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10 Must-Do Summer Backpacking Trips near Denver

The Rockies are where it's at this summer.

By: The Outbound Collective + Save to a List

Longer days and warmer nights means it's backpacking season in Colorado. Whether you're a beginner looking for a quick introduction to backpacking or you're wanting to cover some serious mileage, there are endless options near Colorado's capital. The best part is each trip is more beautiful than the last. The Rockies never seem to get old, do they? Check out some of our favorite backpacking trips near Denver and make your plans to get out there and explore the backcountry this summer!

1. Backpack to Payne Creek

a lone backpacker looks down at their dog in the pine forest


Photo: Kathleen Morton

Distance: 17.93 miles
Elevation: 3,773 ft
Type: Out-and-back

This stunning hike intersects with the CT and is a lesser-known trail bringing you some peace and quiet out in nature. Along your hike take in the stunning views of aspen groves, meadows, and Craig Creek.

2. Backpack to Lake Verna

An alpine lake reflects the blue sky and surrounding mountain peaks


Photo: Ian Glass

Distance: 13.5 miles
Elevation: 2,500 ft
Type: Out-and-back

Head into Rocky Mountain National Park and appreciate the incredible views and impressive wildlife this backpacking trip can offer. As you hike, keep your eye out for moose, wetlands, and tall pine trees. Take a dip in one of the stunning alpine lakes or appreciate the view from the side while fishing and taking photos.

3. Backpack to the 3 Crater Lakes

An alpine lake is surrounded by snow dusted mountain peaks


Photo: Drew Wallace

Distance: 6.92 miles
Elevation: 1,804 ft
Type: Out-and-back

A great beginner backpacking trip, the trail begins in a vast meadow before winding you through Roosevelt National Forest. Listen to the sounds of the bubbling stream and you hike the rocky terrain. Along your way, head down the waterfall trail for a view of a beautiful cascade and an array of wildflowers. Finish off this stunning hike by taking in the views from the three alpine lakes and lagoon.

4. Backpack to Caribou Lake

two hikers walk along a trail through the grassy tundra


Photo: Alison Peck

Distance: 8.2 miles
Elevation: 2,601 ft
Type: Out-and-back

This great backpacking trip will allow you to hike past lakes, creeks, and forests abundant with wildlife. Enjoy taking breaks surrounded by peaceful meadows and panoramic vistas and mountain views. Plan this trip in July for a chance to see wildflowers dotting the fields.

5. Backpack to Lost Creek

The stars begin to peak out over a grassy field, pine trees, and mountain peaks


Photo: Ryan McKinney

Distance: 5 miles
Type: Out-and-back

Enjoy the vast expanse of Lost Creek Wilderness with this exciting backpacking trip that is great for beginners. Don’t forget to bring your fishing pole with you for a chance to catch some Brook Trout in Lost Creek.

6. Backpack to Red Deer Lake

The clouds take a pinkish glow at sunset over snow covered peaks


Photo: Brynn Schmidt

Distance: 6.4 miles
Elevation: 1,900 ft
Type: Out-and-back

Take the whole family on this backpacking trip. Wind through stunning meadows and thick forests filled with Aspen and Pine. Enjoy various water features such as waterfalls, rivers, and a lake while taking in the incredible mountain views Indian Peaks Wilderness has to offer.

7. Backpack to Bluebird Lake

A tall peak looms into the sky over an alpine lake


Photo: Bryce Powell

Distance: 14 miles
Elevation: 2,500 ft
Type: Out-and-back

Take in the beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park while missing out on the crowds in this lesser-known hike beginning at the Wild Basin trailhead. If you enjoy fly fishing, make sure to stop along the many small streams throughout your trip. Enjoy tumbling cascades, switchbacks through pine trees, and stay in a backcountry campsite near the lake.

8. Backpack to Mirror and Crater Lakes

Lone Eagle Peak reflects off Mirror Lake


Photo: Eric Schuette

Distance: 14.94 miles
Elevation: 2,421 ft
Type: Out-and-back

Explore a basin filled with wildflowers, pass stunning waterfalls and scenic overlooks, and witness the majestic beauty of Lone Eagle Peak reflecting off mirror lake throughout this well-known and iconic hike. For an extra adventure, enjoy scrambling up the neighboring mountains surrounding the lakes.

9. Backpack to Odessa Lake via Fern Lake Trailhead

A glassy lake reflects the surrounding mountain and pine trees


Photo: Andrew Slaton

Distance: 9.65 miles
Elevation: 1,890 ft
Type: Out-and-back

Have your camera out and ready for this stunning hike filled with incredible wildlife and scenery. Take a lunch or fishing break at the intersection between Fern Creek and Big Thompson River nicknamed “The Pool” before heading on to the lake and taking advantage of some relative solitude out in nature.

10. Backpack Alpine Terrain to Haynach Lakes

Bright green grass, a crystal clear lake, and a snowy mountain are reflected against a pink and purple sunset


Photo: Crystal Brindle

Distance: 17 miles
Elevation: 2,329 ft
Type: Out-and-back and Point-to-Point

Get off the grid and head onto less established terrain for your next backpacking trip with this hike that will take you across two mountain summits with gorgeous panoramic views. Appreciate turquoise alpine lakes so high they are usually frozen well into the hottest summer months and expansive sloping tundra.

Cover photo: Ian Glass

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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