5 Best Fall Hikes in Summit

Posted by on Sep 17, 2015 in Fall, Hiking, Scenery

Summit County falls are among the most beautiful in the country. The changing colors and cool, crisp air make it the perfect time to lace up those boots and hit the trails. Absorb all of the fall beauty with the 5 best fall hikes in Summit.

Rainbow Lake
This hike is great for those on a time crunch and those looking for a relatively easy, although scenic hike. The trailhead is located right off of Main Street in the town of Frisco. This hike comes in at less than a mile, however, the trail also connects to Miners Creek Road or the Peaks trail if you wish to extend your hike and head towards Breckenridge. The Pikes Trail will add quite a bit of footwork to your day, coming in at just under 8 miles one-way and dropping out at the base of Breckenridge Ski Resort’s Peak 7 area. If you choose this option, you can always take the Summit Stage free bus back to Frisco if you don’t wish to hike the 8 miles back!

Lily Pad LakeLily_Pad_Lake
Lily Pad Lake is a bit tougher than Rainbow Lake, but not too much longer. To hike to Lily Pad Lake, follow the sign for the Meadow Creek Trailhead at the roundabout at the Frisco/Breckenridge exit off I-70. On the way to the trail split of Meadow Creek and Lily Pad Lake, you will be surrounded by beautiful Aspen trees on the switchback trail. Once you get to the split Lily Pad lake is only about .7 miles away. Make sure you have your camera!

North Ten Mile Hike
This locals’ favorite can also be found in Frisco. You can hike 2 miles to the Wilderness Boundary or go to the Gore Trail Intersection at 3.4 miles. The initial steep incline of this trail levels out after about a mile and offers spectacular views of Chief Mountain, Wichita Mountain, and numerous beaver ponds. If you so choose you can even follow this hike all the way to Copper Mountain! Grab Fido and his leash because the creeks make this a great trip to bring dogs on. Just remember, designated Wilderness Areas require leashes on your pets at all times! Enjoy the first couple miles with your furry friend running free, but be sure to leash up when you reach the Eagles Nest Wilderness Area.

Mohawk LakeMohawk_Lake,_CO
The Mohawk Lake hike is a moderate to difficult hike located near Breckenridge. Coming in at just under 7 miles, this out and back trail is a popular one for those wishing to camp, fish and hike. The hike up can be steep at times, followed by the switchback of the trail by the Continental Falls. Take in the beauty of the cabins and the falls near Mayflower Lakes while you rest before the final push to Mohawk.

Mount Royal
This one is definitely a toughie, so prepare for a bit of a thigh-killer. It all becomes worth it when you see the amazing views of Frisco and Lake Dillon. Make sure you pack some water and your hiking poles, as there are no reliable natural water sources and loose rock is scattered throughout the trail. You will make your way to the Masontown, an old, abandoned mining camp with many of its mining items still standing strong.

Take advantage of the beautiful fall scenery that Summit has to offer. Dust off those hiking shoes and hit a trail!