Fall is in full swing in the mountains and right now the colors in Summit Country (ie. Frisco, Silverthorn, Breckenridge) are poping and will be at peak this weekend (9/24/2020). I wanted to put together a quick post on how, when, and where to see the best fall colors and explore Summit county too.

The hikes recommended here are easy, low-key. With an older pup, we opt for these hikes, and for great color you want to be in the woods vs. above treeline on top of a mountain. Pair these hikes with some restaurant recommendations and you have a perfect day venture!

Head to this post for where to find fall color all over colorado

Fall Color Hikes in Summit County

These 3 hikes are great for family and older pups. Mostly limited elevation gain and fairly short. PS. Click here for my must-have hiking gear

Rainbow Lake – Frisco – This 1.5-mile hike starts right in the down of Frisco and meanders through beautiful Aspen groves and finishes at a Lake. Great for families and dogs this was a mellow hike with plenty of fall color. The path is rocky in spots so I would recommend hiking shoes.

Aspen Ally – Breckenridge – This hike has the most elevation change you can choose to start at the top of the hill or at the bottom. I suggest up first so you on the way back you can go down. But really just walk as far as you want the entire trail is in an Aspen grove so you will get lots and lots of fall color.

Old Dillon Reservoir – Frisco – Another easy stroll through beautiful Aspen Groves with spectacular views of Lake Dillon too!

Fall hikes on my bucket list – These hikes are longer/harder than the above mentioned and definitely worth checking out

• Lower Cataract Loop Trail
• Lilly Pad lake via Meadow Creek
• Peaks Trail
• Ptarmigan Trail

Where to Eat in Summit County

Need a quick bite before your hike check out Butterhorn Bakery or Blue Moon Bakery. For after-hike lunch/dinner and a cocktail to ya know celebrate here are some of my favorite spots in Summit County. Check out my Frisco guide here and Breckenridge guide here.

Frisco

• Butterhorn Bakery & Cafe
• 5th Avenue Grill

Silverthorn/Dillon

• Dam Brewery
• Arapahoe Cafe & Pub
• The Argentos Empanadas & More
• Chimayo Grill
• Blue Moon Bakery
• LiLi’s Bistro

Breckenridge

• Mi Casa – white queso!
• The Canteen
• Roots Talk
• Breck Distillery
• Tin Plate Pizza

Where to Stay in Summit County

Want to spend the night and make a weekend of it. Airbnb and hip camp are always my first choice but there are a number of newer boutique/unique hotels in the area worth checking out too

• The Pad in Silverthorn
• Gravit Haus Breckenridge
• The Bivvi Breckenridge

You can also read my full guide to where to find fall colors around Colorado. Also, check out my Frisco guide and Breckenridge guide.