
August in Colorado
Alpine lakes are clear. The high country is open.
196 trail guides, 57 14ers ranked, plus the alpine lake hikes that peak this month.
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Popular Colorado Trails
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Emerald Lake Trail
A stunning alpine lake hike that passes Nymph Lake and Dream Lake before reaching the spectacular Emerald Lake. Perfect introduction to Rocky Mountain National Park's high country.

Hanging Lake Trail
Colorado's most photographed lake features turquoise waters and a spectacular waterfall. Reservations required year-round due to its popularity and fragile ecosystem.

Manitou Incline
One of Colorado's most famous workouts. Roughly 2,744 railroad-tie steps gain 2,000 feet in under a mile on the old cable railway bed. A free online reservation is required year-round. Descend via Barr Trail to complete the loop.

Royal Arch Trail
A popular Boulder hike from the Chautauqua Park trailhead leading to a natural sandstone arch with stunning views of the city and Flatirons. The upper half involves stair-steps and short Class 2 scrambling, so older kids handle it well; younger kids may find it tough.

Maroon Lake Trail
An iconic easy loop around Colorado's most photographed peaks. The trail offers stunning reflections of the Maroon Bells in the alpine lake.
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Cottonwood Creek Trailhead: Gateway to Mount Harvard, Columbia, and Two Alpine Lakes
The North Cottonwood Creek Trailhead near Buena Vista opens Mount Harvard, Mount Columbia, Bear Lake, and Kroenke Lake. Here's the road, routes, and timing.

Mount Evans (Mount Blue Sky): Complete Guide to Colorado's Drive-Up 14er
Mount Evans (now Mount Blue Sky) is Colorado's easiest 14,265-foot summit: drive the highest paved road in North America or hike it. Full 2026 guide.

Mount Sneffels: A Complete Guide to Climbing Colorado's Iconic San Juan 14er
Mount Sneffels (14,158 ft) is a Class 3 San Juan classic above Ouray. 2026 guide to the Yankee Boy Basin route, the V-notch scramble, gear, and timing.
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