Colorado · Hiking
Hiking in Green Mountain Falls, Colorado
Green Mountain Falls sits at roughly 7,800 feet in Pike National Forest, tucked into a narrow canyon on the western slope of Pikes Peak. It's a small town, but the trail network around it punches above its weight.
16 spotsUpdated weeklyFree to access
View on mapHiking · 16 spots
Green Mountain Falls sits at roughly 7,800 feet in Pike National Forest, tucked into a narrow canyon on the western slope of Pikes Peak. It's a small town, but the trail network around it punches above its weight. The Crystal Trail is the most-used route in the area and shows up across multiple access points, making it a logical first hike for anyone getting oriented. From there, options branch out along the Catamount Trail, Thomas Trail, and Mount Dewey Trail, with forest roads like Forest Road 955 and Forest Road 305 offering quieter, less-trafficked alternatives for hikers who don't mind sharing a wide dirt track with the occasional vehicle. The Kirkpatrick Trail and Forest Service 333 round out the network for those looking to string together longer loops. Elevation gain here is real even on shorter routes — you're starting high and the terrain climbs quickly — so visitors coming from lower elevations should plan for an acclimatization day before pushing hard. The trail system is genuinely accessible to a range of skill levels, from easy walks on the Crystal Trail to more moderate terrain on the Thomas Trail, which makes Green Mountain Falls a solid base whether you're hiking with kids or looking for a solid half-day outing before heading deeper into the range.
Frequently asked questions
What is the easiest hike in Green Mountain Falls for families or beginners?
The Crystal Trail has an easy difficulty rating and multiple access points around town, making it the most beginner-friendly option in the area. It's well-traveled, which also means you're unlikely to feel isolated if you're new to hiking at altitude.
When is the best time of year to hike around Green Mountain Falls?
Late June through September is the most reliable window. Snow can linger on shaded sections of trails like the Catamount Trail and Forest Service 333 well into June, and afternoon thunderstorms are common from July onward. Start hikes before noon in summer to be off exposed terrain before storms build.
What time of day should I hit the trailheads?
Early morning, ideally before 9 a.m. Parking near popular access points for the Crystal Trail and Catamount Trail fills up on summer weekends, and starting early also gets you off the trail before the afternoon lightning risk peaks around 2-4 p.m.
Do I need a permit or pass to hike these trails?
Most trails here fall within Pike National Forest, which does not currently require a permit for day hiking. That said, regulations can change, so check with the Pikes Peak Ranger District before your trip, especially if you're planning to use the forest road routes like Forest Road 955 or Forest Road 305.
What gear should I bring for a day hike out of Green Mountain Falls?
Layers are non-negotiable — temperatures at this elevation can swing 30 degrees between morning and afternoon. Bring rain gear even on clear mornings, at least two liters of water per person, and trekking poles if you have them, since trails like the Thomas Trail involve moderate elevation change on uneven terrain. Sunscreen matters more than most visitors expect above 7,000 feet.
