Hiking Colorado Author:Caryn Boddie The landscape of Colorado sweeps from the Great Plains to the Rocky Mountains to the uplifted plateaus in the western part of the state. Its ecological zones include desert and alpine tundra. It is a land of great variety and geographic extremes, of panoramic vistas and cold creeks, and of rivers with raging rapids and others that meander ... more » across the plains. Some of the state's most precious sites are protected as national forests, monuments, or parks. Hiking Colorado introduces you to hiking opportunities in every region of the state. Detailed descriptions of 100 routes, written by veteran Colorado hikers, take you to high-country summits, great fishing spots above timberline, the eastern plains, and sandstone canyons on the arid western slope of the Rockies. There are even hikes through Denver and other Front Range cities. These hikes, many recommended by land management agencies, are among the state's treasures. Along with the descriptions come maps, photographs, information on natural history and archaeology of Colorado, hiking safety, equipment, backcountry ethics, hiking with children, and trails and facilities for hikers with special needs. Whether you're a veteran hiker or beginner, Hiking Colorado will lead the way to outdoor adventure.« less