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Description:
If you are in
Summit Co. in the fall this is a "must do" hike for the whole
family to enjoy. While this is a beautiful, invigorating walk in
any season, the golden aspen make this a spectacular fall
adventure.
The trail begins across the road from the
parking area and soon crosses a road to a dry, sagebrush mound
where it ascends briskly to a lush aspen forest. As you gain
elevation, enjoy the view of Lake Dillon behind you and Buffalo
Mt., Red Peak and the Gore Range across route 9 to the west.
As you proceed through the aspens to a
pine forest you will appreciate |
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the comfort of the trail that
has been cushioned by mulch and pine needles - what comfort!!
You will know you are getting close to your
destination (a lookout) when you cross the first of two small
streams. The second stream is only about a two or three minute
walk from the lookout.
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Above: Looking Southwest towards Lake Dillon. |
Above: Red Buffalo Pass |
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Past the lookout the trail
ascends quickly and eventually reaches Ptarmigan Peak at an
elevation of 12,500'. If you choose
to extend your hike be aware that it is about 2.4 miles from the
lookout to the top with an additional elevation gain of 2,100'.
At about 11,800' a trail will intersect on your right
(northeast), stay straight and continue to the summit where
you'll be rewarded with views of 14ers Gray's & Torrey's to the
east. |
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Above: Trudging thru the Aspen! |
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Left: Looking west across route 9 - just north of Silverthorne. |
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The National Geographic Topo Map of "Vail, Frisco and Dillon"
will be a helpful resource for this hike. Order a copy online by
following the links on our site or stop at Weber's bookstore on
Main St. in Breckenridge.
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Above:
A view from the lookout. |
Right: A view from the lookout. |
