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Katie LyonsExplorer

Trail running, skiing, and photography enthusiast from Gunnison, CO.

My hiking partner and I camped and hiked in late July 2016 and couldn't have hoped for a better experience. The wildflowers were in full bloom, the weather was warm and not windy, and there was no chance for thunderstorms. This all really enhanced the hiking experience, definitely my favorite Colorado hike!

March and April are a perfect time to visit due to the lack of crowds. The weather is still warm and sunny, and you don't have to worry about bumping into other groups along the trail in the cavern.

Whether you're mountain biking, hiking, or trail running, it's important to know where you are in Hartman Rocks. My 45 minute run turned into a 3+ hour run because I got disoriented in the back trails. Still a great place to explore in the Gunnison Valley!

Explorer

01/14/16

This trail makes for an especially strenuous run. Great for anyone who's training for a trail race or just looking to improve fitness. And the views of Boulder at the top of the peak are incredible!

Make sure you go no later than the end of September or the beginning of October! The colors can fade quickly with the cold temperatures that are frequently here early in the fall.

Running at Garden of the Gods is a very cool experience. There are trails just beyond the confines of the actual park that go for miles around the Colorado Springs area and offer amazing views of the mountains to the West.

Trail running is especially good here. There are coastal trails,as well as forest trails, and every one of them is scenic and enjoyable.

This hike was especially great when we camped the night before! There is a very small parking lot, so using the free, dispersed campsites completely eliminated the stress of not being certain of a parking spot. We also didn't have to wake up super early to drive to the trailhead!