Author: Leandro

Idaho Springs is one of our favorite hidden gems in Colorado because it’s full of wild west history and feels like it belongs in the past. If you are looking for the best things to do in Idaho Springs, Colorado, or are new to the city, this article is for you!

A few miles west of Denver, along Clear Creek Canyon, you can find the town of Idaho Springs nestled in the mountains above Golden. It’s only about an hour’s drive from Boise, making Idaho Springs accessible to tourists. But many tourists drive right by and don’t know that Idaho Springs exists!

150 years ago, Idaho City was the largest city in the Northwest. At the time, it had more than 7,000 inhabitants and was larger than Portland, Oregon. It was primarily an influx of miners seeking gold that caused this. About 3,000,000 ounces of gold were produced, equivalent to almost a billion dollars at current gold prices.

In the years following the mining decline, Idaho City’s population was drastically reduced to approximately 104, making it a ghost town. Although Idaho City no longer technically qualifies as a ghost town, its charm and history still make it special. It has around 485 inhabitants now.

If you want to learn about history and experience natural Colorado, we highly recommend you check out Idaho Springs. Surprisingly, there are a ton of activities to do in this small town. Here are our favorite 22+ things to do in Idaho Springs!

Quick Guide:

• Must-do activity: Argo Gold Mine & Mill
• Best activities for couples: Indian Hot Spring, Jeep Tours
• Best activities for families: Argo Gold Mine & Mill, Phoenix Gold Mine
• Best adventure activities: Clear Creek Canyon rafting, Hike St. Mary’s Glacier

22. Relax at Indian Hot Spring

On the way back from the mountains, Indian Hot Springs provides a relaxing diversion. It is one of the nearest hot springs to Denver, conveniently situated in Idaho Springs, Colorado, off Interstate 70.

The resort has a swimming pool fed by hot springs, private baths, caverns, housing, a gift store, and a café. There is also a comprehensive spa with a variety of treatments.

The indoor swimming pool has a tropical dome filled with hot mineral water. Banana trees, palm trees, and other flowering plants are all around the pool, making it a unique tropical experience in the middle of Colorado. In addition, many of the outdoor jacuzzis are filled with mineral water between 106 and 110 degrees Fahrenheit and enclosed by privacy fences; these jacuzzis are available for rental.

Due to the clothing-optional nature of the caverns, kids and teens under 18 are not allowed to enter.

You can rent one of eleven private indoor rooms if you want a more private hot springs experience. Each features a single 8′ by 4′ by the 3′-deep tub. They are full of hot mineral water and are about 106° F. “Club Mud” has mud baths where you cover your whole body in clay full of minerals. The mud will take the toxins out of your body and make you feel calm and rejuvenated.

If you want to feel like you’re a part of nature while still being pampered then this is by far one of the best things to do in Idaho Springs. But make sure to carve out at least half a day for the mineral springs – this isn’t an experience you want to rush through!

21. Drive The Mount Evans Scenic Byway

Mount Evans Byway is North America’s highest (in altitude) paved road. Along the 28-mile journey to over 14,000 feet, there are many things to see and do, such as high alpine lakes and beautiful wildlife.

The Mount Goliath Nature Area, Summit Lake Park, and the Crest House at the top are all great places to stop along the byway. It’s also worthwhile to visit Echo Lake Park, near the Mt. Evans Welcome Station. The trip starts at 7,526 feet in Idaho Springs and winds up to 14,130 feet.

South of Idaho Springs, at about 10,600 feet, the second half of the drive-by Echo Lake starts. For the next 14 miles, you can follow the road to the top. Once you get to the top parking lot, it’s a short but worthwhile hike to the 14,271-foot summit.

You must pay a vehicle fee per visit if you plan to park at the top.  It’s open from late May to the middle of October.

On the Mt. Evans Recreation Area and Scenic Byway, there are many things to do besides drive. You can go biking, camping, fishing, and hiking.

Lastly, you’ll have access to enjoy Echo Lake Park, the Nature Center, and Summit Lake Park.

20. Go Rafting In Clear Creek Canyon

Clear Creek provides exciting rafting adventures near Denver and right near Idaho Springs. As the creek travels downstream from Idaho Springs, it follows a bunch of dramatic twists and turns, making it perfect for white water rafting. Clear Creek has the most rapids per mile of any professionally rafted river in Colorado!

This tiny river offers beginner, intermediate, and expert excursions. The season typically lasts from mid-May through the end of August. If you’re searching for tricky and adrenaline-packed rapids, Clear Creek is definitely the place! There are quarter, half, and full-day excursions available.

Check out one of our favorite rafting companies here!

The Dumont section is the first popular whitewater rafting part of the Clear Creek River. Before reaching the hamlet of Idaho Springs, the route runs over 5.5 miles of Class III-IV whitewater rapids. The Dumont section is fun and exciting but not too complex, making it perfect for novice rafters.

Black Rock is the most challenging portion of Clear Creek, and even professional rafting companies seldom choose to navigate it. Black Rock is exceedingly difficult, with Class IV – V rapids covering a total of 6.5 miles of steep and narrow streams. This part is for experienced riders only.

White water rafting in Clear Creek is definitely one of the best things to do in Idaho Springs for adrenaline junkies! We highly recommend booking an excursion with a professional company – Clear Creek Rafting Co. is great.

19. Explore the Trails Around Echo Lake Park

Echo Lake Park, located right near Mt. Evans, is a fantastic destination if you’re searching for a spot to appreciate nature and have a good time. The park has several trails for hiking and biking and a lake for swimming and fishing.

The 0.8-mile-long, out-and-back Echo Lake Trail traverses Echo Lake. The simple trek to Echo Lake Lodge offers views of the lake and Mount Evans as it winds through the forest. Dogs are permitted but must be on a leash.

There are some really gorgeous views at Echo Lake! We definitely recommend it if you’re looking for an easier but picturesque hike.

Check out more info about the available trails here.

18. Hike St Mary’s Glacier

The trip to St. Mary’s Glacier offers breathtaking panoramic views, just what you’d expect from the perfect short hike in Colorado. You can get stunning views of the Rocky Mountains to the west by walking around St. Mary’s Lake and climbing up the glacier, too.

If you hike to the top, it is a short journey—a 1.5-mile round trip—but if you only walk to the lake and back, it is just about a mile. Since there is always snow above the lake, the St. Mary’s Glacier Trailhead, approximately an hour from Denver, is a terrific place to escape the summer heat. It gets seriously cool up there, even in the hottest months!

Check out more information about the available trails here.

St. Mary’s Lake is stunning, particularly in the early morning stillness when the glacier is reflected in the lake’s mirror surface. Before starting the climb back down the mountain, it’s a great area to enjoy a picnic.

It only takes around three-quarters of a mile to reach the top of St. Mary’s Glacier, but the path is shockingly steep and rough. Smaller kids find it challenging to clamber over some more immense boulders along the way. We recommend going to the top if you’re an intermediate-advanced hiker. Otherwise, the hike to the lake is plenty!

The path is mostly dry in the bottom part, but as you get to the glacier, you have to cross a lot of wet, thick snow. We advise wearing hiking boots or, at the absolute least, wearing traction-enhancing, water-resistant shoes.

17. Discover Argo Gold Mine & Mill

The Argo Gold Mine & Mill is a national historic monument approximately 45 minutes outside Denver. The tunnel, the mine, and the mill focus on year-round excursions guided by seasoned guides. There is a live demonstration of how to crush, grind, and drill rocks.

It all began in 1893 when the Argo Tunnel was constructed. The tunnel reached Central City, about 4.5 miles distant, after 17 years. The tunnel enabled the delivery of gold from several mines along the route, making it a really important area during the gold rush.

Argo’s Mill processed mined gold ore. When finished, the Argo Mill was the biggest of its type in the world. It processed more than $100 million of gold ore at prices between $18 and $35 per ounce.

Gold Mine tours run for one hour, so wear comfortable footwear and a light jacket: it can get chilly in the mines. You’ll learn about the history of the mines, take the tour, and get the opportunity to try gold panning. Plus, you can keep any jewels you discover. You can even purchase bags of soil guaranteed to contain placer gold and gems.

We LOVE any history about the Gold Rush so this was right up our alley. It’s definitely one of our favorite things to do in Idaho Springs!

Check out more details about tour availability here.

16. Visit The Underhill Museum

Dr. James Underhill arrived in Idaho Springs in 1897 and was a notable surveyor and mining engineer in Colorado. He left behind several books on surveying as a significant part of his legacy.

Dr. Underhill attended the University of Colorado in Boulder and was the first person in Colorado to get a Ph.D. in geology. He became a professor at the Colorado School of Mines later on.

In the Underhill Museum, you can view fine furniture from the period, nineteenth- and twentieth-century images of Idaho Springs, and rare Underhill family antiques. It’s basically a museum of all things relating to Idaho Springs, Dr. Underhill, and the mines.

Lucy Underhill’s Victorian Garden and Courtyard sit in the residence’s backyard. She was a passionate gardener who cultivated delphiniums considerably taller than herself. She delighted in hosting her visitors in the courtyard.

If you’re interested in more specific town history, this is one of the most unique things to do in Idaho Springs. It’s really niche but you’ll learn some info you won’t find anywhere else.

15. Have A Drink At Tommyknocker Brewery & Pub

Tommyknocker Brewery & Pub, founded in 1994, has become a mainstay in Idaho Springs thanks to its award-winning craft beer and cuisine. Since its inception, Tommyknocker Brewery & Pub has received more than 100 medals in various local, national, and international contests.

This place is a must for everyone wanting the authentic Colorado dining experience. German Bocks, Cocoa/Honey Winter Blend, Pumpkin Harvest Ales, Own Custom Line of Sodas, and a lengthy list of craft beers are among their award-winning selection!

With their American-style cuisine, everybody can choose a meal that pairs well with their beer. You’ll find salads, sandwiches, shakes, burgers, classic pub fare, regional specialties, and local food on the menu.

If you’re going to indulge in food and drinks, why not do it at Tommyknocker Brewery & Pub? It’s a local favorite for a reason!

14. Go Skiing At Echo Mountain

Visiting in winter? Echo Mountain Park, the nearest ski resort to Denver, is between Idaho Springs and Evergreen and is a must-do if you’re a skier.

This site is an ideal mountain for night skiing close to the capital city. It is also suitable for freestylers and those seeking to improve their racing technique. In addition, a newbie learning their sport will find a home here.

The mountain boasts several intermediate runs. There are rails, jumps, a black diamond tree run, and a double chairlift to return to the summit. It’s a little ski resort, but it’s nearer to the city, more affordably priced, and offers breathtaking views of the Front Range. Several routes are devoid of jumps and rails, making them ideal for cruising, too.

In addition, Echo Mountain Park is a large winter playground for beginner/intermediate skiers and snowboarders, as well as freestyle skiers and riders wanting to have fun. It is constantly developing new features to enhance the freestyle experience. In the Westside Glades, Echo even provides tree skiing.

On certain nights, night skiing is one of the most popular activities at Echo. Night skiing is available until 9 p.m. after other Colorado ski resorts have shut down.

13. Go Underground At Phoenix Gold Mine

Phoenix Gold Mine is a working gold mine located close to Idaho Springs that offers tours led by qualified and experienced personnel. The journey is around an hour long and ascends 750 feet into the mountain.

The price of your excursion includes gold panning. Try your luck and take some genuine gold with you! Next to the mine is a creek where panning takes place; this stream brings gold from the mountains to the mine, where teachers teach gold panning.

The annual average temperature within the mine is 45 degrees Fahrenheit, so dress correctly. Bring suitable footwear, water, and a packed lunch, since none are given at the mine. There are scenic picnic places nearby but you’ll have to have all of your own food and supplies.

12. Fuel Up At Smokin’ Yard’s BBQ

With more than 35 years of experience in the culinary industry, this three-brother-run barbecue restaurant has helped bring authentic flames, taste, and warmth to Idaho Springs.

Smokin Yard’s BBQ has made a name for itself by being one of the most incredible barbecue restaurants in the Rockies — a must-visit establishment for everyone traveling through this region.

It provides barbecue staples like pork, chicken, brisket, Sloppy Joe, and Po’ Boy. In addition to these barbecue basics, Smokin Yard’s BBQ offers a variety of traditional side dishes. There is a complete bar with unique brews and local beers. Relax and enjoy the authentic BBQ atmosphere and experience!

It is the perfect location for your next dinner since it offers enough portions to satisfy even the most ravenous diners, complimentary boiled peanuts, a variety of sauces, and outdoor seating. If you’re looking for the best things to do in Idaho Springs for the full local experience, you definitely need to stop into Smokin Yard!

11. Eat Pizza At Beau Jo’s

Every day in Colorado has the potential to be an adventure, and Beau Jo’s believes that your pizza should be as spectacular. Beau Jo’s, originators of Colorado’s most fabulous pie, is your local hangout and the go-to destination for truly excellent Colorado-style pizza.

So, what exactly is Colorado-style pizza? It’s the type of pizza you need after a day of visiting our beautiful state; it’s sold by the pound and meant to provide an unfathomable quantity of cheese, toppings, and sauce.

Named after the crust mountains that provide a one-of-a-kind confinement system for your preferred pizza toppings, the restaurant’s distinctive mountain pies are a substantial dinner that will fill just about anyone. Beau Jo’s pizzas are legendary in Colorado for a reason!

Our Mountain pie features a hand-rolled edge of daily-made dough to satisfy an adventurous appetite that acts as a barrier to hold in a mountain of fresh toppings. The Mountain pie sizes are one, two, and five in pounds. The crust provides a built-in dessert for honey dipping. When ordering sizes, we recommend one pound per hungry individual.

The prairie pie lacks a hand-rolled edge and has fewer quality ingredients. The prairie pie is available in small, medium, large, and extra-large sizes. The pizzas match Colorado’s varied topography, from mountains to plains.

If you love pizza, this is the place to visit when you are in Idaho Springs!

10. Grab A Bite At The Vintage Moose

This down-to-earth and welcoming pub debuted in 2009 and has since been a popular place for residents and tourists to unwind and drink with friends. Everyone is welcome at Vintage Moose, renowned for its friendly and knowledgeable employees who provide delicious drinks and fast food. They were voted 2019’s Best Nightlife for a reason!

According to the Vintage Moose’s owners, “When you’re here, you’re a local.” And it’s true: the Moose really gives off the feeling that you live in Idaho Springs. If you want to go back in time and experience life in a Colorado small town, this is the place to be.

The food is kept light and essential so that you can enjoy their extensive range of booze and drinks! Local, domestic, and international beers are available, plus the Moose serves food until closing time, so it’s a great place for late-night bites.

Regardless of where you’re from, The Vintage Moose is your neighborhood dive bar in Idaho Springs.

9. Shop on Miner Street

Miner Street shopping is a must-do among the activities to do in Idaho Springs. Of course, you must take something with you when leaving one of Colorado’s most excellent mountain communities!

Idaho Springs shopping provides more than simply souvenirs and trinkets. Find lovely antiques at Annie’s Gold, trendy tie-dye clothing at A Vivid Earth, and aromatic mixes at the Spice and Tea Exchange.

Or visit Feral Mountain Co., which is also one of the favorite shops in Idaho Springs. This reasonably priced company offers new and pre-owned outdoor equipment suitable for various outdoor activities.

Don’t miss The Hospice Shop and Heartisan Boutique, housed in historic structures in lovely downtown Yreka of the street! This shop provides a superb selection of hand-made, one-of-a-kind, and gently worn quality things. You can find some serious treasures here, especially since many wealthy travelers stop off on their way to some of Colorado’s top mountain towns and donate designer pieces.

8. Drink Local Beer At Westbound & Down Brewing Co.

The Westbound & Down Brewing Company is another fantastic place to enjoy delicious cuisine and drinks!

It is referred to as a “brew-pub,” but they provide more than chicken wings and celery sticks. As it should be, its cuisine is prepared with as much attention as its beer.

Find some of your favorite foods and spend some time having fun here with your friends! Again, the Westbound is a great place to try some local brews and experience true Idaho Springs culture.

7. Eat Ice Cream At Sit N Chill

Sit N Chill Ice Cream is a family-owned business that serves the unique ice cream flavors in town! They have ice cream, fudge, sundaes, shakes, and even a store where you can buy souvenirs.

When there are a dozen kinds of ice cream, deciding which one you want can be hard because they’re all delicious. Sit N Chill also has Colorado-made drinks like the Jack Daniels, which is coffee ice cream with Jack Daniels® and chocolate chips mixed in, and the Sleepless (coffee ice cream mixed with chocolate-covered coffee beans).

The ice cream shop can also provide a variety of delectable fudge. If you want a chewy, chocolatey treat, you can choose from flavors like Red Velvet, Peanut Butter, or Mint. Stop by and see what new flavors they have this week.

At Sit N Chill, you can get a dessert and enjoy the view of historic Miner Street. This is the best dessert in Idaho Springs!

6. Hike Summit Lake Park

If you are a hiking enthusiast residing near Idaho Springs or planning a trip there, you should include this location in your list of hiking destinations. Summit Lake Park, a 40-acre park purchased by Denver in 1924, is regarded as Denver’s highest mountain park at roughly 12,800 feet.

Summit Lake is a prime example of the contiguous United States Arctic tundra. It is between the villages of Evergreen and Idaho Springs on Mount Evans.

This national natural landmark is 3,836 feet above sea level and visually displays the alpine tundra environment. Because of the extreme cold, wind, and poor soil conditions, there are no trees at this height, making it a really unique spot.

Summit Lake originates from Bear Creek, which runs through Mt. Evans Wilderness. This vast wilderness region borders the Arapaho National Forest and the Mt. Evans Special Wildlife Area.

The park is accessible through Mt. Evans Road along Mt. Evans Scenic Byway. You have the option to ascend Mount Evans via the Mt. Evans Trail. Or, if you prefer a shorter trip, two short paths are available inside Summit Lake Park, where the Summit Lake Loop also provides access to the lake beach and Chicago Lakes Overlook Trail.

In addition to hiking, Summit Lake Park will provide you with a spot to reflect and enjoy a stroll through nature in Denver’s highest mountain park. Their amenities for hikers include parking, paths, a shelter, and trail signs and markers.

5. Skate at the Frozen Fire Rink

Want something to do for the whole family that’s right downtown? If so, then this is one of the best things to do in Idaho Springs by far.

Frozen Fire Rink provides year-round entertainment for families and friends who want fun on the ice, no matter the season. Spend the day outside skating, chasing your friends in the ice bumper cars, or running around the baseball fields.

The rink is in the picturesque mountain town of Idaho Springs and offers some pretty views. Since the ice rink is synthetic, you can experience skating on ice outside all year round which is just so cool!

Glice is a fantastic alternative for actual ice and goes great with ice bumper cars.

4. Tour the Town with Jeep Tours Colorado by Native Jeeps

Native Jeeps offers expert-led, YOU-DRIVE custom Jeep tours on the beautiful mountain roads and old mining trails of Clear Creek County, Colorado.

Their 4×4 tours are less than 45 minutes west of Denver’s city center.

From May to October, tours run every day, and you can choose from different trails and tour lengths. If you’re a new 4×4 owner, you can use their tough and capable Jeeps and also choose to be shown how to drive on the trails in your vehicle. Experts can tell you how to stay safe on Colorado’s backcountry roads.

Argentine Pass, Spring Creek, Saxon Mountain, Bill Moore Lake, and Red Elephant Hill are some of their 4×4 routes.

For the Four-Wheel Drive instruction for new Jeep or 4WD owners, learn how your vehicle works safely by following the guides through the network of trails so you can concentrate on having fun and getting better.

The half-day tour lasts 3 hours, while the full-day tour takes 5–6 hours.

Check out the various Jeep tour options here.

3. Try Gold Panning at Hidee Gold Mine

This true gold mine in Central City provides a rare opportunity to tour a real, operational gold mine.

The mine sits in the center of the Virginia Canyon-Glory Hole Area, which is regarded as the “richest square mile.” Since 1859, the region’s mines have generated more than 5 billion dollars.

Patented in 1896, the Hidee Gold Mine was first accessed through a shaft atop the mountain. From its inception until the present, it has been used intermittently. Longtime local miner Charles “Choppo” Fetterhoff opened the mine in the 1980s for instructional tours for schools and mineralogists through a walk-in entrance.

He continued to work the vein until he died in 1996. The mine was transferred to his acquaintance Mr. Lewandowski, with whom he had worked. Today, the vein continues to be mined, and tours are still available.

The Hidee Gold Mine offers tours 365 days per year, seven days per week. This family-friendly attraction has been accessible to the public since 1988. Everyone on tour receives samples of gold ore.

Learn both historical and modern mining techniques. The tour includes an opportunity to slice gold ore samples from a 5-foot vertical gold vein using a single jackhammer and chisel. The piece is yours to keep!

Go panning for gold and other precious minerals, and keep everything you uncover. Gold and gem ore help teach panning. This seasonal activity is unavailable during the winter months.

Observe experienced panners to learn skills. Practice with actual mineral specimens to understand how to wash away the lighter stuff while allowing the more prominent gold particles to sink to the bottom.

If you’re looking to visit an actually operational gold mine and learn more about today’s mechanics rather than the history of the mine, this is one of the best things to do in Idaho Springs, Colorado.

2. Hike Mount Evans National Recreation Trail

Mount Evans, another of Colorado’s fifty-eight Fourteeners, may be reached by a short but somewhat scenic climb along Mount Evans Trail. 1979 saw the designation of Mount Evans Trail as a National Recreation Trail.

It has been a favorite of Denverites and Coloradans for decades, especially for hiking, nature watching, and close-up animal observation. It ascends 14,271-foot Mount Evans.

Mount Evans National Recreation Trail is near the midpoint between Idaho Springs, Clear Creek County, and Evergreen. Mount Evans’ 14,265-foot peak is reachable through a 0.17-mile, one-way ascent from the end of Mount Evans Road.

Due to the trail’s short length, low degree of difficulty, and breathtaking vistas, it is famous from June through September. The trip up the Mount Evans Byway to the trailhead is free; however, parking at the top requires payment. This route is available seasonally from late May until mid-October, if the weather permits.

The ascent will take between 15 and 20 minutes and include an elevation gain of 82 feet. You may believe this is a moderate trek, but you should never underestimate its difficulty. Keeping in mind that you are still rising above 14,000 feet might make this simple terrain a bit tougher. The summit is 4,400 meters above sea level.

Now, before you attempt your first fourteener, consider the following advice. Prepare yourself for the altitude. Consider the weather, including dramatic temperature fluctuations, wind, and storms. Bring plenty of water and keep your pets on a leash.

In unauthorized locations, you can’t do camping and open a fire. Mount Evans Road may be blocked even in July if winter-like conditions occur, so do your research in advance.

This is definitely one of the best things to do in Idaho Springs, CO for adrenaline junkies!

1. Learn Rock Climbing Through Via Ferrata

What is the most recent trend in Colorado outdoor activities? Almost certainly, you have heard of Via Ferrata by now.

When translated from Italian, “Via Ferrata” means “iron route” and is super popular among outdoor enthusiasts seeking an adrenaline rush. A Via Ferrata path is ideal for individuals who crave the excitement of rock climbing or mountaineering but lack the necessary skills or equipment.

Via Ferrata dates back to the early 20th century when troops in World War I required assistance traversing the Dolomites area of Italy. There are presently more than one thousand Via Ferrata paths throughout the European Alps, with the majority located in Austria and Italy.

A standard course consists of steel cables and ladders (or rungs) fastened to a rock face, with two ropes tied to the protected path and harnesses for climbers. It lets the climbers secure themselves as they traverse the route, preventing potential falls. Other attachments, such as stairs, bridges, and ladders, offer safe footing and handholds for climbers.

Most routes demand a minimum age of 12 to participate in this enjoyable family activity. There are several options, from the original Via Ferrata in Telluride to one of the most recent routes developed with the ropes course in Idaho Springs.

Favorite Hotels In Idaho Springs:

There aren’t a ton of hotel options in Idaho Springs. But there are some GORGEOUS Airbnbs, including many cozy and upscale cabins situated on nearby lakes. If you really want the full local experience and want a nice place to stay, we recommend checking out Airbnb first.

Otherwise, check out Bearadise Motel, Creekside Cabins, Flying Moon Cabins, Silverlake Lodge, or Indian Hot Springs.

Hopefully, this list of the best things to do in Idaho Springs, Colorado, will help you plan your trip, whether you’re just passing through or are staying in the area for multiple nights. 

Breakfast is one of our favorite meals, and there’s literally no better city for breakfast and brunch than Denver! Denver Colorado has some of the best breakfast we’ve ever had and there are tons of yummy places to try out.

Because you may be looking for different things, we’ve split this post into three sections. First you’ll find our personal favorite breakfast spots in Denver, followed by diners and then by full-service breakfast restaurants with alcohol.

To kick things off, here are the top breakfast restaurants in Denver, Colorado!

1. Breakfast In Denver: Our Top Choices

Snooze, an A.M. Eatery

700 Colorado Blvd Suite A, Denver, CO 80206 | Cafe, Vegetarian, American Cuisines | $10 – $25 | Monday to Friday 6:30 am – 2:30 pm, Saturday and Sunday 6:30 am – 4:00 pm

Snooze is one of our favorite spots for breakfast in Denver: we can’t recommend it enough!

When Jon and Adam Schlegel opened Snooze in 2006, they wanted to provide a unique dining experience for the early morning commuters. The family-friendly cafes have a variety of locations across the country, with stylish décor, comfy seating, a varied and dynamic ambiance, and exceptional cuisine for all tastes.

Breakfast burritos, sandwiches, tacos, and wraps are on the menu, as well as a few standouts, such as pineapple upside-down cake pancakes, Nana’s Hot Cocoa Pancakes, and the OMG French toast.

Some lighter and healthier options include egg white frittatas, quinoa breakfast platters, house-made granola, Greek yogurt, and a healthy fall harvest bowl.

If you’re a traditional eater, then pancakes, french toast, benedicts, oatmeal, breakfast sandwiches, bacon, and more await your arrival. If you have a food bias or are trying to follow a specific diet, Snooze will be happy to work with you. But the egg benedict meals are insanely good – you should definitely try out the benedict if you’re a savory breakfast person.

If you want every morning to feel like a combination of the weekend and happy hour, the restaurant also provides alcoholic beverages. You can choose from a wide-ranging selection of drinks such as mimosas, bloody marys, margaritas, and local craft beers. But my absolute favorite was Snooze’s take on the espresso martini: to die for!

This restaurant is one of the best breakfast spots in town, especially for their pancakes and eggs benedict. As a result, the wait time may be long, but the experience is worth the cost of admission and the time spent queuing.

Snooze actually has a few different locations in Denver. Our favorite one is located at Union Station because there’s a gorgeous outdoor seating area, but this location usually has the longest wait times, too.

You can’t make an actual reservation but you can join the waitlist the morning of your breakfast. Once your waitlist time is up, you’ll need to check-in, but you might have a short wait after checking in, too. While the system is a bit annoying, we think it’s worth it because the food and drinks are just amazing.

Snooze is by far our favorite breakfast restaurant in Denver CO that we’ve tried! It has something for everyone and is a great breakfast or brunch restaurant choice.

• Open for breakfast: Every day (all open hours)
• Serves alcohol: Yes
• Takes reservations: No, but there is a waitlist

If you’re looking for delicious brunch in Denver you should definitely check out Snooze first.

Denver Biscuit Company

3237 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80206 | Café, American Cuisines | $11 – $30 | Monday to Friday 8:00 am -2:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday 8:00 am – 3:00 pm

The Denver Biscuit Company, which started as a food truck recognized as the Biscuit Bus, has grown into one of the most popular spots for breakfast in Denver Colorado.

In addition to the Cordon Bleu, which has fried chicken, bacon, cheese, and regional Colorado honey butter, the Denver Biscuit Company offers the Sherman, loaded with lettuce and bacon, tomato, and an egg. Shrimp grits and French toast are just two examples of the biscuit-based dishes at the eatery.

There are four sites of Denver Biscuit Company in the city of Denver. We love all these Denver brunch locations – they each have a slightly different vibe.

After a nice meal at the Colfax location, you can walk or bike to the zoo, which is a great way to burn off some calories.

The Franklin is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a substantial meal. Fried buttermilk chicken with ham and cheddar cheese coated in house-made meat sauce is the dish’s star ingredient. You won’t want to eat anything else for the rest of the day after you try it!

If you’d like an enjoyable start to your day, this is one of the best brunch places in Denver by far. Homemade biscuits and gravy are available all across the country, but Denver Biscuit Company’s biscuits and gravy are unbeatable. You can order it with just about every delectable dish, including fatty slices of deep-fried chicken.

This restaurant is a great place to get a large chunk of food in the morning, so come hungry!  These are definitely split-friendly portions if you’re not a huge eater.

Similar to Snooze, you can’t make reservations here but you can join the waitlist the morning of your breakfast (which we highly recommend doing for a chance to actually get a seat). This is a popular joint!

• Open for breakfast: Every day (all open hours)
• Serves alcohol: Yes
• Takes reservations: No, but there is a waitlist

The Delectable Egg

1625 Court Pl, Denver, CO 80202 | Cafe, Vegetarian, American Cuisines | $10 – $30 | 7:00 am – 2:00 pm daily

The Delectable Egg is located in Court Place, only a short walk from the Colorado Convention Center, the Brown Palace, and the Sheraton Downtown Denver. And if you’re looking for delicious brunch in Denver Colorado, The Delectable Egg is one of the top local places for a reason!

Overflowing Mimosas and House Bloody Marys are on the menu for breakfast, lunch, and brunch, so don’t worry about showing up late! This is one of our favorite late-morning brunch spots in Denver.

With a history dating back to 1982, Denver’s The Delectable Egg is considered one of the best places for breakfast and lunch. Fresh, all-natural foods are the show’s star at this neighborhood restaurant’s breakfast. There is a bustling mix of locals, business people, and visitors at the Delectable Egg – it’s popular with just about everyone.

With a variety of traditional breakfast and brunch fare that includes everything from omelets and frittatas to eggy French toast and crepes inspired by French pastries, the menu is sure to please any appetite for the morning.

This restaurant takes pride in using area ingredients and local suppliers, such as Polidori Sausage, Aspen Baking Company, Elevation Coffee Traders, Merfs Condiments, Marcos Green Chili, and Big B’s.

The bread items, including toast alternatives, muffins, pastries, hamburger buns, and the brioche used for French toast, are locally produced and given fresh daily as it emphasizes the importance of nutrition and freshness.

Delectable Egg is a top choice if you prefer to enjoy not just fresh and healthy but also delicious meals! The food tastes “higher-end” and is definitely worth the price.

The vibes inside are super homey, like a cute little breakfast joint, yet this spot also offers kind of upscale food items and alcohol.

Like other Denver brunch spots, The Delectable Egg doesn’t take reservations but does have a waitlist that you should definitely utilize the morning of your breakfast.

• Open for breakfast: Every day (all open hours)
• Serves alcohol: Yes
• Takes reservations: No, but there is a waitlist

Lucile’s Creole Cafe

275 S Logan St, Denver, CO 80209 | Cajun & Creole, Café, American Cuisines | $8 – $18 | Monday to Friday 7:00 am – 2:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday 8:00 am – 2:00 pm

Want some classic down-home food in a cozy setting? If you’re looking for a “grandma’s kitchen” vibe then head to Lucile’s Creole Café.

The charming eatery’s breakfast dishes and incredibly delicious warm beignets draw regulars.

Some of the most popular menu items include Eggs Sardou with creamed spinach and fresh Gulf shrimp; praline waffles with nuts and fruit; and grilled Atlantic salmon prepared Cajun style and accompanied with grits or potatoes, and a butter biscuit.

While waiting for a table, you can enjoy a Bloody Mary in the lounge adjacent to the dining room. This Denver brunch spot also has fun breakfast drinks like mimosas, wine, and beer.

Creole country kitsch pervades your stay here, from the curiosities adorning the walls to the silverware, draped in brilliantly colorful fabric.

The best place to start is with powdered sugar beignets and a mini-bottle of sparkling juice or a cup of chicory coffee from Lucile’s. The house-made jam-filled biscuits are also a must-have. You can have half grits and half potatoes as a side dish with any dinner.

You could wait at Lucile’s for an hour or two on weekends (and they don’t take reservations or offer a waitlist), but they’re open on weekdays, too, where there’s seldom a problem getting a table. If you’re hoping to impress your coworkers in the city who enjoy a heavy breakfast of beignets, grease, and gravy in a super-homey setting, this is the way to go.

• Open for breakfast: Every day (all open hours)
• Serves alcohol: Yes
• Takes reservations: No; first-come-first-serve

If you’re looking for super homey vibes then this is one of the top spots for breakfast in Denver Colorado by far!

Onefold

1420 E 18th Ave, Denver, CO 80218 | Café, Vegetarian Cuisines | $7 – $27 | Monday to Friday 7:00 am – 3:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday 8:00 am – 3:00 pm

Looking for a higher-end brunch spot in Denver that also offers really healthy food? Then you should definitely check out Onefold.

Onefold, a charming farmhouse-style diner in Uptown Denver with another location at Union Station, serves breakfast and lunch influenced by cultures around the world, freshly baked pastries, cakes, and delights, as well as house-roasted coffee.

Featuring a warm and welcoming atmosphere, Onefold is open for breakfast every day, serving a wide variety of classic dishes, such as pancakes with cyclical fruit, Noosa yogurt, and genuine maple syrup.

Breakfast burritos, eggs, hash browns fried in rich duck fat, and breakfast congee of porridge prepared in chicken stock and aided with poached eggs and green onions are some of the breakfast options you can choose.

Among the many options for refreshment are freshly squeezed orange and coconut juices, regular coffee, tea, and Vietnamese coffee. You can also order all of the classic alcoholic breakfast drinks.

This restaurant is a must-see and a great area to escape the city’s hustle and bustle of the morning. You’ll have a blast sampling the restaurant’s delectable dishes and sipping mimosas on the terrace. The place is an excellent hangout any day of the week!

• Open for breakfast: Every day (all open hours)
• Serves alcohol: Yes
• Takes reservations: No

Jelly Café

600 E 13th Ave, Denver, CO 80203 | Vegetarian, Café, American Cuisines | $5 – $20 | Sundays to Thursdays 7:00 am – 2:00 pm, Friday and Saturday 7:00 am – 3:00 pm

You can jump your day with a cup of coffee at the Jelly Café, a coffee house and breakfast restaurant in Denver. In addition to traditional breakfast fares like pancakes and eggs, the casual café serves up a variety of hashes and Bloody Marys, all presented in a bright and eccentric setting.

Other options for breakfast include buttermilk cakes, French bread, cereal French toast, bananas, Foster French toast, eggs Benedict and scrambles, and thick and creamy biscuits and gravy, amongst other things. All-day breakfast and lunch are available at the Jelly Café’s two locations in Denver: East Evans Avenue and Capitol Hill.

Don’t be fooled by the name. Jelly is all about breakfast. Everything it produces is from scratch, with no cans or pre-made products.

Donut bites, Hash, and Breakfast sandwiches are all prepared to order, as are the restaurant’s creamy hollandaise and donuts.

Special Pancakes, Benedicts, Hash, and Sandwiches are available daily at the restaurant.

It took the chefs almost a year to develop the Bloody Mary recipe, which now has the proper balance of spice and vodka. Get a blumosa (blue moon and OJ) mimosa or a Bellini from the restaurant to get your day back on track.

Regarding the cuisine, service, and aesthetics, Jelly doesn’t skimp on anything. Plus, on weekdays, you can enjoy a $3 Bloody Mary.

• Open for breakfast: Every day (all open hours)
• Serves alcohol: Yes
• Takes reservations: No, but there is a waitlist

2. Diners In Denver Colorado:

Sam’s No. 3

1500 Curtis Street, Denver, CO 80202 | Diner, American, Southwestern Cuisines | $4 – $28 | Monday to Wednesday 5:30 am – 10:00 pm, Thursday 5:30 am – 11:00 pm, Friday 5:30 am – 11:59 pm, Saturday 7:00 am – 11:59 pm, Sunday 7:00 am – 10:00 pm

Founded in the early 1920s, Sam’s No. 3 is a classic diner with a retro look and feel, leatherette booths, and family-friendly meals.

The restaurant serves customers more than 100 delectable options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, all in the style of an American diner, making it a popular breakfast place in town.

Breakfast tacos, country-fried bacon, eggs, Denver scrambled eggs, cutlets, and eggs are some of the weekday early-bird dishes available. It’s possible to order a wide variety of coffee drinks in addition to the more traditional mimosa and bloody mary options.

Known for its green chile-smothered Mexican breakfast, lunch, and supper dishes, Sam’s No. 3 has been a local favorite since it opened in 1927. Cheeseburgers, of course, are also available.

All you need to know about Sam’s No. 3 is that Denverites have been awarding it awards for years for a good cause. It even got a visit from Guy Fieri!

If you’re looking for a burrito with chorizo, macaroni & cheese, and green chili, you’ll have to head to this restaurant.

Even though Sam’s may appear ordinary, don’t be fooled. Cocktails and espresso beverages are also on the menu at this establishment. Bottom line: a beloved Denver institution, Sam’s No.3 is an authentic taste of small-town America.

Sam’s No 3 is a great spot for casual breakfast in Denver that will not disappoint, whatever meal you choose!

• Open for breakfast: Every day (all open hours)
• Serves alcohol: Yes
• Takes reservations: No; first-come-first-serve

Pete’s Kitchen

1962 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80206 | Diner, American, Greek Cuisines | $4 – $19 | 7:00 am – 9:00 pm daily

Pete’s Kitchen’s pancake-flipping neon chef remains a symbol on East Colfax despite the pandemic’s destruction of many of Denver’s historic restaurants.

Pete Contos, the patriarch of the Contos family, passed away in 2019, but his legacy lives on in the gyros omelet, the burrito drenched in green chile, or a burger and fries that satisfy like no other.

Greek food, big pancake, and fiery huevos rancheros are all on the menu at this greasy spoon café. The restaurant is just a short trip from the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, and it is often full on Sunday mornings.

You can always count on Pete’s Kitchen to serve simple, hearty fare. As a long-time fixture in the neighborhood, this Greek-owned and operated diner serves up a wide variety of Greek favorites.

Breakfast burritos (which include eggs, bacon, and cheese), wraps and gyros (which include meats like beef or lamb), burgers, and chicken-fried sirloin and fries, as well as a variety of sides, including tortilla chips and hash browns, are some of the popular meals of the establishment.

To go along with their creamy breakfast potatoes and juicy hamburgers, Pete’s also offers a variety of hot beverages, including tea and coffee, as well as fresh juices and sodas.

Pete’s had been serving long before the neighborhood turned. Do not let its location detour you. It has its parking area and hands down fantastic service. The food served is authentic and for a great price; expect both quality and quantity in each meal.

Keep in mind: Pete’s doesn’t serve alcohol and is more of a traditional fast-diner.

• Open for breakfast: Every day (all open hours)
• Serves alcohol: No
• Takes reservations: No; first-come-first-serve

Moonlight Diner

6250 Tower Rd, Denver, CO 80249 | Diner, Bar, American Cuisines | $7 – $30 | 7:00 am – 9:00 pm daily

Authentic 1950s diner in the heart of Denver’s airport district! The Doo-Wop era and the reign of the milkshake await you on this nostalgic journey back in time. You’ll feel as if you’ve walked back in time at Moonlight Diner, comprising of vintage diner memorabilia.

The distinctive shining chrome boxcar is something you cannot miss on Tower Road!

Everything you could ever want in a diner is available at this establishment. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast of pancakes or a classic diner meal like liver and onions, it got something for everyone.

Breakfast burritos, pancakes with sausage, and biscuits with bacon and gravy are just some of the items in the quaint cafe that send visitors back in time.

Sweet delicacies include banana bread, French toast, blueberry pancakes, and syrupy waffles; the menu also offers banana walnut French toast and three-egg scrambled eggs and skillets for the greedy.

Roasted and brewed coffee, a range of tea mixes, refreshing citrus drinks, and sodas complement the delectable cuisine.

You can sample their fried chicken, chili, and chicken steaks at this bar. The best-loaded pancakes, French toasts, and hot fudge sundaes are delicious.

Delicious wine, wheat beer, and homemade liqueurs are all well-known in this part of town. Others enjoy Moonlight Diner’s milkshakes, Americanos, and chocolate malts.

• Open for breakfast: Every day (all open hours)
• Serves alcohol: Yes
• Takes reservations: No; first-come-first-serve

If you’re looking for super classic vibes then this is one of the top spots for breakfast in Denver Colorado by far!

3. Full-Service Breakfast Restaurants With Alcohol

Ellyngton’s

321 17th St, Denver, CO 80202 | Bar, Vegetarian, American Cuisines | $25 – $40 | Monday to Saturday 7:00 am – 11:00, Sunday 7:00 m – 9:00 am and 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

There is no better eatery to have a business lunch or a legendary Dom Perignon Sunday Brunch than Ellyngton’s, which is nestled in a charming nook of the Brown Palace Hotel and Spa and serves delicious food in an exquisite setting.

Omelet and waffle stations with freshly cooked, delectable pastries, cakes, and other sweet delicacies are available at the eatery. Carvery sections brimming with prime cut meats and veggies and fresh seafood tables with sushi and salads at Ellyngton’s breakfast buffet, which is every bit as lavish as the surroundings.

Wine, champagne, and house-roasted coffee are all available to accompany the award-winning cuisine.

Serving inventive cuisine with attentive and caring service, Ellyngton’s is known as the birthplace of the powerhouse breakfast and lunch.

It’s an excellent spot for people-watching, thanks to the room’s large windows. Lavish buffet tables feature the best of Ellyngton’s chefs, including artistic and delectable products from the hotel’s pastry.

Reservations in advance are highly recommended here.

This Sunday brunch date restaurant at the Brown Palace, Ellyngton’s, is just what you’re looking for to impress your special someone. It’s one of Denver’s themed hotels, and its brunch menu features a variety of exquisite meals, such as waffles, pastries, omelets, salads, sushi, and grilled meats, among others.

The restaurant’s menu offerings are extensive and reasonably priced. With friendly and helpful service, Ellyngton’s is a terrific breakfast place.

• Open for breakfast: Every day (all open hours)
• Serves alcohol: Yes
• Takes reservations: Yes

If you’re looking for a really upscale experience then this is one of the top spots for brunch in Denver Colorado by far!

Root Down

1600 W 33rd Ave, Denver, CO 80211 | Vegetarian, American Cuisines | $15 – $25 | Monday to Thursday 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm, Friday 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm, Saturday 10:00 am – 2:30 pm, and 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm, Sunday 10:00 am – 2:30 pm and 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Root Down brings people together in the area by serving great food and creating an inviting ambiance.

Converted into a restaurant, Root Down features a bright and funky design, comfy seating, and artwork on the walls. The menu features a diverse selection of seasonal dishes emphasizing organic, natural, and sustainably produced products worldwide.

Choose from dishes such as eggs Benedict, fried chicken with goats cheese biscuits, open-faced beef sandwiches, mushroom and herb omelet, and Vietnamese almond pancakes.

An internationally influenced seasonal menu emphasizing farm-to-fork ingredients is available at the Root Down restaurant, which has won copious awards and received critical praise around the country.

Raw foods, sandwiches, soups, salads, and desserts are on this all-day restaurant’s menu. There’s an emphasis on freshness, flavor, and creative presentation at the restaurant.

Drinks at Root Down include a wide variety of beverages, including an enormous wine list and a selection of craft beers, sakes, spirits, and bottomless mimosas.

Root Down is a quirky casual restaurant that serves globally inspired fresh cuisine with high-quality service. Sustainable seafood and meat are on the menu, sourced from local farmers.

Recycled and repurposed elements are incorporated into the midcentury modern design to create a hip and progressive feel.

To enjoy some of the most delicate breakfast meals in the restaurant, we recommend the Vietnamese Almond Pancake. Breakfast Burrito, Open-Faced Smoked Brisket Sandwich, and the Zucchini Bread French Toast.

There is no other restaurant like Root Down, which offers a story-rich dining experience.

• Open for breakfast: Until 3pm
• Serves alcohol: Yes
• Takes reservations: Yes

Prosper Eats

2550 15th St, Denver, CO 80211 | Quick Bites, Vegetarian, American Cuisines | $6 – $10 | Monday to Friday 6:00 am – 4:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday 7:00 am – 4:00 pm

Breakfast options at Prosper Eats restaurant include personalized oatmeal, oatmeal/quinoa blends, yogurt, and acai bowls; build-your-own breakfast bowls; and locally roasted coffee or tea to enjoy while you wait or take it to go.

Some hot morning cereals are steel-cut oats topped with various dried fruits and nuts. These are available in the restaurant with agave nectar and raw sugars such as coconut. Greek yogurt makes primary yogurt bowls, and savory alternatives include sesame soy and chokecherry vinaigrette.

To create tasty and healthful bowls, you can mix any choice of ingredients. The selection includes rnuts, dried figs, granola, cheddar, fresh fruits, nuts, and vegetables. Add avocado, bacon, and Egg to complete your bowl.

Fast, filling, and delicious oats are available in plenty at Prosper. It’s a grab-and-go place, but there are some tables if you like to sit down.

You can sample Argentine and Brazilian food at Prosper Eats, which is not far from South Platte. It doesn’t get much better than enjoying delicious tapas, bacon, and breakfast sandwiches in the middle of the morning. Yogurt and bagels are on the menu at Prosper Eats, as are delicious acai bowls.

This location’s excellent accessibility is a result of its prime positioning. You can’t go wrong with this establishment’s delicious food and friendly service.

This establishment’s owners are passionate about providing guests with an exceptional dining experience. At this tavern, you’ll be surprised by the reasonable costs. The ambiance here is intimate, as guests discover.

There is something for everybody in this top yet cost-friendly eatery. Its vast food menu does not forget vegan and healthy options.

• Open for breakfast: Every day (all open hours)
• Serves alcohol: No
• Takes reservations: No (grab and go)

If you’re looking for fast and healthy food then this is one of the top spots for breakfast in Denver Colorado by far!

Four Friends Kitchen

2893 Roslyn St, Denver, CO 80238 | Vegetarian, American Cuisines | $10 – $25 | 6:30 am – 2:30 pm daily

As the name suggests, Four Friends Kitchen is as welcoming as it is inviting. This Central Park eatery was opened in 2015 by friends who wanted a friendly setting for family brunch.

It’s all about brunch here, focusing on Southern-inspired contemporary comfort food. Everything at Four Friends, from the beignets to the fried green tomatoes, is fantastic.

The Four Friends Kitchen in Stapleton is a popular gathering place for those seeking a taste of the South. It is ideal, particularly for those looking for a unique take on the classic grits meal.

The eatery has a vibrant and innovative dining area and a delightful rooftop veranda for spring and summertime dining.

It serves a menu of home-cooked favorites. It includes breakfast staples like smoked prime rib hash and eggs, biscuits and sauce, and scraped buttermilk crepes.

Fruits and cream French toast are also on the menu. Available as well is the Southwestern breakfast burrito with poached eggs and red chile ranchero sauce.

It’s not within walking distance of the art museum, Union Station, or other sites you’ll visit, except for a nearby field, but this brunch spot is definitely worth the drive.

There is a lot to adore about the Southern-inspired menu. The loose chicken-and-waffle sandwich and the Down South Trio with green-chile mac & cheese, chicken tenders, and collard greens are must-haves. But seriously: everything here is good! While the atmosphere is cute, most people make the trek based on the food alone.

• Open for breakfast: Every day (all open hours)
• Serves alcohol: Yes
• Takes reservations: No, but there is a waitlist

Syrup Downtown

999 18th St Ste 105, Denver, CO 80202 | Vegetarian, American Cuisines | $6 – $18 | Monday to Friday 7:00 am – 1:45 pm, Saturday and Sunday 7:30 am – 1:45 pm

Milwaukee native and lifelong barman Tim Doherty founded the first Syrup shop in Cherry Creek in 2010. The breakfast, brunch, and lunch franchise has expanded nationwide, but it’s definitely one of the top spots for brunch in Denver and is loved by locals.

Syrup includes a wide variety of sweet and syrupy delicacies. The listing consists of crepes, waffles, and French bread with a wide range of toppings, as the name suggests.

Breakfast classics are famous in the eatery, including eggs and bacon, breakfast burritos, breakfast pie, and yogurt parfaits with homemade granola and fresh fruit. Benedicts, scrambled eggs, and egg sandwiches are also among the favorite dishes in the restaurant.

Syrup restaurant has a broad selection of beverages. You can get everything from tea and coffee to specialty cocktails and barista-made drinks.

Nothing cures a weekday stomach better than a massive plate of pancakes from Syrup. Make a date for “brainstorming” and whip up a batch of pancakes and syrups.

Traditional brunch, breakfast, and lunch fare are available at downtown Denver’s Syrup restaurant.   Syrup’s distinctive beverages include mimosas and barista-inspired coffee concoctions. You can pair your meal with a variety of syrups and creams from this establishment.

For a large serving of biscuits and gravy, “crack” bacon and eggs, and use the entire kitchen sink. Choose from various burgers, sandwiches, soups, and salads for your mid-day meal.

If you want an exclusive place to try breakfast, Syrup is an excellent choice. Although it’s tucked away in an office building, the space is warm and inviting. Exceptional customer service, delicious cuisine, and reasonable costs make it one of Denver, Colorado’s best breakfast restaurants.

• Open for breakfast: Every day (all open hours)
• Serves alcohol: Yes
• Takes reservations: No, but there is a waitlist

There are plenty of breakfast restaurants in Mile High City that specialize in particular cuisines. You can enjoy whatever you crave with diverse restaurants scattered throughout the area.

Plan your itinerary to see everything Denver offers, and don’t miss our selection of the best Denver breakfast and brunch spots!

Looking for some of the best restaurants in Marathon Florida? From cafes to full-service dinner and the freshest seafood around, you’ll find an awesome place to eat on this list.

Marathon is a beachfront community in the 1700-island Florida Keys. This city is a tropical paradise and has some of the world’s most beautiful marine treasures.

This tiny city in the middle of the Florida Keys has just over 8000 residents, so there are lots of small local gems to check out. And there are certainly plenty of outdoor activities to make you hungry! Luckily, Marathon also has tons of restaurants.

With this guide, you can fulfill your cravings for amazing steakhouses, cafes, incredibly fresh seafood, and even barbecue in Marathon. Find restaurants with budget-friendly, kid-friendly, elegant, and dietary-restrictions-friendly menus. Marathon really does have a little bit of everything.

Without further ado,  enjoy these 15 best restaurants in Marathon!

15. Florida Keys Steak and Lobster House

3660 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL | Local Cuisine, Steakhouse, Sushi, Seafood, Healthy, Vegetarian Friendly | $12 – $44

In the Marathon Community Park, you’ll find the well-known Florida Keys Steak and Lobster House, which opened in 1980. It’s a must-visit place in Marathon!

Ribeye steaks, coconut shrimp, and pork ribs are among this restaurant’s delectable dishes. A culinary high point is having a slice of perfectly baked key lime pie, a crème brûlée, or a caramel cheesecake. You definitely need to eat dessert here!

You can get some decent coffee martinis or a nice draft beer. The most popular non-alcoholic drinks at Florida Keys Steak and Lobster House include delicious espresso, lime juice, and ice tea.

For those of you with kids, this eatery has kid-friendly cuisine that’s pretty popular. You can get good food at a reasonable price at this restaurant. It’s easy to unwind in this Marathon restaurant because of the beautiful decor and serene ambiance. Seriously: it doesn’t get prettier than this restaurant.

This go-to restaurant features takeout, reservations, and private dining.

We recommend this steakhouse to savor tender steaks, luscious lobster, and other delicacies in a comfortable setting. The sophisticated but casual restaurant combines stained glass-style windows and contemporary art with hardwood flooring and ceilings with white-tablecloth service.

On the menu, vegans will also find something to satisfy their taste buds; there’s something here for everyone! Some of our personal favorite dishes are fried calamari, steakhouse salad, cowboy steak, broiled lobster tail, etc.

It was a pleasure to eat here! The steak and sushi were excellent, as were the cocktails. We had Bob as a server – he was super friendly and helpful when we had questions. We highly recommend this restaurant in Marathon, Florida if you’re in the area!

14. Food for Thought

5800 Overseas Hwy Ste 23, Marathon | Café, Healthy, Vegetarian Friendly | $5 – $14

Food for Thought is an organic store and restaurant that first opened its doors in 1982 at the shopping center known as Gulfside Village.

Food for Thought in the Florida Keys brings you the most excellent natural lifestyle goods and totally fits the earthy-crunchy vibe you can sometimes find in the Keys. You’ll have options for breakfast and lunch, including a large variety of vegetarian and gluten-free cuisine in the café.

Grab a coffee or a smoothie, or stay for a sandwich or sweet baked goods. Fresh produce, herbal products, supplements, vitamins, and ecologically friendly household and cooking supplies are always available in the retail location.

If you’re looking for the top vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Marathon Florida, go no farther than Food for Thought. This fabulous restaurant features a welcoming staff, delicious food made with organic ingredients, and cozy ambiance.

For vegans, the Everything Bagel is the ideal morning choice. Assorted vegetables and fruits are piled high on a sprouted grain bagel, hemp seeds, and onions. When it comes to lunch, we recommend the Pad Thai Salad.

The cafe serves breakfast and lunch daily. There are also several vegan and gluten-free alternatives available at the restaurant.

Thanks to its helpful staff and cheerful atmosphere, it’s a must-visit if you’re in the Marathon Florida. This place is a great option to stop by for a nutritious snack!

13. Butterfly Cafe

2600 Overseas Highway Marathon | American, Seafood, Vegetarian Friendly | $30 – $35

Looking for a restaurant that provides a high-quality dining experience with beautifully presented food? In that case, you’ll want to head over to the Butterfly Cafe.

The Butterfly Cafe is a gourmet dining establishment – not a cafe – located at the four-star Tranquility Bay Beachfront Hotel & Resort. In addition to its friendly ambiance and well-decorated interior, the restaurant’s patio provides an ideal setting for al fresco eating. It’s one of the best restaurants in Marathon Florida for outdoor eating!

The award-winning café serves tropical food. Quality, local products, and ocean-fresh fish are part of Butterfly Café’s mission to capture the spirit of island cuisine in this spacious Marathon restaurant.

Dine under the umbrella on the patio or inside the beautiful dining room, which offers a high ceiling and a calm yet polished ambiance. The inside is just as beautiful as the patio and has a definitive Key West vibe.

Offerings like Panko Encrusted Florida Grouper and the famed TDF ‘To Die For’ Sticky Toffee Pudding are on Butterfly Café’s menu.

The Cuban Pork Chop is an excellent option for a hearty, savory dinner. The marinated double-boned pork chop accompanies black beans, seasonal veggies, smooth plantain crema, and saffron rice.

Unless you only eat white meat, go for the Seared Sea Scallops, a brandy-brandied cream sauce made with roasted red peppers and parmesan risotto.

If you wish to sample this high-class restaurant in Marathon, make sure to make a reservation. This is one of the best upscale restaurants in Marathon Florida and it fills up quickly!

12. Hideaway Café

57784 Overseas Hwy, Marathon | American, Seafood, Vegetarian Friendly | $31 – $60

Grassy Key, a small island off the coast of Florida that’s part of Marathon, is vacationer’s dream come true. Over a decade since the Hideaway Cafe opened its doors at Rainbow Bend Resort, it’s still one of the few places where tourists and residents can feel like they’re getting away, so it’s definitely a hotspot.

This delightful jewel of a restaurant is a special treat and a one-of-a-kind dining experience, whether you’re there for breakfast in the morning or a packed Continental supper. We highly recommend that you make the effort to fit this experience in!

For couples looking for a romantic setting, this is one of the best restaurants in Marathon Florida (and in all of the Florida Keys!). Indulge in a wide selection of delectable fare and superb wines while receiving attentive, customized service.

Lobster & seafood, crepes, duck, shrimp, and fresh local seafood are popular on the menu. Daily specials include soups, appetizers, shrimp, aged meat, and pasta.

Escargot a la Edison is also available, which looks and tastes delicious. We recommend this dish alongside the cognac-flamed escargots in a garlic-and-pepper cream sauce with julienned red, green, and white vegetables.

Besides these fantastic meals by the chef, the seating is also in a league of its own! Sit in a charming, mirrored, glass-enclosed, air-conditioned dining room or on a jalousie-window-covered balcony overlooking the pool, beach, and ocean. The ambiance is incredible.

The restaurant’s dark oak wine racks adorn patina-colored walls with Caribbean-style floor-to-ceiling shutters. Candles illuminate linen-covered tables for a romantic setting. If you are with your special someone, don’t forget to visit this Marathon restaurant!

11. Fish Tales Market & Eatery

11711 Overseas Hwy, Marathon | American, Seafood, Vegetarian Friendly | $4 – $16

Fish Tales Market & Eatery is one of the most casual food places in Marathon. It is a seafood restaurant situated in “the heart” of the Florida Keys.

This Marathon restaurant offers fresh fish, prawns, stone crab, lobster, local seafood, hand-cut matured choices, and prime steaks. Also available for purchase are homemade bratwurst, Italian sausage, cheeses, salsa, and spreads.

This eatery delivers “fresh from the market to your tables” fish, burgers, steaks, and daily specials cooked with fresh ingredients. If you want ultra-fresh seafood there is no better spot!

Dating back to its first operation in the 1960s, this is a great casual destination to enjoy economical, delicious fish. It’s an old classic in Marathon. The interior has a bright design, a large dinner and lunch menu, and a relaxed ambiance that just feels like the Keys.

Other great options are the award-winning conch salad, cakes, chowder, lobster bisque, George’s smoked fish spread, key lime pie, or Chef Johnny’s Rambler Sandwich, awarded the most delicate fish sandwich in Marathon.

This is one of the must-see restaurants in Marathon Florida if you enjoy fresh seafood!

10. Barracuda Grill

4290 Overseas Hwy, Mile Marker 49, 5, Marathon | Steakhouse Seafood, Vegetarian Friendly | $15 – $52

Located directly between shopping centers and tourist attractions, the Barracuda Grill first opened its doors in 1992. It’s one of Marathon’s cutest, most Keys-themed restaurants.

Every night, the restaurant owner serves dinner and talks with the guests. Servers sometimes step in and take over the discussion too – the staff is like a big family. The owners serve their guests and give them the personal touch by cooking, helping to serve, and chatting as the night gets late.

While this seems like a small shack from the outside, the Barracuda Grill really gives the local flavor of Marathon. This place is an absolute must-go while in Marathon.

9. La Niña Restaurant

1571 Overseas Hwy, Marathon | Caribbean, Latin, Café, Spanish, Cuban | $11 – $30

La Niña Restaurant opened its doors in August 2019 and quickly became a sought-after destination for those craving authentic Cuban cuisine.

This restaurant is an excellent choice if you’re sick of the same old restaurants in your neighborhood and want something new in Marathon. This restaurant has a lot to love: authentic Cuban food, a great all-day menu, and luscious desserts.

Cuban sandwiches, mango chicken, and onion flans draw a large crowd to this restaurant. Its signature dishes are key lime pie, roasted mango, and bread pudding which you can partner with a nice bottle of wine, a nice lager, or a quality wheat beer.

We eat at La Niña for a Cuban sandwich almost every day when we’re in Marathon. They are the best in the world at what they do. The huevos rancheros and the Pescado Frito are both excellent choices for breakfast, and we highly recommend that you try them both. No matter what you purchase, you will not be disappointed.

Additionally, you can also try The Special Girl, a house specialty. Tomatoes, croquettes, mayo, bacon, lettuce, and cheese are all included in this dish. For dessert, try the Flan with Coconut. It’s a coconut-topped custard made with milk and eggs.

A trip to Marathon isn’t complete without a stop at La Niña. The small size and potential that there may be no sitting available make it necessary to take it to go, but it is definitely worth the trouble and is one of our favorite undercover restaurants in Marathon Florida!

8. Stout’s Restaurant

8349 Overseas Hwy, Marathon | American, Diner, Vegetarian Friendly | $4 – $10

Established in 1964, Stout’s Restaurant is a well-known eatery serving hearty American fare.

Getting breakfast at this diner-style eatery in Marathon is an excellent to start your day. An inviting atmosphere, a well-appointed environment, warm and cold sandwiches with ample servings, and reasonable rates are just a few of the restaurant’s highlights.

The fluffy homemade pancakes are a great way to fuel up in the morning. Available toppings include chocolate chips, blueberries, bananas, and strawberries. The yummy Knuckle Sandwich with roasted beef, cheddar, caramelized onions, and horseradish sauce is a must if you like a sandwich for lunch.

With the immense amount of food listed on the menu, you won’t run out of breakfast and lunch choices.

Beef and poultry dinners are other common choices for lunch. You can buy a sandwich or a platter with various side dishes from Stouts. Fisherman’s lunch, Cold Sandwiches, and Blue (Cold) Plates are some of the best alternatives. With various delectable beverages, you can enjoy all of these!

Overall, Stout’s Restaurant is the perfect restaurant in Marathon for people who love American-Style dishes and heaty food. 

7. Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar

1406 Ocean View Ave, Marathon | Japanese, American, Bar, Seafood, Sushi | $7 – $44

Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & sushi bar is a contemporary fusion restaurant in Marathon Florida. It’s the ideal place for a night out with a full bar, 52 beers on tap, and a retro vibe.

Marathon is known for its abundant fresh seafood, so seeing a sushi restaurant isn’t a huge surprise. And this is one of the best!

The best site to go if you’re looking for a fantastic lunch and a few drinks is Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar by far. Thanks to its spaciousness and comfort, it is a terrific spot to unwind after a busy day in the sun.

All meals are served in the eating room or on the dock. Stop by if you’re hungry, thirsty, or want to chat about fishing with a Captain – you’ll find lots of fishermen here.

If you don’t eat meat, we recommend the Professor’s Pasta. This linguini pasta recipe with cream reduction features white wine, mushrooms, broccoli, shallots, and artichoke hearts.

Order the Spicy Mae Roll for a taste of something different in the world of sushi. Some ingredients are Habanero peppers, tuna sesame seeds, salmon dill pickles, spicy mayo, hamachi, and kimchi sauce.

Seating is available both indoor and outdoor on the water. Besides the super yummy food, you can also encounter different marine animals during dinner. You might even see a bunch of manatees in the open!

6. Burdines Waterfront

1200 Ocean View Ave, Marathon | American, Bar, Seafood | $5 – $18

The official name of the Burdines Waterfront is the Burdines Waterfront Chiki Tiki. Its on-site marina makes it one of the best restaurants in Marathon on the water.

Burdines Waterfront restaurant is one of the best places to host an event. You can celebrate your special day by boating and fishing on the ocean, having a few drinks, and savoring some delectable seafood.

But it’s also great to stop in for seafood and hearty sandwiches! Get your taste buds tingling with an Italian Stallion Burger. Provolone and marinara are the ingredients that make up this Italian-inspired burger, served on an Angus patty.

ChikiTiki Chicken is a unique take on a chicken dish that you must also try. Jerk marinade with allspice, onion nutmeg, cinnamon, and garlic makes up this one-of-a-kind delicacy.

Besides the food in Burdines, there are various activities in the marina you can try out, including fishing and watersports. The marina has friendly facilities for laundry, showers, and urinals. Pets are also welcome in the facility. Plus, you might even get to see manatees – they often hang out around the dock!

5. Frank’s Grill

11400 Overseas Hwy, Marathon | Italian, Vegetarian | $11 – $30

Just a few blocks from the Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters, Frank’s Grill is a great place to eat at the Town Square Mall. Since its opening in 2006, Frank’s Grill has been serving up Italian cuisine that’s super popular.

Frank’s is best known for its pasta, although it isn’t the only food available. We recommend the fried calamari for starters, but don’t miss out on the shrimp fra Diavolo. There is also the choice to bring your catch to be cooked if you were out fishing that day. As lovers of Italian fish meals, we always take advantage of this!

Start your meal with a palate of the ocean with the Tuna Sashimi. It includes ginger and wasabi in the mix. If you only eat white meat, get the Francaise. The freshest fish caught that day is cooked in butter, lemon juice, and white wine, so there’s always a new type of fish to try.

Lunch listings include appetizers, soups & salads, pasta, sandwiches, side orders, desserts, and drinks, while dinner has many of the same courses with fish and meat.

We ate snapper Diane, grouper Francese, and pasta for our main meals. The snapper Diane and the grouper Francese were delicious! For dessert, we had the most delightful tiramisu.

This spot is excellent, but it’s also incredibly crowded. If at all possible, secure a seat in advance. At 5:30 pm, it’s often fully booked.

This is one of the top restaurants in Marathon Florida if you’re craving Italian cuisine!

4. S.S. Wreck and Galley Grill

58835 Overseas Hwy, Marathon | American, Bar, Seafood | $7 – $34

The Dolphin Research Center and the Grassy Key RV Park & Resort are just a short drive away from this historic bar and grill. If you’ve just seen an incredible dolphin show, this is the perfect location to get a bite to eat afterward.

S.S. Wreck and Galley Grill is the “local’s favorite” in Grassy Key, Florida. Steve and Stephanie founded it in 1999, sold it to a third party in 2005, then repurchased it in October 2015.

The S.S. Wreck reopened on February 10, 2016, with the original owners, chef, and some waitstaff, reinvigorating an old-fashioned tradition. It’s one of the coolest restaurants in Marathon Florida because it has so much local history.

Enjoy a casual get-together with friends in an engaging atmosphere. Discover simple food, including locally sourced seafood, all made with the freshest ingredients.

S.S. Wreck is one of the only restaurants in Marathon to combine sports and good food. Relish the competitive live sporting events on the restaurant’s 20 large screen T.V.s on Sundays.

It’s always good to start with a few drinks to enjoy while scanning the menu. The delicious and tropical flavors can make you feel like you’re on vacation even though you are not – we love the fresh cocktails! On a Friday night, we recommend ordering some prime rib.

The menu has a lot to offer. You can choose starter bites, salads, soups, oysters, sandwiches, entrees, and award-winning desserts.

Even if you don’t have time to eat at the S.S. Wreck and Galley Grill, we recommend stopping by for a drink.

3. Lighthouse Grill

1994 Overseas Hwy, Marathon | American, Bar, Seafood, Vegetarian Friendly | $20 – $40

The beachfront restaurant & bar at Marathon is a must-stop on any to the Keys. 

Faro Blanco lighthouse serves as a backdrop for a casual, bayside dining experience where you can savor various fresh seafood specialties and local favorites. This bar is the perfect location to relax after an exhausting day of sunbathing and soaking up the views. It’s an insanely beautiful spot!

Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club’s lighthouse stands on Marathon’s waterfront. Its full-service marina, 125 rooms, and restaurant make it the best Florida Keys resort by far. This resort has everything from weddings with a harbor view to fishing tours and Jeep rentals.

The Lighthouse Grill offers a variety of really fun seafood creations that change often.  Stop by for some appetizers, a drink, or one of the chef-created daily dinner specials. Everything from tasty dinners and inventive cocktails to breathtaking sunsets is on the menu.

Everything about the meal, from the wines to the starters to the main course to the dessert, was outstanding when we visited. There was a fantastic band playing outside the restaurant as we sat inside.

The price is reasonable for what you can get, and the ambiance is extremely upscale, especially compared to some of the more casual Marathon restaurants. Lighthouse Grill is a great spot to eat in Marathon!

2. Herbie’s Bar & Chowder House

6350 Overseas Hwy, Marathon | American, Caribbean, Barbeque, Bar, Seafood | $7 – $40

Herbies is the Keys’ first and longest-running restaurant. It opened for business in the late 1940s as Maggie’s Chowder House and has become a neighborhood institution and favorite.

Even though this Marathon restaurant has been around for a long time, the only thing traditional about the menu is that they grind their owned grass-fed beef, conch, sausage, and hot dogs. Everything else is super personalized!

No other bar offers a better range of brews than Herbie’s. You won’t find a nationally labeled beer here, but you can sample some of the country’s best craft beer and wine.

Don’t be fooled by the shack-like appearance on a Florida highway. Stop in and enjoy the most excellent cuisine in the middle of the Keys!

This Marathon restaurant’s success comes from its authentic, home-cooked fare. There is nothing like it in the Keys today regarding service, quality, quantity, and atmosphere. It’s definitely one of the best local places around.

Try the classic Conch Chowder and Asian Oyster Plate and Conch Fritters, Ahi Tuna Sliders, Shrimp Scallops, and more. There’s also an extensive bar if you want to chill after an exhausting day of sunbathing and sand.

Tender, fresh, and cooked to perfection, everything the restaurant place on its plate is delicious. Herbie’s is a place you’ll want to return to again and again. It is one of our favorite spots in Marathon, and we’re confident it will be yours, too!

1. Marathon Grill and Ale House

5800 Overseas Hwy #12, Marathon | Italian, American, Bar, Pub | $15 – $30

Marathon Florida’s Ale House is pleased to welcome you. There are 30 beers on tap and another 40 in bottles and cans, making this a true full bar. Weekly specials on an eclectic food menu and daily happy hour are available and are always delicious.

You can also enjoy plenty of home entertainment, such as Trivia and Music and special events like Sip and Paint Nights. During football season, you can spend your day on the grill watching your favorite team on one of its 11 big-screen T.V.s.

At this bar, you can savor Italian cuisine. Crab cakes, coconut shrimp, and shrimp po’boys are all delicious options!

Key lime, chocolate, and blueberry pie are all delectable desserts. You can get outstanding draft beers, pale ales, and craft beers in this location. Americano and iced tea are two of the most popular beverages at this establishment.

Since its location is prime, this site is easy to find. After a long walk through the nearby Crane Point Museum & Nature Center, you can relax here.

You’ll be able to have a dinner in a pleasant atmosphere thanks to the speedy service and reasonable costs. It’s an all-around great choice!

Next: 11 Incredible State Parks In The Florida Keys 

While cities in Alaska have a variety of sites and activities to see, the state (often dubbed The Last Frontier) is also recognized for its vast outdoors, particularly the enormous gleaming glaciers that captivate the imagination and are a highlight of any journey to the far north. Some of the glaciers in Alaska are the most beautiful in the world!

The state has over 100,000 glaciers covering an area the size of South Carolina. Many terrestrial glaciers are reachable with a short walk or drive. And don’t forget all of the Alaska glaciers you can check out by air charters or mountaineering treks. Trust me: there are plenty of options to see glaciers in Alaska!

If visiting glaciers in Alaska up close and personal is on your dream list, then keep reading! Here are some of the most stunning glaciers in Alaska (and our favorites!) that you shouldn’t miss.

18. Exit Glacier

You can drive to certain glaciers, but only a few are accessible by foot. BUT you can hike straight up to the Kenai Fjords National Park’s Exit Glacier, only a 10-to-15-minute drive from Seward.

Exit Glacier, one of the world’s most popular glaciers, was named after grateful backcountry visitors. It drops 3,000 feet in a few miles, creating a beautiful natural ramp for climbers leaving the massive Harding Icefield. Its grooved and crevassed hard ice sits near a visitor center Kenai Fjords National Park.

You can hike the trails, get close to an active glacier or join a ranger-led hike. It’s a site where you can see Alaskan glaciers reshape a landscape up close and discover how plant life reclaims barren rocky ground revealed by a glacier’s retreat.

The most impressive time to visit the Exit Glacier Area is during the winter when outdoor activities such as cross-country skiing, fat bike riding, and snowmobiling are available.

This Alaskan glacier is easily accessible, with a 30-minute trek to the lookout and a 1.5-hour hike to its edge. If you have never seen a glacier,  try this to get to see one. It’s one of our favorite glaciers in Alaska for a reason!

We especially recommend visiting this glacier if you are traveling from Seward to Anchorage.

17. Matanuska Glacier

This massive Alaskan glacier is the largest vehicle-accessible glacier in the United States. The Matanuska Glacier, one of Alaska’s most navigable glaciers, is a stable 27-mile-long river of ice that flows almost to the Glenn Highway from the Chugach Mountains.

This Alaskan glacier is the most renowned attraction between Anchorage and Glennallen, with a broad terminal visible from one of Alaska’s major highways.

Matanuska Glacier State Recreation Area is south of Glacier Park at Mile 101 of the Glenn Highway. This state site offers some of the best views of the Matanuska Glacier and the river’s headwaters, including a 12-site campground.

Another popular destination in this tourist attraction is the Glacier Park at Mile 102 of the Glenn Highway. A private road leads to a parking lot at the terminal moraine where guided treks begin. These tours are accessible year-round and last 1-2 hours.

We found this glacier unforgettable. No amount of images is enough to depict the beauty you see. While there’s tons of beauty within this state, this is certainly one of the most beautiful glaciers in Alaska.

The guide was highly informative and gave us time to explore the caverns and different areas. You’ll want to go prepared because there are many choices here!

The actual glacier trek is somewhere between simple and moderate. Despite the cleats, we were more concerned about the icy patches. Overall, it took us 1 hour, but if you walk there and back, plan for at least 2 hours.

16. Worthington Glacier

Worthington Glacier is a small valley glacier with accumulation areas and terminal moraines. While it’s not as large or impressive as some of these other glaciers in Alaska, it’s really beautiful and is often extremely quiet since it’s not the most popular.

This State Recreation Site is home to one of Alaska’s most accessible glaciers. Tourists can park near the glacier and stroll it. In 1968, it was designated as a National Natural Landmark, covering 5,744 acres.

You can find this 1.6-kilometer out-and-back track near Valdez, Alaska. It takes 35 minutes to accomplish this route, which is rated difficult. This track is ideal for hiking and rock climbing, and you won’t run into many other people while exploring it due to its challenging itinerary.

The ridge trek is challenging and risky, but it’s also a lot of fun. You can go so high up that you couldn’t even stand on the trail. The view is breathtaking, but the steep and narrow pathways are a trade-off.

Pets are also permitted, provided they are leashed no longer by 9 feet. The glacier is rapidly receding, and each year the glacier’s face grows taller and steeper, so you’ll need to be well-prepared.

Worthington Glacier is a pleasant location to stretch your legs and observe a glacier. The landscape is well-kept, and the concrete route leading to a lookout is spotless, contributing to a pleasant walk. There is even a little store with a few souvenirs and extraordinary beverages.

15. Mendenhall Glacier

The Mendenhall Glacier is one of several largest glaciers in Alaska that connect to the massive Juneau Ice Field, a 1,500-square-mile remnant of the last ice age sheltered high in the peaks of the Coast Mountains.

The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center lets you take in the beauty of Mendenhall Glacier. You can see the views of Mendenhall Lake’s 13-mile-long ice river, blue icebergs, and southeast Alaska’s Coast Mountains here.

Stairs, elevators, and a gentle slope lead from the parking lots to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center making it one of the easiest and most accessible Alaska glaciers for just about everyone to visit. Rangers from the United States Forest Service are on hand to answer inquiries and explain the landscape.

Multiple trails of varying lengths and degrees of difficulty lead to cascading waterfalls and salmon streams. Expect to see black bears, porcupines, beavers, bald eagles, arctic terns, waterfowl, sockeye, Coho salmon, and other species.

We highly suggest the well-planned canoe tours that are very doable, even for novices. The guide is well organized. Before starting, everyone got a full safety briefing, and during the trip, many details were given. There is also good equipment provided for you to return dry.

If you’re just starting out on your adventure journey, then this is one of our most-recommended glaciers in Alaska! It’s SO accessible and is really fun with lots of attractions and options.

14. Hubbard Glacier

At 7 miles broad, 76 miles long, and 30 stories in height above the waterline, this is the largest tidewater glacier in North America. While most glaciers are receding, Hubbard Glacier has grown.

Hubbard Glacier is one of Alaska’s most fascinating natural wonders. On a Hubbard Glacier tour, you’ll see this magnificent ice mountain from every perspective.

In an Alaskan voyage to Hubbard Glacier, you will witness a beautiful snowy landscape as your ship navigates freezing waters moving from Yakutat Bay into Disenchantment Bay. Strong currents and riptides between Gilbert Point and the glacier induce daily calving throwing ice chunks into the bay.

No words can explain the trip we experienced on this glacier. It was incredible and was a highlight of our entire Alaskan trip. It was thrilling to watch the ice shatter and fall into the lake with a resounding boom – seriously, nature is just so incredible!

The cruise is about 4 hours so you’ll need to block out half a day.

Witness this awe-inspiring spectacle in the Gulf of Alaska’s mist. You can also spot whales, harbor seals, and otters in the Disenchantment Bay. The sound of ice cracking over the sea will send shivers down your spine—an once-in-a-lifetime experience.

13. Portage Glacier

Portage Glacier is among the most accessible glaciers in Alaska, having many access points, including Portage Pass and Portage Lake. It is just a short distance from Anchorage, the gateway to Alaska for many tourists, and getting there is one of the most beautiful picturesque drives in all of Alaska.

There are several options for viewing this glacier. Day cruise, paddling opportunities, hiking options, and winter options – each provides a unique experience of the place. You’ll want to choose depending on the season you visit and your level of adventure.

The 80-foot MV Ptarmigan carries most summer guests. It’s a family-friendly boat ride with colorful guides.

You can also paddle kayaks from the north Portage Lake. Boats must stay on the north side of the lake and land at Portage Pass. The south side of the lake and glacier are off-limits. You must be very cautious of the hazardous waves and harsh winds.

If you want to hike, there is a short, steep trek to Portage Pass on the Whittier side of the tunnel, which offers a spectacular front-row view of the glacier and its ascent into the mountains. The pass is 2 miles long and 750 feet high. Be on the lookout for black bears and dress for wind and rain.

The winter experience is unique. When Portage Lake freezes, people ski, trek, ice skate, or bike three miles to Portage Glacier. From glare ice to heavy snow to sloppy overflow, conditions can vary greatly. Seeing the gleaming, beautiful glacier face on a sunny winter day can be exhilarating!

12. Columbia Glacier

The Columbia Glacier is a massive tidewater Alaskan glacier that flows south from Alaska’s Chugach Mountains to Prince William Sound. Its terminus has retreated 20 kilometers since 1980, making it one of the world’s most quickly moving glaciers.

This 550-meter-deep, 400-square-mile glacier is stunning from a boat or airplane. If you’re considering taking an airplane tour of Alaska glaciers we highly recommend this one!

We strongly recommend taking the tour to get up on the ice field on land. You can hike it alone or with a group, although it is pretty tricky.

You could ride in an “Ice Explorer” at the Glacier Experience. This truck boasts some of the largest tires you will ever see, crucial for driving down steep ice sheets. It’s definitely an extreme adventure.

A tour boat from Valdez can bring you near (or close enough) to the face of the Columbia Glacier. Watch out for the chunks of ice that the glacier loses, approximately 13 million tons of ice per day! These enormous chunks of ice will fall from the glacier into the lake below every day, meaning you’ll definitely get to witness this.

It was exciting to slip all-around ice and see everyone snapping photos. We recommend you check it out.

11. Holgate Glacier

The Holgate glacier runs through Kenai National Park for three miles. It began in the Harding Icefield, covering 300 square miles (770 square kilometers), and is the United States’ largest icefield.

This coastal glacier is a favorite location for visitors looking for a beautiful ice adventure. It is a day’s trip from the city of Seward. Its calving events reverberate like distant thunder of the sheer fjord walls, blanketing the surrounding seas with brash jewel ice.

Seals and seabirds frequently hunt among the ice sheets for their next meal in the nutrient-rich seas.

Kayaking from a safe distance of this Alaskan glacier will give you an awesome experience of its natural scenery. The sight of glacial calving or the process in which enormous sections of the glacier fall into the water is just insane.

We loved the stunning view and the crew we had on the tour. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and snacks were available for purchase. We also recommend bringing binoculars to enjoy the scenery to the next level.

10. Ruth Glacier

With ice up to 3,800 feet thick, the Ruth Glacier fills the bottom of the mile-wide gorge. The glacier drops from 5,200 feet to 3,200 feet in the 10-mile gorge, moving at a glacial rate of 3.3 feet per day.

One of the most magnificent canyons on the planet is the Great Gorge of the Ruth Glacier. This gorge is flanked on both sides by massive granite cliffs that rise 5,000 feet above the glacier’s surface, is beautiful, and offers world-class mountaineering opportunities.

The Great Gorge’s walls are lined with several mountains: Mount Barrile, Mount Bradley, Mount Church, Mount Dickey, Mount Grosvenor, Mount Johnson, Mount Wake, Peak 9100, Bear Tooth, Broken Tooth, Eye Tooth, Sugar Tooth, Wisdom Tooth, The Shield, and Rooster Comb.

You can adore these in the comfort of Air Taxi, which is the most popular mode of transport for visiting the Great Gorge. We definitely recommend this Alaskan glacier if you want to visit by air! Year-round, mountaineering rangers with firsthand knowledge of the national park are ready to assist visitors with trip planning and route selection.

Camping is also an option here, unlike many other Alaska glaciers. Remember to choose your campsite carefully, as icefalls and avalanches are common in the Great Gorge of the Ruth Glacier.

9. Byron Glacier

A short day trek provides expansive views of the Byron Glacier and begins just a few hundred meters from the Begich Boggs Visitor Center. The glacier is just beyond the terminus of a level, well-maintained trail that ascends a short, glacier-carved valley south of Portage Lake.

Byron Glacier originates from the same ice field that supplies Portage Glacier and Blackstone Glacier.

The trail is a living example of how an ecosystem recovers from the glacial period, with large trees and yielding forest way to alder thickets. The retreating ice has only recently been revealed.

The upper valley is harsh and untamed, with silt-blackened detritus covering the ice, evoking a sense of adventure amid Alaska’s coastal interior.

It is an ideal trail for families! Anyone of any age may attend. It is a short, easy, and level dirt walk. We observed senior persons, children, pets, etc., sharing this walk with ease. It’s one of the most accessible glaciers in Alaska for those who do want to walk.

Plus, it’s entertaining to have an impromptu snowball fight in snowfields left behind by winter avalanches or to follow one of the numerous side trails that will lead you to the edge of the valley, where bouldering opportunities exist.

We find the trek here easy. The average individual can complete the three-mile trail in approximately thirty minutes round. We suggest taking your time to do the walk to enjoy the landscape.

This valley is notorious for trapping clouds that generate everything from steady drizzles to less frequent (but pelting) rainfalls. Don’t forget your rain gear and you are good to go!

8. Castner Glacier

Castner Glacier is one of several accessible glaciers along the Richardson Highway. It is also a rare location where you can climb gigantic ice caves!

Around 2.5 hours away, Fairbanks is the nearest major city to the glacier. Take the Richardson Highway to mile marker 217, where the entrance to the glacier and its ice caves is located.

The Castner Glacier is approximately a 2.2-mile round-trip hike with breathtaking mountain views.

Be cautious when approaching the ice caves! You should only enter if you are accompanied by expert mountaineers or park personnel, as it might be pretty dangerous.

It was quite a spectacle to reach the ice caves. You can see many hues of blue ice accumulated on the top of the cave, like gemstones.

The difficulty of getting there, the frosty weather, and the fact that we had to walk back was forgotten entirely when we reached it. Every struggle to get to these caves is worth it because they’re incredible.

7. Margerie Glacier

Margerie Glacier is located near the northernmost tip of Tarr Inlet, at the end of the Glacier Bay canal. The glacier is situated in a spectacular location, creating a steep valley through high mountain peaks and abruptly ending at the sea’s shore.

Since it reaches the ocean, Margerie Glacier is a tidewater glacier, described as a glacier that interacts with salt water from the sea.

From its beginning in the Fairweather Mountain Range at altitudes greater than 9000 feet, the Margerie Glacier is approximately 21 miles long. Due to mountain snowfall and slope steepness, Margerie Glacier is expected to flow 6 feet each day.

This glacier is best observed by boat. A trip to the glacier’s face offers spectacular views of the blue ice, which floats on the lake despite a 100-foot foundation.

The Margerie Glacier is located in Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. It is one of just eight glaciers in North America that is actively advancing, rather than retreating, at 30 feet per year!

The view of this massive glacier was so worth it! You can spend hours gazing at and shooting several photographs of it. Ensure that this is an integral component of your voyage!

6. Aialik Glacier

Aialik Glacier is the biggest glacier in Aialik Bay and sits in Kenai Fjords National Park. While very steady, the glacier is most active during May and June.

Take a cruise from Seward to Aialik, or paddle your way through! Watch for whales, porpoises, and seals while you are there. You can even spot bears on the beach.

The glacier is an excellent location for kayaking, whale watching, and cruises! A two-hour cruise lets you observe the glacier and migratory humpbacks and orcas. It’s a terrific addition to your Alaskan itinerary if you’re not up for kayaking.

A full-day excursion in this glacier can feature different activities such as iceberg-filled fjords, breathtaking scenery, majestic alpine and tidewater glaciers, towering waterfalls, and world-class wildlife. It is one of the most popular single-day sea kayaking adventures among tourists.

The trip to this glacier can begin with a water taxi ride close to Aialik Bay. You can encounter incredible wildlife, including humpback whales, stellar sea lions, tufted puffins, seagulls, harbor seals, etc. It is a stellar opportunity to see not just stunning landscapes but also to observe wildlife!

Aialik Glacier was calving during our tour, and we will never forget the sound of that white thunder as the ice chunks plummeted into the lake. Plus, we encountered an entire pod of orca whales. The experience was literally insane!

5. Spencer Glacier

Spencer Glacier climbs 3,500 feet from a lagoon of royal-blue icebergs 60 miles to the south of Anchorage. This ice-age setting has mile-high peaks, vertical headwalls, waterfalls, and braided rivers.

The site offers lodging, hiking, glacier exploration, ecological hikes, paddling, and sightseeing.

An entire rail ride takes you from Turnagain Arm to Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop. A roofed shelter, facilities, and the trailhead for a 1.3-mile well-maintained path to the Spencer Glacier viewpoint on the Shore of Spencer Lake are all available at the Whistle Stop.

Before boarding the train back to civilization, travelers are open to exploring on their own or participating in one of the many guided excursions provided at Spencer Glacier. Staying overnight is also possible at the Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop, which has campsites and a public use lodge.

Hiking, guided and unguided at Spencer, is common along with kayaking. There is a 9-10 hour adventure with guided hiking that includes a helicopter trip, an alpine trek, a glacier lake tour, river rafting, and a train ride! It’s an extensive, bold tour de force from Alaska for those of you who want the full experience.

Independent travelers with advanced glacier travel skills may venture up the glacier to an ice field at a higher elevation. The same accumulation zones feed the spectacular tidewater glaciers of Blackstone Bay in Prince William Sound as Spencer.

On Spencer Lake, you can witness the floating icebergs left behind by the retreating glacier or camp in the Chugach National Forest backcountry for a more adventurous time!

4. Twin Sawyers Glacier

One of the most popular destinations on many Alaska cruise itineraries is the Tracy Arm Fjord. Scenic cruising through the area, which is known for its brilliantly blue icebergs, waterfalls, and the Sawyer Glaciers, is something you’ll want to include in your cruise itinerary.

Tracy Arm is the heart and most frequented fjord of the 653,000-acre Tracy Arm-Fords Terror Wilderness, located 45 miles south of Juneau.

North Sawyer Glacier and South Sawyer Glacier, otherwise known as Twin Sawyers Glacier, are about 30 miles long and are located in the fjord named after Secretary of the Navy Benjamin Franklin Tracy, who served under President Harrison.

Migratory orcas and sea lions are frequently sighted at the Sawyer Glaciers, which are twin glaciers. Harbor seals have been reported to rear their young pups in the region throughout June.

Mountain goats, black and brown bears, and bald eagles can also be seen exploring the shorelines when cruising there.

The Tracy Arm Fjord contains the Twin Sawyer Glacier is 23 miles long, with two large chunks creeping over the surface and calving at their ends.

Calving made the river change hues at least three times and was so calm that you could see the neighboring mountains reflected in it when we visited. Simply stunning!

3. Kennicott Glacier

Kennicott Glacier is an ice badland with silt mounds, visible fins, lateral moraines, odd landforms, and exposed ice patches. This glacier dominates all views west of Kennecott, a historic mill town in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park (essentially “across the street” from the Kennicott Glacier Lodge).

Due to the town’s placement halfway up the mountainside above the glacier, virtually every location in Kennecott offers a view of Kennicott Glacier.

From McCarthy, walk, ride a bicycle, or take a shuttle approximately five miles up the road to the Kennecott town and tourist center; then, seek out any vantage point with a view to the west.

The ice will yawn beneath your feet! A second alternative entails a 1.5-mile hike from McCarthy to the glacier’s toe, not far upstream of the Kennicott River crossing.

The Wrangell St. Elias National Park is huge. 13.2 million acres in size, to be precise! Taking a supervised aerial hike to the Kennicott Glacier is the best way to appreciate the unspoiled natural splendor of this fantastic park.

An aerial trip will enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the spectacular Kennicott Glacier and the blue pools. You can observe the glacial scenery, Donoho Peak, and the ancient Erie Mine Bunkhouse.

Besides the scenery, the actual cabins were attractive and brimming with intriguing documents and antiques from the old mill. The entire crew was courteous and helpful. We were astounded that they could provide such fresh and varied cuisine in such a distant place.

The accommodations were adequate, but we spent as much time outdoors as possible and explored the surroundings. This is the perfect way to connect with nature and have a break from the technology-driven world.

2. Taku Glacier

A tidewater glacier along the rugged Southeast Alaska coast, 30 kilometers northeast of Juneau, has generally defied global trends by gradually advancing for most of the last century while most glaciers on Earth retreated.

Taku Glacier is a 55-kilometer-long and almost 1,500-meter-thick tidewater glacier that has been the subject of ongoing scientific analysis for over 70 years. Some records date back to the mid-eighteenth century.

Taku provides an unparalleled location to study tidewater glaciers and their response to Earth’s fast-changing climate, thanks to its lengthy observation record, year-round accessibility, and closeness to Juneau and nearby research facilities.

With one of the top Juneau helicopter tours, you can explore Juneau’s largest glacier by helicopter, airboat, and foot all at once!

An exhilarating airboat trip along the Taku River and right up to the face of the glacier is included in the Taku Glacier Adventure by Air, Water, and Ice. This three-part journey consists of a glacier hike and a breathtaking helicopter flight over the Icefield.

The trip here is truly fantastic and is indeed a once-in-a-lifetime chance worth it. After flying over the glaciers and landing at the lodge, a meal was served, and everything about it was delicious! Plus, there is an excellent short hiking route with a waterfall and a couple of local bears.

We highly suggest this Alaskan glacier if you want the full experience in less time. It’s great for tourists who are semi-adventurous but not too athletic.

1. Knik Glacier

25-mile-long Knik Glacier flows out of the Chugach Mountains and into an iceberg-studded lake that feeds Knik River. With a 5-mile-wide front and regular calving, the glacier is a stunning sight. 400-foot-tall ice walls emerge from a lake where icebergs float, spin, and break apart.

This glacier used to cause havoc in the Mat-Su Valley by damming a lake that flooded each summer which was considered a National Natural Landmark. But the glacial recession has stopped the floods and produced a 6-square-mile lake at the glacier slope.

The Knik Glacier is an easy excursion from Anchorage and the Mat-Su Valley (90-minute round-trip flights), and there are beautiful tours to get you close to sight. You can enjoy the scenery here by land or by air.

Also known as Alaska’s “sunny glacier,” its peculiar microclimate or “rain shadow” has generated a remarkably diversified environment. A northern desert surrounded by snow-capped peaks, hanging glaciers, and waterfalls awaits!

The tour is great for people of all ages. The experience was entertaining without being dangerous at ALL. Try this one with your kids and loved ones if you want an awesome excursion to one of the top glaciers in Alaska.

Alaska has so many beautiful glaciers to offer. Whether you want to sightsee by land, sea, or air, there are plenty of options that you can choose based on your preference.

RELATED: Alaska Northern Lights: How To See Them (The Ultimate Guide)

Burlington, Vermont, is the state’s largest city, but it is still relatively small, with over 40,000 residents. Burlington is one of the most important cities in the craft beer scene in the United States and is rapidly becoming one of the most popular spots for opening new breweries.

The term “Vermont beer” was explicitly created to refer to the crafted renowned beers in Vermont, so it’s safe to say that craft beer is huge in Vermont. With over 70 craft breweries, Burlington is a paradise for beer enthusiasts.

Vermont is commonly considered the birthplace of the New England India Pale Ale (IPA), a citrus-forward beer style that was once an offshoot of the East Coast IPA but is now a distinct beer category. The Brewers Association even concluded that Vermont has the most breweries per capita!

Whether you’re looking for a brewery specializing in experimental brews or want a classic, cold beer on a hot day, these Burlington-area establishments are the best for you.

Thirsty in Vermont? This guide to the top breweries in Burlington, Vermont, will help you sip your way around the city.

10. Foam Brewers

LOCATION: 112 Lake Street Burlington, VT 05401 | PHONE: (802) 399-2511

Foam Brewers is a relatively new brewery in Burlington VT, situated in an old brick building within walking distance of Waterfront Park and the Burlington Bike Trail. It was founded in 2016 by a trio of brewers with prior experience at Magic Hat and Switchback with the simple mission “to create imaginative beers for enlightened palates resourcefully.”

This brewery specializes in artisanal small-batch beers, cheese, and charcuterie slates of world-class quality, an enjoyable and laid-back atmosphere, and breathtaking views of Lake Champlain.

The choices at Foam Brewers are constantly changing, but you can always count on some incredible sour beers and tasty experimental flavors; the IPAs are particularly noteworthy. Foam is also the only location to serve innovatively aged and blended beers from the nearby House of Fermentology, which Foam partner Todd Haire founded.

Foam Brewers has a spacious venue as well. They provide outdoor seating in the front and back of the brewery and indoor seating with high tops, bar service, and many more.

Food is also available at Foam Brewers, with offerings that vary throughout the week and include food trucks. Foam Brewer is definitely the center for breweries in Burlington Vermont. It hosts various events, and features live music that makes it popular that people need to make reservations well in advance.

MUST-TRY BEER: Quasi-American Wild Ale- ABV 5.5%

9. Switchback Brewery

LOCATION:  160 Flynn Avenue Burlington, VT 05401 | PHONE: (802) 651-4114

Switchback Brewery is one of Burlington’s oldest and finest breweries. Despite being one of the more popular (and crowded) breweries in Burlington Vermont, it is still worth visiting!

This Burlington brewery in the Old North End is close to various businesses, including shops, restaurants, and other establishments.

Switchback has won numerous awards and distinctions, including CraftBeer.com’s Best New Brewery and Entrepreneur Magazine’s Best Place For Beer & Food. Men’s Journal has also named it one of the best breweries in America, so it’s definitely one of the best breweries in Burlington VT and is a must-visit.

Bill Cherry, a master brewer, and Jeff Neiblum, a longtime acquaintance, founded Switchback Brewing Company in 2002. The vision was to concentrate limited resources on making beers of the highest possible quality.

The most renowned beers produced by Switchback Brewery are unfiltered and naturally carbonated.

With floor-to-ceiling windows and wood paneling, the building’s design also conveys a sense of warmth. It’s really gorgeous inside and is an awesome place to hang out!

Citr-Pils is a traditional Kellerbier or pilsener lager brewed with a combination of Citra and Saaz hops. The hops add a citrusy aroma, pilsner and IPA sensibilities, and a crisp flavor. It is a clean and refreshing beverage with a base of Light Pils that accentuates the lemony citrus notes.

So why is Switchback so popular? It is nearly impossible not to enjoy their beer, mainly because they offer three different year-round brews and six rotating seasonals. They are also known for their delicious food, including smoked paprika bratwurst served with sauerkraut, caramelized onions, and cheddar cheese curds on the side!

If you can only visit one of the top Burlington VT breweries, we definitely recommend Switchback.

MUST-TRY BEER: Switchback Ale- American Amber/Ale- ABV 5%

8. Zero Gravity Craft Brewery

LOCATION:  115 St. Paul Street, Burlington, VT 05401 (American Flatbread) and 716 Pine Street, Burlington, VT 05401 (Beer Hall) | PHONE:  (802) 497-0054

Zero Gravity is one of the must-visit breweries in Burlington, Vermont. One of the most “drinkable” IPA, Conehead, is brewed at Zero Gravity. Zero Gravity is a great place to hang out due to its excellent beer and one of Vermont’s finest outdoor patios.

Since 2005, Zero Gravity, a Burlington Vermont-based brewery, has been producing exquisitely balanced beers. Modern, one-of-a-kind originals brewed following the world’s classic styles and techniques.

This 2004-founded Burlington Vermont brewery specializes in experimental beers. They use traditional techniques to produce their alcohol, and it does not use any common synthetic ingredients found in modern beer. This technique contributes to creating a pure and natural flavor that people worldwide can appreciate.

The building looks stunning, but the brewery also offers a seasonal menu that is extremely cool. It means you will be able to taste unique dishes paired with special beers for a memorable and enjoyable experience in Burlington.

In addition to being one of Vermont’s best breweries, they also have one of Burlington’s coolest taprooms. The taproom is open every day, with karaoke on Fridays and live music on Saturdays. Board games are available inside the brewery so that customers can enjoy themselves while trying some new brews.

Additionally, Trivia Night, a popular event, is conducted every Wednesday! If you’re looking for an excellent brewery to go to after work or during your lunch break, the atmosphere here is perfect!

We love Zero Gravity and think it’s one of the most fun and social breweries in Burlington VT.

MUST-TRY BEER:  Conehead- IPA- ABV 5.7%

7. Vermont Pub and Brewery

LOCATION: 144 College Street Burlington, VT 05401 | PHONE: (802) 865-0500

Vermont Pub and Brewery, also known as VPB to locals, is located in downtown Burlington’s “quieter” area. It is an excellent spot to grab drinks with friends or enjoy a first date.

It was founded in 1988 by the late renowned craft-brewing pioneer and author Greg Noonan, who campaigned to make brewpubs legal in Vermont. The small 14-barrel brewhouse is supplemented by a half-barrel experimental system, allowing for the production of over 80 styles of beer annually.

VPB is the longest-running microbrewery in Vermont. This brewery is renowned for its superior quality and extensive history. This brewery is also well-known for continually developing improved beer formulas, which they have done repeatedly.

Currently (at the time of writing this article), VPB adheres to all Vermont Department of Health, OSHA, and CDC regulations. Six feet is the minimum spacing between tables and chairs, and workers and visitors must always wear face coverings. Everyone entering the building is necessary to call ahead to prevent crowding. All surfaces are disinfected in the establishment regularly, and hand sanitizer is available on each table and in the staff area. It’s definitely more of a “on the safe side” brewery compared to the other atmospheres.

The next time you are in Burlington, Vermont, do not miss the opportunity to visit The Vermont Pub and Brewery and try the local beers that are available for you to enjoy. It’s one of the cute, quaint breweries in Burlington VT that locals love for a reason!

6. Burlington Beer Company

LOCATION:  180 Flynn Ave Burlington, VT 05401 | PHONE: (802) 863-2337

Burlington Beer Co. is one of the more popular breweries in Burlington VT. It opened in 2013, and the brewery is known as one of Vermont’s first breweries. It is also known for its inventive beers and is part of the rapid growth of the New England IPA scene.

Thrillist named Burlington Beer Co. 2016’s best new brewery. Joe Lemnah created the company with his pumpkin beer. Burlington Beer is one of the most popular breweries in Burlington Vermont (and in the state in general) because its rotating brews employ local, seasonal ingredients.

This Burlington brewery brews an IPA with Amarillo, Citra, El Dorado, Simcoe hops, and an Imperial Stout with coffee from the nearby NoCo Coffee Roasters. In addition to Pale Ale (5% percent ABV), Rye IPA (7% ABV), and Brown Ale (6 % ABV), they also offer a variety of other beers on tap.

The brewery also offers seasonal beers, such as pumpkin hibiscus pale ale and Hoppy Wheat Ale, a popular summer wheat beer.

Do not miss the opportunity to try the Abracadabra Coffee Company’s popular Barista, a silky, jet-black coffee porter aged with roasted beans that exemplifies the company’s creative prowess. This drink has a strong aroma of freshly ground coffee beans, roasted malts, and caramel and is robust and full-bodied. The flavor comprises toasted wood, rich sweet malts, molasses, and sugary sweetness. This is one of the only breweries in Burlington VT to offer this type of coffee beer!

This Burlington brewery is an excellent location to visit if you wish to taste a variety of styles. When visiting this location, you will enjoy a variety of traditional and rare beers. Plus, the brewery always has a variety of awesome games available.

MUST-TRY BEER:  You Can’t Get There From Here (Any fruit version)- Wild Ale- ABV 4.5%

5. Queen City Brewery

LOCATION:  703 Pine Street Burlington, VT 05401| PHONE: (802) 540-0280

Located across the street from Zero Gravity is another excellent brewery, the Queen City Brewery. They specialize in German and English beers, including hefeweizens, saisons, and scotch ales.

Queen City is one of the best-known breweries in Burlington Vermont. Since its opening in 1997, the Queen City Brewery on College Street has been one of the most popular destinations.

This brewery’s central Burlington location is that visitors can easily reach it on foot from any part of the city. Come during the week, if possible, or early arrive if you want a seat on the weekends. This is a popular spot!

Queen City is best known for its low ABV and easy-drinking beers inspired by German and Irish pub styles. It is one of the best breweries in Burlington, with 16 taps and a rotating beer list that includes English ales, German lagers, and American-style beers, among others. People adore the unusual pickup truck parked on top of the bar!

The best-selling beers at Queen City Brewery are two of their six varieties: their flagship Porter and IPA. In addition, their seasonal pumpkin ale is delicious and a must-try! The Yorkshire Porter is also a great choice.

Queen City’s take on the traditional English ale produces a rich, full-bodied, and extremely well-balanced beer. Hops and a malt profile with chocolate and coffee flavors contribute to the beverage’s subdued bitterness.

So if you’re into local brews, you won’t want to miss this one! Queen City Brewery, located in a renovated warehouse, is one of the most popular breweries in Burlington Vermont for a reason.

MUST-TRY BEER: Oktoberfest- Marzen style Lager- ABV 5.5%

4. Simple Roots Brewing

LOCATION:  1127 North Ave Burlington, VT 05408| PHONE: (802) 399-2658

Since its 2014 founding as a nano brewery in a garage, Kara Pawlusiak and Dan Ukolowicz have grown this brewery. Simple Roots has had simple beginnings since the brewery has grown to include a brewery and taproom within walking distance of that garage, half-hidden near a Hannaford Supermarket shopping complex and Leddy Park’s sprawling waterfront greenspace.

Since then, this brewery has become one of Burlington’s most famous breweries. The small but powerful brewery focuses on simple styles such as pilsners, pale ales, and stouts, experimenting with new hops, coffee, sour, and wild yeast varieties.

This establishment serves extremely high-quality beer with numerous options, and guess what? They are in a New North End strip mall with good parking, so it’s super easy to get here. It’s a great place to stop in for a beer right after a hike.

You may find their beers on tap at some of the finest bars and restaurants in Northern Vermont.

These days, their Tmave Pivo is on tap. The Czech-style lager brewed with Saaz hops, which features rich and malty notes, and a clean, dry finish is a must-try! In addition, the mitigation of the bitterness of the roasted malts and the beer has a pleasant nuttiness, rendering it creamy, sweet, and easy to drink.

MUST-TRY BEER: Czech-style lager brewed with Saaz hops

3. Halyard Brewery

LOCATION:  80 Ethan Allen Drive, Suite 2 South Burlington, VT 05403| PHONE: (802) 497-1858

Halyard Brewing Company, another Burlington Vermont brewery that you shouldn’t miss, is only a couple of blocks away from Zero Gravity.

The founding of Halyard Brewery was in 2016 in South Burlington, Vermont. This brewery is known for its organic and fair-trade ingredients and naturally gluten-free alcoholic ginger beer.

The brewing of ginger beer is in a tiny facility near the Burlington Airport and next door to Farnham Ale.

Their most popular beer is most likely the Blonde Ale, but don’t worry – it’s not overly hoppy or bitter! The hops are in no way overpowering, and the beer is perfectly balanced, making this one of the best breweries in Burlington VT for people who don’t love beer (the flavors appeal to everyone).

Halyard’s crafted ginger beers are well-known. Their Moscow Mule is ideal for summer, while their spicy ginger beer pairs well with burgers and sandwiches.

Their taproom opened in October 2016, and they currently offer three ginger beers, two full-time varieties, and one seasonal variety. The brewery’s menu includes ginger-infused mixed drinks, a few regular beers, craft cocktails, and locally made dumplings.

Add this microbrewery to your increasing list of local Burlington Vermont breweries if you enjoy ginger-flavored beers.

MUST-TRY BEER: Blonde Ale

2. Citizen Cider

LOCATION: 316 Pine St #114, Burlington, VT 05401| PHONE:  (802) 497-1987

Citizen Cider is a small-batch, Vermont-based producer of hard cider. It utilizes ingredients from Vermont farms, making it beneficial to the community.

This Burlington VT brewery is located in South Burlington’s South End Arts District. It has many art galleries and studios, and other breweries and restaurants.

Citizen Cider is held in a small warehouse/garage-style structure with a large deck, creating a unique and enjoyable atmosphere. It is a great place to enjoy drinks in the sun or hang out with friends indoors.

The best feature of this Burlington Vermont brewery is that it is family-run, so they are constantly experimenting with new beers and get really excited about these products. The owners are highly involved, and this is evident.

These brews have some unique flavor combinations. On top of that, there is always something new to try. Who knew that cider could be so intriguing?

Their ciders frequently contain ingredients such as ginger or real fruit purées, which may sound disgusting to some but are delicious in small quantities. It also imparts an exciting and distinct flavor to these ciders!

All ciders are exceptional, but The Dirty Mayor, a pale golden cider with a ginger kick, is a must-try.

Citizen Cider is one of the finest breweries in Burlington Vermont, for working or studying. Food is allowed with beverages and there are plenty of tables to get some tasks done. Sundays and tours are off-limits. Saturday afternoons, however, include live music and other activities, so this isn’t the quietest time.

If you want to try new flavors while still enjoying traditional hard apple cider, this is one of the best Burlington VT breweries to check out!

MUST-TRY CIDER:  The Dirty Mayor- hard cider- ABV 5.2%

1. Three Needs Taproom Brewery

LOCATION:  185 Pearl St Burlington, VT 05401 | PHONE: (802) 497-0119

If these Burlington Vermont breweries do not quench your thirst, there are plenty of bars in the Burlington area. But our top brewery is the Three Needs Taproom Brewery. The laid-back atmosphere of this place is what makes it so great.

If you’re searching for a college dive bar, Three Needs Taproom Brewery is perfect! This brewery has a college bar atmosphere, attracting a young crowd.

When the weather is favorable, the brewery’s outdoor space is open. The music is excellent, but the crowd can get a bit rowdy. Most Champlain College and University of Vermont students regularly attend this bar for a drink or two. Two pool tables are available for challenging games with friends or strangers.

Their food is delicious, mainly their pizzas. Their buffalo chicken pizza is a classic because their buffalo sauce is homemade.

Although the beer selection is not a beer bar, it is pretty good. They offer primarily local microbrews from the larger area breweries at very reasonable prices. Reggae and pool are the primary non-alcoholic activities.

Burlington is a beautiful city, and this place is a popular hangout for its residents.

Burlington, Vermont’s Neighboring Breweries

Here are more breweries, just a few hops, skips, and jumps outside of Burlington, Vermont:

Four Quarters Brewing

LOCATION: 150 W. Canal Street, Winooski Burlington, VT 05404| PHONE: (802) 391-9120

Whether you like it or not, true craft beer fans understand the importance of small-batch specialists, and Four Quarters Brewing is one of them. It is one of Burlington’s best breweries, with a small taproom serving some of the best stouts, sours, and hoppy ales.

Four Quarters is a labor of love located a few miles northeast of downtown Burlington in the Winooski suburb. Brian Eckert, a beer enthusiast, opened the small-batch specialist in 2014 while working full-time as a web developer at Ben & Jerry’s.

Since then, the brewery’s reputation steadily rose when FWx called it “one of the best little breweries you’ve never heard of” in 2015.

Eckert’s inventive cocktails, including the much-buzzed-about tart Saison Fleur de Lis and a Belgian patersbier Opus Dei, can be sampled in the tiny wooden tasting room bar next to the brewing setup.

Fiddlehead Brewing Company

LOCATION: 6305 Shelburne Road Shelburne, VT 05482 | PHONE: (802) 399-2994

Fiddlehead is a Vermont beer staple. This beer is a popular local IPA found on draft at almost any restaurant or bar.

The Fiddlehead Brewing Company’s tasting room is relatively small. Folino’s, a wood-fired pizza joint, is right next door. You are welcome to bring in growlers of Fiddlehead beer to drink while eating pizza to your heart’s content. What could be better than that?

Prohibition Pig Brewery                 

LOCATION: 2 Elm Street Waterbury, VT 05676| PHONE: (802) 244-4120

Come to Prohibition Pig for specialty cocktails, beer, and barbecue! You can also purchase bottles of their barbecue sauce to take home.

If you cannot try Amarillo Dream, they also offer other unique and flavorful dark beers, such as Toasted Coconut Porter.

You should also see the Craft Beer Cellar across the street if you’re looking for additional Vermont beers to take home. This Craft Beer Cellar offers an excellent selection!

The Alchemist – Stowe

LOCATION: 100 Cottage Club Road Stowe, VT 05672| PHONE: (802) 253-6708

The Alchemist is a small, family-operated brewery specializing in unfiltered, fresh IPA. The current focus of their brewing efforts is Heady Topper, an American Double IPA.

Since 2003, The Alchemist has brewed Heady Topper. This Double IPA is neither the strongest nor most bitter. The beer is brewed to deliver waves of hop flavor without being bitter. Each hop imparts a distinct flavor and aroma to Heady Topper.

In 2013, The Alchemists brewed their most popular beer, which only produces 1200 cases a week. Because the brewery made beer in limited quantities, hundreds of people flocked to the state to obtain it.

In 2016, they opened a new location in Stowe and began brewing numerous other beers, including Focal Banger, one of the new local favorites.

Hill Farmstead Brewery

LOCATION: 403 Hill Rd, Greensboro Bend, VT 05842| PHONE: (802) 533-7450

Even though this brewery is in the middle of nowhere, the trip is well worth it. Hill Farmstead is a small craft brewery that produces some of the most sought-after beers globally. It is at the top of most beer bucket lists. RateBeer ranked it the best brewery in the world for five consecutive years.

Shaun Hill founded Hill Farmstead Brewery in 2010 in Greensboro Bend, Vermont, United States, a town with fewer than one thousand residents. It is in the “Northeast Kingdom” of Vermont, about 70 miles from Burlington, the biggest city in the state.

Shaun Hill and his wife founded the brewery intending to produce beer that was “fermented to its fullest potential.”  As a direct consequence of their unwavering commitment to the quality of their beers, Hill Farmstead Brewery has rapidly become one of its most renowned breweries.

Check Hill Farmstead’s website before your visit to determine which beers are available and their hours. Remember that there will typically be a line before the doors even open!

14^th Star Brewing Company

LOCATION: 133 N Main St #7, St. Albans City, VT 05478| PHONE: (802) 528-5988

14th Star is a Vermont craft brewery founded by veterans with a mission to brew world-class beer while enriching our community.

14th star, known for its hoppy IPAs and darker stouts, is a year-round destination with its outdoor beer garden and indoor taproom. Two veterans who brought into existence the brewery while serving in Afghanistan pledge to donate to veteran organizations.

Rock Art Brewery

LOCATION: 632 Laporte Rd, Morrisville, VT 05661| PHONE: 802-888-9400

The Rock Art Brewery is a family-owned and operated company. It has a small tasting room with an indoor observation deck for beer production. Currently distributed exclusively in Vermont, Rock Art beers are frequently available in 22-ounce bombers with seasonal specialties.

This brewery welcomes pets. On the porch or in the downstairs area, leashed dogs are more than welcome to accompany you while you enjoy a beer.

Burlington Brew Tours by City Brew Tours

If you are making plans for a trip to Burlington, Vermont, City Brew Tours offers a guided, all-inclusive tour of our favorite Vermont breweries, complete with food pairings.

Burlington Brew Tours LLC was founded in 2009 by owner Chad Brodsky as a newly formed tour company that teaches and samples handcrafted beers to visitors and residents of Burlington.

Burlington Brew Tours is Vermont’s first all-inclusive beer and brewery adventure. Whether you’re a light beer drinker or a connoisseur, it offers a fun and convenient way to visit the region’s top breweries. Their beer geeks will introduce you to award-winning beers of all styles, from Pilsners to Stouts.

This tour company does an excellent job of coordinating events and providing excellent customer service, but they were also quick to respond!

Each tour includes a beer tasting, lunch at the Folinos, and round-trip transportation. Burlington Brew Tours is the ideal choice for a birthday party, bachelor’s or bachelorette party, or to learn more about beer!

FAQs About Visiting Burlington Vermont:

In Closing

These breweries in Burlington Vermont are among the best, including well-known and lesser-known beers worldwide.

First, it is essential to note that all Burlington breweries produce seasonal specialty beers. Since each brewery’s specialty distinguishes it and makes it worth seeking out when available, it is always worthwhile.

Now that you’re familiar with the best Vermont breweries, you’re well on your way to drinking your way through Vermont. If you cannot visit all of these breweries in one trip, stop by a local beer store and purchase some. Many Vermont breweries prefer to remain in-state, and some of their beers can be difficult to find outside the state.

So when you visit the beautiful state of Vermont, be sure to try some of them out.

Visiting Acadia National Park in the winter means fewer tourists, more parking, and the chance to explore Maine’s natural beauty beneath a gorgeous snowy cover.

But visiting Acadia in the winter can be challenging because (duh) it’s Maine, so we’ve put together this guide to help you make the most of your time.

What to Know Before Visiting Acadia in Winter?

Things do slow down during the winter months in Acadia. During the winter in Bar Harbor, many businesses, including hotels, are closed.

Acadia National Park will also begin its winter hours and shut key hiking routes and portions of Park Loop Road in December.

However, this allows space for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing enthusiasts! And as long as you know when and where to go, visiting Acadia National Park in the winter can be a really awesome and unique experience.

Reasons to Visit Acadia in Winter:

Acadia National Park in Maine is far less congested during the winter months. If you don’t mind cold weather, you may be able to enjoy the park all to yourself (as long as you’re dressed adequately).

Acadia’s spectacular snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails are another incentive to spend the winter there.

There are plenty of trails in Acadia (almost 45 miles of carriage roads) and it is a lovely destination in winter for people wishing to appreciate the outdoors in a gorgeous environment. During February and other winter months, it is one of the most incredible places in the US to visit or to engage in winter sports.

When Is Considered Winter In Acadia?

Acadia’s winters are notoriously lengthy. The end of October through April or May are possible starting points, but it all depends on the year. Classic “winter” at Acadia National Park is most common in December, January, and February, lasting far into March.

Does Acadia National Park Get Snow?

It snows at Acadia National Park, and the amount varies depending on the month. Acadia National Park receives around 60 inches of snow on average.

How to Get to Acadia National Park?

To access Acadia National Park, you can travel to Boston Logan International Airport and get a direct flight to Hancock County–Bar Harbor Airport, provided by Cape Air, Silver Airways, JetBlue, and United Airlines, a short 10-minute drive from the park.

Your trip goes along Maine’s Coastal Route 1, which passes through several of the state’s most scenic coastal communities.

It takes roughly an hour to drive inland from Mount Desert Island to Bangor International Airport. But, only a tiny handful of airlines fly into this airport, including Allegiant, American, Delta, and United.

Portland International Jetport is still another choice, particularly if you wish to tour Portland additionally. Acadia National Park is within a three-hour drive south of this airport. Airlines servicing this airport include American, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, Southwest, and United.

You’ll need a vehicle to go around Acadia National Park, whether you fly into Boston, Bangor, or Portland.

Where to Stay in Acadia National Park In Winter

There are several good lodging options in and near Acadia National Park. We’ll give you some of our favorite hotels, Airbnb, and camping/glamping recommendations in and around Acadia.

One of the famous lodging options in the park is Bar Harbor Hotels and Inns. However, hotels and restaurants shut-in Bar Harbor during the winter months. Thus, we recommend the following top-rated establishments that remain open and eager for business!

• Quimby House Inn & Spa
• Atlantic Oceanside Hotel
• Saltair Inn

Airbnbs in and Nearby Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor are home to several fantastic Airbnbs, but here are a few of our favorites:

• The Seamist Cottage
• Coyote’s Den at the Howling Woods
• Hulls Cove Cottage in Bar Harbor
• Little Frog at the Howling Woods

Winter Glamping and Camping Near Acadia

There are four campsites inside Acadia, but online reservations are not available. These are the:

• Schoodic Woods Campground
• Seawall Campground
• Blackwoods Campground
• Duck Harbor Campground

If you plan to camp in Acadia during the winter, these campsites are still available and near the park.

• Connors Family Compound
• The Howling Woods
• Schoodic Woods near Ocean
• Off-grid Oceanfront Acadia A-frame

Best Things to Do in Acadia During Winter

Acadia National Park in winter can be one of your best options if you want to enjoy a full-fledged winter tourist experience.

During the winter, there is less traffic than in the summer. There are a variety of exciting activities such as designated drives, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, birding, winter camping, and picturesque hiking sites.

Here are the best things to do in Acadia during winter:

Ocean Drive

Except for Ocean Drive and Jordan Pond Road, Park Loop Road closes on December 1st.

This trip will take you to some of the park’s most popular attractions, including Thunder Hole, Sand Beach, the Beehive, and other majestic cliffs.

Schooner Head Road leads to a tiny stretch of Acadia’s Loop Road. Snowmobiles only have access to the left side of the road, thus remaining in the right lane.

You can get off the Ocean Drive and onto Route 3 through Otter Cliff Road.

Snowshoeing

Individuals who prefer snowshoeing have an excellent opportunity to spend their time on six trails out of 120 miles of hiking terrain.

Gorham Mountain, which is 525 feet, is one of the six trails and has several breathtaking natural landscapes. The moderate slope of the cliff makes it an ideal spot for snowshoeing.

Cadillac South Ridge has an even gentler slope than Gorham and is the longest path at 3.5 miles.

Ship Harbor and Wonderland are better options for inexperienced hikers due to their length (about 1.5 miles), but they are also renowned for breathtaking ocean views. Choose the Day Mountain Trail if you wish to walk a carriage road that continues to the summit.

It is accessible through Jordan Pond and Seal Harbor to the south.

Last but not least, the alternative 6-mile path of Witch Hole Pond has one of the wildest auras in the area, but along this route, you will be able to witness the Duck Brook Bridge and Paradise Hill, both of which are well worth the time and effort spent on the trip.

Hiking Cadillac North Ridge Trail

Cadillac North Ridge Trail is a 6.4-kilometer out-and-back trail situated in Bar Harbor that gains 341 meters in height. This trail is suitable for hikers who like seeing the dawn or sunset.

It provides a variety of exercise opportunities accessible throughout the year, and it’s worth noting that it has the enticing beauty of nature. On these trails, dogs are permitted but must remain on a leash.

The hikers have two alternatives from Park Loop Road to begin their journey.

The first option begins at the Take Kebo Brook Trail intersection and the Cadillac North Ridge Trail, while the second option begins at the one-way stretch leading to Sand Beach. Please be aware that there is no parking at all at this location.

Snowmobiling

It’s vital to note that you can only do snowmobiling on unplowed highways, including the 27-mile Park Loop Road. The maximum speed allowed is 35 miles per hour. The park’s winter activities website has all of the rules and restrictions.

If there is enough snow, people can drive snowmobiles in the park. During excellent weather, a portion of the road remains open to offer free access to tourists of Thunder Hole, Sand Beach, and Otter Cliffs.

Hiking Pemetic Mountain

If you want a hike that includes both easy treks and challenging ascents while still taking in the beauty of the terrain, Pemetic Mountain should be at the top of your Acadia bucket list.

The mountain is 1,248 feet tall (380m). The hike’s difficulty level is “advanced,” so we don’t think it will be easy.

Native Americans gave the peak its name, which translates to “sloping land” and accurately defines the whole island. The region is accessible from the north (Cadillac Mountain, Bar Harbor, etc.) and the south (Mt. Desert Island).

If you’re an experienced hiker, you should know that when you reach the top, you’ll be able to see Jordan Pond, Bubble Pond, Little and Great Cranberry Islands, and many other places as clearly as if you were holding them in your hand.

If you like the outdoors and are adequately dressed, hiking in Acadia in the winter is one of the most remarkable activities.

Jordan Pond

Jordan Pond might have a few ice fishing shacks. The pond is accessible throughout the winter via the Park Loop Road, which ends at the Jordan Pond House Restaurant, and is known for an ample supply of landlocked salmon and lake trout, making it an ideal site to cast a line. Although the restaurant is closed during the winter, the views of Jordan Pond are breathtaking.

The routes around Jordan Pond will have your pulse racing and your lungs filled with fresh mountain air. Prepare yourself before embarking on the 3.4-mile Jordan Pond Full Loop Trail. In the summer, it’s a moderate level, and in the winter, it’s a great step up from intermediate.

Hiking Carriage Roads

The carriage roads are ideal for hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing since they are wide and level. The Carriage Roads are the core of Acadia’s winter wonderland, with 45 miles of groomed tracks and ungroomed regions.

Make sure you have crampons on hand for any winter hiking. Hiking poles will help maintain balance. When hiking, stay to one side of the groomed cross-country routes to avoid cutting into the ski lanes.

The spacious meadows and mild slopes of the carriage roads will appeal to cross-country skiers. The thrilling ride along the picture-perfect tree-lined pathways is terrific.

Cross-Country Skiing

Friend of Acadia volunteers and the Acadia Winter Trails Association groom and track the region if there are at least 6 inches of snow and the road is frozen, allowing cross-country skiers to enjoy the park during the winter fully.

The grooming process utilizes cutting-edge technology. There are 45 miles of carriage roads, 32 maintained, and include skate lanes.

Check the cross-country skiing conditions before going since they are not always consistent and often vary.

Waterfall Climbing

Ice climbing is a fantastic winter task. The Acadia Mountain Guides Climbing School is eager to teach you how to climb securely and enjoyably.

Their professional guides will teach you the fundamentals of waterfall climbing in an introductory ice climbing program. They also provide half-day and full-day climbs that will put your abilities to the test while pumping your adrenaline.

This excursion is perfect for those seeking that one-of-a-kind, Instagrammable experience.

Birdwatching at Schoodic Point

Birdwatchers flock to Schoodic Point in particular. Visitors to Acadia National Park may join a guided tour to learn about the park’s distinctive bird species.

Examples include eagles, owls, razorbills, murres and dovekies, black-capped chickadees, and Harlequin ducks. The Schoodic Peninsula is about an hour’s drive from Mount Desert Island’s Hulls Cove Visitor Center.

The Frazer Point Picnic Spot, featuring a picnic area, is located immediately after entering the park, followed by the one-way route to Schoodic Point.

You can enjoy the splendor of the vistas along the route and visit Mount Desert Island on your way to the destination.

Exploring the Eagle Lake

The Eagle Lake Circuit is a 6-mile-long circuit that offers one of the most breathtaking experiences in the park. To acquire the best perspective, you can reach the ice and take in the scenery.

With a view of the lake, mountains, and trees, Eagle Lake is one of the park’s most spectacular places. The hike to the lake isn’t tricky; there are a few ups and downs.

The west side of the lake’s 3.7-mile route is maintained and bordered by carriage roads.

Those who prefer a smoother and flatter approach can ski the lake itself when the lake is frozen in the winter.

Witnessing The Sunrise On Cadillac Mountain Summit

Cadillac Mountain’s peak is the first place in the nation to watch the dawn between October and early March. The sun’s first rays shine brightly over the Gulf of Maine, Frenchman Bay, and Bar Harbor, displacing the drab morning light. During the winter, you can watch the event from the privacy of your own home.

Typically, you’d drive up Cadillac Mountain to reach the peak, but during the winter, it’s closed. Make the 3.5-mile journey on foot, skis, snowshoes, or even a skimobile if you’re a brave walker.

The morning is spectacular, but you’ll notice that other hikers have arrived for their “first break” when the light shifts and the stars disappear. If you decide to go, be aware that the peak will have a minimum of a 20-degree plunge.

Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse

On Mount Desert Island, the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse is accessible by car. The Bass Head Harbor Light Station is positioned on Maine’s famously rugged shoreline. The Lighthouse offers a spectacular picture of Bass Harbor and Blue Hill Bay while safeguarding seafaring boats from the rocky terrain.

Thunder Hole

Thunder Hole is a semi-submerged cave that resounds like thunder an hour or two before high tide. The waves pounding against the cliffs are visible and audible from the viewing platform. The path down to the caverns is slick and needs considerable agility during the warmer months. It’s particularly hazardous in the winter. The vistas, though, make it worthwhile to pause.

Seafood From The East Coast

The daily catch in Maine is seafood, especially Maine lobster. At Peekytoe Provision, you can order a Local Lobster Roll on a toasted split-top bun with mayo or sautéed in butter. Try the Fresh Haddock Sandwich on a Challah bread with avocado or bacon as an alternative. Order your Lobstah roll with a New England accent to mix with the locals.

What to Pack for Winter Trip in Acadia National Park?

The most challenging element of packing is choosing the correct clothing, but you must also consider other items. Here are some things we usually bring with us when we go to cold regions in the winter.

Hiking Boots: These are the way to choose if you want comfort on your trip

Socks: Socks are also essential for convenience while exploring.

Hiking Backpack:  For weekend trips, we usually bring a hiking backpack. It makes a significant difference to have it since we can get food, clothing, and whatever else we need on our adventures.

Water Bottles: It’s critical to carry adequate water, whether hiking or simply exploring!

Mobile Power Bank: Weather will drain your phone’s battery. Bring a mobile power bank so you can take pictures anytime you want!

Extra Camera Batteries: If you like photography but have never attempted it in a freezing environment, you’ll want to pack additional batteries. Like phone batteries, the camera battery drains faster in cold weather. We also carry a USB charger for camera batteries in our mobile power bank in case of need.

Dry Bags: Some days during your winter trip to Acadia will be snowy and cold, so don’t destroy your stuff!

Where to Eat During Winter in Acadia National Park?

Here are the two establishments you should visit for some delicious food for your winter trip to Acadia National Park

Havana

For 20 years, Havana has been dishing up American food with a Latin twist. The restaurant in Bar Harbor is noted for its local and organic meat, fish, and vegetables. It also offers an extensive wine selection, especially in the off-season.

Choco-Latte Café

Chef-owned Choco-Latte Cafe serves fresh-baked goodies, sandwiches, and locally-roasted coffee. The cafe’s walls are covered with vibrant artwork from Maine and New England artists. It’s open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. all year.

Tips for Visiting Acadia National Park in the Winter

Acadia National Park is no exception to Maine’s winter enchantment. If you visited during the busy summer months, you might not recognize it; popular places during the summer are frequently shockingly silent during the winter.

Here are some tips for making the most of your visit to Acadia National Park during the winter.

What’s Open and What Isn’t

Off-season access to several of Acadia’s most famous sites is limited. Park Loop Road is closed from December until early April except for the stretch between Sand Beach and Otter Cliff Road; Park Loop Road is closed from December until early April. (Winter weather may prolong its closure.) It includes the Cadillac Mountain road.

Many businesses in neighboring Bar Harbor are also shuttered for the winter. While year-round shops in this Maine small town will still carry staples, you won’t have the same shopping possibilities as in the summer!

Many fantastic hikes await daring hikers, mainly when the ground is bare. Acadia’s services, including most restrooms, are unavailable in the winter. Know your limitations, and don’t push yourself too far.

The Shuttle Ceases in October

From late June through mid-October, the Island Explorer operates. You will need a vehicle to visit Acadia National Park in the winter since it does not provide services.

Never Forget To Leave No Trace

It’s critical to pack away everything you brought in and not leave any rubbish behind. You can quickly dispose of your waste at some locations, including trash containers. You can dispose of your waste at a local gas station or convenience shop if they do not have trash containers.

Remember to Purchase Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance Master looks at your insurance choices and finds the best fit for you! All you have to do now is plan your getaway!

Prepare for a Winter Acadia Visit

Maine’s winters are famous. It’s crucial to plan your activities around the weather. Maine’s weather is unpredictable and might catch you by surprise.

Spend a lot of time outside? Layer up! Remember that Acadia National Park has intermittent mobile phone connections, so notify someone of your intentions ahead of time.

FAQs About Visiting Acadia National Park In Winter:

What are the main attractions to explore & activities to do in Acadia National Park in winter?

A winter visit to Acadia National Park opens the door to a variety of captivating activities that allow you to engage with the park’s natural wonders in a whole new way. One of the most popular pursuits is snowshoeing, an exhilarating experience that lets you traverse snow-covered trails and explore hidden corners of the park that might be inaccessible during other seasons. As you navigate through the serene landscape, you’ll have the chance to witness stunning vistas, discover frozen waterfalls, and encounter wildlife that’s adapted to the winter conditions.

Cross-country skiing is another fantastic option for immersing yourself in Acadia’s winter charm. The park’s carriage roads, with their gently rolling terrain and sweeping views, transform into a winter playground for skiers. Glide through the tranquil forest, taking in the sight of snow-draped trees and pristine lakes, while enjoying the cardiovascular workout that skiing provides.

If you’re seeking a more leisurely activity, winter photography in Acadia is a rewarding pursuit. The park’s natural beauty takes on a new dimension when cloaked in snow, and the interplay of light and shadow creates captivating scenes for photographers to capture. From the iconic silhouette of the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse against a snowy backdrop to the intricate patterns formed by frost on plant life, Acadia’s winter landscape provides ample opportunities for creative expression.

Can I drive along the Park Loop Road in winter?

While most of the Park Loop Road is closed during winter due to snow and ice, the section from the entrance station to Otter Cliff Road remains open year-round, providing access to some beautiful coastal views.

Are there guided tours or ranger programs in the winter?

While ranger programs are limited during the winter months, the park occasionally offers guided snowshoe hikes and talks. Check the official Acadia National Park website for the latest information on winter programs.

Can I go wildlife watching during the winter months?

Yes, winter can be an excellent time for wildlife watching in Acadia. Keep an eye out for deer, squirrels, and even snowy owls. Remember to maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing the animals.

What makes Acadia National Park special in the winter?

The tranquility and unique beauty of Acadia in winter are truly captivating. The peacefulness of the snow-covered landscapes, the crisp air, and the chance to experience the park in its quieter state make winter visits a memorable and rewarding experience.

How’s the weather during the winter in Acadia National Park?

The winter weather in Acadia National Park creates a captivating and ever-changing landscape that’s a world away from the bustling summer crowds. From December through February, the park experiences a true New England winter, characterized by cold temperatures, snowfall, and occasional storms. This seasonal transformation blankets the park in a serene and magical aura, offering a unique and enchanting experience for visitors.

Temperature: During the winter months, temperatures in Acadia National Park typically range from the mid-teens to mid-30s Fahrenheit (-9°C to 1°C), although they can occasionally drop even lower. It’s important to dress warmly in layers, including insulated clothing, waterproof outerwear, gloves, and a hat to stay comfortable while exploring the park.

Snowfall: Snowfall is a defining feature of Acadia’s winter climate. The park receives an average of around 61 inches (155 cm) of snow annually, covering its trails, mountains, and forests in a pristine blanket of white. The snow creates a picturesque setting that’s perfect for winter sports and photography.

Winter Storms: Winter storms are not uncommon in Acadia, and they can add an extra layer of drama to the landscape. Snowstorms can bring heavy snowfall, strong winds, and challenging conditions for outdoor activities. However, they also offer a chance to witness the park in a beautifully wild state, with snow-draped trees and cliffs.

Icy Conditions: With the freezing temperatures, trails and pathways can become icy and slippery. It’s essential to exercise caution while hiking and exploring, and it’s recommended to use appropriate footwear with good traction, such as crampons or ice cleats, to prevent accidents.

Changing Weather: The weather in Acadia National Park during the winter can be unpredictable, with rapid changes from clear, sunny days to overcast skies and snowfall. Checking the weather forecast before heading out and being prepared for changing conditions is crucial to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Benefits of Winter Weather: Despite the challenges, the winter weather in Acadia offers a unique and quieter experience compared to the bustling summer months. The tranquility of the snow-covered landscapes, the crispness of the air, and the absence of large crowds create an atmosphere of serenity and solitude. It’s a time to connect with nature on a more intimate level, to hear the crunch of snow underfoot, and to appreciate the park’s natural beauty in a different light.

How do I prepare for a winter hike in Acadia National Park?

Winter hiking in Acadia National Park offers a unique and invigorating experience, but it also requires careful preparation to ensure your safety and enjoyment. First and foremost, dressing appropriately is crucial. Layering is key to regulating your body temperature, so start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your skin. Add an insulating layer to retain body heat, and finish with a waterproof and windproof outer layer to protect against the elements. Don’t forget to wear warm gloves, a hat, and sturdy waterproof boots with good traction to navigate icy trails.

Before embarking on your hike, it’s essential to check the weather forecast and trail conditions. Winter weather can be unpredictable, so being informed about any incoming storms or rapidly changing conditions is vital. Make sure to bring essential items like a map, compass, headlamp, and a fully charged cell phone, as daylight hours are shorter during winter.

Safety should always be a top priority, so let someone know your hiking plans, including your intended route and estimated return time. It’s a good idea to hike with a companion whenever possible, as having a partner can provide assistance in case of emergencies. Lastly, be flexible with your plans. Winter conditions can sometimes lead to unexpected trail closures or challenging circumstances, so having a backup plan or being willing to adjust your itinerary ensures a safe and enjoyable hiking experience in Acadia’s winter wonderland.

What are the benefits of experiencing Acadia National Park in the winter compared to other seasons?

Experiencing Acadia National Park during the winter offers a distinct and captivating perspective that sets it apart from the more bustling seasons. While summer draws large crowds seeking warm weather and vibrant landscapes, the winter months provide a tranquil and serene ambiance that allows for a deeper connection with nature.

One of the most notable benefits of a winter visit is the opportunity for solitude and introspection. The park’s trails, which may be crowded in the summer, often become quiet pathways for introspective exploration. The hush of falling snow, the crunch of your footsteps on the trail, and the absence of bustling crowds create a serene environment that encourages mindfulness and reflection.

Photographers and artists also find inspiration in Acadia’s winter landscapes. The interplay of sunlight on snow, frost-covered vegetation, and the striking contrast of dark evergreen trees against the white backdrop offer endless creative possibilities. Whether you’re an amateur photographer or a seasoned artist, the winter scenery invites you to capture its beauty in unique and captivating ways.

Moreover, experiencing Acadia’s iconic landmarks, such as Cadillac Mountain and Jordan Pond, under a blanket of snow provides a new perspective on their grandeur. The transformation of these familiar sights adds an element of novelty and intrigue, even for those who have visited during other seasons.

In conclusion, the benefits of experiencing Acadia National Park in the winter extend beyond the surface beauty of snow-covered landscapes. The solitude, creative inspiration, and unique perspective offered during this quieter time of year make a winter visit a truly memorable and enriching experience for nature enthusiasts, adventurers, and anyone seeking a deeper connection with the natural world.

Utah has breathtaking scenery and once-in-a-lifetime hikes. And Zion and Bryce Canyon are some of the state’s stunning national parks! These national parks in Southern Utah have unique and distinctive views that will astonish you.

The most accessible approach to exploring Utah’s most incredible hikes and its distinctive beauty is to combine these national parks on a short road trip.

Zion and Bryce Canyon provide something for everyone, from views to hiking routes. Luckily, driving from Zion to Bryce Canyon is straightforward, so you can easily combine the two!

If you planning a road trip itinerary that will take you from Zion to Bryce Canyon National Parks OR vice-versa, we’ll show you how to plan an enjoyable three-day trip to maximize the experience.

What if you don’t have enough time? We’ll also give itinerary alternatives for a two-day and four-day Zion to Bryce Canyon road trip so that every traveler can plan the ideal holiday.

Let’s plan your road trip to Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks!

Zion vs. Bryce Canyon

While both Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks are stunning, Zion is more suited for adventurous hikers and canyon enthusiasts, while Bryce Canyon is excellent for families and photographers. Less than an hour apart, these parks are a must-see.

On your southwest Utah road trip plan, it’s ideal for visiting both parks.

Your heart rate will slow as you hike through Zion’s bucket list trails, then rise again as you marvel at the hoodoos in Bryce Canyon’s bowl-shaped amphitheater.

We’ve been to both parks twice and want to visit again, so we highly recommend seeing both!

Elevation: Zion National Park vs. Bryce Canyon

The elevation of each landscape varies greatly between Zion and Bryce Canyon. Springdale in Zion is 3,900 ft high, whereas Bryce City is 7,650 ft.

When driving from Zion to Bryce Canyon, you’ll definitely feel the elevation rise. Altitude sickness isn’t usually a concern until 8,000 ft, but Bryce Canyon isn’t far from that, so bring medicine if you’re prone to it (anything with Acetazolamide works well).

Why Take the Zion to Bryce Canyon Road Trip?

Even though Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon are in the same state, the experience at each is massively different. But there are things in between/along the way that you wouldn’t want to miss, too. The Grand Staircase is a line of multicolored cliffs that connects Zion and Bryce Canyon in Southern Utah’s Colorado Plateau area. It is the lowest rock stratum of Bryce Canyon and is a must-see.

One road trip can easily cover both Zion and Bryce Canyon. And there’s plenty to do along the way that it’s really worth it to turn this small road trip into an adventure.

In about two hours, you can travel from Zion to Bryce Canyon. It’s hard to grow tired of the views because the sights are incredible. You’ll see beautiful mountain vistas in Zion and hoodoos in Bryce Canyon.

How Far is Bryce Canyon from Zion?

Because Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks are so close, many visitors combine their visits.

The quickest route to Bryce Canyon is by US-89 from Zion National Park. The travel is around 74 miles long and takes about 1 hour 30 minutes.

The travel from Zion National Park’s south gate or Springdale takes longer due to the winding Zion-Mount Carmel Highway (State Route 9). This section of your trip from Bryce Canyon to Zion National Park is stunning and should be on your Zion National Park bucket list, even though it’s a bit further away.

This tour will take you through sandstone tunnels, the Checkerboard Mesa’s cross-cut pattern, and some Desert Bighorn Sheep! They tend to hang around between the Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel and the East Entrance in the mountains. The 84-mile travel takes at least 1 hour and 45 minutes, and we think it’s definitely worth the extra few miles.

How to Get from Zion to Bryce Canyon?

We suggest flying into McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas for your Bryce Canyon and Zion trip. The travel to Zion National Park takes little under three hours. You can also fly into Salt Lake City, but it’s a five-hour drive to Zion National Park.

After your tour from Zion to Bryce Canyon, you can fly out of McCarran or Salt Lake City. Both are roughly 4 hours from Bryce Canyon.

Next, we’ll go over our favorite aspects of each part, then we’ll talk about the best road trip stops in between these two national parks.

Why Visit Zion National Park?

Angels Landing, The Narrows, and The Subway are world-famous trails in Zion National Park. Canyons with 2,000 ft sandstone cliffs surround valleys, rivers, and streams with hiking routes and natural beauty.

In 2019, Zion was the fourth most visited US National Park with 4.5 million recreational visitors.

The park comprises three major sections: Main Zion Canyon, Kolob Terrace, and Kolob Canyons.

Angels Landing and the Narrows are among the most renowned hikes in Zion National Park and the most popular in the US National Park system.

In addition to hiking, there are many other things to do in Zion.

Zion National Park: Important Notes

Before you go, here are some highlights about Zion National Park to help you organize your trip:

Best Time to Visit: The perfect time to visit Zion is during the Spring and Fall, specifically April to May and September to October. You can avoid crowds by going shortly before or after the busy season, from April to October.

Where to Stay: You can stay in Zion Lodge, South Campground, or Watchman campground if you prefer to stay inside the park. Springdale has attractive yet pricey hotels outside the park.

How to Get There: Las Vegas Airport is 3 hours away from Zion National Park, and Salt Lake City International Airport is 4-5 hours.

How to Get Around: Most of the year, travelers to Zion Canyon must utilize the complimentary shuttle service. However, you will need a vehicle to navigate the park. We recommend renting a car at the airport if you’re flying in. It’s just not worth it to come to Zion without a car.

Permits: You need permissions for Angels Landing, Backpacking, The Subway, The Narrows, and Rock Climbing.

Zion National Park Tips

Here are some helpful tips when getting to Zion National Park:

1. Arrive Early for Parking

Parking at Zion National Park is difficult since places are restricted and fill up rapidly. Arrive early to grab a parking place.

When we visited this park in August, the parking lot was almost complete by 7:00 am. Crowds are typical in Zion from early February to late November.

If parking at Zion National Park is not enough, use the free Springdale shuttle to get to the park. The shuttle may pick you up at nine different locations to get to Zion from town.

2. Obtain Permits and Book Trips Ahead of Time

Daily, hundreds of people visit the US National Parks. The NPS increased its ticketing system for Zion National Park to safeguard the park’s peaceful environment. Permits required for popular Zion trails include:

• Angels Landing
• The Subway
• The Narrows (Hike from Chamberlain’s Ranch)

To secure Angels Landing and the Subway tickets, you must apply months ahead of time.

Reservations for a hike from Chamberlain’s Ranch to the Narrows can be made up to two months in advance on recreation.gov.

Every 5th of the current month, reservations for the following month become available. Check out the permit system here.

3. Learn about the Zion Canyon Shuttle System

The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive is restricted (not available for private cars) from March to November. You can only enjoy the gorgeous drive by shuttle or bicycle. You’ll need to know the shuttle schedules and stops to visit most of the highlights in Zion National Park. What’s more, it’s free to use!

It’s totally worth it to take a trip on the Zion shuttle. The views are literally incredible!

4. Catch the First Shuttle

The shuttle parking lot fills up quickly, so arrive early to catch the first shuttle. Thus, you can spend more time in the park and explore more popular activities without the crowds.

5. Evaluate the Weather

If you want to trek the Narrows, one of the most crucial factors is the river’s flow. Flash floods and powerful currents are particularly hazardous. During the summer, thunderstorms are frequent in Utah. Check the weather before visiting Zion.

6. Know the Trail Conditions

Primary rock falls in Zion National Park can alter trail conditions. Check the park’s website or drop by the visitor center for the most up-to-date information.

7. Start Your Day With a Narrows Hike

Even though many people avoid getting wet in the morning, it is one of the least congested times. It’s best to hike the Narrows early in the day to avoid the crowds.

8. Arrive at Canyon Junction Bridge One Hour Before Sunset

Arrive early to see the sunset at Zion National Park’s most famous sunset point. Many photographers will seek to capture the classic shot of Canyon Junction Bridge. We went there an hour before sunset and grabbed the best location on the bridge!

Why Visit Bryce Canyon National Park?

Bryce Canyon is one of America’s lesser-known National Parks. It is in the American Southwest and has lovely scenery.

The canyon has the world’s most extensive hoodoo collection. The Bryce Canyon Amphitheater at the park’s entrance has the most hoodoos.

Explore the park by hiking the beautiful trails, driving the picturesque route, and stopping at the numerous views. You can also take a park tour or go horseback riding.

Bryce Canyon National Park: Important Notes

Here are some essential notes about Zion National Park that will help you plan your trip:

Best Time to visit: Spring and fall, or April to May and September to October, are the best times to visit Bryce Canyon National Park.

Where to Stay: North or Sunset Campgrounds and The Lodge at Bryce Canyon are alternatives for lodging inside the park. For a reasonable price, you can stay outside the park.

How to Get There: The closest airports to Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah are Las Vegas which takes 4 hours and 10 minutes by car, and a 4-hour 5 minutes drive to Salt Lake City. We would suggest that you go to Zion National Park first. From there, Bryce Canyon is only a short 1.5-hour drive away.

How to Get Around: You can take the free Bryce Canyon Shuttle, which takes you to all the viewpoints and trailheads, or you can drive your car in the park, whichever you prefer.

Permits: None!

Bryce Canyon National Park Tips

Below are some helpful Bryce Canyon National Park tips to maximize your enjoyment here:

1. Recognize the Altitude

With almost 8,000 feet in elevation, Bryce Canyon National Park is much higher than Zion. You can feel out of breath really quickly. Taking it easy and stopping to see the stunning scenery is always a good option.

2. Learn About the Bryce Canyon Shuttle

Parking at Bryce Canyon is limited and can fill up quickly, so use the free Bryce Canyon Shuttle to avoid the hassle. The shuttle operates from April to October and visits the most incredible sights in the park.

The shuttle operates from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, so you’ll need to drive to witness sunrise or sunset.

3. Take the First Shuttle

If you’re taking the Bryce Canyon shuttle, get there early. It allows you to enter the park before the crowd.

4. Hoodoo Photo Op

You can photograph the stunning blood orange hoodoos of Bryce Canyon National Park from different angles. Your list should include Sunrise, Sunset, Bryce, and Inspiration Points.

Visit such locations at dawn or golden hour for unique picture opportunities. The golden hour is between sunrise and sunset.

5. Wear Layers

The temperature difference between morning and night might be variable. Dress in layers to cope with temperature variations.

6. Watch for Wildlife

We saw prairie dogs bursting out of their caves and deer lounging in the pine trees along the Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive. You could also see mountain lions, pronghorn deer, and rattlesnakes.

7. Hike Navajo Loop

The Navajo Loop is the most popular walk-in Bryce Canyon National Park, so go around sunrise or sunset. You’ll escape the crowds and enjoy the trip in the best light!

What to Pack for a Zion to Bryce Canyon Trip?

The weather can change quickly in both Zion and Bryce Canyon, from cold mornings to storms in the afternoon. Make sure you bring these things on your trip to be ready for anything.

National Park Pass

There is a fee to get into both Zion and Bryce Canyon. Obtaining America the Beautiful National Park Pass is a great idea to visit more than one national park this year. You can go to more than 60 national parks and more than 400 monuments and sites for a year. Here, you can buy a national park.

Hiking Backpack

We usually bring an empty hiking backpack in our carry-on for exploration. It allows us to carry food, clothing, and other items for our adventures.

Hiking Boots

In these parks, hiking is the best thing to do. You’ll need hiking boots or trail runners that are sturdy, comfortable and have good grip. Before your trip, don’t forget to wear your shoes.

Wool Socks

Inappropriate socks ruin good hiking boots. Always go for merino wool. They’re costly, but they will keep your feet dry and prevent blisters for a long time.

Layers

In Spring and Fall, the weather can change from day to night in Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park. Even though the mornings are chilly, the afternoons may be sweltering. Comfortable hiking clothes and fleece layers are essential.

Rain Jacket

During the summer, thunderstorms might occur suddenly. A rain jacket or poncho is always helpful, even just a brief light rain.

Camera

From Zion to Bryce Canyon, you decide how to capture each scene. Any iPhone will do. Also, if you plan on taking a quality camera with you on your hike, we highly recommend a camera clip.

Hat and Sunblock

Many of the trails in Zion and Bryce have no shade, so it’s essential to wear sunscreen. Sunscreen is necessary, but a sun hat will also do a lot to keep you from getting sunburned.

Zion To Bryce Canyon Road Trip Itineraries

Now that we’ve covered the basics of both national parks, let’s get to the road trip itinerary section!

This guide will present you with three road trip itineraries of these two gorgeous parks.

For the three Zion To Bryce Canyon road trip itineraries here (2-day, 3-day, and 4-day), we’ll focus most on the 3-day since it is the best time frame to enjoy these two parks fully.

We’ll give you an overview of the 2-day and 4-day Zion to Bryce Canyon road trip itineraries to best plan your adventures.

2-Day Zion To Bryce Canyon Road Trip Itinerary

The 2-day trip will provide you enough time to visit the finest of both Zion and Bryce Canyon and some versatility in how you divide your time. However,  the number of time-consuming treks you can squeeze in will be restricted.

One day in Zion and one day in Bryce Canyon are options. You could also spend a day and a half in Zion and just a few hours at Bryce Canyon.

Spend most of your hiking trip in southern Utah at Zion National Park. If you’re there for photography, though, you should plan on spending the whole day in Bryce Canyon, including sunrise.

Here is how to spend two days in Zion and Bryce Canyon:

Day 1: Zion

For day 1 in Zion, you can either do the following:

• Spend the day hiking The Narrows
• Half a day should be spent hiking Angels Landing and the other half in The Narrows
• Angels Landing, Emerald Pools, Pa’rus Trail, Watchman, and Canyon Overlook are all excellent hikes to do after Angels Landing
• Hike all day to The Subway
• Visit Kolob Canyons for the day

As you can see, there’s a lot to do in Zion. We recommend hiking The Narrows if you’ve never been, just because it’s the most famous, but we also really love the Emerald Pools and the Kolob Canyons. So stretch your trip to three days if at all possible!

You should drive to Bryce Canyon later in the day and spend the night in its hotel or campground, no matter which option you choose, so you’re ready to go for the following day.

Day 2: Bryce Canyon

For the day 2 in Bryce Canyon, spend the day doing the following:

• Get up to see the sunrise over the theater
• Hike the Queens Garden Navajo Loop
• Drive the Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive and stop at each lookout

You can definitely fit in all of these activities in one day.

Best 3-Day Zion to Bryce Canyon Road Trip Itinerary

We’ll get more details in this 3-day road trip from Zion to Bryce Canyon now, and it is the ideal time frame to explore these two incredible national parks.

In three days, you can quickly travel while seeing many of the highlights of each park. There may be a few concessions, and you won’t be able to view every part of Zion, but you’ll get the best parts of each.

Day 1 (Zion): The Narrows And Watchman

If you’re coming from Las Vegas, get there early, or get an early start if you stay in Springdale. Make sure to get any necessary gear the night before to head out before stores open.

Park at the main visitor center if you are just getting to Zion. You can also walk or take the village shuttle bus from a Springdale hotel or campground to the visitor center.

No matter what time of year you go, don’t forget to rent a walking pole. Without it, you won’t get very far.

The Narrows

Hiking the Narrows with as few people as possible is ideal for starting your Bryce Canyon and Zion tour. The Narrows is generally peaceful at sunrise.

The trail begins with a mile of Riverside Walk before entering the river. The Narrows is unique in that you can trek it for as long as you desire. Most people hike the first 1-3 miles of the path, which is 10 miles roundtrip.

Hiking through a river takes much longer than walking on a conventional route, so keep that in mind while planning your schedule. Consider the following while planning your trip across the Narrows:

• Because your feet will be in the water for the whole trip, we recommend bringing a change of shoes for your later excursions.
• Since the Narrows region is prone to sudden floods, check the weather forecast before trekking there.
• Also, because the river is prone to cyanobacteria, you should avoid submerging your head, swimming, or drinking the water.
• Keep in mind that you should only hike as far as you feel comfortable and that you must return the same distance you walked in.

Watchman

Return to the visitor center on the shuttle and drop off your stuff at Zion Outfitter. You’ll be more than ready to change into something comfier by now!

It should be late afternoon, giving you plenty of time to trek The Watchman.

Watchman begins in the tourist center, where you just left off your belongings. Before going up to Watchman Overlook, it’s a good idea to get some dinner in Springdale.

The sun should be setting by the time you get to Watchman Overlook. Stay up here to see the sunset before returning to your Springdale hotel or campsite. Seeing the sunset here is totally worth it and is a must-do!!

Day 2 (Zion): Angels Landing, Emerald Pools, and Canyon Overlook

Apply for an Angels Landing permit in advance or receive a walk-in permit the following day. We suggest that you choose the first time slot so that you can hike to Angels Landing in time for sunrise.

Get up early, pack your tent or check out your hotel, and get on one of the earliest shuttles into the canyon. You don’t want to be on this path with dozens of other hikers since there’s not a ton of room.

Take the shuttle to The Grotto, stop #6. Starting on the other side of the road, follow the route towards Scout Lookout and Angels Landing.

Angels Landing

If you obtain a permit, you will be given a specified start day and time for your hike. You can rearrange your trip to accommodate the commencement time on your permit. Angels Landing in Zion National Park’s most famous hike is not for the faint-hearted.

This 5.5-mile roundtrip expedition starts with a rugged ascent via switchbacks before continuing along a ridge with lengthy, steep dropoffs. It’s an adrenaline-pumping adventure with breathtaking vistas that will leave you breathless!

Remember to be cautious and aware of your surroundings when climbing.

You never know how other people will respond when they are terrified, so be alert to what is happening around you.

Emerald Pools Trail

The Emerald Pools hike is a 3-mile out-and-back that passes through the only waterfalls in Zion National Park. Although the waterfalls are modest in size, they are stunning!

Beginning opposite the Zion Lodge, the route follows a straightforward approach to the Lower Emerald Pools, where you can stroll under a waterfall. You can end your hike or continue to Middle and Upper Emerald Pools.

You should be prepared for a significantly more steep route if you want to hike to the Middle and Upper Emerald Pools. The Middle Emerald Pools are located on top of the rock and waterfall you just passed under.

Due to its location at the foot of towering cliffs, Upper Emerald Pool is one of the most scenic spots along this hike. It is a beautiful spot that few people hike to!

Zion Canyon Overlook

The Canyon Overlook trailhead starts only a few meters from the tunnel’s mouth. This hike will be considerably gentler on the nerves and more suited to children/families.

This hike has many entertaining features, including sloping wooden footbridges and a crescent-shaped cave. So it’s fun but not too tricky, making it a great afternoon hike.

Find a secluded location on either side of the information board and take in some of the most outstanding views in Zion, this time across Pine Creek Canyon, as you reach the summit.

Return to your vehicle, continue down UT-9 beyond the east entrance and turn onto US-89 North. The journey between Zion and Bryce Canyon should take around two hours.

Take a slight detour to Many Pools and Checkerboard Mesa on the way out of Zion if you have the time.

Day 3 (Bryce Canyon): Incredible Sunrise Over the Amphitheater, Navajo Loop and Queens Garden Trail, and Bryce Point Perspective

Today is another early start, but you won’t have to battle any crowds, at least not right away. Here is how you’ll start day 3 in Bryce Canyon National Park.

Incredible Sunrise Over the Amphitheater

Check Bryce Canyon sunrise timing and get up there at least 30 minutes before sunrise.

Drive to Sunrise Point, set up your camera and tripod in the best possible position, and then relax with a coffee and breakfast while waiting for the sun to rise above the Eastern horizon.

The sight of the Bryce Canyon amphitheater burning a fiery red hue in the morning light is breathtaking.

As the early sunshine poured over the countryside, we were astounded by how vivid and intense the red and orange colors shimmered.

Navajo Loop and Queens Garden Trail

Next, it’s time to hike. This hike is one of the most remarkable ways to see the hoodoos and spires of Bryce Canyon National Park. This fantastic walk passes by notable park landmarks, including Queen Victoria and Thor’s Hammer.

Begin by hiking the Navajo Loop Trail to Sunset Point, which offers spectacular canyon views. You can go right here and enter Wall Street, a tiny canyon. This route follows the Navajo Loop Trail’s eastern side. After crossing Thor’s Hammer and the Two Bridges, you’ll reach the Queens Garden trail intersection, home to some of the park’s most beautiful formations.

The Queens Garden Trail offers views of towering hoodoos and rocky formations.

During their creation, hoodoos go through numerous phases. First, water erodes stony plateaus into fins. When they become thin, a hole forms in the middle, producing a window. A hoodoo appears in place of the top of the windows after further erosion.

Frost wedging causes most erosion in Bryce. Rain pours into rock fissures, freezing and expanding when the temperature decreases, widening the fractures.

Turn left at Sunrise Point to return to the parking lot via the Rim Trail.

Bryce Point Perspective

Suppose you still have enough time after the Navajo Loop and Queens Garden Trail. If so, you can finish your trip to Bryce Canyon by driving (or better yet, riding the park shuttle) to Inspiration Point and Bryce Point for various views of the magnificent theater.

It should be mid-afternoon, giving you plenty of time to get to your next location before dark. If you’re behind schedule, just skip this step and head home.

Bryce Canyon is much smaller than it seems, though, so it’s pretty easy to see the top sights here all in one day.

4-Day Zion To Bryce Canyon Road Trip Itinerary

When traveling to Bryce Canyon from Zion National Park, the 4-day trip provides you more flexibility. You can take your time and appreciate every detail of both parks without feeling hurried.

You could divide your time between Zion and Bryce Canyon and spend two days in each, or spend three days hiking in Zion and reserve the final day for Bryce Canyon.

We would do the latter and hike in Zion for three days before going to Bryce Canyon for sunset on the third evening.

Because there aren’t many “things to do” within Bryce Canyon, you won’t need to spend two full days there.

Here are some ideas on how to spend your four days in Zion and Bryce Canyon:

Day 1: Zion

• Angels Landing Hike
• Explore the Emerald Pools in their entirety
• Discover Checkerboard Mesa
• Take a stroll around the several pools
• Hike the Zion Canyon Overlook

You can spend the night in Springdale.

Day 2: Zion

• Spend the day hiking through The Narrows or sunrise hike with Watchman
• Then go to Observation Point (wilderness) via the East Rim Trail

Day 3: Zion

• Hike to the Subway Station or spend the day hiking in the Kolob Canyons
• Drive to Bryce Canyon and spend the night there

Day 4: Bryce Canyon

• Watch the dawn over the theater as you get up
• Hike the Navajo Loop in Queens Garden
• Stop at each viewpoint along the Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive

What About A Bryce Canyon To Zion Road Trip?

While we personally enjoy doing the Zion to Bryce Canyon road trip in that order, you can also do a Bryce Canyon to Zion road trip just as easily.

One plus of the Bryce Canyon to Zion road trip is that you won’t experience any altitude sickness because you’re starting at a higher altitude and slowly moving to a lower altitude (Zion).

Simply reverse any of these itineraries when planning your Bryce Canyon to Zion road trip. But keep in mind that you won’t want to spend more than a day at Bryce Canyon, so there will be a bit more driving during the early part of your trip.

Where to Stay Near Zion and Bryce?

Both Zion and Bryce Canyon have lodging options ranging from camping to resorts. Here are our favorite spots near both parks!

Where to Stay Near Zion National Park?

From camping beneath the stars for free to stay in a fancy resort, Zion offers something for everyone.

If you want to stay in Springdale outside the park, you must reserve four to six months in advance.

Make reservations for campsites and the Zion Lodge 6 months in advance. Every year at the beginning of the month, the lodge accepts bookings for the entire month.

Inside Zion National Park

There are three campgrounds in Zion that need to be reserved ahead of time. Camping in the park is very popular, and campsites tend to fill up fast. There are only three places where camping is allowed:

• South Campground (You can reserve 14 days ahead of time)
• Watchman Campground (You can book six months ahead of time)
• The Lava Point Campground (most of the time, it is open from May to September on a “first come, first served” basis)

If you don’t want to camp, you can stay at the Zion Lodge. It is the only place to stay in the whole park.

Outside Zion National Park

You can camp for free on BLM land on Dalton Wash Road, about 30 minutes outside the park.

Hotels in Springdale are costly, so if you want to spend the night in this charming small town, be prepared to spend a few bucks. Some of the best choices are:

• Holiday Inn Express Springdale
• Cliffrose Lodge
• Bumbleberry Inn
• Driftwood Lodge
• Majestic View Lodge

Where to Stay Near Bryce Canyon National Park?

Staying inside the park’s limits takes considerable preparation. Book lodgings 3–6 months in advance.

Make reservations for the famous Lodge at Bryce Canyon a year in advance.

Inside Bryce Canyon National Park

There are two campgrounds inside the park of Bryce Canyon. Both campgrounds are great places to camp because they are close to the park’s main things to see and do. Visit the National Park Service website to find out more about each campground and how to make reservations. Here are the two campgrounds:

• North Campground (it is open all year but on a first-come, first-served basis)
• Sunset Campground (you must reserve six months in advance)

The only hotel in the park is the Lodge at Bryce Canyon for lodging.

Outside Bryce Canyon National Park

Even though the towns near Bryce Canyon aren’t as big as Springdale near Zion National Park, they offer places to stay outside the park.

You can camp anywhere along Forest Road 1173 (on BLM land) for free just outside the park.

For camping outside, you have Ruby’s Inn RV Park and Camping.

You could spend the night in one of the following beautiful hotels close to Bryce Canyon National Park:

• Bryce UpTop Lodge
• Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel
• Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn

General Tips for Both Parks

When preparing for a trip from Zion to Bryce Canyon National Park, you should know the following:

1. Get an America the Beautiful Pass

For only $80, you can buy an America the Beautiful Pass. It is the best way to save money on all National Parks and even more National Park Service Sites. Here are a few reasons why you should buy the pass:

• Give access to more than 2,000 public lands is free for an entire year
• Pay for itself quickly, and you can’t beat the price!
• Have six different types of America the Beautiful passes, so there is one for everyone
• Share your pass with family and friends
• Support giving money to the United States’ Public Lands

2. Get Your Day Going Early

Zion and Bryce Canyon are both well-known national parks that get a lot of visitors every year. Start your day soon after sunrise to find the best places to park and avoid crowds. Even if you’re not a morning person, it’s worth it to get up early and beat the crowds for this trip.

3. Have NPS Apps on Your Phone

Download the National Park Service App and the Recreation.gov App if you haven’t already.

The National Park Service app is a helpful app that gives information on all National Park Service locations in the United States. You can identify nearby places, and you can use it to keep track of the National Parks you’ve visited and those you want to see. This app makes it straightforward to begin arranging a vacation to any US National Park.

Most people are familiar with the Recreation.gov app for reserving campsites, particularly in the United States National Parks, but it offers much more. You can buy permits, excursions, shuttle tickets, and passes and obtain more information on various places and activities through the app or website.

4. Rent a Car Rather Than an SUV To Save Money

We usually hire a larger car with all-wheel drive on national park outings. But it isn’t necessary at Zion and Bryce Canyon since all roads are paved and readily accessible. Renting a smaller car will save you money.

5. Stop at the Visitor Centers

A simple trip to one of the US National Park visitor centers can be highly beneficial. A qualified park ranger can provide you with further information on the park. You may also buy merchandise, see park exhibits or films, use the toilet, and refill your water bottle.

6. Book in Advance for Your Stay

When bookings are offered on a rolling 6-month basis, campsites fill up quickly. If you wish to stay in a park lodge, reserve 13 months in advance when reservations open.

7. Adhere to the Principles of Leave No Trace

It is critical to remember the Leave No Trace principles while exploring and enjoying the outdoors. Respect and cherish nature so that future generations might experience its splendor.

Hopefully, this Zion to Bryce Canyon road trip guide gives you lots of information to plan an amazing trip!

In Washington State’s Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area, the Colchuck Lake Trail is steep and rugged, but anybody who can manage the 2,300-foot elevation rise will be rewarded with breathtaking views.

And the Colchuck Lake Trail is seriously gorgeous, especially when you break through the woods and glimpse that deep turquoise lake for the first time. Then, as you descend to the coastline, the vista expands even more, with Dragontail Peak towering above. You experience the moment that every hiker dreams about: the one when time slows down and nature reminds us of our position in the world.

Colchuck Lake Trail is one of the most well-known hikes in Washington State. It has been on our bucket list for years, and we finally made the time a few summers ago.

Hiking the Colchuck Lake Trail requires planning, particularly concerning scheduling, permits, parking, and preparation. So we’re writing this article to give you all the information to hike the Colchuck Lake trail successfully.

Overview of the Colchuck Lake Trail

Here’s a brief rundown of the Colchuck Lake Trail near Leavenworth, Washington, before we get into the meat of the trip.

Highlights: One of the gorgeous lakes along the main Enchantments trail is Colchuck Lake. The green and blue lake is breathtaking, and the Dragontail and Colchuck peaks provide a dramatic background.

Distance: 9 miles out-and-back

Difficulty: Challenging

Elevation Gain: 2,283 feet

Land: Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area

Trailhead Location: Turn south on Icicle Road from Leavenworth’s west end on Highway 2. After about 8.4 miles, go left onto Forest Service Road 7601 (FR-7601). The 3.7-mile gravel road to the Stuart Lake trailhead is sometimes tricky and steep.

Hiking Time: It typically takes 4 hours and 34 minutes to finish.

Passes: A valid Recreation Pass is required at the Stuart Lake trailhead.

Permit Info: Permits into the Alpine Lake Wilderness are needed. At the trailhead, they are self-issued. Special overnight permits are necessary for the unique Enchantments Area from May 15 to October 31.

Restrictions:

• Wilderness Trail is a non-motorized trail that does not allow bicycles.
• The maximum number of people per group is eight.
• Dogs are not permitted on the Colchuck Lake trail, Stuart Lake trail, and the Enchantment Permit Area. All pets, including dogs, are restricted.
• Campfires are not permitted.
• Stock is no longer allowed on the trail.
• Colchuck Lake has designated hiker campsites.

When to Hike Colchuck Lake

From November through May, FR-7601 is closed; particular dates vary year to year based on snowfall, so check the forecast before going out. Snow is likely to fall by November 1 in the fall and until June 30 in the summer. We don’t recommend going this in May since the trek and drive will still be snowy.

Summer and October are undoubtedly the best times to visit Colchuck Lake.

Deciduous conifers may be found all around the lake, at the foot of Asgard Pass, and amid the evergreens. To the inexperienced eye, alpine larches, sometimes known as tamaracks by locals, seem to be little evergreen trees.

The needles of these ordinary-looking trees become a dazzling, golden yellow by the middle of October, while tints of blue and green predominate throughout the summer. It’s as if Bob Ross was painting a landscape and used yellow instead of green and then went all in.

The tough larches are also among the most extraordinary survivors at this elevation, making for a stunning color contrast against the rocky backdrop.

If you’re visiting Colchuck in October, we suggest staying in Leavenworth and spending time along the river, where the golden motif continues. It’s a lovely time to visit! What’s more, Oktoberfest is a must-attend event.

Getting to the Trailhead

From Leavenworth, you have to turn onto Icicle Creek Road from US2 to get to the trailhead. Turn left onto FR-7601 after 8.4 miles. The Stuart Lake trailhead is 3.7 miles along a rough, occasionally potholed dirt road.

For roughly 6 miles, take I-5 North to WA-520 East toward Bellevue/Kirkland if you are from Seattle. Then take I-405 North for approximately 8 miles after crossing the lake (there is a toll). If you want to avoid paying the WA-520 toll, take the I-90 bridge south and then take I-405 north. After that, take exit 23 and join onto WA-522 East for about 13 miles, staying in the far right lane. For approximately 85 miles, merge onto US-2 East, taking you over Stevens Pass and into Leavenworth. Follow the instructions above from Leavenworth.

Note that FR 7601 from Icicle Creek Road to the trailhead shuts throughout the winter, usually from November to May, resulting in a limited hiking season in the summer.

Parking at the Trailhead

The first thing to remember is that parking for this hike is quite limited, particularly during the summer weekends.

You’ll need an annual Northwest Forest Permit, which you can purchase at the parking lot entrance.

We recommend coming early to avoid parking a mile away from the trailhead. There is enough room for 20-35 cars, depending on how skillfully the early birds organize their vehicles. Overnighters with special permissions can park in about half of the lot.

Remember that this is a well-guarded area. You will get penalized if you park without a pass. Also, you’ll receive a penalty if you park in an overnight area with a pass but no overnight permission.

Between the Stuart Lake and Eightmile trailheads, there is parking along the right side of the forest service road.

Hiking Colchuck Lake

It’s a religious experience to turn the curve and emerge from the woods at Colchuck Lake for the first time. The lake’s icy waters are suddenly spread out before your feet — deep blue in the shade, dazzling aquamarine in the day — while the twin spires of Dragontail and Colchuck Peaks, far above you at the other end of the lake, appear to blot out the very sky.

While the final approach to the lake is steep and rugged in parts, the cumulative elevation increase of 2,300 feet makes Colchuck’s beautiful landscape accessible to hikers of all abilities. The trailhead parking area and the road leading to it are packed with vehicles in the summer.

As if Colchuck Lake wasn’t already enticing enough, it’s also one of the two entrances to the Enchantments. Additionally, the trailhead leads to Stuart Lake, a less demanding but equally beautiful destination.

The Beginning of the Hike

The Stuart Lake Trail #1599 is an excellent place to start. Within hearing and occasionally sightline of Mountaineer Creek, the first mile and a half rises steadily through woodland, first thick and gloomy, then thinner and brighter. On occasion, you can view the valley’s sheer cliffs through gaps in the woods.

The trail crosses to the right bank of Mountaineer Creek over a solid log bridge at the end of the first mile and a half. Hikers can get some welcome reprieve from the wind coming off the roaring whitewater of the stream by standing near the midway of the bridge on hot days.

The trail steepens and becomes rockier after the bridge, giving you a taste of what’s to come in the hike’s second half.

The Second Half of the Hike

The trail flattens out and dips after three-quarters of a mile before reaching a trail intersection. The route to Stuart Lake continues straight ahead, while the Colchuck Lake Trail branches off to the left.

Following the path to the left, you will come to another log bridge that will carry you over a narrow, turbulent portion of Mountaineer Creek after a short length in the forest. As you leap stones in a significant talus slope along the creek’s side, the trail becomes a mess. You’re again at the stream a little while later, but its waters are sparkling smooth; a good area for a quiet rest before resuming your ascent.

The hike is gentle at first, but it becomes steeper and rockier as you approach closer to the lake.

Views of the valley you’ve just climbed out of open up at numerous points along the trip, first to the valley you’ve just climbed out of, then up to the toothy ridge of Dragontail Peak. The trail jogs to the right after one last steep section, descends into a bit of swale, and suddenly you’re at one of the best lake vistas in the Cascades.

Reaching Colchuck Lake

The trail ends at a large granite face with a lake view. It is a fantastic spot to have a bite to eat while admiring the environment.

The majestic peak of Dragontail Peak is seen across the lake. Aasgard Pass, located to the left of Dragontail, is the very steep “shortcut” to the Enchantments. The Colchuck Glacier remains to the right, as do the slopes of Colchuck Peak, with its absolute top hidden by granite towers.

If you still have the energy, the Colchuck Lake trail continues for another two-thirds of a mile along the shoreline, sometimes uneven and difficult to follow. At a big tarn, one of the least visible route junctions occurs — it’s typical to follow the well-trodden dirt to the right, but the trail follows rocky slopes to the left.

After a series of curves and ups and downs through the forests, the track comes to a rock field at the Colchuck Glacier’s terminal moraine base. Subalpine firs give place to larches here, and the official trail gives way to a rock-hopping approach that leads to Aasgard Pass.

Where to Stay Near Colchuck Lake

There are several lodging alternatives available near the Colchuck Lake trail, depending on your preferences. Remember that the campgrounds are close to downtown Leavenworth and should be on your itinerary. A day is not enough to explore this Bavarian beauty!

Here are the options where you can spend the nights:

Camping

Two camping alternatives will allow you to wake up, park at the trailhead, and hit the trail.

Bridge Creek:  Only six spots are available, and they are all first-come, first-served. They also offer specific group sites that you must reserve ahead of time.

Click here to rent an RV.

Eightmile Campground: This bustling campground, situated 8 miles out of town and off Icicle Creek, is available for tent and RV camping and offers a 60/40 mix of reserved and first-come, first-served spaces.

Click here to rent an RV.

Hotels Near Leavenworth

From large hotels to tiny B&Bs, there are many fantastic places to stay in and around the Bavarian town of Leavenworth.

Abendblume: It is a small Bavarian retreat with old-world charm, featuring seven individual rooms and a complimentary traditional Austrian breakfast.

Click here to book.

Downtown Loge: With a beer garden and café on-site and full access to the Riverside outdoor amenities, the classic hotel rooms can accommodate 2–4 people. Seasonal pricing varies.

Click here to book.

Mountain Resort Sleeping Lady: This quiet resort, located on Icicle Road outside of town, provides rustic private accommodations, gourmet cuisine, spa services, and a gift store.

Click here to book.

Riverside Loge: It has private 2-person cottages overlooking the river with common fire pits, green lawns, and an outdoor kitchen with a Traeger beckoning. Seasonal pricing varies greatly.

Click here to book.

Packing List for the Colchuck Lake Experience

While backpacking expertise is not required for hiking the Colchuck Lake, we would strongly advise having someone in your company who is familiar with the ins and outs of backpacking and can advise you on gear. You want to be prepared for the Colchuck Lake trail hike!

Here are the things you should bring for hiking Colchuck Lake:

Tent: You’ll want to make it for a group of two to three people and keep it light. Yes, it is more costly, but it is well worth it.

Sleeping Bag: You generally won’t need to go below 25 degrees unless you’re in the fall.)

Sleeping Pad: Consider the following factors: weight, size, R-Value (how warm it will keep you), and toughness.

Water Filter: On every backpacking trip, this is a must-have. You have the option of using a gravity filter or a pump. We choose gravity filters because they are simple to use.

Quality Backpack: Yes, this is something you should indulge in. You want to be able to walk with ease. We suggest a 55L to 65L backpack if you’re traveling for four days.

Hiking Boots: We suggest high ankle boots protect your ankles when climbing Asgaard Pass. The gravel and dirt may be slippery.

Hiking Poles: It comes highly recommended by us. Any brand would suffice.

Cooking system: Of course, you need it to cook food.

Fuel: For one journey, a tiny can will do. It is something you’ll have to get from a shop.

Food: Dehydrated meals from Backpackers Pantry or Mountain House are also attractive options. It’s a must-have for refueling meals. Breakfast and lunch might be less expensive and lighter options.

Clothes: Hiking base layers, Midlayers, Outershell, Socks, Hiking Pants, Short, Leggings, and Hat/Beanie

First Aid Kits: Rather than purchasing a ready-made kit, we recommend assembling it yourself.

Other items that are useful on the Colchuck Lake trail:

• Towel
• Sunglasses
• Sunblock
• Hand Sanitizer
• Toilet Paper

Nice To Have but Not Required

These things are nice to maximize your experience, but they are not required. Some of these are especially useful if you’re hiking the Colchuck Lake trail in the winter.

• Microspikes
• Ice Axe
• Binoculars
• Helmet
• Pillow
• Camera and Accessories
• Hammock
• Insulated Water Bottle
• Bug Head Net
• Bear Spray
• Bug Spray
• Portable Charger
• Sandals
• Swimsuits

Everyone is unique. Some people prefer a more significant load and a more luxurious camping experience. Some people like to travel light and rough it. There is no such thing as a correct response. Decide on whatever makes you feel most at ease!

Additional Information You Should Know About Colchuck Lake

We’ve included this section with more information on Colchuck Lake for your convenience.

What Are the Enchantments?

The Enchantments are a Central Cascades area with some of the country’s most extraordinary hiking. Because the Enchantments Trail is 23.5 miles lengthy, most people backpack the trail over many days. However, you will need an overnight permit to camp.

Due to the trail’s popularity, only a few overnight camping permits are available via a very competitive lottery. Each year, these licenses are necessary from May 15 to October 31. Some people choose to trek the Enchantments in a single day, covering the whole 23.5-mile trail. It is something we’ve known individuals to do, and it’s not for the faint of heart.

If you intend to trek the Enchantments from beginning to end, be sure you have enough hiking experience and are physically fit enough to complete the journey.

When Must You Arrive at the Trailhead to Park at Colchuck Lake?

The parking area quickly fills up with hikers heading to Colchuck Lake, Stuart Lake, and the Enchantments. As a result, plan to arrive early, particularly if you’re hiking on the weekend. We arrived in the parking lot around 6:50 AM on a Tuesday in August.

About a dozen parking spaces remained, and many cars approached the road behind us. By 7:30 AM, we’d guess that the parking lot was completely packed. Although we did not hike on the weekend, trip reports indicate that the optimal time to arrive is between 5 and 6 AM.

Is It Possible To Swim at Colchuck Lake?

You can swim in the lake throughout the summer. We packed our swimsuits, but the water was much colder than imagined. Rather than that, we bathed our feet after a lengthy stroll. Some individuals leap into the water! Bring dry clothing and a towel to restore your body heat swiftly.

What Kind of Animals Will You Encounter?

There were a few deer and a slew of chipmunks that you could see. The chipmunks are somewhat pushy as they will attempt to eat your meal. Several of them may approach you exceptionally near to you. It is very vital not to feed wildlife! You can also encounter a mountain goat or two on your trip if you’re fortunate!

Some hikers reported that they observed a black bear near the trailhead. Generally, it’s good to speak loudly not to startle a bear. Just in case, bring bear spray with you.

Is There a Toilet Nearby?

There are pit toilets at the trailhead and the lake itself. Just bring hand sanitizer and toilet paper with you.

Tips for Hiking Colchuck Lake

If you’re planning to visit the Colchuck Lake Trail, you should have a few critical considerations. Here are tips for a successful Colchuck Lake Hike:

Arrive Early

Arrive early in the morning to see the most extraordinary dawn views and secure a parking spot. The parking lot quickly fills up, and you’ll have to locate another location to park your vehicle. If you don’t intend on staying the night, it’s also a good idea to start the trek early in the morning, tour the whole area, and return home safely by sunset.

Check the Weather

Check the weather forecast and trail conditions before heading out to the Colchuck Trail Hiking. Your journey will be considerably more pleasurable and relaxing if the weather is pleasant. Make sure you choose the appropriate option based on the current weather conditions at Colchuck Lake Trail.

Follow the Hiking Directions Map

Although the journey to Colchuck Lake is not difficult, it is essential to follow a map to get there and then continue on the trail. Trails may be challenging and hard to manage, and you can sometimes get disoriented. That is why it is critical to adhere to a map.

Wear Your Hiking Boots

Hiking boots have more ankle covering, which helps avoid ankle sprains, and firmer midsoles, which give more support. When hiking, it’s risky to wear classic sneakers or tennis shoes since you risk spraining your ankle and injuring yourself.

Hike Between July and October

July to October are the most lovely months at Colchuck Lake. Extreme winters can be hazardous and exceedingly cold due to the snow. In contrast, intense summers can be humid and sweaty. Thus, we recommend visiting between July and October.

Bring Water With You

When planning a journey, ensure that you bring several bottles or cans of water with you. While you may not feel thirsty while exploring the lake, going along the trail may be strenuous, and you will undoubtedly need to drink water. So, bring your water bottles with you in your bag.

Don’t Forget Sunglasses and Sunscreen

It is vital to use sunblock and sunglasses when hiking on the Colchuck Lake Trail. If you are not used to wearing sunglasses, ensure that you apply sunscreen. Due to the heightened trail, your skin might get quite tanned by the end of the day. So, don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen if you don’t want that to happen.

Final Thoughts

The Colchuck Lake Trail has several challenges. The path is often steep and rough, so take caution—plan with the weather in mind.

Don’t forget to use a map. New areas might be confusing, and you don’t want to get lost. It definitely pays to plan ahead when hiking the Colchuck Lake trail.

After all, Colchuck Lake is one of the most stunning alpine lakes ever, and it’s worth the effort!

We hope this post helps assist in your preparations for hiking the Colchuck Lake Trail. Enjoy!

Is siesta time what you’ve been craving, or how about a breath-taking deep-sea excursion? If you’re heading to southern Florida, then the beautiful Florida Keys State Parks should be on your must-see list, regardless of whether you want to snooze or scuba dive. There’s something for everyone!

The Florida Keys are a chain of subtropical islands between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean about 125 miles west of Florida. And there’s so much to do in the Keys!

There are 11 State Parks (most only knew ten) located in the Florida Keys you can have tons of fun at. Each has its beauty and vast landscape. Getting some peace in any of these state parks is simple, but there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure, too.

Do you want to relax in the shade with a book? Or take a deep breath and experience an underwater theme park? With this comprehensive guide to the most incredible State Parks in the Florida Keys, you’ll be able to pack it all in.

Here are the 11 best State Parks in the Florida Keys that you definitely won’t want to miss.

11. Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park

Location: Key Largo | Entry Cost: $2.50 per person | Vibe: Tropical, woodsy, secluded

On County Road 905, about half a mile north of Mile Marker 106 on U.S. Highway 1, you’ll find Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park.

It boasts one of the most oversized West Indian tropical hardwood hammocks in the United States. It contains almost 6 miles of shaded and typically paved pathways accessible to bikes and wheelchair users.

This 2,500 acres State Park is home to 84 endangered species, and a self-guided nature walk has signage with information on the park’s habitat and species.

A short paved walking/biking track leads to the main public area of the habitat, where you can see breeding populations of Black-whiskered Vireos, Mangrove Cuckoos, and White-crowned Pigeons. During spring and fall migration, you can witness 20+ species of wood-warblers.

Look for Ruddy Daggerwings and Zebra Longwings fluttering through the hammocks if you’re interested in butterfly watching. There are some seriously gorgeous species of butterflies at this state park!

After getting a free backcountry pass, you can access an extra 4 miles of paved routes and off-trail options (at the neighboring John D. Pennekamp State Park). Brown-crested Flycatcher, La Sagra’s Flycatcher, Thick-billed Vireo, and Zenaida Dove are just a few of the rare species found here – you’ll see lots of wildlife if you choose to hike.

You will also find a picnic area and bathrooms on-site for additional convenience. We advise using insect protection and long sleeves and trousers since mosquitoes are prevalent here, especially during summer.

This is one of our favorite State Parks in the Florida Keys because it offers an exclusive up-close experience with nature but the hike isn’t too aggressive.

10. Bahia Honda State Park

Location: Big Pine Key | Entry Cost: $8 per vehicle | Vibe: Beachy, great for camping

Where else can you immerse yourself in nature while learning about the region’s rich history? Visitors to Bahia Honda State Park can participate in various activities. This award-winning beach, named by Spanish explorers centuries ago, is a draw for historical lovers and environmental enthusiasts alike as well as anyone who just wants to lay on the sand.

Sand and sea enthusiasts will delight at the 500-acre Bahia Honda State Park, which has powdery white beaches, crystal-clear seas, and awe-inspiring sunsets. You can have close-up views of vibrant coral and exotic fish when you snorkel or kayak here. To gain a bird’s eye perspective of the lake below, climb the century-old original trestle railroad construction.

There is also much history associated with the Bahia Honda Bridge because it was one of the most challenging to construct in the region. This bridge has had its fair share of difficulties, from dealing with uneven ground to being battered by big storms.

If you like, take a walk in the woods to see the local species and flowers. Alternatively, you can take the Overseas Highway to Big Pine Key, where you can dive and snorkel in some of the most excellent reefs in the Florida Keys.

To conclude the day, return to Bahia Honda and pull up a piece of the sand on the shore. Let yourself be lulled to sleep by one of South Florida’s most spectacular star-studded sky while you relax on the white-sand beaches.

No matter what time of year you visit, you’re guaranteed to have a good time with your family here. Bring sunscreen and sunglasses, and don’t forget your outerwear. You can choose between a cabin, an R.V. site with electricity and water, or a tent site at the park. Bahia Honda is a great place to relax and enjoy the warm weather all year round.

If you’re planning to visit any of the State Parks in the Florida Keys then I definitely recommend Bahia Honda. It’s just so beautiful and has the true “Keys” beachy vibe while offering a bunch of nature experiences.

9. Curry Hammock State Park

Location: Marathon | Entry Cost: $4.50 per person | Vibe: Undeveloped, lush forest

Are you in search of a unique experience? Curry Hammock State Park is a well-kept secret. This 1,000-acre park is the most significant uninhabited area between Big Pine Key and Key Largo set aside for preservation. Tourists seeking a genuinely “natural” experience in the Florida Keys love the park’s peaceful island environment and abundance of wildlife.

You can see mangrove tunnels, deep water lagoons, the open ocean, and grassland flats while hiking the nature route.

You can also explore vast Florida Keys mangrove wetlands, tropical hammocks, and seagrass beds, or get out on the water and try your hand at kayaking, paddleboarding, or even snorkeling. Set out a line and see what it takes.

Take flight like a kite if you want to take things a step further. Take to the water on a kite-powered board and enjoy the emerald green waters of Florida Bay. Kite-flying is also a great way to unwind at Curry Hammock, and is a tremendously popular pastime in this area.

The park also consists of a collection of islands in the Middle Keys, with public access to swimming, picnic tables, playground, grills, and showers on the ocean side of Little Crawl Key.

Each year, a 28-site campsite along the seashore is available from November 1 to May 31. A dump station and water and power connections are accessible to all campers at any campground’s 28 sites.

When planning a winter camping trip here, book early to avoid disappointment. It fills up quickly! This is definitely one of the more popular State Parks in the Florida Keys for campers who want to experience true untouched nature.

8. Indian Key Historic State Park

Location: Islamorada | Entry Cost: $2.50 per person | Vibe: Exclusive island living

Are you drawn to less-trodden paths? Indian Key Historic Park is at mile marker 78.5 off the coast of Islamorada. You can only reach this eight-acre island by boat, either hired or owned.

The Florida Keys shoreline, which has been the location of innumerable maritime tragedies throughout the years, gave rise to the profitable profession of cargo salvaging. In the early 1800s, Indian Key was crowned “Wrecker King” of the Florida Keys by Jacob Housman. However, the island’s prosperous civilization was destroyed by the catastrophic storm of 1935.

Indian Key, a fascinating ghost town, is defined with unsettling reminders of the community’s history. You’ll sense their presence as you traverse the streets and examine the remains of old structures. Learn about one of the most intriguing footnotes in Florida Keys history on a self-guided educational tour that culminates in an ascent to the observation tower.

Indulge in various water-based activities such as kayaking or swimming at this remote location. Fishing is also huge at this Florida Keys State Park.

Bonefish on the flats and Tarpon in the channels are just a few of the many species available to anglers. You can also catch Snook, Snapper, and Spanish Mackerel in the area.

Because of the nearby small grass flats, understanding the waterways is essential. Most flats can be traversed by kayaks or canoes, allowing visitors to witness a wide range of marine species, including dolphins, manatees, sharks, and rays. Robbie’s Marina and other nearby marinas hire out powerboats and kayaks to visitors.

You can snorkel at Indian Key, but all snorkeling must take place at least 100 feet away from the dock at all times. Remember that a diver down flag is a must for any snorkeling activities.

If you want to get that exclusive, private island vibe while still experience tropical nature, then this will be one of your favorite State Parks in the Florida Keys.

7. Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park

Location: Islamorada | Entry Cost: $2.50 per person | Vibe: Exclusive island living

Do you want to explore a remote island paradise? Take a stroll around Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park, a little-known jewel on the 11-acre island of Islamorada, and let your hair down. An old-growth hardwood hammock forest in the Florida Keys makes this state park a shelter for endangered flora and protected birds.

You can only get to Lignumvitae Key by boat or kayak. Fortunately, you can lease rental boats and kayaks from local merchants. It is home to a magnificent wind-powered house and Native American cultural sites.

When Miami chemist William J. Matheson purchased the island in 1919, he erected a caretaker’s house with a windmill for power and a rainwater cistern. His secret lair is now the island forest’s tourist center.

There are no ranger-guided tours available at this time. You can use a self-guided tour booklet to understand more about the house and the many elements scattered around its lawn.

Visit a unique Dade County Pine house built in the late 1800s or join a ranger-led trek to see stunning coral formations. It is an excellent place for photography, therefore don’t forget your camera while hiking in this woodland. Learn how to paddle a kayak to explore seagrass beds and twisting mangrove waterways.

This really is one of the more remote State Parks in the Florida Keys and is totally worth a visit if you’re feeling adventurous. It’s also a great day trip to take from any of the resorts in Islamorada.

6. Long Key State Park

Location: Long Key | Entry Cost: $4.50 per person | Vibe: A bit of everything

Where do you go when you want to experience the best of both worlds? In the vicinity of mile marker 67.5, head to Long Key State Park.

Long Key, once a retreat for the wealthy and famous, is now a peaceful haven for nature lovers and anybody else looking to unwind on the coastline and take in the view of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s definitely one of the most relaxing State Parks in the Florida Keys and is a great place to vacation.

Take a trip aboard a glass-bottom boat to see the underwater world close. Or, take advantage of the crystal-clear water and short depths to go snorkeling and see what’s under the surface. Explore a series of lagoons in a kayak or canoe by yourself.

Get out on the water and try your hand at some of the most incredible fishing the Florida Keys has to offer. There’s so much wildlife here!

Observation tower views of one of the most beautiful Florida Keys State Parks await those who make an effort to reach there. Hike the 1.1-mile Golden Orb Nature Trail to see the park’s diverse array of plants and animals. There are many places to see animals, including the nests of uncommon birds, so bring your binoculars with you.

Do you want to remain a little longer? Camping in Long Key State Park is a great way to spend the night beneath the stars.

You’ll find 60 full-service campsites that face out over the Atlantic Ocean at the Park. In addition to the standard amenities like a picnic table and ground grill, every campground has access to running water and electricity.

There are three bathrooms in the middle of the park with hot showers. Up to eleven months in advance, you can reserve a room. Because these locations fill up rapidly, it’s essential to prepare ahead of time.

5. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

Location: Key West | Entry Cost: $6 per vehicle | Vibe: Beachy and historical

Do you like to learn about the past while also taking in the natural beauty of a place? Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is a great place to spend some time outdoors. The park is located on the southern tip of Key West and has one of the most popular beaches in the area.

This is definitely one of the most popular State Parks in the Florida Keys, mainly because it’s located in Key West and has one of the best beaches on the island. But there’s a ton of history here, too.

Historic Fort Taylor dates from before the American Civil War and is home to the world’s most outstanding collection of Civil War armament. Aside from its historical importance, the park also serves as the southernmost State Park in the United States.

Fort Zachary Taylor’s red-brick passageways, past cannon and gun ports, bring history to life in a way that pictures and literature can’t capture. Visitors can learn about the fort’s crucial involvement in both the Civil and Spanish-American Wars through tour guides and interpretative panels on display. On the third weekend of every month, local re-enactors bring history to life by staging historical re-enactments.

The beach at Fort Zachary Taylor is often regarded as the loveliest region. It’s rocky, so you’ll need water shoes that are either useful or required, but it’s still one of the best beaches in Key West (an island that isn’t known for beaches).

On the other hand, the water is a beautiful Caribbean blue, blending Gulf and Atlantic water. There are some beaches in Key West where the water is murky and sluggish.

The rough bottom and rock formations off the coast of Fort Zachary Taylor attract various tropical species, making it an excellent location for beach snorkeling. Because snorkeling requires swimming into water that is too deep to stand in, life preservers are an absolute need for young snorkelers. And the water can get rough depending on the day, so you’ll want to research ahead of time.

There are picnic tables on the beach in the shade of Australian trees. Locals in the Keys pleaded to maintain this exotic tree species, and tourists are grateful for its benefits.

As one of the top State Parks in Key West, the fort is totally worth a visit.

4. Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park

Location: Islamorada | Entry Cost: $2.50 per person | Vibe: Historical, scientific

Have you ever wondered what all the fuss is about concerning coral? Do you have a thing for prehistoric artifacts? The Florida Keys, one of the world’s most fascinating coastal environments, is revealed in all its mystery at Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park.

On Windley Key, just north of Islamorada, you’ll find this Florida Keys State Park at Mile Marker 84.9.

Quick tip: Poisonwood, a frequent Florida poisonous tree, may be found in the tropical forest, therefore stay on the paths that have been well designated.

After the railroad was finished, the quarry made the beautiful and unique ornamental stone known as Keystone for more than half a century. Historic quarry walls are now open to the public, allowing tourists a glimpse into Florida’s 20th-century past as they stroll along 8-foot-high walls to see cross-sections of the old coral. At the park, you can see examples of quarry equipment and can learn exactly how it is used.

Self-guided tours of the island’s five short trails are an excellent way for visitors to take in its natural splendor. There are also picnic tables on hand.

Mosquito repellant is a must if you plan on spending time outside. During specific periods of the year, you may come across substantial golden digger wasps on the park trails, so make sure to follow the signage.

3. San Pedro Underwater Archaeological Preserve State Park

Location: Islamorada | Entry Cost: None | Vibe: Underwater

Are you up for some serious detective work? The San Pedro Underwater Archaeological Preserve State Park is an excellent place for snorkeling or scuba diving. The San Pedro, a 287-ton Dutch-built ship that drowned in Hawk Channel about 300 years ago, was part of a Spanish “treasure fleet.”

San Pedro is now reduced to a 90-foot-long and 30-foot-wide mound of ballast stones after massive salvage activities in the 1960s. Seven replica guns, an anchor, and a plaque have been added to the submerged site.

You can explore the ship’s surviving ballast stones, replica guns, and anchors by snorkeling or scuba diving. Examine the soft and hard coral growth on the ship’s wreckage up close. The abundance of fish (about 65 different species), crustaceans, and other marine life made this structure their home mesmerized.

The only way to get to this State Park is via boat, which is relatively unusual among Florida Keys State Parks. The location is situated a little over a mile offshore, south of Indian Key.

Those who don’t want to get their feet wet can still enjoy the area’s natural beauty by taking a glass-bottom boat excursion. While this Florida Keys State Park is underwater, we totally think it’s worth a visit whether or not you intend to swim because the water is just gorgeous.

2. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

Location: Key Largo | Entry Cost: $8 per vehicle | Vibe: Aquatic

When it comes to aquatic life, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is a genuine goldmine for those who seek it out. You can find the Key Largo Dry Rocks, the only living coral reef on the mainland of the United States, inside this 70-nautical mile underwater park. Snorkeling and scuba diving allow you to get a closer look at the park’s vibrant coral reefs and rich aquatic life.

Take a boat trip with a glass bottom to see this unique ecology, or take a dip in the ocean and see for yourself. Swim through an exotic underwater rainforest to get to the park’s centerpiece: Christ of the Deep, a bronze figure sculpted to celebrate the world under the seas.

Recreational canoeing and kayaking are popular, and fishing is allowed in specified portions of the park’s waterways.

Short hikes through tropical hammocks, picnics, and swimming at the beach are also available to visitors. Several big saltwater tanks house a variety of aquatic life, and in the theater, nature documentaries are screened regularly. There are also full-facility and youth/group camping options.

We love the affordable costs, experienced tour guides, and snorkeling experience, although the beaches might have foul-smelling seaweed depending on the present circumstances. But still, this is altogether one of our favorite State Parks in the Florida Keys because you can learn a ton while still having that vacation vibe.

1. Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail

Location: Key Largo | Entry Cost: None | Vibe: Biking/walking paths

Even if you’ve been to the Keys, you may not know about this Florida Keys State Park. The 106-mile Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail (FKOHT) includes more than 90 miles of current paved trail. The Overseas Highway from Key Largo to Key West goes through this park, which offers a lovely cycling track.

A highlight of this path, even if you don’t bring a bicycle, is the network of bike and pedestrian bridges that span the Florida Keys. Take a stroll over one of these unique bridges and enjoy the numerous tones of blue.

For the Florida Keys, the FKOHT is a multi-use bicycle and pedestrian facility that acts as a recreational and alternative transportation route. Incorporating 23 of the historic Flagler Railroad bridges, this recreational pathway provides a magnificent venue for hiking, jogging, biking, skating, sightseeing, fishing, and paddling.

The ten State Parks above, Everglades National Park, Key Deer National Wildlife Refuge, Biscayne National Park, Great White Heron National Wildlife Refuge, and Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge, are all accessible by this path. It kind of connects all of the State Parks in the Florida Keys together, which I think is so cool.

Visit Florida Keys’ State Parks: Here Are Some Insider Tips!

• Trails and viewing points are available for disabled visitors in most state parks in the Florida Keys.  Prepare for your visit by checking out the State Park websites to learn about the facilities and concessions available at each location.
• Take your time if you’re going to be exploring the backcountry paths and hammocks. Learn about the animals and plants by reading and listening to the signs. You can take them a picture and explore the parks with your best “green” knowledge.
• Have lunch in a fabulous, shaded location. There are plenty of beautiful spots in every park.
• Prepare what you need. A camera is a must, but you’ll also want to carry a lot of water, snacks, energy bars, and insect spray.
• Taking a nature walk is an excellent way when you’re seeking something other than the usual tourist sites, beaches, and nightlife. Get away from the modern world for a while and recharge your batteries!

There you have it! These State Parks in the Florida Keys have a wide range of activities, from sunbathing on the sand to exploring the coral reef in the United States. Discovering the fascinating history of the Florida Keys while strolling through the wonders of nature is only one of many reasons why these State Parks are so amazing.

Hopefully, this list of amazing State Parks in the Florida Keys can help you plan your journey. Enjoy!

Colorado Springs is famed for its natural beauty. It’s closer to the mountains and has interesting natural features like the Cave of the Winds. All year round, you as a hiker can enjoy its many trails.

We’ll tell you about the hike’s difficulty, distance in miles, elevation gain, highlights, and how to get to the trailhead for each Colorado Springs hike.

The hikes are for everyone, from relaxing strolls under towering rock formations to strenuous treks, so feel free to take your pick!

Are These Hikes In Colorado Springs Safe?

Overall, hikes in Colorado Springs are very safe, provided you exercise caution. However, there are inherent hazards that you must be aware of before you hike.

Also, be cautious of the elevation. Take it gently and inhale with depth if you haven’t adapted to the thinner air at higher elevations. Some of these hikes are insanely high.

The Best Hikes in Colorado Springs

Here are the top hikes in Colorado Springs right now!

15. Midland Trail

The Midland Trail is a beautiful level stroll along the historic Midland Railroad. Though named a bike path, it is ideal for trekking as well. Some railroad remnants and great views of the west peaks await you. It’s a stunning desert landscape, and hiking with kids is also possible.

You can hike the Midland Trail for many miles if desired. Or travel the 5-mile circle #1450A to 376A and back to CR304.

The road splits nearly immediately, stay right heading up. The road continues to climb in elevation for 1.1 miles to a sign that says “Big Sandy Way.” On your right is the Midland Trail. The Midland Trail and Fourmile Area are both accessible from here.

There are no amenities at the trailhead or along the way.

14. Manitou Incline

The Manitou Incline rises over 2,000 feet in a mile. It is the country’s most distinctive and most challenging trail, drawing runners, soldiers, Olympic competitors, and hikers from all around. It is considered an intense trail and is a difficult hike. Although challenging for the faint of heart, it has been overcome by persons from all walks of life.

The trek is strenuous and only for experienced hikers. The Manitou Incline is not ADA-accessible. If you have a medical emergency on the route, be aware that it may take 3-4 hours for help to arrive.

You’ll reach the top after a 2,000-foot trek. It then links to Barr Trail for a 3-mile steep yet spectacular descent.

13. The Paint Mines Trail

About 1 hour and 30 minutes south of Denver and 45 minutes east of Colorado Springs, the Paint Mines route offers hikers an easy 3.7-mile circle through badlands terrain of gorgeous rainbow sandstone and hoodoo rocks.

Despite its remote location in the Colorado plains, the park is well-known and weekends can be crowded. Around 40 cars can park at Paint Mines. Also, the trailhead parking lot has restrooms, but you won’t want to miss this one as The Paint Mines are considered one of the best hikes in Colorado Springs.

Paint Mines Route is a regularly used circular trail that boasts magnificent wildflowers. The park’s varied natural system draws coyotes, mule deer, horned toads, songbirds, falcons, rabbits, and hawks.

12. Seven Bridges

The trailhead is 0.7 miles from the Upper Gold Camp parking lot on the right side of the Gold Camp Road. This popular 3.7-mile trail has seven bridges along the way. There is minimal shade at first, but you will get into some shaded sections along the way. If you plan to hike in the summer, you should go early to avoid the heat and congestion.

As you make your way through the valley on unpaved and Lannon stone trails, Lannon stone stairs, and many footbridges, you’ll find the wonders of nature that will amaze you.

Nature has a field of spring wildflowers, the sounds of migrating birds, beautiful autumn color, and the pleasant sound of water trickling in a creek. If you choose to hike the Seven Bridges you’ll find yourself passing by giant trees, native beeches, plenty of streams, quiet regions, and experience everything you might want while hiking in Colorado Springs.

11. Catamount Trail

The Catamount Trail is a quick 3-mile loop less than a half-hour outside of Colorado Springs, CO. You’ll find at least 3 waterfalls and several creeks along the way.

If you choose to hike the Catamount Trail, prepare for at least 1-2 hours as this hike starts at an elevation of over 7700 ft. Hikers and pets can enjoy this moderately challenging trail, and be sure to explore the beautiful Gazebo Lake near the trailhead.

With several segments to this hike, you’ll stumble upon the Thomas Trail full of colorful wildflowers in the spring and summer that you can also visit. Begin near Green Mountain Falls, west of Colorado Springs, and conclude at South Catamount Reservoir, on Pikes Peak’s north side, to get here. Two viewpoints provide marvelous views of the valley below.

There are lots of picnic tables and facilities near South Catamount Reservoir, however, there is no parking available at the trailhead.

10. Mt. Herman Trail

Mt. Herman is located between Denver and Colorado Springs in the Rampart Range in the Front Range. It overlooks the Palmer Divide, a 7,000-foot hill that functions as a storm barrier across Denver and Colorado Springs. On a clear day, the summit offers views of Pikes Peak to the south, Longs Peak to the north, and the Colorado Springs and Denver skylines.

The most straightforward route is a Class 1 trail from Mt. Herman Road. It is a 2-mile round trip track with a 1,000-foot elevation gain. On a good weekend, the peak gets a few visitors.

You can hike the trail all year except for excessive snowfall. Mountain Herman Road may be obstructed in the winter, making the trip longer. Waterproof shoes may be more comfortable on some trails in the winter and spring season.

9. Tunnel Drive

Canon City includes a unique route for family, animal observation, and enjoying the Royal Gorge landscape. Tunnel Drive, a 2-mile level walk down an abandoned railroad track, gives a birds-ey perspective of the Arkansas River, breathtaking canyon, and other spectacular sceneries.

There are three granite-blasted tunnels on this crushed gravel route downstream of the Royal Gorge. To describe the trail’s flawless surface, the rock around it is 1.7 billion years old, with pink and white granite ribbons running through it.

Tunnel Drive offers a glimpse of Royal Gorge without the crowd. Turn south off Highway 50 into Tunnel Road near the power station on Cañon City’s western side to get into the road. Then continue straight for approximately a half-mile until you reach a yellow gate marking the start of the trail.

The trail begins with a 5-minute hard paved uphill, but after this, you will have a smooth walk from here. Make sure to take a photo of the two small tunnels located at the start of the trail; they are stunning to witness!

One last quick note about the terrain, Tunnel Drive has compacted soil and several wooden bridges so that any stroller can go around it. Make sure to bring your whole family.

8. Mt. Cutler

Mt. Cutler in Colorado Springs is a 1-mile trek to the top of a foothill mountain that overlooks Seven Falls and the Cheyenne Canyon system due to its short distance and little elevation gain.

The Mt. Culter route starts at the blue trailhead sign and ascends gently through pine forests. The trail eventually opens up to a flat region where red rock formations are thrust into a bland environment.

Like Red Rocks Canyon near Colorado Springs, these orange-red granite fins are remnants of a 14,000-foot-deep structure that stretches nearly the entire border of Colorado.

The last stretch to Mt. Cutler boasts picturesque scenery to the south and north. From Mt. Cutler’s summit, head north for views of the foothills and canyon and south for glimpses of the Colorado plains.

To return, retrace your steps down the same route you came up with.

7. Aspen Trail

The Aspen Trail in Mueller State Park is a 2.5-mile looping route that links to the School Pond trail for a 3-mile round trip. This track is famous in the autumn because of the vibrant aspen forests. It has a partial shade but is generally exposed.

School Pond trailhead parking is on your left as you enter the park. It’s ideal for hiking in the summer or autumn when the trails aren’t muddy or snowy. An all-terrain stroller might handle some of the steeper inclines.

You can typically trek left to a vast aspen grove for a food stop. There are also restrooms available for use in the tourist center.

The trail is not ADA compliant, and pets are not permitted.

6. The Crags Trail

The Crags Trail leads hikers to the stunning granite pinnacles on Pikes Peak’s shoulders for vistas of snowcapped summits. The Crags, a family-friendly 5-mile trek along a stream, showcases June wildflowers in alpine meadows.

Drive I25 and HWY 24 to the Crags from Denver, or take 67 via the foothills for a scenic trip.

The Craigs will be your favorite trek while hiking in Colorado Springs Pikes Peak Region since it is simple, diverse in terrain, and provides excellent views. It begins at the Crags Campground loop and follows Fourmile Creek’s drainage. The left-side branch is more complicated, has a more significant elevation increase, and has less shade.

The right branch is more gradual and gives more shade than the left. You can scramble the left and right components together to make a looping path. Scrambling is entertaining, but it may also put you in risky situations. Snow and ice may gather from October to June on this road, so proceed carefully if you choose to hike this one in the winter.

A broad valley encircled by orange and pink granite cliffs awaits those who take the right branch of the Fourmile Creek Trail. During the summer, these meadows blossom with wildflowers, including Indian Paintbrush. Indian Paintbrush has orange, red, and even yellow varieties in Colorado.

5. Intemann Trail

Intemann Trail is a famous 5-mile track for hikers and mountain bikers. It links Manitou Springs to Section 16, Bear Creek Regional Park, and Colorado Springs trails.

It offers views of Garden of the Gods, Manitou Springs, and Red Rock Open Space.

The Intemann Trail now passes through the newly constructed Iron Mountain Open Space. So the Manitou Springs trails and the western Colorado Springs trails are officially connected!

From the Palmer or  Section 16 trailhead in Colorado Springs, go west for about a mile until you reach the Intemann Trail. The pathway takes across meadows to rolling woodlands.

Continue down the route to Crystal Park Road, where a quiet stream awaits you to relax and enjoy the sound of rushing water.

Cross Crystal Park Road and the route rise sharply on the opposite side. Following an ancient dirt road around Iron Mountain, it rejoins an easy trail outside the south of Manitou Springs.

4. Fountain Creek Regional Trail

Fountain Creek Regional Trail connects Pikes Peak Greenway Trail and Fountain Creek Regional Park for almost 11-miles of scenic hiking. The path itself attracts bicyclists, hikers, joggers, and casual walkers as the majority of the trek is smooth & flat.

The route runs from El Pomar Youth Sports Complex to Fountain Creek Regional Area – a 460-acre wetlands park with vistas of undulating meadows and Pikes Peak.

Willow Springs Ponds and Duckwood Athletic Fields trailheads are located at 2010 Duckwood Road in Fountain. The neighborhood has been prone to flood due to its closeness to wetlands. So don’t forget to check the weather forecast before hiking out into nature.

3. Austin Bluffs Open Space

Austin Bluffs Open Space is one of Colorado Springs’ most unusual and underused parks. It has a complex geological history and beautiful scenery. It is not too crowded, and the breathtaking views will make this one of your favorite hikes in the Springs.

The Open Space has a small lake, geological structures, various multi-use trails, and native wildflowers. In addition to University Park Open Space, Austin Bluffs Park is a 584-acre property containing Pulpit Rock Park.

Many routes go to the summit of Pulpit Rock, with amazing views of Pikes Peak and the Rocky Mountains.

There are four primary multi-use trails you have here for hiking, jogging, biking, and exploring. We recommend them all, however, these few are our favorites:

Pulpit Rock Peak Loop

The first trail is the 2.4-mile Pulpit Rock Peak Loop, a moderately strenuous trek. The trailhead starts at the Pulpit Rock Parking lot on North Nevada Avenue and proceeds south in a giant circle.

At 6,621 feet, Pulpit Rock offers spectacular views of Pikes Peak and the surrounding city!

The trail is best when you visit it between April and September for fantastic weather and stunning views.

Pulpit Rock Via Wittenberg

The 2.8-mile out-and-back Pulpit Rock through the Wittenberg route is another local favorite.

The trail is somewhat challenging in places. It begins in a community near Wittenberg Court and finishes in Pulpit Rock (see above).

Then it’s a straightforward route pack back to the trailhead. Parking is free in the neighborhood and nearby areas.

No markers on the trail, so use the trail map for directions.

This route can be rugged and challenging in sections, mainly for a snowy or muddy trek.

Angry Squirrel and South Hill Loop

The Angry Squirrel and South Hill Loop are both beautiful trails! This 2.6-mile route is situated in the Open Space’s southeast corner.

It offers an entirely different perspective on the city and mountains than the previous two trails.

Stop at Rocky Overlook for photographs and panoramic views of the west highlands.

In the nearby neighborhood, parking might be difficult due to restricted space. However, the roundabout between Rockhurst Blvd and Whistler Point has plenty of free parking spaces.

It is best to visit it from May through October and is excellent for all ages.

Austin Bluffs Main and Pulpit Ridge Trail

The Austin Bluffs Main and Pulpit Ridge Path is the last hiking trail in this park.

A lake and stunning vistas await you on this little-known trail. It spans from the Austin Bluffs Open Space to the summit of Pulpit Rock. The route is simple at first but becomes challenging around Pulpit Rock.

2. Royal Gorge Bridge and Park

The Royal Gorge is a must-see in Colorado. The Royal Gorge, cut by the Arkansas River, is an hour away from Colorado Springs. Hiking is an excellent way to exercise and explore the canyon and Royal Gorge Bridge. On the Royal Gorge, Bridge and Park’s nearly 20 miles of hiking trails are some of the region’s best.

At this popular Canon City tourist destination, you can walk down the gorge’s paved trails and enjoy views of the bridge. You can even stroll over the Royal Gorge Bridge, the country’s tallest suspension bridge at 956 feet above the Arkansas River!

Here are the top trails with the most excellent views near the bridge to help you select one that you like.

Overlook Trail

The 1-mile Overlook Trail gives impressive views of the Royal Gorge and the bridge while getting you near the gorge’s border. Take in the magnificent landscape with solid winds and tremendous wows! To avoid the Overlook Loop, use the Rock Hardy Trail, which entails climbing down and back up an 85-foot valley.

Canyon Rim and FAR Out Trails

For a longer hike, take the Canyon Rim Trail toward FAR Out for 1 mile, then the Canon Vista Trail back for a 3-mile trek. Don’t miss the short detour up the Le View Trail to the viewpoint for the most incredible views of the gorge and bridge.

Bring your camera to capture great shots, but don’t go too near to the edge!

Summit Trail

Anyone willing to go to Fremont Peak will be rewarded with spectacular 360-degree perspectives of central Colorado and the Rocky Mountains. Take the FAR Out Trail south from the Canon Vista Trail to the Summit Trail and continue it up the hill. This route is 2.6 miles long and 300 feet tall.

At 7,107 feet, Fremont Peak offers sweeping views of the rocky environment.

1. Garden of the Gods Park

Garden of the Gods is debatably one of the most fabulous hikes in Colorado Springs. The park’s towering red sandstone structures and panoramic vistas of Pikes Peak have earned it a National Natural Landmark rating.

Garden of the Gods stands out even after trekking in Rocky Mountain and Great Sand Dunes National Parks. Everyone can enjoy the Garden of the Gods, whether new parents with strollers or trail runners. The Garden of the Gods’ small size and easy access make it a destination for everyone.

Before trekking through Garden of the Gods, drop by the Visitor Center at Gateway Rd and North 30th St. and start picking up color hiking trail maps here. It’s also worth exploring the Visitor Center. Some exhibits describe the park’s history, both modern and old.

This Garden of the Gods hiking guide covers six distinct hiking trails ranging from 0.5 to 2.5 miles. Here are some of our favorites:

Siamese Twins Trail

One of Garden of the Gods’ most renowned hiking trails is located near the park’s southwest gate. The hike offers spectacular views of Pikes Peak and the Siamese Twins rock feature. The Siamese Twins route is a quick 1-mile long trek, yet it provides some of the park’s most stunning vistas.

Due to its off-the-beaten-path location, the Siamese Twins Trail is less busy than other Garden of the Gods’ trails. P14 is the most acceptable parking lot for this trek.

This trail gains 100 feet in elevation. On a bright day, the Siamese Twins formation frames Pikes Peak nicely. You won’t want to miss it!

Perkins Central Garden Trail

Compared to the Siamese Twin Trail, Perkins Central Garden Trail is somewhat longer at 1.5 miles but has less elevation gain. Onboard, you’ll have an unrivaled view of the world’s most remarkable rock formations.

It is also the most popular Garden of the Gods’ trail. The trail connects the Kissing Camels on North Gateway Rock to the Cathedral Spires between North and South Gateway Rock. The loop is flat and straightforward.

It’s a nice walk for families with young children or anybody searching for quiet tracks for strollers or wheelchairs.

Palmer Trail

The Palmer Trail is a lengthy Garden of the Gods hike, and the rocky route leads from the Main Parking Lot to the center of the Siamese Twins hiking trail.

It passes the Giant Footprints and ends with the Siamese Twins. The trail winds around the park’s perimeter, offering excellent views of Gateway Rock. You can also take a walk around the park’s gorgeous vegetation.

The Ridge Trail

The half-mile Ridge Trail is ideal for hikers seeking a more strenuous Garden of the Gods’ trail. It is just 100 feet high, where you can start from the South Garden Parking Lot (P10) and proceed towards the Sleeping Giant.

This one is quite difficult yet short (only half a mile round-trip).

The Scotsman and Buckskin Charlie Loops

These two loops are located south of the Central Valley. Start from the main lot and take up the Scotsman track at the valley’s southern end. The parking lot is modest and likely to be crowded most days throughout the summer.

The Scotsman Loop is 1.1 miles long. Following social routes east from the Scotsman Picnic Ground, the Scotsman dips south, then winds northeast before returning to the parking lot. Bring your trail map or use your phone’s map to navigate.

You can find the Buckskin Charlie Trail on the Scotsman’s southern bends. The trail loops around and rejoins the Scotsman at the Scotsman Picnic Area then continues north along the Juniper Way. You may add the Buckskin Charlie Trail to double your trek.

The Balanced Rock Loop Hike

The Balanced Rock Trail is called because it is near Balanced Rock, not because it leads there. Visitors approaching the park from the south will first see Balanced Rock, then the Trading Post.

A connector route runs straight north from the parking lot, crosses the road, and joins the Balanced Rock Loop trail. The way follows Garden road counterclockwise, then heads north to meet another portion of the road.

To continue the Cabin Canyon Trail, hikers should cross the road (look for automobiles and bicycles). The Cabin Canyon Trail leads south to a crosswalk where you can rejoin the Balanced Rock Trail and return to the parking lot.

What You Should Know Before Visiting Colorado Springs’ Top Hikes:

Colorado Springs Dangers: Colorado Springs is a lovely city in the Rocky Mountains. Despite its picturesque setting, the city and its surroundings can be dangerous.

Sickness at High Altitude: Colorado Springs is above 6,000 feet. A lack of mountain experience may cause altitude sickness in folks who haven’t been there before. Symptoms include dizziness, migraines, and exhaustion.

Weather: Prepare yourself for snow if you come during the winter. Check the forecast and weather in Colorado Springs before you go. Weather-adjusted driving continues, particularly during rush hour. When traveling in the highlands, ensure your vehicle is suited to manage ice.

Scary Hikes: Garden of the Gods is a renowned hiking destination in Colorado Springs for tourists from all over the globe. Keep an eye out for animals and fallen rocks in this region and others surrounding town. Caution is advised while dealing with wild animals such as rattlesnakes, bears, and mountain lions. Also, you should not forget to pack water, a map, a phone, and food for all hikes.

This list of the top Rocky Mountain hikes can help you plan your adventure. With almost enough trails to fill up your whole year, these are some excellent places to start!