Bakers Tank Trail is popular for year round outdoor enthusiasts just 3.5 miles up Boreas Pass from Breckenridge, CO.
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Honestly, I have wanted to see what it was all about for a long time but hesitated because of its popularity which brings in hurds of hikers and mountain bikers.
So, we picked a cold day and decided to hike it in winter. Could not have picked a better time to see and enjoy this winter wonderland.
It was chilly (19 degrees!) but if you live in Colorado then you know that the sun is like a heat magnet shining down on you at high altitude. Without wind of course to block any chance of warmth! Today was just such a day.
Starting out in a dense forest covered in fresh deep snow, we began hiking on a steady uphill grade.
Sunlight filtered through occasionally causing snow sparkles across our path.
I keep looking for the sun to grab some warmth, hiking faster thinking the sun is just over the next ridge.
After close to 2 miles openings in the trees greeted us and brought warm sun and views looking over Breckenridge Ski Area.
Then back in the trees to find Bakers Tank and asking fellow hikers coming back “how much farther”? Got the “about 25 minutes”.
I’m such a whip in the cold… I did know that Bakers Tank was in full sun, having seen it on Boreas Pass in the summer. I think we did the rest in 10 minutes!
Hiking high above Bakers Tank before reaching it the sun was in its full glory. Beautiful snow filled peaks all around us as we hiked down to the Tank, I soon forgot how cold I’d been.
Bakers Tank is an historic tank that was used in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. Steam locomotives used it to take on water while trying to make it through the mountains and tackle steep grades.
During our hike we saw several cross country skiers, lots of snowshoers, and even a bike with a ski on the front. We found the trail packed down enough to simply wear clamp-ons and winter hiking boots.
Most of the time, Bakers Tank trail was our own with only a few others about. Was an exceptional day and worth the frozen nose and fingers!
A trail you want to be prepared for with appropriate hiking gear. Please check out “What’s in Your Day Pack” for a list of recommended items anytime hiking.
We cheated on the way back, taking Boreas Pass instead of back on the trail into the forest and into the cold.
Was a great idea, the forest offered a winter wonderland, like a Christmas Card and Boreas Pass offered stunning mountain views of the Ten Mile Range and Quandary Peak all the way back with loads of sunshine.
NOTE: In the summer and fall months, Boreas Pass is crowded with cars and the road is dusty and noisy. If you can go in winter, the pass is closed to traffic and the trial is quiet and all yours.
LOCATED: From I-70, Exit Frisco. Drive to Breckenridge on Hwy 9 to the last stoplight in town, turn left and go 3.5 miles up Boreas Pass to the trailhead. (pavement ends). From Hwy 285, Turn at the light at the town of Fairplay and travel on Hwy 9 (Hoosier Pass) to Breckenridge. Turn at the first stoplight (Boreas Pass) and travel 3.5 miles to the trailhead.
TIDBITS:
Trail #40
Rated: easy to moderate
Approx: 5.5 miles out and back
Start Elevation: 10,385 ft
Open to dogs, horses and mountain bikes
In winter open to snowshoeing, XC skiing
Trial is well marked
Nearest Town: Breckenridge
Information: Dillon Ranger District 970-468-5400
More hikes in Summit County you simply can’t miss!
Lily Pad Lakes Trail is Unforgettable: Silverthorne, CO
Mini Mine Trail: Breckenridge, CO
McCullough Gulch: Breckenridge, CO
Troll & Fairy Hiking: Breckenridge, CO
Snowshoeing Mayflower Gulch is Magical: Summit County, CO
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