A Photographer’s Guide to Colorado’s Best Hiking Trails with Spectacular Views

For as many times as I hate my smartphone, the one thing I am thankful for is that it came with an incredible camera. I've taken more pictures outdoors in Colorado than in any of the 9 states I've lived in.

Not long ago we shared a list of Colorado's 'most Instagram-worthy' spots around Grand Junction. Below, we'll take it a step further and zoom in on thirteen of Colorado's most scenic hiking trails that any photographer would love to be on.

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What is Colorado's Most Scenic Hiking Trail?

Colorado's most scenic trail is the one you are hiking on a given day. They are all beautiful and have something special to show you for your efforts. One of the most popular answers to this question sends us to Rocky Mountain National Park to hike to Emerald Lake. Stroll past mountain lakes, wildlife, and wildflowers in one of the most beautiful places on earth.

Colorado's Shorter Scenic Hikes

Some of Colorado's best trails for photography are also on easy to moderate routes. Need to lug some extra equipment? No sweat, these trails will give you amazing photos without gasping for breath the entire time.

• Chautauqua Park - 1 mile (Flatirons)
• Perkins Garden Central Trail - 1.5 miles (Garden of the Gods)
• Warner Point Nature Trail - 2 miles (Black Canyon of the Gunnison)
• Hanging Lake Trail near Glenwood Springs - 2 miles
• Maroon Bells Maroon Lake Trail - 3 miles.

Catching Colorado's Golden Hours

In Colorado, and in most places on Earth, the best time to take photos outdoors is often said to be 1 to 2 hours after sunrise or before sunset. The sun is low and allows for more colorful backgrounds and warmer lights to show up in your photographs.

Scroll on for thirteen of Colorado's most scenic hikes you can check out this summer. Don't forget your camera or you might as well just turn around at the trailhead to go get it.