For your bucket list: The best 'destination hikes' across Colorado's state parks

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — One of southern Colorado’s most-recognizable mountains finally has a trail to the top.

After generations in private hands, and after four years under the management of Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Fishers Peak has a summit path. That’s the state’s highest peak on the east side of Interstate 25 — Trinidad’s throne-like backdrop capped by ancient, volcanic rock.

The journey culminates with a careful climb over those rocks to the summit near 9,600 feet. That’s after 8 miles and nearly 3,000 feet of elevation gain. It’s a trek never overly steep but indeed long, with campsites yet to be established along the way.

But the view won’t disappoint, said longtime local and Trinidad Trails Alliance leader Jenn Green. The views delight the whole way.

Take it from her: “It’s a destination hike.”

A destination hike joining others across Colorado’s state parks.

The trail got us thinking of other bucket-list trips in the parks system:

Arthur’s Rock Trail, Lory State Park

The hogback-framed preserve hides on the northwest side of Horsetooth Reservoir in Fort Collins. However hidden these waving meadows and forests, Arthur’s Rock is in constant view — the soaring, unmistakable outcrop calling to climbers from afar.

The reward is great for the trail gaining 1,000-plus feet in less than 2 miles. The well-defined trail gives way to the rock ceiling, overlooking the reservoir and rolling, colorful canvas of the northern Front Range.

Carpenter Peak, Roxborough State Park

Much of the attention lingers below on the sandstone marvels that give Roxborough its reputation as the Denver area’s Garden of the Gods. But don’t miss the benefit from above — the high point of the park near 7,100 feet.

Carpenter Peak is...