Mayflower Gulch is just the best backcountry getaway in every season. Easy to get to and doable for just about anyone. Do this trail once and you’ll be back!
It’s Thanksgiving weekend and what a great kick start to the winter season.
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Starting out on the trail is simply just a tease, to what’s ahead.
WINTER WONDERLAND
Hiking up a slight uphill trek through a snow-covered winter wonderland was enchanting, to say the least. Notice we did not have our snowshoes on up the trail, as the snow was easy to trek through on this day.
I had the pleasure of spotting a Snowshoe Rabbit hop quickly across the trail and head up the slope into the trees and deep snow. Brought a smile to my face.
Ski Touring skis! I want some, now on my wish list. We saw so many skiers and when reaching the basin ahead we found out why.
Skis would have been a thrill on the way down as it was getting really chilly when we headed back.
TEN MILE RANGE
Coming out of our snow-filled forest, the view that opened up before us was staggering. We’ve seen this view of Mt. Fletcher and the Tenmile Range many times before, but never in winter. This is beautiful!
You can’t help but be in awe. Scattered mining cabins from the early 1900’s Boston Mine Camp, makes for a spectacular setting beneath the snowy peaks.
Notable items you might regret not having with you when hiking in winter.
I love the smell of snow and the crunch beneath my boots as we wandered around the old structures. Something about winter is so refreshing, the cold crispy air, bright blue skies, and the stillness all around you.
The sun shining over the ridge was blinding but beautiful sending sparkles across the snow.
The first time you do Mayflower Gulch hike, you will be hooked! It’s become an obsession with us.
Owning a pair of snowshoes is like having hiking boots, you’ll get out there more!
Appropriate winter gear and clothes make all the difference in a safe and happy hike! > CLICK HERE
GOLD HILL
Want more adventure? HIke up Gold Hill (pictured above) and ski down. It looked like quite the intense hike up but all glorious powder skiing down. Was thrilling to watch.
If that’s not your thing, this is still a great winter hike or snowshoe. Although rated moderate, it felt like a gentle incline to reach the scattered cabins, mines, and ore chutes.
Mayflower Gulch trail begins at a high altitude leading you close to the timberline quickly.
A hike you will go back to over and over, in every season. The easy access to the trailhead makes it a favorite Colorado trail for all skill levels.
For more information on the Summit County area and all it has to offer: The Summit Chamber.
Please be aware of any avalanche warnings at Colorado Avalanche Information Center.
TIDBITS:
Hike: to Boston Mine Camp, 1.8 mile, starts at 10,994 ft., ends at 11,980 ft.
Hike: to Gold Hill and across top: approx: 4 miles out and back
Rated: easy to moderate
Open to: hiking, snowshoeing, nordic skiing, dogs, mountain bikes
Note: Some avalanche prone areas on the upper end of the trail
Located in: Arapaho National Forest
LOCATED
The Trailhead is located approximately 6.2 miles on Hwy 91 (Fremont Pass) from Copper Mountain heading towards Leadville. It is easy to miss! Watch for it on your left. You will find a good size parking area.
HOPE TO SEE YOU ON THE TRAIL!
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HIKES NEARBY
Note: Many of the links are affiliate links which means I receive a very small commission (at no added cost to you) and you get an awesome product, I appreciate the support.
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