie points to those who help the crew tear down camp and load the trucks.

If mornings seem a bit rushed, it’s because they are! The faster the trucks are loaded and ready to move to the next camp, the faster we can start our hike. Early starts means less likelihood of being caught in late afternoon thunderstorms or arriving in camp after dark! Before the hike can begin, all hikers and crew need to sweep the camp for trash and forgotten items. We want the hike to begin between 7:00 and 7:30 am. The hiking leader for the day will assemble you and give you some final instructions and maybe words of wisdom. The hike cannot begin until everything is loaded and the trucks have their engines running. The reason for this is on one trek the hikers left camp before the trucks were ready to roll and it was discovered that a crewmember had truck keys in his pocket. Another crew member had to RUN up the trail to retrieve the keys!

Hiking: On your hike, there will be 2 crew members on the trail with you; a ‘leader’ and a ‘sweep’. Each will carry radios to keep in contact with each other and with camp. You are encouraged to hike at the pace that is comfortable for you, but you cannot dawdle. Since we are all of different hiking abilities, we may become quite spread out during the course of the hiking day. We encourage hikers to find at least one ‘buddy’ with whom their hiking style is compatible. In general, the trail is well marked and easy to follow, but the leader will mark any uncertainties on the trail with brightly colored flagging or arrows in the dirt. If at any time you and your buddy become confused or are uncertain that you are on the correct trail, stop and wait for more of the group to catch up to you. Be responsible and aware of your route. If you need to leave the trail for any reason (call of nature, etc.), leave your pack on the trail so you are not overlooked and passed by the sweep guide.

Drink plenty of water! Drink often! Down a quart before you even leave camp in the morning! The importance of hydrating cannot be overstated!!! Do not drink from a stream without a filter or iodine tablets. Eat several snacks in between actual meals. You are burning plenty of calories. Do not wait until you are uncomfortably hungry or thirsty before eating or drinking. Take care of your body before it asks for it and you will feel a lot better.

Hopefully, your hiking shoes are well broken in. Put a blister care product on any known pressure points and stop immediately on the trail to add more if you feel any new ‘hot spots’. It’s easier to prevent blisters than it is to deal with them once they have arrived. Ask for help early before blisters become a serious problem. **See the other printouts for more information on boot and blister care.

Be liberal with sunscreen, and always carry rain gear. In other words, be prepared for any kind of weather--this is Colorado! Your daypack should contain: extra warm clothing (wool or polypropylene are better than cotton), hat, gloves, extra socks, rain pants and jacket, sunscreen, lip balm, camera, lunch, snacks, water, and blister care kit. Don’t bother to bring a cell phone as experience has shown that they do not work well in our mountains. A cap or visor and UV protective sunglasses should help shield your face. Some hikers find a walking stick or hiking poles extremely useful. Finally, enjoy your hike! Don’t feel rushed if others hike faster than you. If you would like to take a rest day, just let your leader know and you can ride with the crew.

When you get into camp, the community tent will be up, the crew will be preparing the evening meal, and there will be snacks or hot soup to refresh you. The shower tent will be up and you will be provided with 2 ½ gallons of warm water to clean up with. We provide a mechanism that pumps warm water through a hose and out of a small plastic showerhead. While you are awaiting your turn to shower, this is the time to set up your tent, relax, eat, and get to know your fellow trekkers.

Dinner/Evening Activities: Dinner will be served about 6:00 pm. Please try to be on time so no one misses out. If there is more food left after everyone has served himself or herself, then please have seconds. We do not like to have leftovers. We want everyone to be well fed, so please let us know if you have any special needs. Most of the menus have the meat separate to accommodate those who are vegetarians or have special dietary needs.

After breakfast and dinner, the crew sets out a row of dishpans for you to wash your dishes. These dishpans contain: #1: soap, #2: soap, and #3: bleach water rinse. There will be drying racks at the end of row. When you are finished with your dishes, the crew will do their personal dishes and then clean the cooking pots and pans..

Lunch fixings will be spread out on a separate table. These will include: assorted breads, peanut butter, jelly, cookies, fruit, cheese, carrot sticks, chicken or tuna salad, summer sausage and snacks. Fix a yourself a generous lunch with plenty of snacks. Take a few candies to help with your energy level and to moisten your mouth. Remember, you are burning extra calories. If there are any additional foods you would like, let us know and we will try to accommodate you. (We do draw the line at live lobster though.) By the time the dishes are finished and lunch has been fixed, people are starting to head to their tents for a well deserved rest. If you stay up later than most, please respect others’ need for sleep.

Other Camp Details:

• There is a hand washing station available at all times. We strongly encourage its use!
• We have plenty of potable water available for drinking.

Colorado Mountain Expeditions recommends that you purchase travel insurance to protect yourself against unforeseen incidents such as injury or family emergencies.  Here are a few travel insurances that we recommend:

• www.allianztravelinsurance.com
• www.csatravelpro.com
• www.travelguard.com
• www.travelinsured.com

Payment Terms, Cancellation and Refund Policies

Refund policy for all colorado mountain expeditions trips.

Arrow Adventures LLC (dba CME) reserves the right to cancel any trip because of inadequate enrollment, making it economically infeasible to operate. In this situation, we will offer a full refund, including the ordinarily non-refundable deposit. CME reserves the right to cancel any trip because of good-faith concerns towards the participants' safety, health, or welfare or for any Force Majeure. "Force Majeure" means any circumstances beyond our reasonable control, including, but not limited to, acts of nature, flood, forest fires, extreme weather, sickness, quarantine, pandemic, diseases, and unforeseen circumstances. Arrow Adventures LLC will not be deemed in breach of these terms or otherwise liable to you because of delay in performance or nonperformance of any of its obligations under this agreement to the extent that any such delay or nonperformance is due to any Force Majeure. In these instances, a full trip credit will be issued minus any reasonable expenses incurred by CME related to your booking. Refunds are not offered in these situations. CME is not responsible for additional expenses incurred by preparing for the trip (for example, non-refundable airline tickets, rental cars, clothing & equipment, visa fees, medical expenses, etc.). *We highly recommend Travel Protection Insurance if you are uncomfortable with any aspect of these policies.

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Best backpacking trips in Colorado: 8 epic overnights in the high country

The best backpacking trips in Colorado serve up unforgettable overnight adventure through untouched alpine landscape

Backpacking is one of the most immersive ways to commune with nature, offering you the gratifying experience of setting off from civilization and venturing into the wilderness for a night or longer. With overnight trips you can take in more than you might on a day hike and you’ll often have swaths of nature all to yourself. The best backpacking trips in Colorado range in length from a few miles to epic treks that guide you through untouched alpine landscapes. 

The trails in Colorado are certainly some of the best, but they can also be busy. However, you usually find that only the first couple of miles of any trail are clogged up before the crowds thin out. It’s worth venturing a little further to lose the crowds and to see some of the gems that aren’t easily reachable on a day hike, and one of the best ways to do this is to turn your hike into an overnight trip. In this article, we take a look at some of the best backpacking trips in Colorado to whet your whistle for some overnight adventure in the backcountry.

You’ll want to take a look at our articles on different types of backpacking and how to plan a backpacking trip before you set off. Colorado is blessed with lots of dry weather so it’s a great place to dip your toe into backpacking, though be prepared with a good 3-season sleeping bag because overnights in the high country are always cold. For all Colorado hiking you’ll of course want to have a good pair of boots – though the trails in this state are well-maintained, they get rocky up above the treeline which is where many of these trips take you. 

Best backpacking trip near Denver: Crater Lakes 

Distance: 6.8 miles Difficulty: Challenging

It might be Colorado’s urban center, but you don’t have to travel far from Denver to reach some impressive heights. Crater Lakes are three high alpine lakes in the James Peak Wilderness that feature waterfalls and wildflowers along the way. Crater Lakes is definitely short enough to be done as a day hike, but add a heavy pack and it will make for a satisfying overnight trip.

The trailhead is near Black Hawk, about an hour’s drive from Denver. From Black Hawk, travel north Highway 119 to Rollinsville. Turn west onto Gilpin County Road 16 and continue eight miles to the Moffat Tunnel, and park at the East Portal Trailhead.

Follow the South Boulder Creek trail for 1.2 miles before turning right at the junction onto the Crater Lakes Trail. This takes you through a wide forested valley then onto a narrow strip of land between the two beautiful main lakes. The third lake is found via the steep climb to the west of the lakes.

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Best backpacking trip near Boulder: Caribou Lake 

Distance: 9.3 miles Difficulty: Challenging

You’re certainly spoilt for choice in the Boulder area, which boasts access to a variety of wilderness areas from Chautaqua Park in the city limits to nearby Rocky Mountain National Park. Our favorite is beautiful Caribou Lake via the Arapahoe Trail, which boasts a high alpine climb to the Continental Divide followed by a descent for your overnight stay in the attractive bowl forming Caribou Lake.

This trail is accessed from the Fourth of July Trailhead in the Indian Peaks Wilderness near Nederland, about an hour from Boulder. From Nederland, go south on Highway 72 for 0.5 miles to County Road 130 and make a right. Go through the town of Eldora, just past which it becomes a dirt road. Continue on the dirt road another 4.8 miles and take the right fork at the Buckingham Campground to park.

Begin on the North Fork of Middle Boulder Creek trail which takes you up above treeline to the Continental Divide via expanses of wildflowers, steep waterfalls, glacier-fed streams and the historic Fourth of July Mine. After you reach the Divide, there’s a steep switchback descent down to the lake. Be aware that in the morning, you’ll have another steep climb to get back out.

Best backpacking trip in Rocky Mountain National Park: Tonahutu Creek Loop Trail 

Distance: 25 miles Difficulty: Moderate

Within Rocky Mountain National Park ’s 355 miles of hiking trails, the Tonahutu Creek Loop Trail takes in most of the fabulous North Inlet Trail as well as the Continental Divide and takes you across the rugged alpine tundra of the high country.

Park at the North Inlet trailhead and head north on the Tonahutu Trail. This trail takes you across tundra topped flats, up to Ptarmigan Point on the Continental Divide and back down to Hallett Creek. There’s even a side option to detour up Flattop Mountain and enjoy the view down to sparkling Emerald Lake. This route is dotted with campsites along the way so you can take several nights to enjoy the journey.

Best backpacking trip near Vail: Gore Lake 

Distance : 12.1 miles Difficulty : Difficult

If you’re in Vail, there’s nothing quite like hanging your hat in the dramatic bowl of Gore Lake for the night and waking up to see the sun rise over the Gore Range. The hike to Gore Lake makes for a pretty serious day hike, but it’s a good challenge for an overnight trip.

Take the free bus from town or park at the trailhead on Vail Pass - 10 Mile road. Gore Lake shares a trailhead with Deluge Lake, but both trails are well signposted.

The trail begins with almost a mile of strenuous climbing and has many more steep sections as you wind your way up the valley. You’ll be treated to all the high alpine features of cool forests and alpine meadows, but one unusual feature of this hike is a set of two graves about four miles in. The graves are of the Recen brothers, two Swedish immigrants who came to the area to mine for precious metals in the late 1800s and had a cabin nearby. Keep going to finally arrive at this idyllic alpine lake nestled in a granite bowl, a gorgeous spot to camp.

Best backpacking trip near Leadville: The Colorado Trail Section 10 

Distance : 12.4 miles Difficulty : Difficult

The Colorado Trail is a 567 mile trail stretching from Denver to Durango and section 10 takes you through the Leadville area from the Timberline Pass trailhead to the Mount Massive trailhead over 12 miles with views of some of the highest peaks in the state.

From Leadville, follow the signs for Turquoise Lake and park at the Timberline Lake trailhead at the western end of the lake.

This wooded trail takes you along the base of Mount Massive, the state’s second highest peak. The trail begins where The Colorado Trail and Continental Divide Trail overlap and takes you into the Mount Massive Wilderness via a moderate climb then levels out along the contours of Bald Eagle Mountain. There is good camping about five miles in at Twin Mounds saddle and again a little over six miles in at Rock Creek. The trail then climbs steadily to the intersection with Highline Trail before descending down to the Mount Massive trailhead. For a longer trip you could camp here and tackle Mount Massive the next day.

Best backpacking trip near Breckenridge: Spruce Creek Trail to Mohawk Lakes  

Distance : 8.4 miles Difficulty : Difficult

Spruce Creek Trail to Mohawk Lakes offers some of the best views of Colorado’s high country with lots of great backcountry camping spots along the way.

The Spruce Creek trailhead is less than five miles from Breckenridge. Just follow Highway 9 south then take a right onto Spruce Creek Road.

Follow the creek for about a mile and a half then join the Mohawk Lakes trail at the junction. After a couple more miles you’ll reach lovely Mayflower Lakes. Camp here or continue on up the steep climb to Lower Mohawk Lake passing Continental Falls on the way. There are several more stunning alpine lakes past Lower Mohawk so pitch your tent and go and explore them if there’s time before sunset. 

Best backpacking trip near Aspen: Aspen to Crested Butte 

Distance : 11 miles Difficulty : Difficult

The drive from Aspen to Crested Butte is 100 miles, but go on foot and it’s 11 glorious miles over West Maroon Pass. This unforgettable trip takes you through aspen groves and wildflower meadows and treats you to some of the country’s most photographed mountain vistas.

To begin this hike from Aspen, park at Maroon Lake about ten miles south of town.

From spectacular Maroon Lake, hike through the forest to Crater Lake and pass the base of the iconic Maroon Bells. There’s a steep and strenuous climb up Maroon Creek to West Maroon Pass at 12,490ft of elevation – rest here for incredible views – then a steep descent down into more wildflower fields and old mining cabins as you follow Crystal River through the forest to Crested Butte. You can camp here and return on foot the way you came, or book a shuttle to take you back to Aspen. Needless to say, you can do this trip in either direction.

Best backpacking trip near Telluride: Blue Lakes Trail 

Distance : 8.6 miles Difficulty : Difficult

The San Juan and San Miguel Mountain ranges surrounding Telluride are quite possibly the most picturesque in the state. The Blue Lakes trail takes you to a turquoise lake via Mount Sneffels wilderness, cascades and wildflowers galore.

Blue Creek trailhead is very close to town as the crow flies, but since it’s on the other side of Mount Sneffels it requires a little over an hour of driving. Take Highway 62 towards Ridgewary and turn onto Dallas Creek Road then drive 9 miles south to the trailhead.

The hike takes you up the Dallas Creek drainage with spectacular mountain views all the way. You will pass an incredible waterfall before spending the night next to the turquoise waters of Blue Lake.

Julia Clarke is a staff writer for Advnture.com and the author of the book  Restorative Yoga for Beginners . She loves to explore mountains on foot, bike, skis and belay and then recover on the the yoga mat. Julia graduated with a degree in journalism in 2004 and spent eight years working as a radio presenter in Kansas City, Vermont, Boston and New York City before discovering the joys of the Rocky Mountains. She then detoured west to Colorado and enjoyed 11 years teaching yoga in Vail before returning to her hometown of Glasgow, Scotland in 2020 to focus on family and writing.  

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Music | Plan your mountain trips for Colorado’s summer…

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Things To Do

Music | plan your mountain trips for colorado’s summer jazz festivals, vail jazz party, winter park jazz festival, evergreen jazz festival, telluride jazz fest and more.

First off, the annual Jazz Aspen Snowmass June Experience presents an intriguing lineup at various Aspen venues June 20-23. Likely the most promising act scheduled to perform is The Headhunters, as they tour to celebrate their 50th anniversary. Formed under the guidance of Herbie Hancock, founding members Mike Clark (on drums) and Bill Summers (percussion) have brought some fine New Orleans-based musicians into the fold, and their show at the Wheeler Opera House on June 22 should be funk-drenched and danceable. Other artists on the bill that weekend include Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Christian McBride, The New Mastersounds and Lisa Fischer’s tribute to Aretha Franklin. Tickets and lodging are available at jazzaspensnowmass.org .

The 41st annual Winter Park Jazz Festival , July 20-21 at the Rendezvous Event Center, has endured this long because the organizers know how to put together a crowd-pleasing show. This year’s performers include Boney James, Pieces of a Dream, Lalah Hathaway and Anthony Hamilton. It’s probably the “smoothest” gathering of the year in the high country, and I’ve heard raves about this event for years. playwinterpark.com

Admirers of traditional jazz will find a lot to like about the Evergreen Jazz Festival , scheduled for July 26-28. It’s nice how this festival integrates into the community, with shows at the Evergreen Elks Lodge, Evergreen Lake House, the Evergreen Christian Church and more. The lineup is still coming together, but you should expect plenty of swinging sounds from artists committed to jazz history. evergreenjazz.org

It’s been 47 years since the first Telluride Jazz Festival , “America’s Destination Jazz Festival” according to its website. This year’s lineup is admirably eclectic, including performances from Angelique Kidjo, Christian McBride (the bassist is also playing Jazz Aspen Snowmass, so he must adjust to the altitude well) and the Rejuvenation 50! Celebration of The Meters featuring Dumpstaphunk and special guests George Porter Jr., Leo Nocentelli and Cyrille Neville. This has long been one of my preferred fests, and the spirit of the music meshes well with the majestic atmosphere of Telluride. Tickets and lodging can be found at telluridejazz.org.

The Vail Jazz Party returns for its 30th anniversary, Aug. 30-Sept. 1. The performers mostly reside in straight-ahead territory: Drummer Lewis Nash, trumpeter Terell Stafford, bassist John Clayton, vocalists Ann Hampton Callaway and Curtis Stigers will participate in various sessions throughout the weekend. vailjazz.org

Miles of memories

It’s been more than two years since local luminary Ron Miles passed.  I was hesitant to listen to “Old Main Chapel,” out May 10 on Blue Note from the beloved trumpeter-composer-bandleader-educator. Not because I doubted the quality of the music recorded on the University of Colorado campus in 2011; I was in attendance, and it was exemplary. My hesitation to dive in came from a sense of dread: Would this be the final music ever released under my friend’s name?

I shouldn’t have put off engaging with this. The performances, featuring drummer Brian Blade and guitarist Bill Frisell — two completely appropriate and sensitive collaborators from Miles’ career — only cement his legacy. There’s plentiful sonic drama, comedy and love on display throughout these 78 minutes, and Miles is in excellent, searching form from beginning to end. I don’t know what else, if anything, remains in the vaults when it comes to the recorded life of Miles, but I’m grateful that this warm artifact exists. Be sure to connect with this profound live date.

Jazz this month

And more jazz this month: Saxophonist Javon Jackson returns home to Denver and Dazzle on May 10. … Vocalist Tatiana “LadyMay” Mayfield performs at Nocturne for Mother’s Day, on May 12. … The Flatirons Jazz Orchestra appears at the Buffalo Rose on May 12. … Hugh Ragin pays tribute to Sun Ra at the Lumonics Light & Sound Gallery on May 17. … Living legend and multi-instrumentalist David Amram performs in celebration of his new book at The Savoy Denver on May 23. … And pianist Brad Mehldau is scheduled for the Boulder Theater on June 3.

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