Outdoor Project

Earning its name for the panoramic views of a myriad of Colorado's most visited parks such as Horseshoe Park, Beaver Meadows, Moraine Park, Little Tuxedo Park, and parts of Estes Park, Many Parks Curve Overlook is a must-not-miss on a scenic tour of the Centennial State.

With just under 800 feet of elevation gain in 4 miles, this trail represents a moderately difficult climb, but it yields unparalleled views of Chaos Canyon dominated by the rugged 12,484-foot Otis Peak and the towering 12,713-foot Hallet Peak at its end. Twisted old limber pines (Pinus flexilis) and lodgepole speckle the hillsides amid massive granite boulders; it's purported that some of the oldest trees in the park dwell in this canyon.

For a hike that is 4.3 miles from start to summit, this adventure is packed with surprises at almost every turn. The hike immediately leads through massive trees within the old-growth forest. As you gain elevation along switchbacks you will cross over small bridges and streams and likely see deer, slugs, wildflowers, mushrooms, and a broad variety of other flora and fauna. As you continue to climb from sea level to higher elevations you can begin to see hints of the panoramic views over the San Juan Islands in the distance.

This trail stands a head above in terms of ecological variety, accessibility, and kid friendliness. Even though it is a mere 0.6 miles in length and does not gain any notable altitude, views of Hallet and Longs Peak abound, and early birds are especially privileged to enjoy breathtaking reflections of these jagged behemoth mountains reflected in the morning calm of the subalpine lake.

No visit to Estes Park is complete without a tour or an overnight stay at The Stanley Hotel. This monument to the Colonial Revival architecture that is more ubiquitous on the East Coast has been a temporary home to visitors exploring Colorado's Front Range for more than a century, and it continues to accommodate guests with its own brand of historic culture and upscale options for a more contemporary stay.

Lily Mountain is a fantastic viewpoint between Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. Though it is not quite within park boundaries, the summit offers a panorama of many impressive 12,000-foot and 13,000-foot peaks, plus the iconic Longs Peak, at 14,249 feet elevation. Below you lies the picturesque Lily Lake and Fish Creek.

With only a short drive from Estes Park, the whole family can enjoy this easy, ADA-accessible loop around Lily Lake within a scenic corner of Rocky Mountain National Park. While taking in views of granite crags, high mountains, and pine forests, kids can splash in cold, clear water at the lake's edge. It is stocked with federally-protected greenback cutthroat trout, which you are allowed to fish for as catch and release. Other wildlife to look for include ducks and herons in the water and hummingbirds around the numerous wildflowers.

Located just a short drive from the Wild Basin Ranger Station and the southeast entrance corner of Colorado's Rocky Mountain National Park, the Allenspark Lodge Bed and Breakfast is a bit of a fixture in the area. This historic structure has been hosting visitors to the Front Range for nearly a century, and if you listen closely you may hear the building telling you some stories as you walk down the long halls or sit at the bar in this unique lodge. Or try sitting on the spacious covered porch and watching a the end of a summer day move into a violet dusk.

If you are undertaking the challenging and rewarding trek up Longs Peak, the lone 14er in Colorado's Rocky Mountain National Park, an early start is essential. Afternoon thunderstorms mean it is important to have the summit behind you early in the day, which also means that pre-dawn departures on the 15-mile round-trip excursion are critical. Fortunately, Longs Peak Campground is just a short walk away from the trailhead. There is no more convenient overnight for this trailhead, so if tent camping is your modus operandi, look no further.

This is a very popular hiking route within Colorado's Brainard Lakes Recreation Area that loops around a clear glacial lake and a babbling creek. The shortest route begins from the Long Lake Trailhead, but if the small parking lot is full you can also start from Brainard Lake at Niwot Picnic Area, which adds about a half mile to the round trip.