Colorado · Hiking · Near Red Feather Lakes

Columbine

18.8 mi
round trip
926 ft
climb
9,144 ft
high point
Out and back
route
Jun, Sep
best months

Is Columbine open right now?

Alert in the area

The Forest Service lists 4 alerts for Canyon Lakes Ranger District.

As of · Source: USFS · Canyon Lakes Ranger District. Agencies don't list every closure — check before you go.

The Columbine Trail is a 9.4-mile out-and-back hike located in Colorado. This trail offers a substantial day hike experience for visitors exploring the state's natural landscapes. The out-and-back format means hikers will travel approximately 4.7 miles to reach the turnaround point before retracing their route back to the trailhead. The trail takes its name from Colorado's state flower, reflecting the region's natural flora. Being situated near Colorado, the trail provides access to the area's outdoor recreation opportunities. The total distance of 9.4 miles makes this an intermediate-length hike suitable for hikers with moderate experience and fitness levels. This trail is ideal for those seeking a full day hike without requiring technical climbing skills. The out-and-back configuration allows hikers to customize their experience by turning back at any point if needed. The Columbine Trail is a good option for visitors looking to enjoy Colorado's hiking opportunities and immerse themselves in the region's natural environment.

Around this trail

Add any of these when you start a trip
  • Sleep close

    Dowdy Lake Campground

    Campground

    Campground · 3.2 mi from the trail
  • If it rains

    Homestead Museum

    Museum

    Museum · 17 mi from Red Feather Lakes

Places © OpenStreetMap contributors

More in Red Feather Lakes

Local outfitters

Not on Roamze yet. Their page has how to reach them.

  • Best time to go · Jun, Sep

    Best time to visit Columbine

    Best months: June and September. Best months have typical highs of 55–85 °F, lows of 30 °F or warmer (32 °F where the station doesn't record snow), at most one snowy day and no more than 12 wet days.

    1. Jan

      31° / 11°

      9 wet

    2. Feb

      33° / 10°

      9 wet

    3. Mar

      40° / 15°

      10 wet

    4. Apr

      45° / 20°

      10 wet

    5. May

      55° / 28°

      10 wet

    6. Jun

      68° / 36°

      10 wet

    7. Jul

      74° / 43°

      13 wet

    8. Aug

      72° / 41°

      14 wet

    9. Sep

      65° / 34°

      10 wet

    10. Oct

      51° / 25°

      8 wet

    11. Nov

      39° / 18°

      9 wet

    12. Dec

      31° / 11°

      9 wet

    Typical high / low (°F) and days with rain or snow, 1991–2020. Measured at Hourglass Rsvr, CO, 16.5 mi away at 9,520 ft. This station doesn't record snowfall. Source: NOAA NCEI U.S. Climate Normals 1991–2020.

Map and trail data © OpenStreetMap contributors