My Favorite Colorado Hiking & Backpacking Trails: The Ultimate Guide to Epic Adventures
By Casey Zipp, Neptune Mountaineering Creator & Community Member
Casey Zipp (@peaksandprosecco) is a hiker, backpacker, and part of the Neptune Mountaineering creator community. Since moving to Colorado, she’s been exploring the state’s alpine lakes, steep summits, and scenic backcountry trails — and sharing it all along the way.
In this guest blog, Casey highlights some of her favorite hikes and backpacking routes across Colorado, from quick day hikes to classic overnight loops. She also shares the gear she counts on most, including a few of her favorite finds from Neptune Mountaineering. Whether you’re new to Colorado, just getting into the outdoors, or just looking for trail inspiration, Casey's guide is packed with local insight and experience.
Why I Love Hiking in Colorado
Since moving to Colorado in 2017, I’ve fallen in love with the endless outdoor adventures that are in my backyard. With its rugged mountains, sprawling forests, and scenic landscapes, Colorado is the picture-perfect adult playground. Hiking has always been one of my favorite hobbies, and this year, I rekindled my love for backpacking as well! There's nothing like spending summer days in the Colorado backcountry. Long daylight hours, clear skies, and quiet trails make it the perfect season to unplug and reset.
Shoutout to my favorite local shop, Neptune Mountaineering, for always keeping me geared up for my adventures!
My Favorite Colorado Day Hikes
Chasm Lake
- Distance: 8 miles out & back
- Elevation Gain: 2,552 ft
- Difficulty: Hard
- Location: Allenspark (RMNP)
Chasm is a stunning summer alpine lake nestled at the base of Long’s Peak. This is hands down my favorite alpine lake hike in Rocky Mountain National Park and is worth the trek up! The views of Long’s Peak towering above the crystal-clear waters of Chasm Lake are nothing short of spectacular.
Quandary Peak
- Distance: 6.3 miles out & back
- Elevation Gain: 3,333 ft
- Difficulty: Hard
- Location: Breckenridge
I had to include a 14er on this list! Quandary Peak is a short and steep trek, perfect for those looking to conquer one of Colorado’s iconic peaks with breathtaking panoramic views at the summit. Quandary is also one of the best Colorado 14ers for first-timers—well-marked, short(ish), and packed with views. Bonus: You’re almost always guaranteed to spot mountain goats along the trail!
Lake Isabelle via Pawnee Pass
- Distance: 6.6 miles out & back
- Elevation Gain: 672 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Location: Brainard Lake Recreation Area, Nederland
Lake Isabelle is my go-to spot for introducing out-of-town guests to Colorado’s alpine scenery. The hike isn’t too long or steep, but the summer payoff is huge—think crystal-clear alpine lakes, snow-dusted peaks, and trails lined with wildflowers. Moose are frequently spotted along the trail, so keep your eyes peeled!
Lower, Middle & Upper Blue Lakes via Blue Lakes Trail
- Distance: 8.7 miles out & back
- Elevation Gain: 2,509 ft
- Difficulty: Hard
- Location: Ridgway
This hike is popular for a reason. The trail features three alpine lakes, and the lower lake’s Gatorade-blue water is unforgettable. The panoramic views from the top make this one of the most stunning high-alpine lake hikes in Colorado—like a mini version of the Swiss Alps.
My Favorite Colorado Backpacking Trips
Four Pass Loop
- Distance: 25.7 mile loop
- Elevation Gain: 7,752 ft
- Difficulty: Hard
- Location: Aspen
This one’s a challenge, but it’s worth every step for the views. From Snowmass Lake to the four passes, there are plenty of scenic overlooks to make up for the grind. Along the way, we spotted deer, moose, and had plenty of peaceful trail time. If you’re up for a challenge, this bucket list backpacking loop is one of Colorado’s most unforgettable summer backcountry experiences.
Conundrum Hot Springs via Conundrum Creek Trail
- Distance: 16.9 miles out & back
- Elevation Gain: 2,788 ft
- Difficulty: Hard
- Location: Aspen
This unique hike should be on everyone’s Colorado bucket list! While you can do it as a day hike, it’s well worth camping overnight and soaking under the stars. Be sure to plan and get a permit well in advance - you can find details on that here. The main hot spring runs about 102 degrees, fits around 15 people, and has an unbeatable mountain view.
West Maroon Trail
- Distance: 10.3 miles point-to-point
- Elevation Gain: 2,247 ft
- Difficulty: Hard
- Location: Aspen & Crested Butte
This is the famous Crested Butte to Aspen hike that every Colorado adventurer should have on their list! You can hike it one way and shuttle back or stretch it into a multi-day trip. For peak views and vibrant alpine wildflowers, summer is the perfect time to hike this route.
My Go-To Hiking & Backpacking Gear
Darn Tough Hiker Coolmax Micro Crew Midweight With Cushion - Women's
I bought these in the shop and now have them in almost every color! They’re super comfortable, durable, and cushioned just enough for long days on the trail.
Garmin inReach Mini 2
This compact satellite communicator gives me peace of mind, especially on solo trips. It allows two-way messaging and location sharing even when I’m totally off-grid. A must-have for backcountry safety.
Osprey Eja 38 - Women's
I picked up this pack at Neptune this summer and love it for my multi-day trips. It’s lightweight, breathable, and super comfortable—plus, it has just the right amount of space and pockets to keep everything dialed in.
NEMO Tempo 20 Women’s Synthetic Sleeping Bag
This has been my go-to for mountain camping. It’s warm, cozy, and holds up in unpredictable summer storms. The synthetic insulation performs well even when conditions get damp.
BearVault
All of the backpacking trips in Aspen mentioned above require a bear canister. The BearVault is lightweight, easy to use, and approved for both black and grizzly bear territory—essential for food safety in the backcountry.
Whether you're planning your first Colorado day hike or gearing up for a multi-night backcountry loop, we hope this guide helps you find a new favorite trail. Summer in the Rockies is short but unforgettable. Get out there, soak up the alpine air, and make the most of every mile. See you on the trails!