Copper to Frisco Recreation Path

Dogs Unknown

Features Fall Colors · River/Creek · Wildflowers

Another great section of the Summit County Recreational Path system! This segment uses the historic Denver, South Park, and Pacific narrow gauge rail grade. Rail grades guarantee a nice, smooth route with easy hills!

From the Copper Mountain ski area, pick up the paved path at the north end of the huge skier parking lot (corner of Copper Rd and Highway 91). Cross Highway 91 at the stoplight. To get to the main paved path (staying completely on pavement), hike on the frontage that passes in front of the gas station and ends at a parking lot. Alternatively, for a short stretch of dirt hiking follow the trail as mapped here, crossing the creek and passing behind the gas station going north. Both options end at the same place - a large beaver pond next to a dirt parking lot.

Now for the pretty part of the trail: hike past marshy beaver ponds and dark lakes where people sometimes fish. The path is pretty flat here and in early season it might be slightly flooded in spots. The descent steepens a bit and is very pleasant going as it parallels the Tenmile Creek through woods. End at a parking lot next to exit 201 in Frisco, where you have many options to continue if you like.

Bikes are allowed on this trail.