COME TO LIFE Bear Peak near Boulder Bear Peak is a “butt-buster,” according to Holland. Come for toothy mountain views, wildflower-strewn meadows and rushing water sounds from Boulder Creek. Expect a bevy of wildlife-viewing opportunities, too, from curious deer to a rainbow of birds and an occasional bear, with steep switchbacks at the top. The loop clocks in at just over 8 miles. “It’s a super beautiful hike the whole way through, but once you get to the top you have views that you probably didn’t think you could see from the Front Range,” he said. “You can see all of the Indian Peaks Wilderness and an amazing view of Longs Peak.” Deer Mountain near Estes Park This moderate-rated Rocky Mountain National Park trail is just over 6 miles round-trip and tops 10,000 feet. He loves it for its fluttering aspens and numerous wildlife-spotting opportunities, including some of his Colorado favorites — moose and elk. “Estes Park might be my favorite place in the world,” he said. “On that hike specifically, you get amazing views of the Continental Divide, and it has this part — looking back in — where you can see the [town of Estes Park].” S-Mountain Salida Walk north of downtown Salida for a panoramic dirt road meandering up S-Mountain, also known as Tenderfoot. Head along Spiral Drive to the mountaintop to see grand views of the town or wander onto a connecting trail for a rocky challenge. “Salida has beautiful weather year-round, so it can be sunnier there than it is in Denver; and it’s really accessible, too,” he said. “It’s 3 miles, 500 feet or so elevation gain, and the views are amazing. So, it’s a hike that everyone can do.” Special Mention Manitou Incline Manitou Springs Holland describes his relationship with the Manitou Incline as “love-hate” due to the challenging nature of the steep outdoor stair climb, but the scenery alone makes it worth it. He suggests getting there as early as the reservation system allows — which is 6 a.m. — for a strenuous climb up 2,744 stairs while basking in the sunrise afterglow. HIKING ESSENTIALS Plan ahead, stick to the trail, toss your trash, stay hydrated and more when you’re exploring along the state’s many scenic paths. Colorado. com/ColoradoHikingEssentials If you’re planning a visit to Colorado, are new to outdoors exploration and don’t know where to start, he suggests checking out his @fatblackandgettinit accounts on Instagram and TikTok or even reaching out in a DM. “There’s a hike for everybody out here in Colorado,” he added. Follow Nelson Holland’s Colorado hiking adventures on TikTok and Instagram: @fatblackandgettinit ETHAN WELTY Bear Peak 68 1-800-COLORADO
Colorado Official State Vacation Guide 2024: Page 68
