The soaring peaks and meandering forest trails of Summit County are calling out to be explored! With everything from accessible paved trails around alpine lakes to challenging rocky scrambles through the high country, this part of Colorado is a hiker’s dream. If you want to hit the trails during your Summit County vacation, we’ve compiled an assortment of great hiking trails to check out around Summit County, Colorado.
Easy/Moderate Hiking Trails
Rainbow Lake Trail
This easy 1.5-mile loop starts in Frisco and is great for casual hikers or families. With a gentle elevation gain, this trail winds through beautiful aspen groves and pine forests, leading to a picturesque mountain lake that provides a perfect photo backdrop. Although the trail is generally easy, be prepared for a stream crossing. There is free parking at the trailhead and it’s recommended to get there early, as this is a popular trail.
Sawmill Reservoir
Starting near downtown Breckenridge, this easy 1.3-mile loop takes you through forested trails alongside a stream, leading to a peaceful mountain lake. With a mild gradient and only around 200 feet of elevation gain, this is a great option if you want something easy and scenic. This is a popular hiking trail and parking is limited at the trailhead, so consider using a shuttle bus or parking further away.
Old Dillon Reservoir
Beginner hikers and families will love this gentle 1.7-mile hike with minimal elevation gain. Located near Dillon, this trail winds through aspens and evergreens, providing scenic views of the reservoir, Dillon Lake and the surrounding mountains. This trail is spectacular when wildflowers are blooming or fall leaves are changing, and it’s a great spot to stretch your legs when stopping off I-70. For a slightly more challenging hike with similar views of Dillon Lake, check out the Meadow Loop and Ridge Trail.
Aspen Alley
Located near Breckenridge, this scenic 2.6-mile trail winds through a beautiful grove of aspen trees, which are especially stunning in the fall when the leaves change to a vibrant gold. With an elevation gain of 516 feet and a series of switchbacks, this is a moderately challenging trail that is best enjoyed with sturdy footwear. This is a very popular shared trail, so be aware you may encounter mountain bikers as well.
Advanced/More Challenging Hiking Trails
Surprise Lake
This popular trail is located a bit north of Silverthorne in the remote Eagles Nest Wilderness area. The moderately challenging 7.6-mile out-and-back trail has about 1,400 feet of elevation gain, with alpine meadows, aspen groves, a few water crossings and incredible 360° mountain views. The trail summits at Surprise Lake, where you can enjoy the scenery of a serene mountain lake surrounded by towering peaks. You have a good chance to spot wildlife here, and this hike is especially beautiful in the summer when wildflowers are in full bloom.
Mohawk Lakes
Just south of Breckenridge, this trail is a moderately difficult 8-mile round-trip hike with some big payoffs. This picturesque trail takes you through pine forests, alongside remnants of historic mining structures and beautiful waterfalls. After an elevation gain of over 1,700 feet, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Upper Mohawk Lake and the Tenmile Range. This trail is best suited for those with some hiking experience, and sturdy footwear is recommended due to rocky terrain in some parts. It’s also one of the most popular hiking trails in the area, so you may want to consider carpooling or visiting on a weekday.
Grays and Torreys Peak
For those wanting to try their hand at a “fourteener” (a trail that goes to the top of a 14,000 foot peak), Grays and Torreys is one of the more accessible, easier 14ers, but easy should be taken with a grain of salt! Located east of Silverthorne, this 8-mile trail packs a punch by ascending to the peak of two 14ers in one hike. You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world, with windswept alpine slopes and incredible views of surrounding peaks. With steep climbs and over 3,500 feet in elevation gain, this one is best for more experienced hikers and those with high fitness levels. It’s recommended to drive a high-clearance vehicle and get there early to secure parking.
Upper Cataract Lake
Upper Cataract Lake is a 12-mile round-trip trek that rewards hikers with magnificent views of Eagles Nest Peak reflecting off the lake. Starting at the Surprise Lake trailhead north of Silverthorne, this is a more difficult hike that involves a steady climb and rocky scrambles, so it’s best suited for intermediate to experienced hikers. This trail typically sees less traffic, so it’s a great option if you’re looking for solitude on the trail.
What to Know About Hiking in Colorado
- Altitude Awareness: Colorado’s high elevations can cause altitude sickness. Take time to acclimate, stay hydrated, and don’t push yourself too hard when you first arrive.
- Weather Changes: The weather can change rapidly in the mountains, so always be prepared with layers and waterproof gear, and always check the forecast before heading out!
- Wildlife Safety: Respect wildlife by keeping a safe distance at all times, especially with moose and bears. Never feed animals, and store food properly to avoid attracting bears.
- Trail Etiquette: Stay on marked trails to protect fragile ecosystems and follow “Leave No Trace” principles by packing out all trash and minimizing your impact.
- Hydration & Nutrition: Bring plenty of water and high-energy snacks. The dry air and exertion at high altitudes can dehydrate you quickly, so sip water regularly while hiking.
Ready to hit the trails? Book a Summit County vacation rental with Summit Mountain Properties and get ready for an unforgettable Colorado hiking adventure!
