Byers Peak Wilderness: A Rocky Mountain Escape
Discover panoramic views and serene trails in Byers Peak Wilderness, a hidden gem in Colorado's Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests.
Byers Peak Wilderness, nestled in the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests, offers a stunning alpine escape with diverse terrain, panoramic views, and tranquil hiking trails. Named after William N. Byers, it's a haven for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts seeking serenity in the Rockies.
A brief summary to Byers Peak Wilderness
- Parshall, Colorado, 80468, US
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Check current trail conditions and weather forecasts before heading out, as conditions can change rapidly at high elevations.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if hiking to the summit of Byers Peak.
- Be aware of wildlife and store food properly to avoid attracting animals to your campsite.
- Practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the wilderness for future generations.
- Consider visiting during the week to avoid crowds, especially during peak season.
Getting There
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Driving
To reach the Byers Peak Wilderness from Winter Park, there are two primary access points: East and West. For East Access (easiest from Winter Park/Fraser Valley), drive north on US Highway 40 towards Fraser. Turn left at the traffic light in the center of Fraser onto County Road 72, drive for 0.2 miles, then turn right onto Fraser Parkway for 0.8 miles. Turn left onto County Road 73 and drive for approximately 7 miles as it turns into Forest Road 160.2. Follow this road, passing the first 'Y' intersection, and at the second 'Y', make a sharp right onto Forest Road 111. Follow the signs to the Byers Peak Trailhead until you reach the gate. For West Access (near Parshall), drive northwest on US Highway 40, continuing towards Granby and Hot Sulphur Springs. Drive through Byers Canyon, and between mileposts 197 and 198, turn south onto County Road 3. Watch for mile marker 15; shortly after, you'll see County Road 32. Take County Road 32 for 4.7 miles, then turn right onto FR-136 (marked for Lake Evelyn and Bottle Pass Trail). Drive another 4 miles to reach the trailhead parking lot. Parking is free at both trailheads, but spaces can be limited, especially during peak season. There are no fees to access the Byers Peak Wilderness.
Discover more about Byers Peak Wilderness
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cozens Ranch Museum
18.1 km
Uncover the intriguing history of Granby, Colorado at Cozens Ranch Museum, a perfect blend of heritage, community, and exploration.
Georgetown–Silver Plume Historic District
28.2 km
Explore the Georgetown–Silver Plume Historic District, a stunning blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty in the heart of Colorado's Rockies.
St Mary's Glacier Trailhead
28.5 km
Explore the stunning St Mary's Glacier Trailhead in Colorado, where breathtaking views and adventurous hiking await every nature enthusiast.
Colorado Central Mill
29.9 km
Discover the rich mining history of Colorado at the Colorado Central Mill, a captivating historical landmark surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.
Lost Lake Trail
32.6 km
Explore the stunning landscapes and serene beauty of Lost Lake Trail in Nederland, Colorado, a perfect hiking destination for all outdoor enthusiasts.
A & A Historical Horseback Riding
38.0 km
Explore the breathtaking trails of Central City, Colorado, with A & A Historical Horseback Riding – an unforgettable adventure awaits!
Breckenridge Distillery Restaurant
38.7 km
Experience the best of American cuisine in Breckenridge at the Breckenridge Distillery Restaurant, where local flavors meet mountain charm.
Piney River Ranch
39.2 km
Experience the beauty and history of Piney River Ranch in Colorado, a perfect getaway for outdoor lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.
Central City Opera House
39.8 km
Discover the rich cultural heritage of the Central City Opera House, a historic venue for stunning opera performances amidst Colorado's scenic mountains.
Mt Bierstadt
39.9 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mt Bierstadt in Colorado, where adventure awaits amidst stunning mountain vistas and diverse wildlife.
Century Casino & Hotel Central City
40.0 km
Discover the excitement of gaming and the comfort of hospitality at Century Casino & Hotel Central City, a top destination in Colorado's Rocky Mountains.
Breckenridge Recreation Center
40.1 km
Discover the ultimate recreational experience at Breckenridge Recreation Center, featuring a gym, swimming pool, and rock climbing wall in the heart of Colorado.
Mount Goliath Natural Area & Dos Chappell Nature Center
40.2 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity at Mount Goliath Natural Area & Dos Chappell Nature Center in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.
Vail Nature Center | Walking Mountains
40.7 km
Explore the breathtaking Vail Nature Center, a serene nature preserve offering educational programs and stunning hiking trails amidst the Rocky Mountains.
Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater (The Amp)
40.8 km
Discover the cultural allure of the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater in Vail, Colorado, where breathtaking scenery meets exceptional performances.
Unmissable attractions to see
Vasquez Peak Wilderness
11.9 km
Discover Colorado's wild side in Vasquez Peak Wilderness: hiking, views, and alpine beauty await near Winter Park.
Butler Gulch Trailhead
13.4 km
Discover vibrant wildflowers, cascading waterfalls, and historic mining remnants on this scenic hike near Parshall, Colorado.
Pettingell Peak
15.0 km
Conquer Pettingell Peak: A challenging Front Range hike with rewarding panoramic views and a touch of solitude near Denver.
Fraser Tubing Hill
16.7 km
Experience thrilling snow tubing at Fraser Tubing Hill, a family-owned winter tradition since 1971, located minutes from Winter Park!
Winter Park Resort
16.8 km
Discover Winter Park Resort: A premier Colorado ski destination with diverse terrain, year-round activities, and stunning Rocky Mountain scenery.
Winter Park
18.7 km
Discover year-round adventure in Winter Park, Colorado: skiing, biking, hiking, and stunning mountain scenery await!
Herman Gulch Trailhead
19.6 km
Discover alpine beauty near Dillon, Colorado, with wildflower meadows, mountain vistas, and a pristine lake on the popular Herman Gulch Trail.
Eisenhower-Johnson Tunnels
20.2 km
Drive through the Continental Divide! Experience an engineering marvel at the Eisenhower-Johnson Memorial Tunnel on I-70, just west of Denver.
Loveland Ski Area
20.3 km
Experience Colorado's authentic ski culture at Loveland Ski Area, offering uncrowded slopes, abundant snow, and a long season near Denver.
Loveland Pass
22.6 km
Experience breathtaking views and outdoor adventures at Loveland Pass, a high mountain pass on the Continental Divide in the Colorado Rockies.
Bill Moore Lake
23.1 km
Discover a stunning alpine lake in Colorado's Arapaho National Forest, accessible by a thrilling 4x4 road and offering breathtaking mountain views.
Tenderfoot Mountain
24.2 km
Hike or bike Tenderfoot Mountain for stunning Dillon Reservoir views and trails through Colorado's beautiful alpine scenery.
Wendy's
26.1 km
Discover fast food classics and flavorful favorites at Wendy's in Silverthorne, a perfect pit stop for travelers enjoying the Rocky Mountains.
Chihuahua Lake
26.2 km
Hike to breathtaking alpine beauty at Chihuahua Lake near Dillon, Colorado. A challenging trail with rewarding views and vibrant wildflowers.
Gray's & Torrey's Peaks Trailhead
26.8 km
Explore the breathtaking Gray's & Torrey's Peaks Trailhead, an outdoor lover's paradise in the heart of Colorado's stunning wilderness.
Essential places to dine
Grill on the Gore
39.3 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine with breathtaking mountain views at Grill on the Gore in Vail.
Soupz On
40.9 km
Discover the heartwarming flavors of Soupz On in Breckenridge—your ultimate destination for delicious and comforting soups.
The Fitz Bar + Bites
41.1 km
Experience the best of Vail dining at The Fitz Bar + Bites with its delightful menu and cozy ambiance perfect for relaxation.
Oaxacan bites
41.2 km
Experience authentic Oaxacan cuisine at Oaxacan Bites in Breckenridge - where vibrant flavors meet warm hospitality.
Slope Room
41.2 km
Experience exceptional New American cuisine at Slope Room in Vail - where culinary artistry meets mountain charm.
The George Restaurant & Pub
41.3 km
Discover The George Restaurant & Pub in Vail: A top-notch destination for American cuisine and vibrant pub culture amidst stunning mountain views.
La Cantina
41.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at La Cantina in Vail, where authentic cuisine meets breathtaking mountain views.
Blue River Bistro
41.3 km
Experience exquisite American-Italian cuisine at Blue River Bistro, nestled in scenic Breckenridge - perfect for any dining occasion.
Russell's Restaurant
41.3 km
Discover an exquisite blend of steak and seafood at Russell's Restaurant in Vail - where fine dining meets mountain charm.
Big Bear Bistro
41.4 km
Experience delightful breakfasts and gourmet sandwiches at Big Bear Bistro – Vail's favorite family-friendly bistro offering comfort food in a cozy atmosphere.
Pepi's Bar & Restaurant
41.4 km
Savor authentic Austrian flavors blended with American cuisine in Vail's charming Pepi's Bar & Restaurant.
The Canteen Tap House and Tavern
41.4 km
Discover Breckenridge's culinary gem at The Canteen Tap House & Tavern - where local flavors meet a vibrant bar scene.
Red Lion
41.4 km
Discover Vail's iconic Red Lion – where American flavors meet live music in a family-friendly atmosphere.
The Blü Cow
41.4 km
Discover The Blü Cow in Vail - where delicious grilled dishes meet an inviting atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.
Up the Creek
41.4 km
Discover culinary excellence at Up the Creek in Vail - where delicious American dishes meet stunning mountain views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sunshine Herb Corner
17.2 km
Explore Sunshine Herb Corner in Fraser, Colorado - your go-to destination for vitamins, supplements, and health foods amidst stunning mountain scenery.
Bottle Pass Liquors
17.4 km
Discover a diverse selection of wines and liquors in Fraser, Colorado at Bottle Pass Liquors – your local destination for fine spirits.
Local Experience
17.4 km
Discover top-notch ski gear and unbeatable service at Fraser's Local Experience, perfect for your Colorado winter adventures.
Safeway
17.4 km
Explore Safeway in Fraser, CO - your go-to grocery store offering fresh produce, local specialties, and quality services for every traveler.
City Market
23.7 km
Discover the essence of Granby at City Market, where fresh local produce and specialty items await every culinary enthusiast.
Country Ace Hardware
26.2 km
Discover the unique blend of hardware, gardening, and gifts at Country Ace Hardware in Granby, Colorado.
Breckenridge Ski & Sport
40.3 km
Explore the beauty of Breckenridge with top-notch ski and outdoor rental services. Your adventure starts here!
Blitz Clothing - Vail
41.3 km
Discover unique women's fashion at Blitz Clothing in Vail, where style meets the mountains in a cozy boutique atmosphere.
Covered Bridge Store
41.3 km
Explore the Covered Bridge Store in Vail for unique gifts and local crafts that capture the heart of Colorado's mountain culture.
Bradbury Art & Antiques
41.3 km
Explore the timeless charm and unique finds at Bradbury Art & Antiques in Vail, Colorado.
Skipper & Scout
41.3 km
Discover stylish and unique children's clothing at Skipper & Scout in Vail, Colorado, where quality meets comfort in a charming boutique setting.
Charlie's T-Shirts
41.4 km
Discover the best of Vail's souvenir shopping at Charlie's T-Shirts, where creativity meets quality in every unique design.
Gorsuch
41.4 km
Discover Gorsuch in Vail, where chic women's fashion meets top-notch ski apparel for an unforgettable shopping experience.
Kemo Sabe Vail
41.4 km
Explore Kemo Sabe Vail for unique western apparel, stylish boots, and exquisite jewelry that embody the spirit of the American West.
Loro Piana
41.4 km
Discover exquisite luxury clothing at Loro Piana in Vail, where unparalleled craftsmanship meets the beauty of the Rocky Mountains.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Gravity Haus Winter Park
17.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of luxury and adventure at Gravity Haus Winter Park, your gateway to the Rocky Mountains.
Randi's Grill & Pub
18.0 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine and warm hospitality at Randi's Grill & Pub in Winter Park, a cozy getaway for food lovers and adventure seekers.
Bad Kitty Lounge
41.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Vail at Bad Kitty Lounge, where creative cocktails and a lively atmosphere await you.
Bridge Street Bar
41.4 km
Discover the lively nightlife at Bridge Street Bar in Vail, Colorado, where great drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await you.
The Rabbit Hole at Chasing Rabbits
41.4 km
Experience the whimsical charm of The Rabbit Hole at Chasing Rabbits, Vail's vibrant bar offering creative cocktails and a lively atmosphere.
The Gambit Bar
41.6 km
Experience the cozy charm of The Gambit Bar in Vail, where exceptional cocktails and a warm atmosphere await after your mountain adventures.
Napper Tandy's Irish Pub
41.6 km
Discover the charm of Napper Tandy's Irish Pub in Breckenridge, CO, where authentic Irish food and drinks meet a lively atmosphere.
The Remedy Bar at Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail
41.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of luxury and comfort at The Remedy Bar, a premier destination for relaxation and exquisite dining in Vail.
RMU Breckenridge
41.7 km
Discover RMU Breckenridge - The ultimate destination for outdoor enthusiasts with live music, bike repairs, and a vibrant bar scene in the heart of Colorado!
Fireside Lounge
41.7 km
Discover the warmth of Fireside Lounge in Breckenridge, a cozy bar perfect for relaxing after mountain adventures with great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Prospector
41.7 km
Discover Prospector in Breckenridge, where expertly crafted cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere come together for an unforgettable night out.
Altitude Bar and Grill
41.8 km
Experience the ultimate sports bar atmosphere at Altitude Bar and Grill in Vail, where great food meets thrilling games in a lively setting.
Ski Town Chicken Joint
41.9 km
Discover the flavors of Breckenridge at Ski Town Chicken Joint, where delicious comfort food meets a cozy mountain atmosphere.
The Absinthe Bar
42.0 km
Discover the charm of The Absinthe Bar in Breckenridge, where unique cocktails and a cozy atmosphere create unforgettable memories.
Molly Jacks
42.1 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and diverse drink selection at Molly Jacks, a must-visit bar in the heart of Breckenridge, Colorado.
