Chief Mountain: An Outstanding 11,000 Foot Peak Near Denver

When friends visit and want to experience the high peaks of Colorado without committing to a grueling all-day trek, Chief Mountain is always one of my top recommendations. This moderate hike offers stunning panoramic views, a taste of alpine terrain, and an accessible trailhead—all without the crazy crowds of the more well-known peaks. Whether you’re looking for a quick adventure, a high-elevation training hike, or just an excuse to soak in some mountain air, Chief Mountain delivers.

Trail Info

Trailhead Name	Chief Mountain Trail
Distance	3 miles / 4.8 km (out and back)
Estimated time	1.5-3 hours
Elevation gain	1,000 ft / 300 m
Highest point	11,713 ft / 3,570 m (Chief Mountain)
Permits / fees	None
Parking	Along shoulder (make sure car is *fully clear of highway line* or you could get cited)
Toilets?	No
Dog friendly?	Yes

Know before you go

Elevation is a factor on this hike. The hike starts just under 11,000 feet (3,300 meters)—already quite high—so the moderate ascent may feel more challenging than expected. If you’re sensitive to altitude, give yourself time to acclimate before starting, and take breaks as needed
Watch for bikers on the drive up in summer time. Many cyclists ride up to the 14er Mount Blue Sky (yes people in CO are insane). That means you will be sharing the winding at times, narrow road on the drive. Drive carefully, especially on sharp turns.
Navigation becomes more difficult in the winter. This hike is accessible year-round, but in deep snow, the trail can become more difficult to follow before the switchbacks. GPS navigation can be helpful in these conditions

Other trails nearby

Mesta'hahae Mountain Trail

Details: 4 miles (6.4 km)

Elevation gain: 900 ft (270 m)

Details: A unique hike that starts in the same area and leads to a historic fire lookout tower with panoramic views.

Mount Blue Sky is the 14,271-ft (4,350 m) peak at the end of the highway (CO-103). Multiple routes lead to the summit, including a drive-up option, but access often requires advance reservations.

The Trail

The trail begins on the opposite side of the road from where you parked. The entry is easy to spot—an opening in the trees leading immediately into a sharp incline.

About a quarter-mile in, you’ll reach the only junction on the entire hike, where the trail crosses a forest service road. Simply go straight through to continue.

Much of the first half of the hike winds through a beautifully wooded path. If you’re lucky enough to hike after fresh snowfall, the scenery transforms into a winter wonderland.

There’s only one spot where navigation can be slightly tricky—a sharp right turn in the trail, marked by a row of rocks. This turn is obvious in normal conditions but could be possible to miss in deep snow.

Soon, you’ll rise above the trees and get your first breathtaking views. Those two prominent peaks in the center? That’s Grays and Torreys, one of Colorado’s most popular 14er duos

Now you’re officially above treeline, and the summit is within reach!

This hike looks entirely different depending on the season. I’m a firm believer that if you hike a trail in different seasons, it’s like experiencing two completely different hikes.

You’ve made it! The large rocky outcrop marks the official summit of Chief Mountain. Time for some well-earned summit photos.

One of my all-time favorite shots captures CO-103 snaking through the dense forest, framed by towering peaks in the background—a breathtaking view that’s stunning in every season

Now the summer version. Beautiful year round!

Now, shifting a bit southwest, you’ll see Mount Blue Sky, the highest peak in the area. If you continued driving along CO-103, you could technically drive to the summit—but you’d need a permit for that

After soaking in the views, it’s time for the descent. See why this hike is one of my go-to recommendations?

SS Reflections

The first time I hiked Chief Mountain was with my aunt and uncle, who had lived in Colorado for years. They were masters of "bang for your buck" hikes—trails that offer huge rewards with moderate effort.

When I broke through the treeline for the first time and saw the expansive views, I immediately understood why this was one of their favorites. Now, after hiking it multiple times and sharing it with others, it’s become one of my favorites too. No matter the season, Chief Mountain never disappoints.

Other helpful resources

Day Hikes Near Denver's post about this hike