Top of the Town 2012

Everyone has different requirements for a “perfect” hike. For us, it’s high-altitude peaks, vast views, and a lake where we can enjoy a lunch shoreside. Hence, we find ourselves often at the Fourth of July Trailhead west of Nederland. (Beware: Going before the July 4 could land you in stubborn snow.) As you climb, you’ll spot the waterfall across the valley—the outlet of Diamond Lake—before ascending to the lake’s elevation of 10,940 feet. Even the steepest parts of the 5.2-mile (roundtrip) trail are magnificent. Keep in mind the trail’s reputation for being a late bloomer, and plan accordingly for wildflowers. Located about six miles northwest of Eldora off CO 111 past Buckingham Campground, 303-541-2500, fs.usda.gov/arp