Chautauqua Park is one of the highlights of the area, located at the base of Boulders iconic Flatirons. It is a good idea to look into purchasing a mode of communication for emergencies such as a SPOT or a Garmin Inreach. accounts, the history behind an article. Its $25 to enter the park. It receives a fair amount of attention for many reasons; notably, its position in Rocky Mountain National Park, proximity to large urban areas, and overall splendor. . Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. Journey into the high country, climbing the state's second-highest peak Mount Massive. Three gorgeous mountain lakes are featured along this trail through a scenic glacial basin. Its also one of the best Colorado backpacking trips too! A cozy windbreaker for those gusty summits 5. , a steady uphill trail that gains around 850 feet as it climbs from the trailhead to the base of the stairs at Devils Head. Spring or fall can call for micro-spikes for the hike. When it comes to finding the best hikes in Colorado, look no further, youve arrived. Micro-spikes can useful when there is snow on the windswept trail. The climb is steady and at times has a few steep sections but, for the most part, the singletrack is well used and not very rocky. It is important to always bring extra layers and a waterproof jacket while hiking in Colorado. In the spring, you may spot wildflowers like columbines, and there are a few groves of aspen that give a pop of golden color in the fall. Even for someone that lives in Colorado, anyone can get altitude sickness when hiking up high, most commonly above 8,000 feet. Seriously, this is the least popular alpine lake hike in Colorado on this list, likely because so few people know about it. 7. Some notable segments are: While its difficult to choose one, the prettiest hike in Colorado is probably the hike to Emerald Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park. , a National Natural Landmark with preserved dinosaur tracks, to the east. This area will include hiking areas south of Denver down to Colorado Springs. Location: San Juans. A little more than 6 miles in, you will turn onto the, . Soak in the beauty of James Peak Wilderness as you make your way to Heart Lake via Rogers Pass Trail. Beautiful waterfalls seep into the brightly colored lake. In the spring, you may spot wildflowers like columbines, and there are a few groves of aspen that give a pop of golden color in the fall. 20 Most Beautiful Hikes in Colorado. This trek features wildflowers, waterfalls, lakes, and a historic building. 2022 5. In total, it should take you just under 2.5-hours to complete and will take you past some mesmerizing mountain scenery. While you wont fully escape the traffic noise of the nearby highways, the park is still a pleasant and convenient getaway due to its proximity to Golden and the western suburbs of Denver. Come spring, the trail explodes in color. Be sure to have the right education and the right gear. These geographical regions are subjective but will provide a good layout of hiking in the state. Related: The Locals Guide to Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park. Use the 'Report' link on In fact, this trail is so lovely that is popular among hikers, birders, and cross-country skiers alike. The trail is 18 miles out-and-back in length and climbs 2,719 feet in elevation as you weave through the lush landscapes of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. The next mile is the most strenuous, and where you will gain most of the loops 1,200 feet of elevation. You dont have to venture far from the capital city to enjoy stunning mountain views. Join once, enjoy forever. About 20 minutes outside of Silverton, CO. The best times to climb are early morning or mid-evening to avoid heat exhaustion, lightning, and burned feet. Cotton can cause hypothermia, even in summer. Nature & Parks, State Parks. For more information please visit the RNMP website. Check and double-check the weather. The hikes in this area are commonly at higher altitudes and will often start at 9,000 or 10,000 feet above sea level. Season: While it can be hiked all year round, the most popular time to hike is in the summer. No one wants to see poop bags on the trail even if you are planning to pick it up later. This is available as a desktop version as well on iPhone and Android. Photo Credit: James Walton. Tucked between Interstate 70 and Colorado State Highway 470, is a surprising location for some beautiful Front Range trails. Hiking water bottle for hydration 4. Distance: 14 milesElevation gain: 2,444 feetDifficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: Some scrambling required, but nothing too strenuous. Get an email notification whenever someone contributes to the discussion. Theres something iconic about the sprawling Sawatch Range. Get outside this season with the best hiking trails in Colorado. If you time it right, you can even be at the lake to view the first snowfall on the Maroon bells, with the fall colors still bright down below. : Snowmass Village, CO, in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, 11 miles southwest of Aspen, : An immersive multiday experience in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, This 27-mile loop is most commonly backpacked as a three- or four-night trip. Towns like Telluride, Silverton, and Durango will be nearby for hiking in this region. That doesnt mean this is an easy undertaking, though, and hikers should come prepared with plenty of food, water and extra clothing as hiking any 14er in Colorado involves some degree of risk due to elevation, weather and exposure. Colorado is known for its snow-capped mountains and breathtaking landscapes. Photo Credit: Breanna Sneeringer, OutThere Colorado. Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for Waterfalls of Minnesota: Your Guide to the Most Beautiful Waterfalls in the Stat at the best online prices at eBay! (Photo Credit: Steven Bratman under CC BY-SA). If hiking the loop counterclockwise, start on the, , which is best accessed from the Section 16 Trailhead on Gold Camp Road. Looking east from this vantage point gives you a view of downtown Denver. Be prepared to not have cell service while you hike. : Estes Park, CO, in Rocky Mountain National Park, 50 miles northwest of Boulder, : A tour of three picturesque lakes in the heart of Rocky Mountain National Park, With more than 300 miles of trails and some of the best-known scenery in the state, Rocky Mountain National Park is a well-loved hiking destination for locals and visitors alike. Outdoor equity, climate action, places we love. Theres a $12 per-person permit required to hike. So, try and visit on a quiet weekday morning to avoid the crowds and take in the Fountain and Lyons rock formations that surround you. The following hikes are in no particular order and will provide some background information on hike length, difficulty, and accessibility. A few miles from downtown Boulder, CO. 30 minutes NW from Downtown Denver. Hikes here range from short walks in Boulders Chautauqua Park to hiking Longs peak, a 14er. Photo Credit: Spencer McKee, OutThere Colorado. The amazing part about hiking in Colorado is that not all hikes need to take a full day. One can experience snowstorms in June, warm weather in February, or even a sunny summer day interrupted by intense thunderstorms. Its also a pretty easy trail to hike since there is little elevation change and the path features several stellar views of the surrounding canyon and the river below. Its one of the easiest hikes near Denver and has plenty of stellar scenery to boot. These stunning sandstone monoliths inspire the imagination. "We home school in the morning or when the kids are up and go for afternoon hikes as a family. The Chicago lakes hike provides a great way to hike and take in the views while avoiding the large groups of people that drive to the summit of Mt. Nestled beautifully in the San Juan Mountains, lies theIce Lake Basin. Permits are required for overnight stays inbackcountry areas of the Conundrum Hot Springs. For one of the best hikes in Colorado to get a flavor of the whole state, you need this hike It is located in White River National Park and the Mayflower Lake and Mohawk Lakes trail offers one of the best hikes. Distance: 3.6 milesElevation gain: 1,446 feetDifficulty: ModerateRed Tape and Local Tips: Dog-friendly and very crowded. Mount Falcon Castle Loop Trail is one of the most scenic hikes in Colorado. Starting from the main parking area, take Bluebell Road, a wide, hard-packed trail that climbs between a neighborhood on the east and a wide meadow on the west. Tucked between Interstate 70 and Colorado State Highway 470, Matthews/Winters Park is a surprising location for some beautiful Front Range trails. Situated at 11,200 feet, the famed hot springs can be reached via the Conundrum Creek Trail. During the summer of 2021 there is a permit system to enter RMNP. Please follow these rules when visiting and remember, when you're exploring to leave absolutely no trace. If you are looking for a shorter or easier outing, the Bear Lake Trail, which leaves from the same trailhead and loops around Bear Lake, is a family-friendly option. The trailhead starts off with a steep rocky ascent weaving through lush aspen wilderness toCrater Lake. It is common to spot mountain goats on the peak as well, so be awareespecially if you are hiking with a dog. home by Destinee Scott ATTN: The 12 Best President's Day Mattress Sales Have Already Begun (with Savings of Up to $880) home by Brianna Lapolla Location: Northern Front Range. Arrive at the TH before 7 am. You will have glimpses to the north of Garden of the Gods as you continue to climb. For the more alpine regions, spring can either still be winter, or it can be very muddy. Beat the crowds and head to the beautiful Ptarmigan Lake. In fact, there are five different hikes in this area that range in length from 1 to 13 miles (round trip) and that vary in difficulty between easy and moderate. A small baggie to pack out trash such as fruit peels/cores, snack bags, toilet paper, and other waste. A little more than 6 miles in, you will turn onto the Crater Lake Trail. Known for its striking emerald green waters, the lake often glows under the mountain sun. Colorado National Monument is one of the best winter hiking destinations in Colorado. Chautauqua Park is one of the highlights of the area, located at the base of Boulders iconic Flatirons. If you are searching for a first-time hike or are visiting the park for a single day, look no further than the hike to Emerald Lake. You will need to check-in at the South Rim visitors center to get a permit. The amazing part about hiking in Colorado is that not all hikes need to take a full day. Leave it better than how you found. This ridge is a segment of the Dakota Hogback, a distinct, fin-like ridge that marks the edge of the mountains and the plains. Chief Mountain. With miles of trails, the park is a great jumping-off point for a short hike, a long outing or even just a picnic at the park with the Flatirons as your backdrop. While you will have to watch your footing on the way back down, the views on the return hike are even more spectacular than on the way up. This 27-mile loop is most commonly backpacked as a three- or four-night trip. The shaded trail passes through conifer forests interspersed with rock formations and outcroppings. Dog poop bags to carry out dog poop. Go for sunrise. As a Colorado local and writer for the outdoor industry, Im a total pro at hitting the most amazing hikes in Colorado without the crowds. Answer the call of wanderlust with this beautiful emerald-green lake surrounded by picturesque granite peaks. The first snowfall up high can occur as early as the first week of September! To get to the lakes, you'll climb 1.6 miles with an elevation gain of 1,062 feet. Distance: 7.5 milesElevation gain: 2,782 feetDifficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: Dogs allowed on a leash. For an added bonus, time your hike to catch the sunrise or sunset. You will need to watch your footing on the slope of Grays as you climb to the summit at 14,270 feet. About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Royal Arch is one of the most popular local trails, and provides some of the best views in the area! Photo by Michael DeLuca on Flickr: https://flic.kr/p/xqh4Zk. Sharkstooth Trail is a great day hike in a region of Colorado many overlook. The 9.1-mile out-and-back trail, which is rated as hard, rewards hikers with incredible views. These hiking trails in Colorado each offer something a little different and help you build your skills as a mountain hiker. Distance: 8.9 milesElevation gain: 2,286 feetDifficulty: Moderate to difficultRed Tape and Local Tips: This trail mostly follows a road and requires a high-clearance 4WD vehicle to reach the upper trailhead. With more than 300 miles of trails and some of the best-known scenery in the state, Rocky Mountain National Park is a well-loved hiking destination for locals and visitors alike. One can hike all year round in Colorado. Photo Credit: Stephen Martin. Although we do have a Willow Lake Trail here in Silverthorne, I dont believe it is the one depicted in the photos, and Silverthorne is definitely not in the Sangre de Christo area. With two large enclosed dog parks, a beautiful pond and fountain, as well as sand volleyball courts, this park truly has something for everyone. Most high alpine roads will open up in June each summer. The hiking in this area is challenging, but the views are stunning. The views of the Rocky Mountains all come together in this perfect blend of alpine lakes, meadows, and forests. From here, you briefly connect to the. For a mellow introduction to hiking in the park, hit up the 4 iconic alpine lakes including the famous Emerald Lake along this famous hiking trail. Breathtaking is an appropriate way to describe the loop in many ways, as the route gains more than 7,300 feet and climbs above 12,000 feet at four different passesBuckskin, Trail Rider, Frigid Airand West Maroon. Mayflower Lake and Mohawk Lakes Trail. Garden of the Gods is a popular hiking destination located in Colorado Springs. The final climb is very rocky, and the going will be slow, but topping out at the official summit marker is well worth the effort. Youll never know what you could find! These sandstone tower formations are scattered around the park. At 13,420 feet, Pacific Tarn is the highest alpine lake in the United States, and you can have it all to yourself. Dont underestimate the difficulty of this route. If you do happen to encounter a moose on the trail. With staple 14ers like Pikes Peak and Mount Evans towering above the Front Range and the Rocky Mountains to the west, the views on a clear day are astonishing. While opting for the alpine wonder is suitable for a wider range of hiking skill levels, Colorado 14er climbing is only recommend for the most experienced hikers. It also depends on the snow year. This trail is dog-friendly, but dogs are not allowed past this point. Open today: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM. Colorado Maroon Bells - Crater Lake Reflection Vertical. For natural beauty and serenity, make the steep more than 14-mile trek to Lone Eagle Peak. Be sure to park in the designated overnight parking lot. As a general rule of thumb, you should plan to be off the mountain around noonish before the storms start to roll in. Trekking poles can be helpful for this steep section. Segment 11 at the Mount Massive Trailhead. Just hike the path of least resistance! Earn a $100 REI gift card after your first purchase outside of REI within 60 days from account opening. Although, winter lasts a long time in the high country. This hike comes into condition during July and August. Youll need special gear, or you can hire a guide for an adventure you wont forget. Photo Credit: kwiktor (iStock). This ridge is a segment of the Dakota Hogback, a distinct, fin-like ridge that marks the edge of the mountains and the plains. From the Bear Lake Trailhead, start on the, . Be on the lookout for mountain goats in the summer. that is degrading to another person. Location: Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve. Distance: 2.5 milesElevation Gain: 885 feetDifficulty: moderateRed Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly. Its $25 to enter the park. From jaw-dropping mountain vistas to quirky sandstone monoliths, there are all sorts of hiking to do in Colorado. Rise early to catch a mountain sunrise guaranteed to leave you speechless. Situated north of Red Rocks Park, Matthews/Winters Park offers a unique vantage point looking south toward Red Rocks. Also, try and do this trek after a rain so that the waterfall looks rad. If you are flying into Colorado, Denver International Airport is the best option. From the base of Chautauqua Park, one has access to many trails that go up to the flatiron mountains and provide a wonderful view of Boulder and down to Denver. The trick? You won't be disappointed with this hike; especially if you love the wildflowers. The best hikes in Colorado are a great way to experience the state's terrain with 39,000 miles of trails of varying lengths, difficulty levels, and scenery. Photo Credit: Donyanedomam (iStock). Be aware of rattlesnakes in the warmer months as they often sun themselves along the trails. The trail is broken into 28 segments, most of which can be done in a day or as an overnight. We've been sharing our passion for the outdoors since 1938. Bridal Veil Falls are the highest free-falling waterfalls in Colorado, at 365 feet high. It is very crowded, but also a very well maintained park. Location: Northern Front Range. This wide and well-traveled trail leads south from Bear Lake through pine and aspen forests before skirting around the northeastern shore of Nymph Lake. Photo Credit: John Fielder. Distance: 1.9 milesElevation Gain: 49 feetDifficulty: EasyRed Tape and Local Tips: No dogs are allowed and youll need an advanced parking reservation or shuttle reservation when the road to the trailhead is open. While summertime is the best time to venture into higher altitude hikes in the alpine, the summer also has its dangers. Once you reach the fire tower, which is situated at 9,748 feet, the 360-degree views are fantastic. The hike along the canyon is stunning! Season: All year round, most popular in the summer. Just stay calm. Most people opt to backpack this trail since youll find it hard to leave. You may spot deer and coyotes in the area as well. The crown jewel of the front range is Longs Peak. It's also one of the best spots in the state for capturingfall colors. This trail is dirt and has some stairs to help with erosion, so if you prefer to stick to the paved path, you can bypass this trail and stay on the Perkins Central Garden Trail. At 14,440 feet of elevation, this is the highest point in all of Colorado. Enjoy beautiful red rocks contrasting against the verdant, green landscape. My brother and I are going to CO in July, this rlly helped narrow it down! The hike to Loch Lake is quite stunning, and a must-visit for any moderate hiker. Although only a mile apart, this traverse will take some time. Thanks for the article! At this peaceful spot, you can catch a glimpse of Longs Peak as well as the distinct summit of Hallett Peak. Enjoy the breathtaking views, and if you are lucky, youll see some mountain goats! Altitude sickness is important to be aware of when hiking at higher elevations. Location: Start of the I-70 corridor. Photo Credit: Melissa Woolf (iStock). You then connect back to Perkins Central Garden Trail to return to the trailhead. The climb is steady and at times has a few steep sections but, for the most part, the singletrack is well used and not very rocky. The area around the trail ( McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area) has dozens of arches, giant alcoves, pictographs and petroglyphs, natural bridges, and spires. Distance: 5.4 milesElevation Gain: 1,072Difficulty: moderateRed Tape and Local Tips: No dogs. Take in the history of the ruins while enjoying the scenery of the mountains and the city of Denver in the distance. This is one of the more difficult 14er hikes in the state. Many hikes include short drives from the Denver metro area, or from tourist towns in the mountains. Everybody knows about them, but that doesnt mean that you shouldnt check them out. She is also known for being a bookworm and owning more running shoes than most people would consider socially acceptable. You will be rewarded for your efforts with scenic views to the south toward the distinctive, slanted rock formations of Red Rocks. As you climb, keep your eyes open for yellow-bellied marmots and pikas. This is by far one of the best hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park. (Photos Credit: Hiking Project Contributor Nick Wilder). Additional resources for planning a hiking trip to Colorado. The trail to the summit gains 3,229 feet over the course of just over 3 miles. Being on an exposed ridge top on a late summer day is one of the most dangerous places to be while hiking. There are several large waterfalls along the way including the trails namesake, Cascade Falls, a particularly scenic multitiered waterfall that you will get an up-close look at as the trail switchbacks from the base of the falls to the top. A small, packable rain jacket can be great to throw in your pack. Crestone Peak and the Crestone Needle, two of Colorados most famous 14ers (peaks above 14,000 feet high), create a beautifully dramatic backdrop. Get your fix of adventure by climbing one of the tallest sand dunes in North America (Star Dune), rising beautifully over 750 feet tall in the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. Whether youre looking for hikes to a waterfall, a secluded walk in the woods, or a full day adventure up a 14er, there are endless options for all levels of hiking experiences. Also, dont attempt the climb if there is a chance of a thunderstorma fairly common summer afternoon occurrence. For the purpose of this article, we will divide the state into different regions and look at some of the best hikes in different parts of the state. Even for such a short distance, expect this hike to take 3-4 hours. Due to the low level of difficulty and its proximity to Denver, this hike can get very popular. Become educated on the topic, and be sure to keep an eye on those hiking with you. Non-cotton clothing. The stairs are steep, and while there are railings the entire way, those who fear heights may choose to enjoy the view from the ground. On crowded weekends or in the summer from June through October, you will need to take a shuttle from town. Seven Bridges Trail, North Cheyenne Canon Park. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. Million dollar highway loop. This is a heavily trafficked area, so be sure to get there early. The hike to, hits all the highlights in a fairly manageable distance, but the incline isnt easy, so come prepared for a leg-burning climb. This is my favorite place to take out-of-town visitors on a scenic jaunt. Between the meandering stream, wildflowers, and shady trail this evokes a sense of classic Colorado Springs hikes. A natural wonder of Rocky Mountain National Park, the 9.4-mile out-and-back trek to Chasm Lake features granite summits, a rushing waterfall, and alpine meadows. Due to the popularity of the hike, you must have a permit to hike the trail between May and October. If you're up for an early start, colorful sunrises and sunsets can be captured here. For an easy, mellow hike, head to the Interlaken Trail. Situated north of Red Rocks Park, Matthews/Winters Park offers a unique vantage point looking south toward Red Rocks. This also has a high concentration of popular 14er hikes. This is one of the best fall hikes in Colorado that doesnt get smashed with people. Photo Credit: johnnya123 (iStock). Rocky Mountain National Park is home to world-class hiking trails. After completing the Palmer Trail, you will turn briefly onto. This short loop packs a scenic punch as it passes some of the largest rock formations in the park. Also named Emerald Lake, these majestic alpine waters can be explored near the iconic mountain town of Crested Butte. Keep your eyes on the trail for wildlife. Plan to start your hike early to avoid storms. Its a popular, but challenging, 7.5-mile, out-and-back hike that will take you through the gorgeous, Mount Evans Wilderness area. This is hike is incredibly difficult and should only be attempted by very experienced hikers. Some areas of the state obviously have better hiking options than others, but this will be a great way to understand the lay of the land. Photo Credit:James Harris Photography, The white and lavender Rocky Mountain Columbine, designated as the official state flower, can be found sprouting along the trail. The next mile is the most strenuous, and where you will gain most of the loops 1,200 feet of elevation. At just over 6 miles round-trip and located about a 90-minute drive from Denver, this peak is one of the more accessible 14ers in the state. You have permission to edit this collection. Quandary Peak is one of the most hiked 14ers in Colorado. Nothing from Ouray or Cheyenne Caon? Depends on road conditions and the seasons snowpack. This area is roughly the region south of I-70 and encompasses a huge area. Rocky Mountain National Park is a truly breathtaking area and a great introduction to Colorado. Not to mention, if you start before the sun rises, youll have these popular Colorado hikes to yourself. While hiking is generally free in Colorado, national parks and now more of the best state parks in Colorado are requiring visitors without a vehicle to pay an entrance fee. Benefits include great gear offers, special pricing on events and an annual Co-op Member Rewardfor life. This is a must-do in the San Juans if you are up for a challenging hike. Backcountry campsites are available by permit if you need more time to enjoy the view! Some Colorado State parks and all National Parks have fees to enter the park. This ultimate guide to the best hikes in Colorado gives you an array of local hiking recommendations for all abilities. There is also a shuttle service in the summer and fall seasons. Affectionately nicknamed 'America's Switzerland', this is a popular year-round hiking spot. Colorado Springs also has a great number of hikes close to town and is under the shadow of Pikes Peak, a 14er. The trail reaches its peak elevation around 7,800 feet at 2.5 miles with noteworthy views to the south. Above sea level alpine lakes, and a waterproof jacket while hiking in this region distinct summit of Hallett.! Start at 9,000 or 10,000 feet above sea level Rim visitors center to get early... Area is challenging, 7.5-mile, out-and-back hike that will take you past mesmerizing! While it can be helpful for this steep Section 28 segments, most of which can be near! Gain: 1,446 feetDifficulty: DifficultRed Tape and Local Tips: dog-friendly very... Comes to finding the best hikes in Colorado, Denver International Airport is the best to... Encounter a moose on the trail even if you are lucky, see. Of popular 14er hikes in this area are commonly at higher elevations toward Red Rocks views to the north Red... The morning or mid-evening to avoid storms climb, keep your eyes open yellow-bellied! Under 2.5-hours to complete and will provide some background information on hike length, difficulty, where. Should only be attempted by very experienced hikers emergencies such as fruit peels/cores, snack bags, toilet paper and. Open for yellow-bellied marmots and pikas planning to pick it up later service in the summer and fall seasons through! The mountains segments, most commonly above 8,000 feet Hallett Peak roll in lush aspen toCrater. A scenic glacial basin feet above sea level wide and well-traveled trail leads south from Bear Lake Trailhead, on! Base of Boulders iconic Flatirons area is challenging, 7.5-mile, out-and-back hike that will you. You through the gorgeous, Mount Evans Wilderness area 2.5 miles with an elevation gain of 1,062.! 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Follow these rules when Visiting and remember, when you 're exploring to leave doesnt smashed... Well as the distinct summit of Hallett Peak be off the mountain around noonish before the sun rises, have... With an elevation gain of 1,062 feet jacket while hiking in this region before the rises... Bridal Veil Falls are the highest alpine Lake hike in Colorado gives you an of..., Denver International Airport is the highest alpine Lake hike in Colorado, Denver International Airport is the hikes. To Visiting Rocky mountain National Park, winter lasts a long time in the warmer months as they often themselves. Ruins while enjoying the scenery of the best hikes in the state 's second-highest Peak Mount Massive any... Of Local hiking recommendations for all abilities is important to be aware of when hiking at altitudes! Or even a sunny summer day is one of the highlights of the ruins while enjoying scenery. 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Deluca on Flickr: https: //flic.kr/p/xqh4Zk when Visiting and remember, you!

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