Hike of the Week - Sallie Barber Mine.

Wednesday, October 5, 2011 by Mark Grattan

This week it is starting to feel like fall is giving way to winter. There is snow in the forecast for this week and there is a newfound chill in the air. According to weather reports we are going to see a return to warm sunny weather this weekend and into next week. The fall colors are still vibrant and beautiful so don’t miss these next couple of weeks to get one last hike in before the snow really starts to fly. If you are coming to Breckenridge this week or next and looking for a nice short hike to really see fall colors try the Sallie Barber Mine.

Sallie Barber Mine
Distance: 3 miles total there and back
Rating: Easy - Moderate
Starting Elevation: 10,450 feet
Season: June - October
From the City Marketing shopping center find your way to Main Street. Go south on Main Street for .1 mile to Boreas Pass Road (last stoplight). Turn left on Boreas Pass Road and follow 2.1 miles to Baldy Road. Turn left on Baldy Road and follow for about 1 mile. Turn left on Sallie Barber Road and continue .1 mile to the trailhead.

The hike begins at about 10,450' and wanders through a forest to the ruins of the Sally Barber Mine about 1.5 miles ahead. There are interpretive signs at the ruins that have been placed by the Summit County Historical Society. This mine dates from the 1880's and produced zinc until near the end of the first decade of the twentieth century. The views of French Gulch, one of Summit County's richest mining districts, are spectacular from the mine site. Continue on to the French Gulch Trailhead approximately 2.8 miles from the parking area. Return back to the trailhead following the route you came in on.

If you would like to plan a trip to Breckenridge, contact Breckenridge Discount Lodging. We are your source for Breckenridge deals, Breckenridge discounts and Breckenridge recreation. Give us a call at toll free1-866-476-2311 or visit www.breckenridgediscountlodging.com.