The best walks and hikes around Hidden Lake

The South Saint Vrain Figure 8 Loop plunges you into an enchanting woodland adventure near Boulder, Colorado, winding through diverse lodgepole pine forests and open meadows. You'll hike alongside the gurgling waters of the Saint Vrain Creek, enjoying the sounds and possibly spotting small waterfalls, before connecting to the popular Brainard Lake area. This difficult 16.3-mile (26.3 km) hike, with its 2080 feet (634 metres) of elevation gain, is a full-day commitment, typically taking 8 hours and 14 minutes.

Planning your visit requires good preparation for this challenging route. The trail is generally accessible year-round, but be ready for winter conditions like snowshoeing or microspiking if you go during colder months. The area is rich in wildlife, so keep an eye out for moose and deer, and remember it's bear country; a bear bell is recommended. Ensure you have sturdy shoes for the chunky, old-school terrain.

This loop is part of a broader network of trails, including the Sourdough and Waldrop Trails, offering options for extended exploration. It provides true immersion in nature within the Roosevelt National Forest, making it a standout for experienced hikers seeking a demanding and scenic journey away from more crowded paths.

The Beaver Reservoir Cutoff Trail offers a dynamic hiking experience, winding through varied terrain that includes woods, meadows, and small clearings. You'll navigate a singletrack path with numerous climbs and descents, enjoying views of the Indian Peaks Wilderness and the serene Beaver Reservoir. Look for wind-shaped "tortured" trees and seasonal wildflowers as you traverse this engaging route.

Planning your visit to the Beaver Reservoir Cutoff Trail means preparing for its moderate difficulty, which includes 596 feet (182 metres) of elevation gain over 2.0 miles (3.2 km), typically taking around 1 hour and 11 minutes. Be aware that early in the season, the trail can be snow-covered or have rocky and bumpy sections. Parking is available at the Beaver Reservoir and Trailhead, but it's always wise to arrive early, especially on busy days.

This trail is a crucial connector, linking the east end of Coney Creek Road to the Sourdough Trail, providing access to a broader network of trails within the Indian Peaks Wilderness. It's a popular spot for various activities, including mountain biking, trail running, and snowshoeing, and it's also dog-friendly. The varied terrain and connection to larger wilderness areas make it a notable route for exploring the Boulder County region.

The Buchanan Pass and Coney Creek Loop offers a challenging yet incredibly scenic hike through Colorado's Indian Peaks Wilderness. You'll traverse diverse alpine terrain, from shaded forests and wildflower meadows to rugged, rocky singletrack, with the highlight being the expansive views from Buchanan Pass itself. Expect to encounter cascading waterfalls, running creeks, and potentially wildlife like moose and elk on this difficult 13.5-mile (21.6 km) route, which involves 1543 feet (470 metres) of elevation gain and takes around 6 hours and 10 minutes to complete.

Planning your trip requires attention to detail; snow can persist on the passes until late July, and afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so always check the forecast. If you're considering an overnight stay, be aware that permits are mandatory for designated camping zones between June 1st and September 15th. Trailheads like Camp Dick and Coney Flats provide access to this demanding loop, so plan your parking and start time accordingly.

This loop is a significant part of the larger, classic Pawnee-Buchanan Loop, known for crossing the Continental Divide and showcasing the pristine beauty of the Indian Peaks Wilderness. It's a prime example of Colorado's high-alpine hiking, featuring a wide array of ecosystems and abundant water features like Timberline Falls. The trail is best suited for experienced hikers seeking a strenuous day trip or a segment of a longer backpacking adventure.

The Beaver Creek Trail to Sawtooth Mountain offers a classic Indian Peaks summit hike, leading you through diverse terrain from aspen groves and forests to expansive alpine tundra. You'll pass Beaver Reservoir and the Coney Flats Trailhead, with the landscape gradually opening up to reveal stunning views of the Indian Peaks as you climb towards the distinctively shaped Sawtooth Mountain.

This is a difficult and strenuous hike, covering 7.2 miles (11.6 km) with a significant 2979 feet (908 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring about 4 hours and 37 minutes. The route involves following 4WD roads initially, then a broad path, and finally a steep ascent to the summit. Be prepared for challenging inclines and potentially snow-covered plank bridges if hiking in late spring.

Sawtooth Mountain is easily visible from the plains east of Boulder, making it a notable landmark. This challenging wilderness experience is best undertaken in late spring or early summer for a chance at solitude, though checking for snow conditions and any required Indian Peaks Wilderness day-use permits is always advisable.