Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Hiking trails & Routes
Summit County
Copper Mountain

Tenmile Canyon Recpath

Hard

Tenmile Canyon Recpath

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

A

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

1

20.8 km

Vail Pass

Highlight • Mountain Pass

At 10,622 feet high, you can truly feel the altitude as you ride. The pass maintains a steady elevation, with mountains surrounding you along the way. There are plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the breathtaking views.

Tip by

2

22.0 km

Black Lake (Dam No. 1)

Highlight • Lake

There are actually a couple Black Lakes here just off the side of the paved bike path. A bit down the south side of the pass is the main parking area and facilities for Vail Pass.

Tip by

3

22.4 km

Black Lake (Dam Number 1)

Highlight • Lake

There are actually a couple Black Lakes here just off the side of the paved bike path. A bit down the south side of the pass is the main parking area and facilities for Vail Pass.

Tip by

4

23.2 km

Black Lake Number 2

Highlight • Lake

This lake provides stunning views of mountains, pine trees, red rocks, and water, truly encapsulating the Colorado experience. Regularly stocked with trout, it's a good place to stop, and if …

Tip by

68.7 km

Summit County Church of Christ

Place Of Worship

6

69.8 km

Temple Trail

Highlight • Trail

Temple Trail is primarily utilized as a commuter trail by locals and as a paved trail connector to other trails in the area. The trail offers some views of Mount …

Tip by

7

70.2 km

Beautiful view of Frisco

Highlight • Viewpoint

Halfway up the slope you have a beautiful view of the city and the lake.

Tip by

8

71.0 km

Ten Mile Canyon Trailhead

Highlight • Trail

Ten Mile Canyon has two official trailheads; the other trailhead is located across Hwy 91 from Copper Mountain Ski Resort at Wheeler Junction. In Frisco, almost all commuter trail junctions will well marked with trail signs and mileage markers.

Tip by

79.2 km

Curtain Ponds

Lake

10

82.6 km

West Lake

Highlight • Lake

West Lake transforms into a glistening ice rink when winter arrives, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and charming mountain lodges. Take a break from skating and soak in the panoramic views of the Ten Mile Range, especially captivating at sunset.

Tip by

B

84.6 km

End point

Parking

Loading

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

Sign up to see more specific route details

Sign up for free

Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (3,790 m)

Lowest point (2,770 m)

Sign up to see more specific route details

Sign up for free

Weather

Powered by Foreca

Friday 10 July

18°C

3°C

18 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 8.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

Comments

guide_signup

Want to know more?

Sign up for a free komoot account to join the conversation.

Sign up for free

This route was planned by komoot.

Save

Edit route

Download GPX

Move start point

Print

Share

Embed on a website

Report an Issue

Report restricted access

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I park to access the Tenmile Canyon Recpath?

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.

Is the Tenmile Canyon Recpath dog-friendly?

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.

What is the best time of year to visit this trail?

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.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for the Tenmile Canyon Recpath?

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.

What is the terrain like on the Tenmile Canyon Recpath?

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.

Does the trail intersect with other well-known paths?

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%).

What are some notable features or viewpoints along the route?

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.

How long does it take to hike a significant portion of the Recpath?

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.

Is the Tenmile Canyon Recpath suitable for families with children?

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.

Are there any easy sections or shorter routes on the Recpath?

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.

What should I be aware of regarding other trail users?

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.

Nearby routes

Hard

5.0

86

Quandary Peak Trail

04:07h

8.06km

1,010m

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy