Mountain Monday- Rabbit Ears Peak

Rabbit Ears Peak is a must-do hike in Routt National Forest (20 minutes outside of Steamboat Springs, CO). It gains ~1,046 feet over 2.7 miles to the top and can get really busy come summertime! It also has some of the best wildflowers on any of the hiking trails in Routt County. I'd recommend doing this hike in either mid-July or August and start early (to beat the crowds) or later in the afternoon, if it isn't too hot out. It's also a pretty decent hike, so maybe not the best 'first of the season' hike. I'd recommend on planning to do this hike over 4 hours, leaving 2 hours to go out and maybe an hour and a half to get back (30 minutes up at the top). The last hike to the ears (made of volcanic rock), is really steep so don't get discouraged and know that there is loose gravel, so not the best for older/ unfit/ young children (directly before the final ascent there is a great viewpoint and I'd recommend stopping there if you're struggling). The views up at the top are incredible! This could also be a great trail running option (challenging).