Hiking season continues and the wildflowers are in full bloom around Summit County! There are many great hikes around Summit County for wildflower viewing, but these are a few of Real Estate of the Summit’s favorites!
Mayflower Gulch
1.8 Mile Bar: Easy | Elevation Gain: 765 Ft
7.3 Mile Loop: Easy – Moderate | Elevation Gain: 1,280 Ft
Driving Directions: Follow I-70 W from Frisco and take the Copper Mountain exit 195. Drive 6 miles south on 91 and the trailhead parking lot will be on the left after a deep valley.
The Boston mine camp, now a ghost town, is still visible on the left hand side of the trail at 1.8 miles out. For hikers choosing to continue on the trail, return to the fork and follow the curve right. The trail will begin to climb Gold Hill and places hikers in an open, treeless meadow. For more information on continuing the loop, please follow this link http://www.summitdaily.
Mohawk Lakes
6.8 Miles: Moderate – Difficult | Elevation Gain: 1,940
Driving Directions: Head south of Breckenridge on Highway 9 for 2.4 miles. Take a right on Spruce Creek Road (CR 800) and follow the signs to the trailhead parking lot. Certain 4wd vehicles can pass this parking lot and continue along the road for an additional 1.5 miles.
The Spruce Creek Trail has breathtaking fields full of wildflowers during this time of the year. It’s hard to beat picturesque backdrops on this hike, which include flowing waterfalls, massive lakes and mountain landscapes! From the lower parking lot, follow the mining road as it ascends and descends , making its way to the initial trailhead. Follow the trail through wooded area before crossing a number of switchbacks. Take a moment to enjoy the views once you reach Lower Mohawk, yet continue on to Upper Mohawk, as it is well worth completing the short remainder of the hike!
Baldy Mountain
6 Miles: Difficult | Elevation Gain: 2,700 Ft
Driving Directions: Drive South out of Breckenridge on Highway 9. Turn left at the traffic light on Boreas Pass Road. Follow this road up the hill and take a left on Baldy Road. Parking for the trailhead is on the right before hitting the dirt road. 4WD vehicles may continue on the dirt road with parking available near the Mill
The wildflowers covering Baldy Mountain are enchanting and colorful this month! The mining road is easy to follow as you switchback up the mountain. Great views of Breckenridge can be seen amongst a mountain covered in wildflowers. Small, privately owned historical mining huts can be viewed along the trail. Past the switchbacks, the trail becomes more steep. Continue on to summit Bald Mountain or turn around for a more leisurely hike!
