24:42
84.6km
1,960m
Hiking
Embark on the Tenmile Canyon Recpath for a challenging hiking adventure through the White River National Forest. This difficult route stretches 52.6 miles (84.6 km) and demands a significant 6429 feet (1959 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 24 hours and 42 minutes to complete. You will experience a…
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
20.8 km
Highlight • Mountain Pass
Tip by
22.0 km
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
22.4 km
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
23.2 km
Highlight • Lake
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68.7 km
Summit County Church of Christ
Place Of Worship
69.8 km
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
70.2 km
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
71.0 km
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
79.2 km
Curtain Ponds
Lake
82.6 km
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
84.6 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
52.1 km
21.5 km
7.79 km
2.66 km
496 m
Surfaces
30.1 km
28.3 km
23.1 km
2.13 km
1.10 km
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Elevation
Highest point (3,790 m)
Lowest point (2,770 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Friday 10 July
18°C
3°C
18 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 8.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
The trail can be accessed from various points. A common starting point is the Ten Mile Canyon Trailhead. Parking is generally available at trailheads in towns like Frisco and Copper Mountain, which connect directly to the Recpath. Given its integration into the larger Summit County Recreational Pathway System, you'll find multiple access points along its length.
Yes, the Tenmile Canyon Recpath is generally dog-friendly. However, as it's a multi-use paved path, it's crucial to keep your dog on a leash at all times to ensure safety for both your pet and other users, especially cyclists. Always remember to pack out any waste.
The Tenmile Canyon Recpath is open year-round. For hiking, late spring through early fall (May to October) offers the most pleasant conditions. In the fall, the aspen trees provide spectacular colors. While accessible in winter for cross-country skiing, hikers should be prepared for snow and ice. Always check local weather and trail conditions before heading out.
No, there are typically no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike or bike the Tenmile Canyon Recpath itself. While the trail is located within the general area of the White River National Forest, access to the Recpath does not usually incur a fee. However, always be aware of any specific regulations or parking fees that might apply at certain access points or trailheads.
The Tenmile Canyon Recpath is primarily an asphalt, paved path, offering a smooth surface. This makes it suitable for a variety of activities beyond hiking, including biking and in-line skating. While it's a well-maintained surface, some sections present a gradual uphill climb, particularly when heading south from Frisco towards Copper Mountain and Vail Pass.
Yes, the Tenmile Canyon Recpath is part of a larger network. The route itself is known as the Tenmile Recpath for about 60% of its length. It also shares sections with the Colorado Trail (approximately 34% of the route), specifically Colorado Trail segment 7, and a small portion of the Peaks Trail (about 7%).
The Recpath offers stunning views of the Tenmile Range and follows the winding Tenmile Creek. Highlights along the way include Vail Pass, various sections of Black Lake (Dam No. 1), Black Lake (Dam Number 1), and Black Lake Number 2. You can also enjoy a Beautiful view of Frisco and pass by West Lake.
The entire Tenmile Canyon Recpath is quite long, spanning approximately 14 miles one-way between Copper Mountain and Vail Pass. Many hikers choose to tackle a segment rather than the full length. For a less strenuous outing, hiking the 7 miles from Frisco to Copper Mountain is a popular option, which can take a few hours depending on your pace.
Yes, the paved and relatively flat sections of the Tenmile Canyon Recpath, especially the 11.4 km 'Tenmile Recpath Creek Walk' starting in Frisco, are considered easy and very suitable for families. It's a multi-use trail, so families can enjoy walking, biking, or even pushing strollers. Always be mindful of cyclists, especially those descending from Vail Pass, and keep to the right.
Absolutely. While the full length can be challenging, an 11.4 km section known as the 'Tenmile Recpath Creek Walk' starting in Frisco is graded as easy. Many people also opt to hike the 7 miles from Frisco to Copper Mountain for a more moderate and manageable outing, which avoids the more strenuous ascent towards Vail Pass.
The Tenmile Canyon Recpath is a popular multi-use trail. You'll encounter cyclists, especially those descending from Vail Pass, who can be moving at high speeds. It's important for hikers to stay to the right, be aware of their surroundings, and listen for approaching bikes. Always practice good trail etiquette to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
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