Dillon's hiking is all about the reservoir and the ridges around it — easy shoreline paths, a famous overlook, and a low peak with a huge payoff, all minutes from the water.
Hiking in Dillon at a glance
| Signature trails | Sapphire Point, Tenderfoot Mountain, Oro Grande Trail |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Flat overlooks to moderate ridge climbs |
| Trailhead notes | Sapphire Point is a very short, popular overlook loop |
| Best season | June–September; rec path shoulder seasons too |
Best trails in and around Dillon
- Sapphire Point Overlook — a short, easy loop to one of the best views of Dillon Reservoir and the Tenmile Range.
- Tenderfoot Mountain — open trails above town with sweeping reservoir and Gore Range views.
- Oro Grande Trail — a longer route connecting Dillon and Keystone through the forest.
- Reservoir rec path — flat, paved, and scenic along the shoreline.
Conditions change fast up here — check current trail status, closures, and parking before you head out, and carry the day-hike essentials.
Planning your hike
Most trails around Dillon run roughly mid-June through September, with the highest routes melting out by mid-July. New to the altitude? Start with an easy lake or valley walk on day one to acclimate before a bigger climb. Want to turn a hike into an overnight? See our camping & backpacking guide; chasing a summit instead? Our 14ers guide covers the nearby fourteeners, and the rest of the county’s trails are a short drive via the other Summit County towns.
Before you go
Colorado afternoons build thunderstorms fast, so start early and be off high, exposed terrain by early afternoon. Carry the day-hike essentials, add the alpine pieces from our 14er gear list for summit days, layer up (our base layers work three seasons), and read up on the altitude before your trip.
Hiking in Dillon FAQ
What is the best easy hike in Dillon?
Sapphire Point — a short overlook loop with one of the finest views of Dillon Reservoir and the surrounding peaks. The lakeshore rec path is another easy, scenic option.
Are there bigger hikes near Dillon?
Yes — Tenderfoot Mountain offers open ridge views above town, and the Oro Grande Trail runs a longer forested route toward Keystone.
Is Dillon good for a family hike?
Very — Sapphire Point and the reservoir rec path are short, scenic, and beginner-friendly, ideal while adjusting to the altitude.
When is hiking season in Dillon?
Roughly mid-June through September. The highest trails hold snow into July, and Colorado afternoons build thunderstorms fast — start early and aim to be below treeline by early afternoon. The lower valley and lakeshore walks open earliest.
What should I pack for hiking in Dillon?
Carry the day-hike essentials — plenty of water, layers, sun protection, and the ten essentials. Add the alpine pieces from our 14er gear list for summit days, and read up on altitude sickness before your trip.