The best walks and hikes around Alma
4.5
(12)
605
hikers
23
hikes
Hiking around Alma, Colorado, provides access to high-elevation trails within the rugged Rocky Mountains. The region is characterized by towering peaks, alpine lakes, and dramatic elevation changes, with many routes leading into the Pike National Forest. Hikers can explore the Mosquito Range, known for its 19th-century mines and heritage sites, or challenge themselves on several 14ers. This high-altitude terrain offers a unique outdoor experience with panoramic views.
Best hiking trails around Alma
- The most popular hiking route is The DeCaLiBron…
Last updated: April 27, 2026
6
hikers
3.22km
01:39
610m
0m
Embark on the Mount Democrat Trail, a moderate hiking route that immediately takes you above the treeline into vast alpine tundra. You'll experience expansive, panoramic views from the start, beginning…
27.5km
08:20
890m
920m
Hike the difficult 17.1-mile Mosquito Pass Road for stunning high-alpine views, historic mines, and a challenging Rocky Mountain adventure.
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5.16km
01:27
120m
90m
Explore the easy 3.2-mile Beaver Creek Snowshoeing Loop in Pike National Forest, offering scenic views and diverse winter terrain.
6.47km
02:01
410m
0m
Hike the Bristlecone Pines OHV Trail, a moderate 4.0-mile route through ancient trees in Pike National Forest.
4.0
(2)
218
hikers
12.1km
04:57
950m
950m
Hike the challenging DeCaLiBron Loop in Pike National Forest, summiting multiple 14,000-foot peaks with panoramic views.
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Popular around Alma
Tips from the Community
This is a great trail for all skill levels and can be combined with other nearby trails for a longer ride. As you follow the path, you'll venture through wooded areas, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains along the way.
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Mount Bross is a 14,178 foot mountain making up the final peak in the DeCaLiBron loop (when done clockwise). This mountain has lots of mines and mining claims associated with it, which leads to the private property issues often faced in the area. Coming down off of Bross is chossy and can be safer to hike at times. Get ready to surf some scree. The mountain is notorious for having limited and restricted access since the actual summit lies on private property. In fact, the entirety of the DeCaLiBron loop is sometimes restricted/closed to the public.
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Mount Democrat is a very popular mountain summit in the Mosquito Range. Its peak rests at 14,155 feet, and it's a relatively short trek from the upper parking lot (situated over 12,000 feet) to the top. Hiking is a must on the way up, but if you are good at jogging on scree, you can do some running on the ridge between the peaks. Mount Democrat serves as the first 14er in the DeCaLiBron loop when being completed in the clockwise direction. Because there is a lot of private property on the DeCaLiBron loop, all four peaks (including Democrat) are subject to closure by the private landowners.
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Mount Cameron is a 14,238 foot peak on the ridge linking Mount Democrat to Mount Lincoln. It is an official Colorado 14er and offers expansive views of the DeCaLiBron peaks.
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Mount Lincoln is another one of the 14ers making up the DeCaLiBron loop. It stands at 14,293 feet and has incredible head-on view of two different mountain ranges: the Tenmile Range to the north and the Mosquito Range to the south.
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London Mountain is 13,194 feet and is mainly climbed by peak baggers checking 13,000 foot peaks off their list. There are a number of ways to summit the peak, but by far the most common route choice is following this west ridge to the summit. It is basically a rocky class 2 scramble all the way to the top, meaning there isn't a lot of real "running" going on.
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Mosquito Pass (sandwiched between Mosquito Peak and Mount Evans "B") sits at 13,185 feet atop an old mining road. This is the turn-around point for the famous Leadville Marathon and is the highest point out of all of their races. The pass separates the towns of Alma and Leadville and requires some real clearance and 4wd abilities to reach via car. The high mountain pass offers access to some of the nearby peaks and views of the Sawatch, Mosquito, and Tenmile Ranges.
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Diamond and Mountain Lake are actually two reservoirs that provide water to the town of Leadville. This road junction with the Birds Eye Gulch Jeep Road offers great views down the valley. The basin gets a lot of water, and there can be acres of wildflowers up here sometimes. Being mining country, the roads out here aren't crazy steep (sometimes they are), but they are usually super rocky. Most all of the roads are runnable, but keep your eyes on your feet.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes near Alma?
Yes, the area offers several easier options suitable for families. A great choice is the Hoosier Pass loop, a relatively short 2.8-mile (4.5 km) trail that provides stunning high-alpine scenery without a major climb. It's a fantastic way to experience the mountain environment with less effort.
What are some good moderate hikes in the area?
For a rewarding challenge that isn't overly strenuous, consider the hike to Wheeler Lake — Pike National Forest. This 6.5-mile (10.4 km) trail leads you into a beautiful alpine lake basin, offering classic Colorado mountain scenery. It's a popular choice for those looking to step up from an easy walk.
I'm looking for a challenging hike to a summit. What do you recommend?
If you're seeking a tough but rewarding summit, the trail to Mount Democrat from Kite Late — Pike National Forest is an excellent option. This route involves a significant elevation gain over a relatively short distance, taking you to the top of a '14er' for incredible panoramic views.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails around Alma?
Many trails in the Pike National Forest surrounding Alma are dog-friendly, but they must be kept on a leash. The high altitude and rocky terrain can be tough on paws, so ensure your dog is conditioned for the environment. Always carry extra water for your pet and be prepared to clean up after them.
Where can I park for hikes near Alma?
Most trailheads have designated parking areas, but they can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. For several popular high-altitude hikes, the Kite Lake Trailhead serves as a primary starting point. It's recommended to arrive early to secure a spot. Some trailheads may require a fee.
What is the best time of year to hike around Alma?
The prime hiking season is from late June to September. During this period, the trails are typically free of snow, and the weather is most favorable. Be aware that afternoon thunderstorms are common in the summer, so it's best to start your hikes early in the morning to be off the summits by noon.
Are there any hikes with waterfalls near Alma?
While the Alma region is better known for its high-altitude peaks and alpine lakes, you can find waterfalls on some trails. For example, the McCullough Gulch Trail, located a short drive away near Breckenridge, is famous for its series of beautiful cascades and waterfalls.
How many hiking trails are available around Alma?
There are over 15 designated hiking routes immediately surrounding Alma. These range from short, easy loops to difficult multi-peak ascents, all set within the stunning high-elevation landscape of the Pike National Forest.
What do other hikers think of the trails in Alma?
The trails around Alma are highly regarded by the komoot community, earning an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the breathtaking high-alpine views, the challenging ascents, and the accessibility to multiple '14er' peaks.
What kind of gear do I need for hiking in Alma?
Due to the high altitude and rapidly changing weather, proper gear is essential. You should always carry layers of clothing, including a waterproof jacket, sturdy hiking boots, a hat, and gloves. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and plenty of water are also critical, as the sun is very strong above the treeline. For more challenging routes, trekking poles are highly recommended.
Can I go winter hiking near Alma?
Yes, winter hiking and snowshoeing are possible, but they require specific skills and equipment. Trails like the Mount Lincoln — Pike National Forest route become serious winter mountaineering objectives. You will need snowshoes or microspikes, avalanche safety gear (beacon, shovel, probe), and the knowledge to use them. Always check avalanche forecasts before heading out.
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