Colorado’s Best Sunset Hiking Trails for Nature Enthusiasts

Sunset is one of nature’s most beautiful works of art, but it gets even better when you can watch it from somewhere with an iconic view. A hike through Colorado is already overflowing with natural beauty and wonder—adding a sunset to the mix creates a gorgeous experience unlike any other. As you plan your next outdoor adventure, try to time your trip so you can watch the sun go down at one of Colorado’s best sunset hiking trails for nature enthusiasts.

Longs Peak

As the northernmost 14er and one of Colorado’s most iconic mountains, Longs Peak is a stunning sight at any time of day. The peak itself is home to 15 trail routes that take you up the mountain, but if you want an incredible view of the sunset, head to the hiking trails in Rocky Mountain National Park.

As day fades away into night, the sky turns golden behind the dark blue silhouette of Longs Peak. It’s a magical sight offering some of the best sunset photography in the country, but you can also just sit back and enjoy a quiet moment with the glorious view.

Pawnee National Grassland

The mountains aren’t the only place to watch a spectacular sunset. Pawnee National Grassland is a gorgeous preservation of Colorado’s natural prairies, which means it boasts a wide open sky that fills with brilliant golds, pinks, and purples as the sun goes down.

Much of the grassland is open to the public, but for hikers, the main draw is the Pawnee Buttes. This pair of iconic mesas stands out among the rest of the mostly flat landscape, making them a fun place to explore and the perfect spot for an iconic sunset viewing experience.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison

Black Canyon of the Gunnison is also home to some of Colorado’s best sunset hiking trails for nature enthusiasts. If you hike to the rim of the canyon before the sun sets, you’ll be treated to a striking sight. The vividly painted sky creates a satisfying contrast with the deep, imposing shadows of the canyon’s steep cliffs. It’s a magical moment to witness—one that serves as the perfect end to a day of exploring the canyon.

Garden of the Gods

Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs is a popular hiking spot because of its well-maintained paths and its beautiful and bizarre rock formations. But if you want to see the sun setting—casting a glow over the red rocks as night spreads over Colorado—then hit the Palmer Trail. This two-and-a-half-mile loop takes you by some of the park’s most iconic rock formations while also offering fantastic views of the mountains as the sun sets behind them.

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