Red Buffalo Pass
Red Buffalo Pass
Red Buffalo Pass is a hike that will leave your heart wide open and overflowing with joy. This point to point hike takes from Frisco to Vail (or Vail to Frisco if you prefer, though I’d recommend that latter.)
Your journey begins at Meadow Creek Trailhead in Frisco and ends at Gore Lake Trailhead in East Vail.
Trail Overview & Highlights
The trail starts at Meadow Creek with a gradual climb for the first three to four miles. On your way up, be sure to look back to see the views of Lake Dillion and the Tenmile range. A beauty to take in, no doubt.
Around mile four, you’ll reach an alpine valley surrounded by peals. When you look to your right, you will see Eccles Pass standing tall, that’s where you’re headed.
Mile five, you’ll begin the steep ascent up Eccles Pass, before dropping into another valley. We did this hike in the first week of November, and the second valley we dropped into was snow covered, so be prepared. (We we’re hungry for a one more alpine summit before winter set in.) The top of the pass is your halfway point, if you’re hiking in the summer, expect to drop down into a trail that winds you through alpine tarns and a valley of surrounding majestic peaks.
Mile six will have you wrestling the final climb to Red Buffalo Pass. This is your peak experience… pun intended. You’ll be standing atop of the continental divide trail. Solace, presence. An actual escape that grounds you so deeply into the present moment. Reminding you of what’s real, what’s important, and what’s worth experiencing in life.
You’ll then drop down into the western side of the pass, entering the heart of the Gore Range. Expect to see magical wildflowers galore and a scenic janut back to the car. If you’re wanting an extra push, the trail you link up with goes to Gore Lake, but that’s another venture for another time.
