Shrine Ridge Trail

Shrine Ridge is one of the most incredible wildflower spots in the state of Colorado. Not only is the area incredibly beautiful with carpets of flowers covering verdant mountainsides, it's only a 1.5-hour drive from Denver. The ridge summit is a short 2-mile hike from the parking area at Shrine Pass and winds through marshy meadows, pine forests, burn areas, and rocky outcroppings. Shrine Ridge...

Janet's Cabin is located on the eastern slope of the Continental Divide at 11,610 ft, near Copper Mountain ski resort. This hut is one of the rare huts with not only a sauna but indoor bathrooms (composting pits)!  The cabin was built in 1990 and due to the location helicopters were required to bring in materials; I recommend reading about the construction issues and helicopter crashes while bu...

The Colorado Trail (CT) runs for 483 miles from Denver to Durango, crossing through eight mountain ranges and passing through six wilderness areas. There are great resources on completing a thru-hike of the CT; this post is about Segments 8-9 of the CT from Copper Mountain to Tennessee Pass.These two segments are easily accessible for an extended weekend, and can be completed over either three ...

The range offers many remote lakes and peaks which hikers can access from various points of entry. Wheeler and Lost Lakes lie within the boundaries of the Eagle's Nest Wilderness Area.The Gore Trail begins on the north side of the CO-91 pedestrian bridge over I-70. You will follow the trail up along the highway and it quickly begins to switchback as you climb up the first 2.5 miles, which is th...

You can do this hike two different ways:  1- Start from the Peaks Trail Trailhead to Rainbow Lake for an out and back hike, distance is a little over 2 miles roundtrip.  2- Start along the Summit County Recreational Trail (as marked on this map), also out and back hike, total distance just over 3 miles, and provides a nice leg warm up along an established and paved trail.  There is a parking...

Rainbow Lake via Peaks Trail in Colorado, located near Frisco, is a popular trail for its accessible, family-friendly path and stunning mountain views. This easy hike leads through forested areas, vibrant wildflower patches, and alongside small streams, ultimately reaching Rainbow Lake, a serene spot surrounded by pines and aspens. The trail is used for birdwatching, light picnicking, and a c...