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This is a great loop for hikers or mountain bikers. In fall, part of the loop is one of the top spots in Colorado to see golden aspens. Baker's Tank is a historic tank that was used in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Steam locomotives would take on water to help them make it through the mountain curves and steep grades.
When the aspens are sporting their golden hues of autumn, Baker's Tank Loop is a perfect fall hike. The trailhead is about ten minutes from downtown Breckenridge. For part of the hike, you may have the world to yourself. But, for the road portion, you'll likely have to share with the leaf peeping crowds. Go early to maximize your solo time.
The six mile loop begins at the Boreas Pass Lot at an elevation of 10,385'. The trail winds up the hill through a deep forest. It does offer several spots for great views of the Tenmile Range and Quandary Peak.
Three miles into the hike, you come out of the woods at Baker's Tank on Boreas Pass Road. This high point on the hike sits at 11,030'. Steam locomotives, designed for the tight mountain curves and extreme grades, would take on water at the tank. The tank served the Denver, South Park and Pacific Narrow Gauge Railroads and later the Colorado and Southern Railroads. From Como to Leadville, there was 43.83 miles of track and 435 curves. The longest stretch of straight track was only 1.6 miles. Construction on the line began on October 2, 1880 and was completed on February 5, 1884. It was abandoned on April 10, 1937. Summit County restored the tank in 1958.
There is a small stream close to the tank that offers a little shade and tranquility.
For the second half of the hike, you hike back down Boreas Pass Road. The views of the 10 mile Range and Breckenridge are spectacular any time of year, but especially in fall.
Boreas Pass Road is one of the prime spots in the state to enjoy the splendor of golden aspens in the fall.
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Hike Baker's Tank Loop
My husband and I absolutely loved this hike! We ended up doing it backwards so it was a little harder since we did a pretty steep incline first. Definitely take the road first (aka don’t take the trail first—even though you’ll see a sign) and then you’ll go left onto the trail once you’ve seen the water shed (which was used for old steam trains) after a few miles. Parts of the hike can be boring but overall this hike was beautiful, and very rewarding. Beautiful fall colors too! You won’t regret this hike or drive (if you’re like us and drove 2 hours)
Hike Baker's Tank Loop
This is good, easy fall hike that's really close to Breck. Baker Tank trail is nothing special but the aspens and views along Boreas Pass road are stunning. I prefer mountain biking this loop instead since the Bakers Tank section is a little boring.
Hike Baker's Tank Loop
Unfortunately I missed the aspens by just about a week or so, but still an okay hike. I did the loop backwards but was still able to find my way relatively easily. Make sure to stay on the road initially, walk/bike 3ish miles to the tank where the baker tank trail is located off to the left. An easy hike, good for beginners.
Hike Baker's Tank Loop
Some of the best views on an easy trail near Breck. This is a great trail to snowshoe in the winter too.
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
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