Take a Hike: Colorado Style

27 May 2021

Get your blood flowing and take in magnificent mountain scenery on one of these must-do hikes.
  
Interpretive Hiking Loop (Breck)
Just under a mile, this gentle hiking loop takes guests on a journey of learning about Breck’s High Alpine environment, including animals, flora and fauna, mountain wetlands, impacts of the gold rush and additional history of the area. Story Stakes along the loop provide photos, fun facts and interesting written descriptions to encourage a connection to the area while learning in a unique way. Don’t forget to stop at the Vista Point Overlook Tower and enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of Breckenridge, the Continental Divide and the greater Rocky Mountains. 
 
Dercum Summit Hiking Trail (Keystone)
This mountaintop trail is 2.3 miles long and ascends a modest 180ft. To reach the trail, head to the top of the River Run Gondola and follow the signs as you traverse the Mozart ski trail. On your adventure, take in the scenic views of the Rocky Mountains and keep an eye out for native wildlife. 
 
Berrypicker Trail (Vail)
One of Vail’s classic summer hiking trails, Berrypicker winds 3 miles through aspen trees and sunny wildflower-filled meadows up the front of the mountain from the Lionshead Village base area, ending at Eagle’s Nest at the top of the mountain. Hikers can choose to do the hike from the bottom or the top of the mountain by taking the Eagle Bahn Gondola up or down. Ambitious hikers who start from the bottom can celebrate reaching the top of the mountain with a cold beverage or snack on the sunny deck at Eagle’s Nest, with incredible views of the Gore RangeMount of the Holy Cross, and Vail’s Game Creek Bowl.  
 
Beaver Lake (Beaver Creek)
The hike to Beaver Lake is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Starting at the base of Beaver Creek Resort, Beaver Lake trail passes through Larkspur Bowl and winds around Grouse Mountain. Hikers will work up a sweat on this three-mile hike that ends at Beaver Lake. Those looking for more than an out-and-back experience can connect to the Royal Elk Trail for views of Strawberry Park, and end the adventure at the top of Centennial Express at Spruce Saddle. 
 
Peak Hike (Crested Butte)
With a little help from the Silver Queen Lift, hikers are offered a unique opportunity to summit iconic, 12,162-foot Mt. Crested Butte in just two hours. From the summit you’ll be rewarded with some of the best views in the area  of both Crested Butte Mountain Resort’s signature steeps as well as the surrounding Elk and West Elk Mountains. You can also hike or run from the base area for a much longer and more challenging experience.  
 
Snodgrass Mountain (Crested Butte)
Just north of Crested Butte Mountain Resort, a hike up Snodgrass Mountain is close to town but rewarding nonetheless. The trail ascends through thick aspen groves and lush wildflower meadows, making clear why in 1990 the state legislature officially designed Crested Butte as the “Wildflower Capital of Colorado.” 
 
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