The Gore Range and Wheeler trails are Summit County's long ridge walks

Beyond the short, popular day hikes, Summit County has longer routes that string the high country together. Two stand out near Copper Mountain.

The Gore Range Trail runs the length of the Dillon Ranger District’s slice of the Eagles Nest Wilderness, heading north from near the Copper Mountain interstate exit toward the Green Mountain Reservoir area. Because much of it lies inside designated wilderness, the no-bikes, no-motors rules apply. The Wheeler National Recreation Trail climbs over the Tenmile Range, linking the Blue River side near McCullough Gulch with Copper Mountain, and it ties into Continental Divide routing along the way.

Why this matters: these are not casual strolls. They reach high, exposed terrain where weather turns fast and afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer. Plan for the distance, the altitude, and an early start, and know which sections fall inside wilderness so you follow the right rules.

Before hiking the Gore Range or Wheeler trails, check the White River National Forest trailhead pages for access points and current conditions.