The Best Scenic Hiking in Colorado

The absolute best scenic hike is The Mitchell Lake Trail in the Brainard Lake Recreation Area near Nederland, Colorado. It's not far from Boulder or Estes Park just off the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway. There is a fee to enter the recreation area, but it's well worth it. This is a great trail for beginners or families. Late spring or early summer is the best for wildflowers, and the water is still high enough to produce some spectacular waterfalls. The trail is about three miles long, and at the end of the trail sits Blue Lake. Even in early summer a layer of ice floats on the lake.

Parking is hard to come by if you don't get there early. Parking at the trailhead is nearly impossible. Be prepared to walk a mile or so to the trailhead. The entire recreation area is beautiful so don't be discouraged by having to walk. While walking check out all the other trails you can hike on your return visits. Be sure to bring a backpack with all the hiking essentials. Even though the temperature outside is warm don't be fooled. It can be a bit breezy by the time you reach the end of the trail. A light jacket and a rain poncho are always a good thing to have. The end of the trail is above tree-line, and you don't want to be caught in the rain without the proper gear. Also be sure to have plenty of water and snacks for the kids. Plan on spending about three to four hours on this hike.

The trail is easy to moderate. It begins in a heavily wooded area, and there are generally quite a few hikers for the first mile or so. No matter how late in the summer, snow can be found in some of the less sunny spots. It's a great contrast to see the green grass, colorful flowers, and white snow all together. The streams running all along the trail are breathtaking, especially when the wildflowers are in full bloom. In the very early summer Columbines can be seen everywhere. Be sure to bring a camera because even an amateur photographer can produce some outstanding pictures.