15 Best Backpacking In Colorado Routes (From A Local)
Abby and Sam Price
Are you looking for the best backpacking in Colorado?
Colorado is full of outdoor adventure options ranging from some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the world to some of the best hiking trails right outside of Denver to some of the best backpacking loops in the country!
Having lived in Colorado and as avid hikers and backpackers, we know the best backpacking in Colorado to enjoy.
The state of Colorado truly has it all and with its 300 days of sunshines, there is plenty of opportunities to get outside and explore the mountains year round.
The Best Backpacking in Colorado
Below I have highlighted the best backpacking in Colorado for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.
1. Continental Divide Loop – Best for Experienced Backpackers Looking for a 3 Day 2 Night Backpacking Adventure
The Continental Divide Loop is about 30 miles long. This loop will take past some of the most beautiful scenery inside of Rocky Mountain National Park as you hike past waterfalls, alpine lakes, greenery, and much more.
This loop typically takes 3 days to complete and is considered quite hard due to its length and elevation gain.
There are quite a few requirements that you will need to backpack the Continental Divide Loop in Colorado.
You will need a National Park Pass, backcountry camping permit, and a bear canister.
Lastly, you will have to leave your furry friend at home. Dogs are not allowed on the Continental Divide Loop.
2. Colorado Trail (Segment 7) – Best for Those Searching for 1 Night Backpacking Trips in Colorado
The Colorado Trail is 567 miles long and goes from Denver all the way to Durango.
The Colorado Trail (or CT) is split up into 28 different segments, each of which has its own access point for you to hop on or off of the trail.
On average it takes about 4 to 6 weeks to complete the whole Colorado Trail from Denver to Durango. However, if you are looking for a shorter backpacking trip… look at completing just 1 of the 28 segments.
We highly recommend Segment 7 of the Colorado Trail due to its endless scenery and being right near the incredible town of Frisco.
Segment 7 is about 14 miles in length and is considered a hard hike.
Camping is allowed on most of the Colorado Trail and permits are NOT required.
We highly recommend that you check out The Colorado Trail Foundation website for more information.
Lastly, feel free to bring your pup along with you on your journey! The Colorado Trail is dog friendly, just be sure to bring extra food, water, and treats for your furry friend to enjoy.
3. Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop – One of Colorado’s Most Popular Summer Time Backpacking Loops
The Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop is an excellent backpacking trip for those looking to do a 3 to 4 day trek through one of Colorado’s most beautiful landscapes.
The loop is about 27 miles in length and you pass through four major traverses: West Maroon, Frigid Air, Trail Rider, and Buckskin.
This loop is considered to be a hard route and can be trekked clockwise or counter-clockwise.
You will see endless beautiful views and scenery including alpine lakes, dramatic mountain views, wildflowers, and much more.
If you are looking for a truly memorable experience with views of the infamous Maroon Bells just outside of the popular city of Aspen, look no further.
Plus, the Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop is dog friendly!
You DO need a permit to hike this loop. Also, you will need a parking or shuttle reservation in advance. Additionally, bear canisters are required in this area.
4. Lost Creek Wilderness Loop – An Excellent Weekend Backpacking Trip in Colorado with Unique Views and Terrain
Lost Creek Wilderness Loop is an excellent backpacking trail for those looking for a less trafficked trek compared to some of the more popular routes.
This backpacking route provides you with countless unique views, terrain, and landscapes compared to “typical” Colorado backpacking.
This loop provides you with views of different rock and granite formations along with various other landscapes throughout your trip.
The Lost Creek Wilderness Loop is just over 28 miles in length and is considered a hard loop.
Be sure to bring along with you your favorite backpacking pillow for side sleepers and your go-to hiking flashlight, along with your other backpacking essentials so that you have the most optimal experience while out in the wilderness.
Additionally, you are required to grab a self-issuing permit at the trailhead and keep the permit on you as you trek through the wilderness.
This allows forest service members to better keep track of visitation in the area.
Lastly, you may bring your furry friend along with you on your backpacking excursion as long as they are kept on leash!
5. Pine River Trail – A “Hidden Gem” Backpacking Route for Intermediate Trekkers
The Pine River Trail is a phenomenal option for those looking for a lesser known backpacking route with some solidarity and time with nature.
This trail is rated intermediate and is great for “average” backpackers or beginners that feel they are ready to push themselves a bit.
This trail is about 28 miles in length but has pretty flat terrain with the occasional uphill elevation gain.
You will mainly pass through wide meadows or tree filled areas. Additionally, dogs are welcome on this trail and may be off leash in some areas!
6. Sand Ramp Trail – Most Unique Backpacking Experience in Colorado
The Sand Ramp Trail is the most unique backpacking experience you can get in the beautiful state of Colorado.
This trail is inside of Great Sand Dunes National Park, home to the largest sand dunes in North America.
This trail is about 7 miles in length and is considered a moderate trail.
We recommend that you bring sandals or socks to wear, we found it better to walk barefoot than with our shoes on but definitely bring both!
Furthermore, you will need to pay an entrance fee to get into the National Park. Additionally, you will need a permit to camp in the backcountry.
From our knowledge and experience, dogs are allowed but must be on leash.
7. Snowmass Lake and Mountain via Maroon Snowmass Trail
This trail is a little over 21 miles in length and is an out and back trip. This backpacking route is right near the town of Snowmass so the location cannot be beat.
Additionally, the trail takes you past many beautiful lakes, mountain views, and terrific scenery.
This route is considered a hard trail and is very popular amongst backpackers. You may camp in designated areas and it does not require a permit.
However, you do need to register your visitation days at the trailhead. Plus, the Snowmass Lake trail is dog friendly so feel free to bring your pup along!
8. Chicago Basin in Weminuche Wilderness – A Memorable Train Ride to Start Your Adventure
Yes, you read that right. You will need to take a train ride to start your Chicago Basin backpacking excursion.
(You don’t have to take the train ride if you want to add a day or two to your backpacking trip but countless backpackers recommend taking the train journey to start your trek!)
Most backpackers recommend taking the train from Durango to the Needleton stop. Once you get off at Needleton, you will begin your backpacking adventure!
The Chicago Basin Trail is considered a hard route and about 15 miles in length out and back.
During your trek, you will see countless beautiful mountain views and scenery around you.
Plus, the hike is dog friendly so pets are welcome on leash! Lastly, according to our knowledge, there is no permit required for this trail.
We recommend that you take the train ride because it adds some adventure to your trip and is sure to add to the excitement!
However, if you would rather skip the train, you will begin your journey at the Purgatory Creek Trail and your backpacking trip will more than double in size to about 32 miles in length!
9. Devil’s Thumb to King Lake Loop
This loop is in the Nederland area of Colorado and is about 15 miles in length. This is a great option for those looking for a 1 night backpacking trip or could be split up into 2 nights!
You will pass through forest areas, meadows, tree lines, and pass several alpine lakes.
This loop does require a local permit for overnight camping in the area. Additionally, it is dog friendly so your pet can come with you!
10. Gore Lake Trail
This trail is right near Vail, Colorado so the location is excellent! The Gore Lake Trail is about 12 miles in length out and back.
This route is considered a hard trail and will contain some truly breathtaking scenery as you take in the beautiful mountain landscape, the trees overhead, various rock formations, and much more. Plus, dogs are welcome along this route!
This is a great option for those looking for 1 night backpacking trips in Colorado! It’s also important to mention that you are required to have an overnight camping permit for this trail.
This is an excellent option for those looking for a backpacking adventure and would like to finish up near a bustling mountain town!
11. Buffalo Peaks Loop
The Buffalo Peaks Loop is in Pike National Forest and is a little less than 12 miles in length.
This loop is considered a popular backpacking route but is rated hard due to its terrain and elevation.
You will spend most of your hike in the woods surrounded by trees before popping out and catching a glimpse of the beautiful terrain from up top.
Plus, dogs are allowed on this loop and may be off leash in some areas!
12. Mohawk Lake to Pacific Peak and Crystal Peak
This trail is right near Breckenridge and is about a 12 mile loop trail. It is a lesser known backpacking route so it will be less crowded than some of the bigger name and more popular trails in Colorado.
Plus, it is dog friendly so you can bring your pet with you!
It’s important to note, that this trail is rated quite hard and the elevation gain is hefty!
We definitely recommend this hike for more experienced backpackers looking for a less crowded trail.
13. Mount of the Holy Cross Trail
This trail is about 12 miles in length and very popular amongst backpackers of all skill levels.
This trail is an out and back route that has significant elevation gain throughout the trek!
The views throughout this backpacking trip are outrageous as you see drastic mountain views in the distance, it is truly breathtaking.
Plus, this trail is dog friendly which is always an added bonus for dog owners!
14. Fern Lake Trail
This trail is about 8 miles out and back inside of Rocky Mountain National Park. It is a beautiful trail with lake views and countless wildlife sightings.
This trail is considered moderate so it is good for intermediate backpackers or beginners looking for a challenge.
This trail is inside of Rocky Mountain National Park which requires you to have a permit for overnight backpacking.
Additionally, you will have to leave your dog at home because they are not allowed on this trail.
15. Vallecito Creek Trail
This trail is about 13 miles in length out and back near the Bayfield area. It is considered a moderately hard trail with views of trees and a creek throughout your trek.
Additionally, pets are allowed on this trail and may be off leash in some areas! This is an excellent backpacking trip for beginners and intermediates alike.
Colorado Backpacking FAQs
Below I have answered some of the most frequently asked questions about backpacking in Colorado.
Where should I go backpacking in Colorado?
There are countless destinations to go backpacking in Colorado. We highly recommend that you check out the 15 we listed above for some of the best trekking in the state.
Additionally, make sure to check the AllTrails app for more recommendations.
Is Colorado good for backpacking?
Colorado is an excellent place for backpacking! The state of Colorado is known for its beautiful Rocky Mountains along with its endless outdoor excursions including backpacking, hiking, skiing, snowboarding, climbing, and so much more.
When should I go backpacking in Colorado?
The best time to go backpacking in Colorado is usually between the months of March through November.
However, it really depends on which areas you are looking to explore and their elevation.
Be sure to check the AllTrails app before embarking on your backpacking trip.
This app will tell you about the best time to hike that specific trail along with more details and requirements when it comes to backpacking, hiking, and camping throughout Colorado.
Do I need a permit to backpack in Colorado?
You do not always need a permit to backpack in Colorado. However, many trails and loops do require permits.
We recommend using the AllTrails app to learn more about permit requirements throughout the state.
We hope this list of the best backpacking in Colorado helps you plan your next overnight backpacking excursion!
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