Tenmile Traverse

Summer is rapidly turning to fall here in Colorado and the season is a short one. With that in mind we decided to combine some Aspen leave peeping with a Colorado classic ridge traverse that’s been on our list for a while. The Tenmile Traverse takes you from Frisco to Breckendridge the scenic way, taking in ten peaks, a bit of scrambling and a whole lot of scenery! An early rise and drive down to Frisco had us at the trail head for first light. With a leisurely start along the bike path, passing some impressively golden Aspens we soon started the big climb up towards Peak 1.

 

We were treated with some great views down below with Lake Dillon to our East and yellow Aspens all around.

 

 

Once a top Peak 1, you are greeted with a spectacular view of the ridgeline.

 

After a gentle warm up that connects Peak 2, the ridge starts to become a little more technical and a little more exposed.

 

The major highlight is the Dragons Back, between Peaks 2 and 3 which presents an imposing obstacle to the casual hiker.

 

 

 

After summiting Peak 3, there is only one remaining technical section that leads you to Peak 4.

 

 

Once Peak 4 is reached it’s nothing but big fat beautiful high alpine ridges to run along! Unfortunately for us, time was getting on and lunch was beckoning so we decided to call it a day at Peak 7 and took the direct route down towards Breckenridge. After a sizeable feat we hopped on the free shuttle back to Frisco and back home to Boulder in time for dinner! Next summer, the full traverse will be high on our list!