Fall colors are just around the corner here in Summit County, Colorado! According to 9News, our peak dates for 2024 will be Wednesday, September 18th through Sunday, September 29th. A common question this time of year is “What is the best way to see the fall colors?” and don’t you worry, I have compiled a list of the best hikes and drives to see the beautiful golden hues.
Hiking and Biking
Frisco:
Rainbow Lake is a 1.5 mile out and back trail that is listed as easy with only 167 ft of elevation gain. Many reviewers mention that this is a family friendly trail with beautiful views and some shade. It is popular, so if going on a weekend be aware of other groups.
Lily Pad Lake boasts incredible scenery with waterfalls and meadows. Conveniently located and with easy access to the trailhead, this 3.3 mile out and back trail may only have 403 ft of elevation gain but is considered moderate due to the rocky trail. If you would like a longer hike there are many branching trails.
Sapphire Point is a family friendly 0.6-mile loop with gorgeous views of Dillon Reservoir and mountain range. This short and sweet trail is wheelchair and stroller friendly making it popular for people of all ages and abilities.
Gold Hill Trail is an easy out and back 2.9-mile trail with 528 ft elevation gain offering views of the Upper Blue River Valley and surrounding peaks. There is limited shade so be sure to bring your sun protection and water.
Breckenridge:
Aspen Alley is a very popular out and back trail for bikers and hikers alike. At 2.6 miles long, the trail is considered moderate with 528 ft of elevation gain. With a name like Aspen Alley, it tells you exactly what to expect- great views with plenty of aspens to show off their changing colors.
Mineral Hill Trail is an out and back 1.4-mile trail that is considered difficult, gaining 400 ft in elevation over less than ½ mile. It offers views of the Wellington Ore Bin and Ten Mile Range.
Sallie Barber Mine is a 2.7 mile out and back trail with 383 ft of elevation gain rated easy, but due to the incline it may be more challenging for some than others. The mine ruins add a touch of history to your scenic views. There are several trails that branch off to lengthen your hike and offer more time to explore.
Dillon:
Old Dillon Reservoir Trail is a family friendly loop that is 1.7 miles with 213 ft of elevation gain. Enjoy views of the water and surrounding vistas. Expect cooler breezes as they blow across the reservoir.
Silverthorne:
Willow Creek Falls is a moderate to difficult trail with 1,131 ft of elevation gain on this 4.5 mile out and back trail. The rough terrain makes the waterfall at the end a true reward. Be sure to have a map with you as it is easy to get lost in the boulder field.
Like a Boy Scout- Always be Prepared
When hiking or biking in the Rocky Mountains, it is important to make a plan and be prepared. Trailhead parking lots get busy and often fill up early. If you are driving to the trailhead, consider getting there early to find parking or if possible, go on a weekday for fewer crowds.
Always be prepared for any type of weather. It is not uncommon to have afternoon storms that move into the area quickly. Bring layers, rain gear, sunscreen, water and snacks with you to be ready for anything the weather throws at you.
Bring a printed or downloaded map. Some trails have multiple other trails branching off and it can be easy to get confused and make a wrong turn that can cost you hours and miles. Printed maps are available for purchase at the Breckenridge Welcome Center or many trail apps like COTREX, AllTrails, OnX, or Komoot, allow for you to download the map to your phone in the case that you do not have phone service on the trail.
Keep wildlife wild. Please do not feed the animals and keep a safe distance. Animals, especially Moose, can be unpredictable and possibly aggressive.
If you have any trash or your four-legged friend leaves a deposit, please remember to pack out what you pack in for other hikers and bikers to enjoy the trail.
Driving
Boreas Pass to Fairplay to Hoosier Pass Loop’s scenic loop takes you through 55 miles of scenic views. Starting in Breckenridge on Highway 9 south takes you through Como to US Highway 285 towards Fairplay connecting again with Highway 9 north to Alma to take in the valleys and rivers lined with aspens. Continue on Highway 9 to Hoosier Pass to the Continental Divide and home to Breckenridge.
Swan Mountain Road connects Keystone and Frisco offering views of Lake Dillon and the Ten Mile Range. It is perfect if you do not want a long drive or if you are heading from Frisco to Keystone or vice versa.
French Gulch Road starts from Breckenridge and will dead-end. This path offers gorgeous views of the surrounding peaks and many patches of aspen showing off their fall colors. There are several roads that offshoot from French Gulch that will bring you to popular trailheads and past historic mines.
Loveland Pass Loop is known for its access to ski resorts and as an alternate route to Eisenhower Tunnel on I-70 but it offers stunning views of the mountain peaks, a photo op at the Continental Divide and aspen groves for a pop of color.
Top of the Rockies National Scenic Byway begins off I-70 between Avon and Vail in Minturn on Highway 24. This drive will take you to Leadville where you will connect with Highway 91 to bring you back to I-70 near Copper Mountain where you can continue your journey to Frisco and Breckenridge.
Overall, Summit County’s vibrant fall colors are an unforgettable experience, and whether you prefer a leisurely scenic drive or an invigorating hike, there’s no shortage of ways to immerse yourself in the beauty of autumn. With so many incredible trails and roads to explore, you’ll be treated to golden aspens, breathtaking mountain views, and the crisp fall air that makes this season so special in Colorado. Be sure to plan ahead, pack appropriately, and enjoy all that this stunning time of year has to offer!
