Colorado Hiking Trails
Colorado Hiking Trails
Glenwood Springs provides a lot of opportunities for hiking: paved trails along the Colorado River, popular mountain trails, and challenging trails up some rather steep mountains.
BEGINNER TRAILS: Expect trails in this category to have gentle grades with little elevation gain. These paths are often paved or gravel surfaces.
Glenwood Canyon Recreation Path
This 16 mile paved path is perfect for walking, biking, and in-line skating. Path begins at the Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves behind the Hot Springs Pool and follows the Colorado River through Glenwood Canyon. It can also be accesed at No Name, Grizzly Creek, Shoshone, Hanging Lake, and Bair Ranch exits in Glenwood Canyon.
West Bank to Carbondale
This 7 mile long stretch makes for a scenic afternoon bike ride. Snow capped Mount Sopris to the south is the focal point for this ride. Take Highway 82 south to the West Bank golf course sign, then Road 108 to 109 into Carbondale.
Donegan Road
This easy, paved trail is great for a family bike ride. Follow highway 6 and 24 new Two Rivers Park to Donegan Road. This path takes you through residential West Glenwood, up Mitchell Creek and ends at the fish hatchery.
INTERMEDIATE TRAILS: Expect steeper grades, rougher surfaces and greater elevation gains on these trails.
Storm King Memorial Trail
This trail was built by volunteers in memory of the 14 firefighters who lost their lives in the Storm King Fire. Signs along the trail explain the tragic events of Wednesday, July 6th, 1994. From the I-70 Canyon Creek exit, go east on the frontage road to the trailhead. This trail is limited to hikers only.
Hubbard’s Cave Trail
This is an excellent trail for hiking and biking, although the last half mile to Hubbard’s Cave is accessible only by foot. The trail climbs from Lookout Mountain to Hubbard’s Cave, with spectacular views overlooking Glenwood Canyon and the Colorado River. Come prepared if you are planning to explore the cave; bring flashlights, a warm jacket, and string to guide you back out.
Sunlight Mountain Resort
The lifts are closed, but Sunlight’s trails are open for summer hiking and biking. Sunlight has miles and miles of trails that everyone from beginners to advanced hikers will enjoy. Hikers could spend days trying to get through each one. The views at the top of Compass Mountain are amazing! Bring a lunch and some comfy hiking shoes and spend the day hiking at Sunlight Mountain Resort!
DIFFICULT TRAILS: Expect steep grades, long climbs and significant elevation gains. Surfaces tend to be rough with many obstacles, such as loose rocks and boulders.
Hanging Lake
This well worn hiking trail climbs 900 feet over 1 mile, but it’s worth the effort. A spectacular waterfall and crystalline lake reward hikers. Spouting Rock, a short walk past Hanging Lake is a great place to cool off. The trailhead starts at the Hanging Lake exit in Glenwood Canyon.
Boy Scout Trail
The trailhead takes off from the east end of 8th street. This narrow single-track offers excellent views of Glenwood Springs looking west, as well as views of Glenwood Canyon and the Colorado River. the 3 mile trail is extremely steep and is recommended for hiking only.
Red Mountain Trail
Another steep trail, this is the original location of the Glenwood Springs ski area. An old lift can still be spotted along the trail. From downtown Glenwood Springs, take 7th Street west, left on Midland and right on 9th Street which deadends at the trailhead. This trail offers excellent views of Glenwood Springs and Mount Sopris.
Remember to wear thin layers, comfy shoes and bring plenty of water and a light snack. Enjoy - The views out here are amazing!
