Copper Mountain

The Tenmile Canyon Recpath is a spectacular touring cycling route that immerses you in the grandeur of the Colorado Rockies. As you pedal, you'll trace the path of Tenmile Creek, passing by serene ponds like Black Lake (Dam No. 1) and through vibrant wetland areas, all while enjoying continuous views of the towering Tenmile Range peaks. The paved surface makes for a smooth ride, but don't let that fool you; this is a challenging journey.

This difficult 50.9-mile (82.0 km) route demands respect, with a significant 4155 feet (1266 metres) of elevation gain that will test your legs over an estimated 5 hours and 32 minutes. While the stretch from Frisco to Copper Mountain is a moderate climb, the path steepens considerably towards Vail Pass. For those seeking a less strenuous experience, consider using a shuttle service to Vail Pass to enjoy a mostly downhill return.

Part of the larger Summit County Recreational Pathway System, this route follows a historic former railroad spur, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and heritage. It's a dedicated paved bike route, popular for its scenic views and wildlife spotting opportunities, including deer, moose, and bighorn sheep. Water fountains are conveniently located at spots like the Frisco marina entrance and Copper Mountain base, making it easier to stay hydrated on this epic ride.

The Tenmile Recpath offers a memorable touring cycling experience through Colorado's stunning alpine scenery. As you ride, you'll be treated to continuous views of the majestic Tenmile Range, with the paved path closely following Tenmile Creek and passing picturesque ponds like Black Lake (Dam No. 1). Lush aspen groves provide vibrant color, especially in October, making for a truly immersive journey despite Interstate 70 running parallel to much of the route. This moderate 14.2-mile (22.8 km) trail with 946 feet (288 metres) of elevation gain is a fantastic way to experience the high country.

Planning your visit to the Tenmile Recpath is straightforward, with multiple access points in Frisco and Copper Mountain. The trail is typically open from late May or early June to October, but always check for closures due to unpredictable weather, including potential snow or avalanche debris. This is a popular trail, especially on summer weekends, so expect to share the path with other outdoor enthusiasts. Water fountains and restrooms are conveniently located along the route, such as near the Frisco marina and at Copper Mountain.

The Tenmile Recpath is a significant part of the award-winning Summit County Recreational Pathway System, offering over 40 miles of interconnected paved trails. This connectivity allows you to extend your ride to other popular destinations like Breckenridge or around Dillon Reservoir, making it a versatile choice for various cycling abilities. For an easier option, many cyclists use shuttle services to Vail Pass and enjoy a predominantly downhill ride back towards Frisco, making it a great family-friendly bike route.

The Vail to Copper Mountain via Vail Pass route is a classic Colorado touring bicycle ride, offering spectacular mountain views as you traverse through subalpine meadows and forests. You'll follow the dedicated Vail Pass Recpath, a fully paved trail that winds alongside creeks and small waterfalls, with stunning vistas of the Gore and Tenmile Ranges. The route takes you past scenic spots like Black Lake No. 2 and Black Lake (Dam No. 1) before reaching the high point at Vail Pass.

Planning your ride requires considering the significant elevation gain of 3188 feet (972 metres) over 33.4 miles (53.7 km), which makes it a difficult route taking approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes. Many cyclists opt for a shuttle service to the summit of Vail Pass, turning the challenging climb into a rewarding, mostly downhill cruise towards Copper Mountain. Remember that the high altitude at the pass, over 10,600 feet, can affect riders from lower elevations, so allow time to acclimate.

This trail is notable for being one of Colorado's first separated bicycle paths over a mountain pass, established during the construction of Interstate 70. It offers a safe, traffic-free cycling experience and connects to a wider network of recreation paths, including the Ten Mile Canyon Recpath at Copper Mountain. The route also provides amenities at Vail Pass summit and Copper Mountain, making it a well-supported journey through the heart of the Rockies.