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Devils Punchbowl Waterfall Trail: This short trail will take you through the mountains along a rugged ATV road in order to experience the views overlooking a series of stunning waterfalls.Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail: As the name implies, the Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail is one of the most scenic hikes in the Elk Mountains that is geared towards casual adventurers, as it leads around the shores of Maroon Lake for stunning alpine views.Lost Lake Trail: This quick and easy adventure is perfectly suited for a fun family excursion, as the trail will lead you around several woodland lakes to arrive at the secluded shores of Lost Lake that lies between two hills.
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Oh Be Joyful Trail: This charming long-distance adventure will lead you uphill through a valley that is flanked by rugged mountain peaks, to arrive at the shores of a serene alpine lake with stunning views of the surrounding area.Capitol Peak Hike: Featuring challenging mountain terrain and breathtaking alpine views, the Capitol Peak Hike will lead you to the summit of arguably the toughest fourteener in Colorado, and is only recommended for very experienced climbers.If you are looking to plan a fun outdoor adventure in Colorado, but aren’t sure where to start, then check out this awesome list of hiking routes in the Elk Mountains below: Throughout this breathtaking area you will find a wide variety of hiking trails that range from beginner strolls along the riverbank to challenging summits of some of the most difficult fourteeners in the State of Colorado. 10 Amazing Hiking Routes In the Elk Mountainsįeaturing dramatic mountain peaks, beautifully scenic valleys, and charming alpine lakes, the Elk Mountains are a true hikers paradise. Nowadays, the Elk Mountains are a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, and are situated within the White River National Forest, Gunnison National Forest, Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, and Raggeds Wilderness areas. It was only during the 20th Century, when ski resorts began to crop up, that the area began to prosper once again. Historically, the area was central to the various Colorado silver rushes that occurred during the 1800s however, after that industry collapsed, the towns and mining settlements fell into a state of decline. While there are plenty of popular mountains to be climbed throughout the range, the tallest are its 6 fourteeners: Castle Peak, Maroon Peak, Capitol Peak, Snowmass Mountain, Pyramid Peak, and North Maroon Peak. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National ParkĪrguably one of the most picturesque mountain ranges in all of Colorado, the Elk Mountains are a rugged stretch of peaks and valleys that sit on the western edge of the Continental Divide, close by to the ski resort towns of Aspen and Crested Butte.Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.
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