Copper Mountain Hiking Trails: Find Your Outdoor Haven

While Copper Mountain welcomes thousands to snowy slopes in winter, the area also beckons adventurers year-round. With trails for all ages and abilities, it’s easy to enjoy fresh mountain air and escape from daily stress. And don’t forget all the photo ops. Sound fun? Grab some water, lace up some boots and head to these Copper Mountain hiking trails.

Copper Mountain Hiking Trails for Scenic Beauty and Nature

Searle Pass: Moderate

Spend the day in White River National Forest hiking Searle Pass trail. The trail is located near Frisco, and has 15.4 miles of trees, small streams and rolling mountain views. Many find the trail a moderate hike based on distance and an elevation gain of over 2,600 feet. June through October provide the best times to hike, but visitors should bring rain gear as hikers will spend some time above the tree line.

Hikers should also note this trail welcomes mountain bikers and crosses ski trails in the winter. In addition, hikers are welcome to bring their dogs, but should pack plenty of drinking water for both humans and pets.

Spaulding Gulch: Moderate to Difficult

Measuring 9.4 miles with an elevation gain of more than 4,200 feet, Spaulding Gulch ranks as a moderate to difficult hike. The trail offers the best hiking from June through October and provides views of three peaks.

Jacque Peak – one of the most popular – allows hikers to traverse through mining land as the land is owned by White River National Forest. Dogs also enjoy this trail, and bring plenty of water as a typical hike last six to eight hours.

Vail Pass-Gore Range: Easy to Moderate

Located less than a mile from Copper Mountain Ski Resort, cross the pedestrian bridge to Gore Range Trail. This hike then rises into Eagle Nest to Lost Lake located 5 miles from the resort. Adventurers should expect a round-trip of nearly 10 miles, with a gain of nearly 2,100 feet. While hiking, enjoy tree-lined hillsides, large meadows, ponds and wildlife.

As one of the shorter Gore Range Summit trails, this option measures less than 6 miles. As with most Copper Mountain hiking trails, hikers have the option to bring dogs. In addition, this trail ranks easy to moderate, can be customized three to six hours, and opens June through September.

Wheeler Lakes: Moderate

This moderate trail sits near Frisco and provides the best access from July through October. While Wheeler Lakes trail measures 6.7 miles, visitors enjoy a gain of just over 1,500 feet that provides a moderate climb. While hiking, see aspen trees, lakes, Tenmile Range and wildlife. Wheeler Lakes trail crosses Gore Range Trail — about 2 miles in — and overlooks Officer’s Gulch, Lake Dillon and the Continental Divide.

Hikers should plan to hike to the lakes, which provide a scenic view perfect for photos. Leashed dogs are welcome to join the fun, however owners should bring drinking water and take breaks in the shade.

Mayflower Gulch: Moderate

For a glimpse into mining history, hike Mayflower Gulch near Copper Mountain. From March to September, this trail offers a moderate journey through wilderness with snow or wildflowers depending on the season. To see Boston Mining Company ruins, venture 2 miles up the mountain and reach over 1,400 feet. The entire trail measures about 6 miles and ranks as a favorite for photo ops and natural beauty.

To see the entire trail, hike in summertime when snow has melted. Dogs are welcome as well, but prepare for wildlife encounters. In addition to ranking among the best Copper Mountain hiking trails, Mayflower Gulch also suits families with children, beginners and those short on time.

Hallelujah Nature Trail: Moderate

Hallelujah Nature Trail offers a moderate 2.3-mile hike with an elevation gain of 1,350 feet. On the loop, enjoy forest views and rolling mountains. For a shorter trip, ride American Eagle lift, which ascends to over 11,300 feet. From there, follow signs that lead to Hallelujah bowl, then hike back down the road.

Hikers find this trail most used in June until September. Once the snow falls, this spot is popular among downhill and cross-country skiers.

Interested in visiting Copper Mountain in the winter? Check out this Copper Mountain ski guide to get started.

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