Are you an outdoor enthusiast who gets high on life…and trails, but have often wished there was a secret sauce to make those lofty peaks a bit more conquerable? Well, get ready to bookmark this page, folks, because we’re about to hit two birds with one blog post (don’t worry, no actual birds were harmed in the writing of this post).
Welcome to Colorado – a land where the beer flows like wine and the mountains are taller than some of your tallest tales. A place that is as famous for its awe-inspiring trails as it is for its legalization of a certain green plant. You guessed it – we’re going to pair the high of hiking with the high life benefits of CBD.
Colorado’s trails offer you the chance to be a real-life John Denver song – minus the plane, of course – as you climb cathedral mountains and cross over those amber waves of grain. But here’s the cherry on top of that mountain pie. What if we told you that CBD, one of the buzziest wellness trends around, can potentially make these grandiose outdoor endeavors more enjoyable, rewarding, and dare we say, less pain-staking?
In this article, we will guide you through the top 10 trails of Colorado that will make your Instagram followers greener than a hemp farm with envy. We’re not only going to give you the lowdown on these glorious trails but also share how CBD can help turn you into a trail-blazing, mountain-conquering marvel.
So, lace up those boots, pack that trail mix, drive with some friends, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of CBD and Colorado trails where the magic of Mother Nature meets modern wellness. And remember, what happens in Colorado stays in… well, actually, we hope you’ll share this one with your friends!
What is CBD and How is CBD Beneficial for Hikes?
CBD, or cannabidiol, stands as the calm and lawful counterpart to THC within the realm of cannabis compounds. While THC triggers the munchies and giggles, CBD doesn’t induce psychoactive experiences. Rather, it’s known for its soothing effects and potential health advantages. The CBD journey traces back to its 1940 discovery, but its potential benefits came to light much later. The 2018 Farm Bill marked a pivotal moment, legalizing CBD with minimal THC content. This legality means you can freely include CBD-infused items like trail mix in your hiking gear.
Picture this: you’re mid-hike, feeling the pain in your legs like they’re sending you hate mail. Enter CBD, potentially alleviating tension and discomfort. Studies indicate that CBD could make your mountain ascent and descent more manageable (2). Additionally, it could become your ideal camping companion for peaceful sleep amidst the wilderness. Even post-hike, early research hints at CBD aiding muscle recovery. But like any supplement, effects differ among individuals. CBD isn’t a magical solution and isn’t meant for diagnosing or treating diseases. It’s wise to consult your healthcare professional before integrating new supplements into your routine.
How to Properly Use CBD for Hiking
You’ve got your boots laced up, your backpack is loaded with water and snacks, and you’re staring down the path that winds its way up the mountain. But wait! Before you take that first step, let’s talk about how CBD can potentially help you conquer the trail ahead.
Pre-Hike: As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. A serving of CBD oil or a couple of CBD gummies before you hit the trail might help warm up your body for the trek ahead. Some hikers swear by its potential to help with discomfort prevention and energy levels. After all, there’s nothing like a little bit of CBD to turn those mountains into molehills!
Extract Labs Tip:
Enjoy a CBD Capsule with other morning supplements to kick start your hike.
Cataract Lakes Trail, Silverthorne, CO
During-Hike: Here’s where CBD can truly shine as your hiking companion. When you’re in the heart of the trail, feeling the burn in your thighs and the air getting thinner, a little bit of CBD can help keep your spirits as high as the peaks you’re conquering. Some hikers find that CBD helps maintain their stamina and focus during the long stretches of uphill climbs and steep descents. And hey, a little CBD-infused trail mix or a quick drop of CBD oil under the tongue could be just the ticket to help you power through!
Post-Hike: Congratulations! You’ve made it. You’ve reached the peak, admired the view, and now you’re back, ready to turn in for the night. This is when CBD can become your best friend. As the sun sets and the mountain air gets cooler, CBD may help soothe your tired muscles and facilitate a good night’s sleep under the stars. Whether it’s a CBD-infused tea or a topical CBD balm for your aching legs, these could be the perfect tools for post-hike recovery. After all, there’s nothing like waking up fresh and ready for another day of adventure!
Of course, the specifics of CBD usage can vary based on your personal needs and tolerance. So listen to your body, start low and go slow. Now, you’re ready to head off into the sunrise, CBD by your side, as you take on the grandeur of Colorado’s trails.
Using both oral and topical CBD might contribute to the alleviation of discomfort and tension, fostering recovery. This could be really helpful when you're going for a hike.
Maroon Bells, Aspen, CO
The Top 10 Hikes in Colorado
So, you’re ready to hit the trail, CBD in tow. But where to go? Colorado is overflowing with scenic beauty and unforgettable trails. It was no small feat, but we’ve rounded up the top 10 hikes that are sure to give you an elevated experience (pun intended). So, tighten those laces, here we go!
Trail #1: The Incline, Manitou Springs
Ah, The Incline. It’s like the ‘StairMaster from Hell’, but in a good way! This trail is not for the faint of heart with its steep grade and over 2,700 steps. The view at the top, however, is worth every single sweat bead. No reservation is required, but sorry Fido, no dogs allowed. A CBD gummy or two might just be the kick you need to conquer this monster of a hike. And remember, the only way is up!
Trail #2: Emerald Lake Trail, Rocky Mountain National Park
Welcome to a slice of paradise, folks! The Emerald Lake Trail offers picturesque forest paths, multiple lakes, and grand mountain views. It’s of moderate difficulty, so you won’t feel like you’ve tumbled in a dryer by the end of it. Just remember to grab an entry reservation for the park during peak seasons. As for our two-wheeled friends, you’ll have to sit this one out—no bikes allowed. With a few drops of CBD oil, you might find the journey even more enjoyable, keeping you focused on the trail and not on any potential aches and pains.
Trail #3: Conundrum Hot Springs, Aspen
Ever wanted to soak in natural hot springs after a grueling hike? Conundrum Hot Springs has you covered. This strenuous trail leads to a relaxing and memorable destination. Be aware though, a permit is required, and your furry pals will have to sit this one out. But imagine this: a challenging hike followed by a warm soak in the springs, with CBD potentially helping to ease your tired muscles. Sounds like a dream, doesn’t it?
Trail #4: Hanging Lake, Glenwood Springs
If you’re looking for an otherworldly sight, Hanging Lake is the place to be. This moderate hike takes you through lush forests and ends with a turquoise lake like something out of a fantasy novel. Remember, the trail requires a reservation and sorry, no dogs are allowed. This trail was closed for a few years due to the amount of people who were not respecting it. This is a delicate ecosystem, so be sure to take care of it! Why not try a dose of CBD to help maintain your focus on those tricky parts of the trail and soak in every magical moment?
Trail #5: Maroon Bells, Aspen
Ready for a scenic spectacle that’ll steal your breath away (and we don’t just mean because of the altitude)? Welcome to Maroon Bells, possibly the most photographed peaks in North America. The difficulty level of the trails varies, giving options for both novices and seasoned hikers. While you’re marveling at the maroon-hued peaks, remember that there are no bikes on certain trails and your dogs need to be on a leash. And who knows? A bit of CBD could potentially make this enchanting hike even more enjoyable.
Trail #6: Royal Arch, Boulder
The Royal Arch trail is a challenging but rewarding climb ending with a natural rock arch and stunning views of Boulder. This hike is a leg-burner, so some CBD might be beneficial for a post-hike recovery. Note that there are no bikes allowed, and dogs must be on a leash. Get ready to be the king or queen of the mountain when you conquer this royal trail!
Trail #7: Sky Pond, Rocky Mountain National Park
Ever wanted to touch the sky? Well, this is as close as it gets. The Sky Pond trail is a rigorous hike leading to a beautiful mountain lake. It requires an entry reservation during certain times of the year, and bikes have to sit this one out. Consider using CBD to help maintain your energy levels and recover afterward. With the clouds above and a crystal-clear pond by your side, this hike is sure to be an uplifting experience!
Extract Labs Tip:
Hard workouts require soothing recovery. Apply a CBD Topical, like our Organic CBD Muscle Cream, within an hour of finishing a workout.
Trail #8: Chasm Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park
Get ready for an epic journey to a jaw-dropping alpine lake with one of the park’s most iconic peaks, Longs Peak, as the backdrop. This strenuous hike will challenge you, but the breathtaking views at the end will reward you handsomely. Remember, you’ll need an entry reservation during peak times and bikes are not allowed. Considering the rigors of this trail, a CBD balm could come in handy for a soothing post-hike recovery.
Trail #9: Longs Peak, Rocky Mountain National Park
Feeling ambitious? Longs Peak is not for the faint-hearted. It’s a long, strenuous climb to the top of one of Colorado’s famous 14ers (peaks over 14,000 feet in elevation). This challenging trail requires an entry reservation during peak seasons, and dogs and bikes are prohibited. A well-timed dose of CBD might be just what you need to power through the difficult stretches and soothe your body once you descend.
Trail #10: Four Pass Loop, Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness
Last but certainly not least, the Four Pass Loop is an unforgettable backpacking adventure that spans over 26 miles of stunning wilderness. This trail is a true test of endurance, taking you over four mountain passes, each over 12,000 feet. Dogs are allowed, but they need to be on a leash, and bikes have to sit this one out. With the intense effort required, CBD’s potential tension soothing and discomfort relieving properties might be a great companion on this epic journey.
And there you have it: the top 10 hikes in Colorado that’ll get your heart pumping and your spirit soaring. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned hiker, there’s a trail for you. And with CBD by your side, these hikes might become even more enjoyable.
Nature elevates mood, lowers stress, and enhances mental health, backed by Stanford research; a sensory-rich remedy even doctors prescribe.
Stanford study here.
Hikes in Colorado & CBD For Your Journey
From the step-til-you-drop incline to the four-day wilderness adventure of the Four Pass Loop, we’ve navigated the best hikes Colorado has to offer. And we’ve seen how CBD can potentially make these hikes even more enjoyable, from easing pre-hike jitters to soothing post-hike muscles.
Remember, hiking isn’t just about the destination—it’s about the journey. It’s the early morning mist hanging over a forest trail, the satisfaction of conquering a steep climb, the camaraderie around a campfire under the stars. And with CBD as your hiking companion, you might find these moments even more memorable.
So, here’s to lacing up those boots, hitting the trails, and making memories that last longer than any muscle ache. Because with every step you take, every peak you conquer, you’re not just exploring Colorado’s trails, you’re exploring your own potential.
Happy hiking, and here’s to the adventures that await!
More Health & Wellness | 5 Daily Exercises
5 Daily Exercises to Incorporate with CBD for A Better Life
Works Cited
1. Halawa, Omar I., et al. “Role of Cannabinoids in Pain Management.” Science Direct, 2018, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/B9780323401968000565. Accessed 13 6 2023.
2. McCartney, Danielle, et al. “Cannabidiol and Sports Performance: a Narrative Review of Relevant Evidence and Recommendations for Future Research.” NCBI, 6 July 2020, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7338332/. Accessed 13 June 2023.
