Wildernest Wonder

The route mapped here takes hikers along the Mesa-Cortina Trail from the trailhead on the southwest side of Silverthorne. You'll quickly enter the Eagles Nest Wilderness, and then make your way through some of the most beautiful and peaceful aspen forest in the area, and you'll have plenty of amazing views along the way. The falls along this route are spectacular after heavy rain.

This is a short trail that packs all the fun and beauty of some of the longer ones in the area into a manageable size. The length and elevation gain of the trail shouldn't be too challenging for most hikers who hit the trail regularly. From the trailhead, this trail heads northwest a brief walk up to Old Dillon Reservoir, then does a loop around it before heading back.

There are gorgeous views of the lake and mountains from this mostly gentle, mixed surface trail. The Aspen trees are stunning in the fall. Accessibility: There is 1 designated accessible space in the small paved parking lot off of Dillon Dam Road by the west end of the trail. It is van-accessible with a striped access aisle. The trail surface is paved asphalt, gravel, or a natural (dirt and rock) surface. It is typically at least 3 feet wide with many wider passing spaces. The most...

Ptarmigan Trail is a really beautiful hike that offers hikers some spectacular views of the valley, lake, and town once you get to the bench overlook at the top of this route as mapped here on this page. Depending on weather and conditions, this trail might be a little challenging for complete beginner hikers or those with mobility issues due to some steep sections on the trail.

The Lily Pad Lake Trail is located in the Eagle Nest Wilderness off of Ryan Gulch Road. Toward the end of the road there is a parking area on the left. From here, there are two different trailheads that leave from the parking lot, so make sure you take the Lily Pad Lake Trailhead. This trail is a great option for families. It is easy to follow, with multiple signs showing you which way to go when the trail splits. Toward the beginning you will travel through thick lodgepole pine and aspen...