Vasquez Peak Wilderness: Untamed Colorado Beauty
Discover Colorado's wild side in Vasquez Peak Wilderness: hiking, views, and alpine beauty await near Winter Park.
The Vasquez Peak Wilderness, established in 1993, offers 12,300 acres of pristine alpine tundra and spruce/fir forests in the Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests. Named for its highest point, Vasquez Peak (12,947 feet), this wilderness provides stunning views and challenging hikes.
A brief summary to Vasquez Peak Wilderness
- Winter Park, Colorado, 80482, 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
- Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions, especially during summer afternoons. Pack layers and rain gear.
- Start your hike early in the day to avoid afternoon thunderstorms and potential lightning strikes.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities within the wilderness area.
- Practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the wilderness for future visitors.
- Check the weather forecast and avalanche conditions before heading out, especially during the winter months.
Getting There
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Driving
From Winter Park, follow US-40 for approximately 9.6 miles. Just before US-40 begins ascending Berthoud Pass, look for a sharp turn with a sign indicating the Henderson Mine. Turn onto this road and proceed 1.75 miles to the Henderson Mine. Continue onto the dirt road to the right for another 0.5 miles to reach a sizable parking area. Parking is free. Note that in winter, this area may also be used for snowmobile loading/unloading. From the parking area, several routes ascend Vasquez Peak to the north.
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Public Transport
While there is no direct public transportation to the Vasquez Peak Wilderness trailhead, you can take the free Winter Park Transit bus to the town of Winter Park. From there, you would need to take a taxi or rideshare service to the trailhead near the Henderson Mine. A taxi or rideshare from Winter Park to the trailhead will cost approximately $30-$40.
Discover more about Vasquez Peak Wilderness
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cozens Ranch Museum
13.3 km
Uncover the intriguing history of Granby, Colorado at Cozens Ranch Museum, a perfect blend of heritage, community, and exploration.
St Mary's Glacier Trailhead
17.0 km
Explore the stunning St Mary's Glacier Trailhead in Colorado, where breathtaking views and adventurous hiking await every nature enthusiast.
Georgetown–Silver Plume Historic District
17.4 km
Explore the Georgetown–Silver Plume Historic District, a stunning blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty in the heart of Colorado's Rockies.
Colorado Central Mill
19.0 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
24.2 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
26.2 km
Explore the breathtaking trails of Central City, Colorado, with A & A Historical Horseback Riding – an unforgettable adventure awaits!
Century Casino & Hotel Central City
28.3 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.
Peak to Peak Scenic Byway: Black Hawk Entrance
29.9 km
Experience the breathtaking views and rich history along the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway at the Black Hawk Entrance in Colorado.
The Gilpin Casino
29.9 km
Experience the thrill of gaming and entertainment at The Gilpin Casino in Black Hawk, Colorado, a premier destination for tourists seeking excitement.
Argo Gold Mill and Tunnel
30.0 km
Explore the Argo Gold Mill and Tunnel in Idaho Springs, Colorado, where history, adventure, and the legacy of gold mining come together in an unforgettable experience.
Ameristar Black Hawk
30.2 km
Discover the excitement and luxury of Ameristar Black Hawk, Colorado's premier casino destination, offering gaming, dining, and breathtaking mountain views.
Mt Bierstadt
30.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Mt Bierstadt in Colorado, where adventure awaits amidst stunning mountain vistas and diverse wildlife.
Horseshoe Black Hawk
30.8 km
Discover the perfect blend of luxury and adventure at Horseshoe Black Hawk, your gateway to Colorado's stunning landscapes and rich history.
Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway
30.9 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and wildlife of Mount Blue Sky Scenic Byway in Evergreen, Colorado, a scenic route perfect for nature lovers.
Sapphire Point Overlook
31.0 km
Experience unparalleled mountain vistas at Sapphire Point Overlook, a scenic gem in Colorado perfect for hiking, photography, and relaxation.
Unmissable attractions to see
Butler Gulch Trailhead
5.5 km
Discover vibrant wildflowers, cascading waterfalls, and historic mining remnants on this scenic hike near Parshall, Colorado.
Winter Park Resort
7.2 km
Discover Winter Park Resort: A premier Colorado ski destination with diverse terrain, year-round activities, and stunning Rocky Mountain scenery.
Winter Park
10.5 km
Discover year-round adventure in Winter Park, Colorado: skiing, biking, hiking, and stunning mountain scenery await!
Bill Moore Lake
11.3 km
Discover a stunning alpine lake in Colorado's Arapaho National Forest, accessible by a thrilling 4x4 road and offering breathtaking mountain views.
Pettingell Peak
11.4 km
Conquer Pettingell Peak: A challenging Front Range hike with rewarding panoramic views and a touch of solitude near Denver.
Byers Peak Wilderness
11.9 km
Discover panoramic views and serene trails in Byers Peak Wilderness, a hidden gem in Colorado's Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests.
Herman Gulch Trailhead
13.1 km
Discover alpine beauty near Dillon, Colorado, with wildflower meadows, mountain vistas, and a pristine lake on the popular Herman Gulch Trail.
Fraser Tubing Hill
13.3 km
Experience thrilling snow tubing at Fraser Tubing Hill, a family-owned winter tradition since 1971, located minutes from Winter Park!
Downstream Adventures Rafting - Clear Creek
15.6 km
Experience thrilling whitewater rafting adventures for all skill levels on Clear Creek, just minutes from Denver!
Loveland Ski Area
16.3 km
Experience Colorado's authentic ski culture at Loveland Ski Area, offering uncrowded slopes, abundant snow, and a long season near Denver.
Eisenhower-Johnson Tunnels
16.5 km
Drive through the Continental Divide! Experience an engineering marvel at the Eisenhower-Johnson Memorial Tunnel on I-70, just west of Denver.
St Mary's Glacier
16.9 km
Hike to a year-round snowfield near Denver for stunning views, alpine scenery, and outdoor adventure in the heart of the Rockies.
Georgetown Loop Railroad & Mining Park - Silver Plume Depot
17.2 km
Experience Colorado's mining history on a scenic narrow-gauge railway between Georgetown and Silver Plume. A historic and family-friendly adventure awaits!
Georgetown Loop Railroad
17.6 km
Journey through Colorado's mining history on a vintage train, traversing the scenic Georgetown Loop Railroad between Georgetown and Silver Plume.
Loveland Pass
17.7 km
Experience breathtaking views and outdoor adventures at Loveland Pass, a high mountain pass on the Continental Divide in the Colorado Rockies.
Essential places to dine
Soupz On
40.8 km
Discover the heartwarming flavors of Soupz On in Breckenridge—your ultimate destination for delicious and comforting soups.
Oaxacan bites
41.0 km
Experience authentic Oaxacan cuisine at Oaxacan Bites in Breckenridge - where vibrant flavors meet warm hospitality.
Blue River Bistro
41.1 km
Experience exquisite American-Italian cuisine at Blue River Bistro, nestled in scenic Breckenridge - perfect for any dining occasion.
The Canteen Tap House and Tavern
41.2 km
Discover Breckenridge's culinary gem at The Canteen Tap House & Tavern - where local flavors meet a vibrant bar scene.
Rootstalk Breckenridge
41.2 km
Experience innovative American cuisine and vibrant cocktails at Rootstalk Breckenridge – where local flavors meet culinary artistry.
The Carlin Breckenridge
41.3 km
Experience exquisite seafood and fine dining at The Carlin Breckenridge – where every dish is a masterpiece amid stunning mountain views.
Tavern Underground
41.3 km
Discover Tavern Underground: A cozy bar in Breckenridge offering delectable American dishes and unique cocktails in a vibrant setting.
Salt Creek Steakhouse
41.4 km
Indulge in expertly grilled steaks and savory BBQ at Salt Creek Steakhouse, where every meal is an unforgettable Rocky Mountain experience.
Breckenridge Tap House
41.4 km
Experience flavorful American and Mexican cuisine with craft beers at Breckenridge Tap House – your go-to dining spot in beautiful Breckenridge.
The Gold Pan Saloon
41.4 km
Discover The Gold Pan Saloon: A lively restaurant-bar in Breckenridge offering delicious breakfasts, exquisite wines, and live music for an unforgettable night out.
Giampietro Pasta & Pizzeria
41.4 km
Experience the essence of Italy at Giampietro Pasta & Pizzeria in Breckenridge – where every meal is crafted with passion and tradition.
Briar Rose Chophouse & Saloon
41.4 km
Experience gourmet dining at Briar Rose Chophouse & Saloon in Breckenridge—where prime cuts meet rustic charm amidst stunning mountain views.
Tin Plate Pizza
41.4 km
Experience the best pizza in Breckenridge at Tin Plate Pizza - where quality ingredients meet innovative recipes in a cozy atmosphere.
Motherloaded Tavern
41.4 km
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Bird and Cow
41.4 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sunshine Herb Corner
13.9 km
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Local Experience
14.1 km
Discover top-notch ski gear and unbeatable service at Fraser's Local Experience, perfect for your Colorado winter adventures.
Bottle Pass Liquors
14.2 km
Discover a diverse selection of wines and liquors in Fraser, Colorado at Bottle Pass Liquors – your local destination for fine spirits.
Safeway
14.2 km
Explore Safeway in Fraser, CO - your go-to grocery store offering fresh produce, local specialties, and quality services for every traveler.
City Market
28.0 km
Discover the essence of Granby at City Market, where fresh local produce and specialty items await every culinary enthusiast.
Country Ace Hardware
31.1 km
Discover the unique blend of hardware, gardening, and gifts at Country Ace Hardware in Granby, Colorado.
Breckenridge Ski & Sport
40.2 km
Explore the beauty of Breckenridge with top-notch ski and outdoor rental services. Your adventure starts here!
Lace and Lariat
41.2 km
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Simply Breck
41.4 km
Discover unique souvenirs and stylish clothing at Simply Breck, the ultimate shopping destination in Breckenridge, Colorado.
A Racer's Edge
41.4 km
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Breckenridge Shirts & More
41.4 km
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Towne Square Mall
41.4 km
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Breck ‘N’ Boujee Premium Outlet
41.4 km
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Arctic Attitude
41.4 km
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Slope Style Ski + Bike
41.4 km
Discover Breckenridge's ultimate destination for ski and bike rentals, expert repairs, and personalized service for all outdoor enthusiasts.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Gravity Haus Winter Park
12.1 km
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Randi's Grill & Pub
12.4 km
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Napper Tandy's Irish Pub
41.4 km
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Prospector
41.5 km
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Fireside Lounge
41.5 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.
Ski Town Chicken Joint
41.6 km
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The Absinthe Bar
41.8 km
Discover the charm of The Absinthe Bar in Breckenridge, where unique cocktails and a cozy atmosphere create unforgettable memories.
Molly Jacks
41.8 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and diverse drink selection at Molly Jacks, a must-visit bar in the heart of Breckenridge, Colorado.
Brooklyn's Tavern and Billiards
41.8 km
Experience the lively atmosphere at Brooklyn's Tavern and Billiards, Breckenridge's favorite bar and pool hall, perfect for relaxation and fun.
Burke and Riley's Irish Pub
41.9 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Burke and Riley's Irish Pub in Breckenridge, where delicious food, drinks, and live music meet the charm of Ireland.
Cecilia's Nightclub and Cocktail Bar
41.9 km
Experience Breckenridge's nightlife at Cecilia's Nightclub and Cocktail Bar, where cocktails and dancing blend for an unforgettable evening.
Base Nine
42.4 km
Experience the best of Breckenridge at Base Nine, a premier bar with a vibrant atmosphere and an impressive drink selection.
Coppertop Bar & Restaurant
42.5 km
Discover the inviting ambiance of Coppertop Bar & Restaurant in Breckenridge, where delicious food and drinks await after your mountain adventures.
Shakedown Bar
49.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Vail at Shakedown Bar, where live music and great drinks create unforgettable memories.
Bad Kitty Lounge
49.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Vail at Bad Kitty Lounge, where creative cocktails and a lively atmosphere await you.
