Adventure planning takes a lot of effort. At The Outdoor Corps, our objective is to help readers sift through the abundant recreational opportunities that the Rocky Mountain West has to offer. Accordingly, we feature Rocky Mountain adventure recommendations that cater to a variety of interests, activities, and skill levels. So, whether you are seeking information on hiking, climbing, paddling, skiing, etc., we have recommended adventures for everyone.
In the “Adventures” category, you’ll find “best of” recommendations to help guide you through specific destination (e.g., Moab, UT) adventures. In addition, you’ll also find detailed reviews that go in-depth on a particular adventure, such as a backpacking trip. With this information, we hope to simplify your adventure planning process and make planning less like a chore. So, have fun out there and never stop exploring!
Betasso Preserve is a beautiful foothills park in Boulder County, only minutes away from downtown Boulder, Colorado. With approximately nine miles of trails over 1,181 acres and elevations ranging from 5,900ft. to 7,700ft., visitors are treated to open meadows, mountain vista scenery, and abundant wildlife throughout this expansive open space.
Mount Galbraith Park is located in Golden, Colorado within Jefferson County. All of the trails within this 799 acre open space are designated as hiking-only. Thus, the park is particularly popular with local hikers and trail runners. With moderately difficult trails, this park is an ideal location for all.
Eagle's Nest Open Space is a 755 acre park in Larimer County, Colorado about 30 minutes northwest of Fort Collins. This beautiful area is a perfect spot for short day hikes, horseback riding, and fishing along the North Fork of the Cache la Poudre River.
South Valley Park is a 995 acre open space park in Littleton, CO. Operated as a part of the expansive Jefferson County Open Space system, this park is a favorite destination due to its picturesque red rock spires and beginner-level trails. Visit here for excellent trail running and beginner-level hikes.
La Plata Peak is the 5th tallest mountain in Colorado at 14,336ft. Located near Twin Lakes, CO in the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness and within the stunning Sawatch Range, La Plata Peak's standard route is a straightforward but steep Class 2 ascent via its Northwest Ridge. Overall roundtrip, 9.0 miles and a 4,200ft. gain in elevation.
Mount Bierstadt is the 38th tallest mountain in Colorado at 14,065ft. Located near Georgetown, CO in the Mount Evans Wilderness of Pike National Forest, Mount Bierstadt is considered an easier 14er mountain to summit. Most hikers ascend via the Class 2 West Slopes route, which begins at the Guanella Pass Trailhead and is 7.2 miles roundtrip.