The best walks and hikes around Dillon
4.6
(58)
1,802
hikers
11
hikes
Hiking around Dillon, Colorado, is characterized by its high alpine setting at 9,111 feet, offering diverse terrain for outdoor enthusiasts. The region features the expansive Dillon Reservoir, surrounded by the Tenmile and Gore mountain ranges, providing a dramatic backdrop for trails. Hikers can explore areas with lodgepole pine forests, sagebrush, and open meadows, often with views of the Continental Divide. This landscape provides a range of hiking experiences from gentle lakeside paths to more challenging mountain ascents.
Best hiking trails around Dillon
- The most popular hiking route is Meadow Loop and Ridge Trail, a 3.3 miles (5.4 km) trail that takes 1 hour 31 minutes to complete. This easy route offers mountain vistas, lake views, and wildflowers within the Dillon Nature Preserve.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Tenderfoot Mountain Trail loop β White River National Forest, an easy 3.0 miles (4.9 km) path. This trail winds through sagebrush and pine forests, providing impressive views of the Tenmile Range, Gore Range, and Dillon Reservoir.
- Local hikers also love the Silverthorne Blue River Trail β Dillon Reservoir Recreation Area, a 6.1 miles (9.8 km) trail leading through the Dillon Reservoir Recreation Area, often completed in about 2 hours 31 minutes.
- Hiking around Dillon is defined by its mountain ranges, the expansive reservoir, and diverse forest types, including lodgepole pine. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy lakeside strolls to more strenuous mountain climbs.
- The routes in Dillon are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from more than 50 reviews. More than 1600 hikers have used komoot to explore Dillon's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 26, 2026
9.56km
03:06
670m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
61
hikers
5.36km
01:32
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(3)
48
hikers
4.86km
01:31
210m
200m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
20.3km
06:10
710m
700m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
10.9km
03:04
230m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Oro Grande Trail is good for hiking or running or biking for unsecured weather
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The Tenderfoot trail system offers a great ride for mountain bikers, with shared access for hikers and runners. This spot has some of the best views along the trail of Tenderfoot Mountain area, overlooking Lake Dillon, Frisco, and Silverthorne.
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The Dillon Nature Preserve offers a handful of recreational facilities and activities as well as a couple hiking trails. The preserve has multiple overlooks for Dillon Lake Reservoir and is also located just outside of Keystone on the Dillon Reservoir Recpath.
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The Dillon Nature Preserve is a popular summer and winter destination for hikers, XC skiing, snowshoeing, and fishing! There are numerous small paths that lead through wildflowers and take you down to the lake. The gravel road is plowed in the winter and this area is considered family friendly (including dogs)!
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The Tenderfoot trail system is open to hikers, bikers, and trail runners. As you climb higher on the mountain, you start to branch into OHV trail terrain; this spot on the path is before leaving the foot/bike travel trail and offers some of the best views from the Tenderfoot Mountain area overlooking Lake Dillon, Frisco, and Silverthorne.
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One of the lesser visited peaks in the area, Tenderfoot Mountain offers quiet forest walking (except when being passed by ATVs on the upper trails). The summit is usually clear of snow by mid to late June and offers a great challenge. If you are on the run for the views, the lower trails on Tenderfoot Mountain offer better overlooks.
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What's left of an old, dirt road leaves sweet double-track paralleling Interstate 70. There are creek crossings, loose rock gardens, and smooth dirt trails along the path. The trail continues past the small pond next to the interstate, but it is much less used than the half of the trail closer to Silverthorne.
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The Dillon Nature Preserve offers a handful of recreational facilities and activities as well as a couple hiking trails. The preserve has multiple overlooks for Dillon Lake Reservoir and is also located just outside of Keystone on the Dillon Reservoir Recpath.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Dillon, Colorado?
Dillon, Colorado, offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 130 routes available. These trails cater to different skill levels, including 60 easy, 51 moderate, and 23 difficult options.
What kind of views can I expect on hikes around Dillon, Colorado?
Hikes around Dillon, Colorado, are renowned for their stunning vistas. You can expect breathtaking views of the expansive Dillon Reservoir, framed by the majestic Gore and Tenmile mountain ranges. Many trails also offer glimpses of the Continental Divide and wind through diverse landscapes of lodgepole pine forests, sagebrush, and open meadows.
Are there easy hiking options suitable for beginners or families in Dillon, Colorado?
Yes, Dillon, Colorado, has numerous easy hiking options perfect for beginners and families. The Meadow Loop and Ridge Trail within the Dillon Nature Preserve is a great choice, offering beautiful mountain vistas, lake views, and wildflowers on a relatively flat path. Another accessible option is the Tenderfoot Mountain Trail loop, which provides impressive views through sagebrush and pine forests.
Are there any circular hiking routes around Dillon, Colorado?
Yes, several circular hiking routes are available. The Meadow Loop and Ridge Trail and the Tenderfoot Mountain Trail loop are both excellent examples of loop trails that allow you to experience diverse scenery without retracing your steps. For a more challenging loop, consider the Ptarmigan Loop Trail.
What natural landmarks or points of interest can I see while hiking near Dillon, Colorado?
While hiking near Dillon, Colorado, you can explore several natural landmarks. The prominent Dillon Dam and Reservoir is a central feature, offering stunning views. You might also encounter the Lily Pad Lake, a serene spot. The Dillon Nature Preserve itself is a point of interest, with educational signs about local history, wildlife, and plants.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Dillon, Colorado?
The best time for hiking in Dillon, Colorado, is generally during the warm summer days, though the nights can be chilly due to its alpine subarctic climate. Trails like the Tenderfoot Mountain Trail are considered good early-season options as their south-facing orientation means they clear of snow sooner. Winter offers opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on trails like those in the Dillon Nature Preserve.
Are there any trails around Dillon, Colorado, that offer access to the lakeshore?
Yes, the Dillon Nature Preserve, accessible year-round, features trails like the Meadow Trail and Ridge Trail Loop that offer direct access to the lakeshore of Dillon Reservoir. Additionally, the Silverthorne Blue River Trail leads through the Dillon Reservoir Recreation Area, providing lakeside experiences.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Dillon, Colorado?
The trails around Dillon, Colorado, are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 50 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse terrain, from easy lakeside strolls to more strenuous mountain climbs, and the stunning views of the Dillon Reservoir and surrounding mountain ranges. The well-maintained paths and opportunities to see wildflowers are also often highlighted.
Are there any trails in Dillon, Colorado, that are less crowded?
While popular trails can see more visitors, exploring options like the Ridge Trail Loop in the Dillon Nature Preserve during off-peak hours or seeking out some of the more challenging routes might offer a quieter experience. The vastness of the White River National Forest, which some trails like Tenderfoot Mountain traverse, also provides opportunities for solitude.
Are there specific trails in Dillon, Colorado, known for wildflowers?
Yes, the Meadow Loop and Ridge Trail within the Dillon Nature Preserve is particularly noted for its beautiful wildflowers, especially during the warmer months. These trails offer a chance to see diverse local flora alongside mountain and lake views.
Can I find trails with good parking access in Dillon, Colorado?
Many popular trailheads around Dillon, Colorado, offer convenient parking. For instance, the Dillon Nature Preserve, home to the Meadow Trail and Ridge Trail Loop, is easily accessible with parking facilities. It's always a good idea to check specific trail information for parking details before heading out.
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