If getting outside and reconnecting with nature is one of your biggest goals this year, you have come to the right place. Colorado is chock-full of more stunning destinations than we could possibly include in one article. That being said, we have attempted to list some of the most magnificent hidden gems in Colorado, from well-known spots to off-the-beaten-path destinations. And the best part of all? Each is accessible via a lovely hiking trail. So lace up those hiking boots -- the hidden gems of Colorado await!

1. January: Zapata Falls

Our list of the most stunning hidden gems in Colorado begins at Zapta Falls. Located near Alamosa, Zapata Falls is a short and oh-so-sweet hike that leads to a hidden waterfall that cascades down a narrow rock crevice. While Zapata is glorious year-round, it is especially beautiful in the winter when it freezes over and creates a stunning ice formation. Take a look at Zapata Falls in all of its frozen glory when you watch the brief video footage below:

2. February: Catamount Trail

Boasting lovely views of Pikes Peak and the surrounding mountains, Catamount is the very definition of a hidden gem, as this Woodland Park-area hike is lesser-known, making for a quieter and more peaceful experience. Learn more about planning your hiking adventure along Catamount Falls Trail.

3. March: Shelf Road

Nestled away south of Woodland Park near Canon City, Shelf Road is the place for jaw-dropping 360-degree views and an up-close look at ancient rock formations. Like Catamount, Shelf Road is less crowded than other trails, so take some time to slow down and enjoy the first signs of spring!

4. April: Wheeler Geologic Area

Quite possibly the coolest hike in Colorado is around the Wheeler Geologic Area, a Rio Grande National Forest landmark that is home to bizarre rock formations created by volcanic ash deposits. (Please note: the hike does require elevation gains and fancy footwork, so use caution when hiking Wheeler.) Speaking of more challenging trails...

5. May: Devil's Causeway

...This may be one of the most difficult of all! Welcome to the Devil's Causeway: a 4-foot-wide causeway with - in some places - a 500+-foot drop on each side. Why would anyone want to try the tricky Devil's Causeway? To check out the view, of course (and who can blame them?)

6. June: Ice Lakes Basin

The hike, tucked away in the always stunning San Juan Mountains, may sound like a great winter hike, but it is our favorite come late spring and summer, thanks to the many colorful wildflowers along the 8+ mile trail. Admire the stunning colors of Ice Lakes Basin when you watch the video footage below:

7. July: Deer Creek Canyon

No time to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city? No problem, as Deer Creek Canyon is located just outside of Littleton! Despite its more urban location, Deer Creek Canyon hikers will feel millions of miles away from the ordinary and may even see a bear or mountain lion in the distance!

8. August: Chicago Lakes

Summer is coming to a close, meaning it is time to make a pilgrimage to the picturesque Chicago Lakes. Boasting an alpine tundra landscape, Chicago Lakes is deemed difficult but always worth the effort.

9. September: Manitou Incline

If you are looking for an iconic butt-busting workout, look no further than the Manitou Incline! Needless to say, a 2,744-step climb and 2,000-foot gain in elevation are exhausting, which is why we prefer to visit in the cooler months. Take a look at what makes Manitou so beautiful when you watch the video footage below:

10. October: Maroon Bells

Yes, it is crowded and famous, but you cannot beat Aspen's fall foliage!

11. November: Raspberry Mountain

This moderate, 6-mile trail is encompassed by the Pike National Forest, making it a picture-perfect jaunt in these late fall months! (Please note: Raspberry Mountain contains many hills and steep switchbacks, so use caution when visiting.)

12. December: Gore Canyon

It may sound a little scary and morbid, but Gore Canyon is as Colorado as it gets, thanks to the route inside a peaceful canyon and along the glorious Colorado River.

What are your thoughts on these Colorado hidden gems? How many have you experienced? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below -- we would love to hear from you! If you're looking for even more fun adventures to enjoy in the Centennial State, check out our list of amazing Colorado getaways. There's something for everyone on the list!

And, while you're preparing to explore the hidden gems of Colorado we've outlined above, be sure to check out our ultimate hiking essentials packing list.