Hiking in Colorado is always a good idea. Of course, some hikes in the Centennial State are quite challenging — and even dangerous! But who doesn’t love a short hike with a great visual payoff? Some of the best views of mountains are often part of little-walked paths. This easy and scenic hike in Colorado will have you taking photos of the mountains at every step. Bookmark the Long Lake Trail for a future day of adventure and scenery all in one. You’ll thank us later!

Welcome to today's adventure, a scenic hike out on Long Lake Trail, at the Brainard Lake Recreation Area. Out here, only the trail separates you from stunning picture-perfect views of the mountains.
Amanda Hamilton/AllTrails
The trail is 1.8 miles of out-and-back beauty.
Elle Driscoll/AllTrails
Acres of unparalleled views are one great reason why this short and easy hike is worth a day spent outdoors. The rocks, the tree-lined path, the river, and of course the mountains are all why we love this state. Who could pass up views like this on such an easy hike?
Amy Vanderbroek/AllTrails

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Spending the day outdoors with views like these and nothing but fresh air is bound to clear anyone's mind for a while. Out here surrounded by views like this, problems just feel a little farther away.
Taylor Hord/AllTrails
Make sure you always bring everything back with you that you bring out, and stick to the path the whole way there. We want these parks to stay as natural as possible, after all.
Valentina Gatewood/AllTrails
Though there is a vehicle fee from the Brainard Lake Recreation Area, it's worth every penny to keep the park running and clean. As stated by the park's official listing, the trail is best used from May until October. Happy hiking!
SaBrina Garcia Boyajian/AllTrails

Learn more about the parking permit and order one online through the USDA website for this location. What are your thoughts on this scenic hike in Colorado? Is this one you’ve experienced before? Feel free to share your adventures with us in the comments below — we would love to hear from you! For related content, be sure to check out our list of amazing hikes in Colorado that everyone should experience at least once.

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scenic hike in Colorado

Beth C. | December 20, 2022

What are the most beautiful hiking trails in Colorado?

Colorado is a hiker's dream come true. From waterfront trails to those that will take you high into the Rocky Mountains, there are thousands upon thousands of miles to be hiked in the Centennial State. Some of the most beautiful hiking trails in Colorado include:

  • Hanging Lake in Glenwood Springs
  • Bridal Veil Falls in Telluride
  • Fox Run Park in Colorado Springs
  • Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs
  • Three Lakes Loop in Crested Butte
  • Paint Mines in Calhan
  • Devils Kitchen Trail in Grand Junction
  • Chasm Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park

 

If you plan on hiking in Colorado, it's good to be prepared! Be sure to pack plenty of warm layers -- no matter which season you're hiking in -- food, water, and a flashlight. Also, be sure to bring a hiking buddy or at the very least, tell someone else where you plan to go hiking.

What's the most dangerous hike in Colorado?

The most dangerous hike in Colorado is Longs Peak. In fact, Longs Peak is among the most dangerous hikes in the country. The reason why Longs Peak is so dangerous is because of frequent lightning strikes combined with high exposure and the possibility of rock slides. Moreover, the trail measures a whopping 14.5 miles in length. Longs Peak is one of the most popular fourteeners in Colorado; however, it's also the deadliest. More than 70 people have died climbing this mountain since 1915.

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Featured Addresses
Brainard Lake Recreational Area, 4382 Brainard Lake Rd, Ward, CO 80481, USA