Quick Info
Lake Dillon loop: 18 miles around the reservoir. Surface: Paved, multi-use. Connections: Links to Breckenridge, Keystone, Copper, Vail Pass. Winter: Plowed sections plus Nordic skiing. E-bikes: Class 1 allowed.
The Summit County Recreation Path is one of Colorado's premier paved trail systems. From Frisco, you can ride around Lake Dillon, pedal to Breckenridge, or climb the Vail Pass Bikeway. The paths are wide, well-maintained, and offer mountain views throughout.
The system connects to over 50 miles of paved trails across Summit County. Frisco's central location puts you within easy reach of every direction. Summer mornings see cyclists, runners, and families enjoying car-free travel through stunning high-country scenery.
Popular Routes
Lake Dillon Loop
Distance: 18 miles. Difficulty: Moderate (rolling hills).
Complete circuit around the reservoir passing through Frisco, Dillon, and connecting trails. Stunning Gore Range views. Best done clockwise for easier grades. Allow 2-3 hours at a casual pace.
Frisco to Breckenridge
Distance: 9 miles one way. Difficulty: Moderate (gradual climb).
The classic Summit County ride. Follows the Blue River through the valley to Breck's Main Street. Gentle grade most of the way with a few steeper sections. Return is mostly downhill.
Frisco to Copper Mountain
Distance: 8 miles one way. Difficulty: Moderate.
Follow the path along I-70 to Copper Mountain Resort. Less scenic than other routes but connects to the Vail Pass climb.
Vail Pass Bikeway
Distance: 13 miles from Copper to summit. Difficulty: Challenging (significant climb).
Epic climb to 10,662 feet at Vail Pass. Stunning mountain scenery, separated from highway traffic. One of Colorado's best bike climbs. Many riders shuttle to the top and coast down.
Frisco to Keystone
Distance: 10 miles one way. Difficulty: Easy to moderate.
Follow the path through Dillon and along the Snake River to Keystone Resort. Generally flat to gentle grades.
Trailheads & Access
Frisco Main Street: Path runs right through downtown. Easy access from any Main Street location.
Frisco Bay Marina: Start lakeside and connect to the loop trail.
Peninsula Recreation Area: Parking and access between Frisco and Dillon.
Bike rentals: Several shops on Main Street rent road bikes, cruisers, and e-bikes. E-bike rentals make the climbs accessible to everyone.
Winter Use
Portions of the path are plowed for winter walking and running. The Frisco Nordic Center grooms cross-country ski trails connecting to the recreation path system.
Fat biking: Allowed on packed snow sections. Check conditions before heading out.
Snowshoeing: Unpaved sections make excellent snowshoe routes.
Tips
Start early. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer. Best conditions before noon.
Consider an e-bike. At 9,000+ feet, the altitude affects everyone. E-bikes level the playing field and extend your range.
Bring layers. Mountain weather changes quickly. Pack a light jacket even on warm days.
Stay right, pass left. Standard trail etiquette applies. Call out when passing.
Bikes welcome on Summit Stage. If you want a one-way ride, buses have bike racks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the path paved?
Yes, the main recreation path is fully paved and well-maintained. Wide enough for two-way traffic with bikes, walkers, and runners.
Are e-bikes allowed?
Class 1 e-bikes (pedal-assist only, max 20 mph) are allowed on paved paths. Throttle-controlled e-bikes are not permitted.
Is the altitude a factor?
Yes, significantly. Even fit cyclists notice the thin air at 9,000+ feet. Take it easier than at sea level and stay hydrated.
Can I walk or run the path?
Absolutely. The path is multi-use for bikes, pedestrians, and runners. Stay to the right and be aware of cyclists.
What about mountain biking?
Summit County has extensive mountain bike trails, but those are separate from the paved recreation path. Frisco has several trailheads nearby.