Take a Fall Hike
Rainbow Lake
Easier Hike • Frisco • Dogs Welcome
Located in Frisco, Rainbow Lake is a great place to enjoy the changing leaves. The trail takes you through aspens and pine trees before reaching a peaceful beaver pond. It is considered an easier hike, but you will still want to wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for changing mountain weather. Dogs are welcome too!
Mineral Hill Trail
Less Than 1 Mile • 400-Foot Climb • Short but Steep
Looking for a shorter hike that will still get your heart pumping? Mineral Hill Trail is less than a mile long, but gains about 400 feet of elevation. Aspens line much of the trail, and the views of the Wellington Ore Bin, French Gulch and the Tenmile Range make the climb worth it.
These are only a couple of our favorites! Check out our full list of fall foliage hikes for more easy, moderate and family-friendly options around Summit County.
Go for a Scenic Drive
Boreas Pass Road
Starts in Breckenridge • Upper Road Unpaved • Check Conditions
You do not have to travel far to find one of the best fall drives in the area. Boreas Pass Road starts right in Breckenridge and winds through neighborhoods before turning into a dirt road surrounded by colorful aspens.
Stop at Baker’s Tank for a photo, continue to the top of the pass for views from the Continental Divide or make a full loop by driving through Como and Fairplay before returning to Breckenridge over Hoosier Pass. Be sure to check the weather and road conditions before heading out, since the upper portion of Boreas Pass Road is unpaved.
Want to explore a little farther from town? Our guide to fall scenic drives includes Loveland Pass, Independence Pass and Guanella Pass.
Ride Through the Aspens
Baker’s Tank Loop via Boreas Pass
6 Miles • Beginner to Intermediate • Dirt and Singletrack
This six-mile beginner-to-intermediate ride is a mix of dirt road and singletrack. The route climbs Boreas Pass Road, offering beautiful views of the Tenmile Range and plenty of aspens along the way. From Baker’s Tank, riders can follow the singletrack back toward the start.
Aspen Alley
Blue-Intermediate • Best Ridden Downhill • Experienced Riders
Aspen Alley is one of Breckenridge’s most iconic mountain biking trails, especially when the leaves begin to change. The trail winds through a thick aspen grove and is best enjoyed as a downhill ride. It is rated blue-intermediate, so it may not be the best choice for brand-new riders.
Looking for another route? Explore our complete list of fall foliage mountain bike rides for options suited to several experience levels.
Before Your Fall Adventure
Fall weather in the mountains can be unpredictable. Sunshine, rain and even snow can all arrive in the same day, so a little preparation can make your time outside much more enjoyable.
- Pack Layers: Bring a fleece or warm jacket along with a lightweight rain layer. Temperatures can change quickly, especially as you gain elevation or the sun begins to set.
- Choose Sturdy Footwear: Wear supportive hiking shoes or boots with good traction. Warm socks can also make a big difference on cool mornings and damp trails.
- Bring the Small Essentials: Pack a hat, light gloves, sunglasses and plenty of water. Even on cooler days, the high-altitude sun can be strong.
- Check Conditions: Review the forecast and current trail or road conditions before leaving. Weather can be very different at higher elevations, and some unpaved roads may become difficult to travel after rain or snow.
- Help Protect the Trails: Stay off muddy trails, give wildlife plenty of space and pack out everything you bring. Mountain bikers should yield to hikers and horses, stop for uphill traffic and remain on designated trails.
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