The best walks and hikes in Chaffee County

Yes, many trails in Chaffee County are welcoming to dogs, especially within the San Isabel National Forest. Most trails require dogs to be on a leash. A good option is the Midland & Broken Boyfriend loop near Buena Vista, which offers a relatively easy walk for you and your furry companion. Always check specific regulations for the area you plan to hike, especially in designated wilderness areas.

Chaffee County has several trails leading to beautiful waterfalls. The hike to Browns Creek Falls is a local favorite, following a creek through pine and aspen forests to a cascading waterfall. Another great option is the short Agnes Vaille Falls Trail near Mount Princeton Hot Springs, which is perfect for a quick and rewarding hike.

Absolutely. The area around Salida offers several accessible trails perfect for families. The Labyrinth Trail on Tenderfoot Hill provides incredible views of the Sangre de Cristo mountains on a short hike. Another option is the Arkansas River Trail from Hecla Junction, which offers a gentle walk along the river through the scenic Browns Canyon National Monument.

For a strenuous but rewarding challenge, consider tackling one of the region's famous 'fourteeners'. The Huron Peak via North Huron Trail is a demanding route that rewards hikers with panoramic views from its 14,003-foot summit. Be prepared for significant elevation gain and a full day on the trail.

You'll find a vast network of trails to explore. There are over 120 designated hiking routes in Chaffee County, ranging from easy riverside strolls to difficult multi-day treks into the high country of the Collegiate Peaks.

The region is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning alpine scenery, the variety of trails available for all skill levels, and the dramatic views of the Collegiate Peaks.

Yes, the area around the hot springs is a great base for hiking. For a challenging ascent with incredible views, the Mount Princeton Trail starts nearby. For something much easier, the short trail to Agnes Vaille Falls is just a few minutes down the road and offers a lovely walk to a waterfall.

Yes, for experienced and well-acclimatized hikers, it's possible. The route to Mt. Shavano and Mt. Tabeguache is a classic combination. This is a very long and difficult day involving over 10.5 miles and nearly 5,000 feet of elevation gain, so be sure to start early and check the weather.

Chaffee County is home to sections of world-class long-distance trails. Both the Colorado Trail and the Continental Divide Trail pass through the region, offering incredible opportunities for multi-day backpacking trips. A great option for a long day or overnight trip is the Bear Lake via Horn Fork Basin Trail, which takes you deep into the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness.

The prime hiking season is from June to September, when high-elevation trails are typically free of snow and alpine wildflowers are in bloom. Fall, especially late September, is also a spectacular time to visit for 'leaf peeping' as the aspen trees turn golden. Winter offers opportunities for snowshoeing on lower-elevation trails.

Yes, there are several excellent loop options. For a challenging high-alpine loop, the Mount Belford & Mount Oxford loop via Missouri Gulch is a classic that summits two 14,000-foot peaks. This is a strenuous, full-day adventure best suited for experienced hikers.

For a long, challenging hike with incredible alpine scenery, consider the Mount Harvard Trail. While it leads to a 14er, you can hike a significant portion of it through the beautiful Horn Fork Basin for an out-and-back trip without making the final, strenuous push to the summit, still enjoying a fantastic day in the wilderness.