The best walks and hikes in Chaffee County

The Mount Belford via Missouri Gulch Trail is a truly demanding yet incredibly scenic adventure, taking you from dense subalpine forests to wide-open alpine tundra. This difficult 3.9-mile (6.3 km) hike packs in 4457 feet (1359 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring about 3 hours and 55 minutes to complete. You'll traverse through lush Missouri Gulch, cross Clear Creek, and eventually climb above the treeline for expansive views of the surrounding Sawatch Range, making it a prime choice for those seeking a challenging 14er experience.

To tackle this significant climb, plan to arrive early at the Missouri Gulch Trailhead, especially during peak season, as parking can fill up quickly. Given the trail's difficulty and the high altitude, it's crucial to check weather forecasts and trail conditions, as snow can linger above 13,000 feet well into the summer. This route is not suitable for beginners and requires good physical conditioning and proper gear for a high-alpine environment.

Mount Belford, standing at 14,197 feet, is the 19th highest peak in Colorado and a popular objective for 14er enthusiasts. It's also a strategic starting point for those looking to combine multiple summits, with connections to Mount Oxford and Missouri Mountain. The trail offers glimpses into the region's mining history with an old cabin along the way, and you might even spot wildlife like marmots and pikas in the higher elevations.

The Hartenstein Lake Trail offers a challenging yet incredibly scenic journey into the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness Area. You'll navigate a rocky singletrack that climbs steadily through pine and aspen forests, eventually opening up to a high basin. The highlight is Hartenstein Lake itself, a pristine alpine gem surrounded by evergreens, with the snow-capped Sawatch Mountain Summits and even Mount Yale peeking above the treeline. This difficult 3.1-mile (5.0 km) hike involves 1567 feet (478 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes around 2 hours and 31 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit requires attention to seasonal conditions, as the trail can be significantly more strenuous and even technical in snowy conditions, which are common in winter and early/late seasons. Sturdy, water-resistant footwear is essential due to potentially muddy and rocky sections. Always check the weather and trail reports before you go, especially if you're considering a trip outside of the summer months.

What makes this trail truly stand out is its deep wilderness feel and the exceptional alpine scenery it delivers for a relatively short distance. It's a gateway to further adventures, connecting to routes like the Browns Pass Trail and the Mount Yale Trail for those seeking extended challenges. Keep an eye out for mountain goats in the areas above the lake, adding to the allure of this high-country experience.

The Rainbow Lake via Pine Creek Trail offers a quintessential Colorado alpine adventure, leading you through diverse terrain from tranquil pine woodlands and open meadows to striking granite outcroppings. You'll follow the lively Pine Creek before tackling switchbacks that ascend to the stunning Rainbow Lake, where shimmering waters are framed by impressive peaks like Mount Harvard. This moderate hike covers 6.9 miles (11.1 km) with 2794 feet (851 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking just under 4 hours, making it a substantial day trip for those seeking a rewarding challenge.

Before you head out, be aware that a small fee is required at the trailhead as part of the route crosses private property; it's $1 for hikers and $2 if you're bringing a dog. While the trailhead offers parking, it's a popular spot, so plan to arrive early. For those considering a winter hike, microspikes and trekking poles are strongly advised for stability on potentially vertiginous sections.

This trail is celebrated for providing stunning mountain vistas and a true sense of isolation within the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness, all without requiring an overnight stay. A segment of the famous Colorado Trail (Segment 12) is also incorporated into the route. Rainbow Lake itself serves as a perfect spot to pause, enjoy lunch, and soak in the tranquil environment before your descent.

Colorado Trail: Segment 14 plunges you into a diverse and challenging landscape, winding through beautiful aspen groves and towering pine forests. You'll encounter sections of buff, flowy singletrack alternating with rocky, rugged paths, all while crossing rushing mountain streams. Keep an eye out for spectacular views of the Chalk Cliffs and the northern Sangre de Cristo Mountains, especially during wildflower season or when fall colors are vibrant.

Planning your visit to this difficult 20.3-mile (32.7 km) segment, which features 3480 feet (1061 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 12 hours and 8 minutes, requires preparation. Water sources are generally plentiful along the route, but always treat water before consuming it. Access points like the Chalk Creek Trailhead are key, and starting early is advisable for such a long and strenuous hike.

This segment is particularly notable for its proximity to three impressive 14ers: Mount Shavano, Tabeguache Peak, and Mount Antero. The trail itself traverses the southern end of the Sawatch Mountain Range within the San Isabel National Forest, offering a true high-alpine experience. Consider a 3-mile side hike to Browns Creek Falls for an added scenic detour.

The Browns Creek Falls Trail offers a dynamic hiking experience, starting with a steep, rocky climb that quickly delivers panoramic views of the Arkansas River Valley. As you ascend, the terrain transitions to more gradual sections through thickening forests of pine and aspen, eventually leading to the impressive two-tiered Browns Creek Falls, a powerful cascade set in a cool, shaded ravine. This 2.9-mile (4.7 km) out-and-back route, with its 959 feet (292 metres) of elevation gain, is rated difficult and takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes, making it a rewarding challenge for those seeking a substantial waterfall hike.

To make the most of your visit, plan to arrive early at the trailhead, particularly during peak season, as parking can fill up quickly. While the trail is often accessible earlier in the year than other high-altitude options, be prepared for potentially muddy conditions at creek crossings, especially after rain or during spring snowmelt. This route is a favorite for families and dog owners, but its initial steepness means you should be ready for a solid workout.

Browns Creek Falls is considered one of the most prominent waterfalls in the Collegiate Peaks area, making this trail a significant natural landmark. The path also intersects with the larger Colorado Trail, offering opportunities for extended adventures if you're looking to explore beyond the falls. Keep an eye out for diverse flora, from yuccas and barrel cacti at lower elevations to lush sub-alpine meadows higher up, providing varied scenery throughout your journey.