Locals know the best backcountry powder on the mountain isn't always accessible by chairlift. To get to many of the best runs at most ski resorts, you have to do some hiking. Though the town doesn't have a resort, the same principal holds true in Frisco. Some of the best of the backcountry is only accessible on foot.

Two of Frisco's better hiking routes are the North Tenmile and Meadow Creek trails, both located across Interstate 70 from town and between the two offer a range of terrain suited to various time frames and ability levels.

North Tenmile trail, a wide, shaded path that cuts between Chief and Wichita mountains, offers a long leisurely hike ideal for families with children or those looking for a quiet and less taxing trek. The trail is a popular snowshoeing and Nordic skiing site in the winter. In the summer, the gentle slope and generally unencumbered path make for a relaxing excursion into the Eagles Nest Wilderness.

The trail is named for the nearby Tenmile Range, a ten-peak mountain range stretching from Frisco to Breckenridge. Breckenridge Ski Resort is located on Peaks 7, 8, 9 and 10.

The North Tenmile trailhead is located on private property, a few hundred yards up a private road from the parking area. The trail itself follows the Tenmile drainage, following a creek 4.5 miles into the backcountry.

Hikers will pass through dense pine forests and occasional meadows as they gain just over 1,000 feet in elevation before meeting the Gore Range Trail which provides access to other parts of the wilderness area.

The walk is quiet, secluded and peaceful, particularly in the early morning hours. But, though less challenging, North Tenmile doesn't offer the same breathtaking views or picturesque backdrop as some of its neighboring trails.

The Meadow Creek trail, a beautiful single track that provides access to Lilly Pad lake and occasional sweeping views of the Upper Blue Valley, is a great pick for avid hikers and those looking for a more intense climb.

The four-mile trail ascends at a steep grade, passing through aspen groves and thickets of ever-changing wildflowers as it approaches Eccles Pass at 11,900 feet above sea level. Just over half a mile into the hike Meadow Creek intersects with a trail marked Lilly Pad Lake. By cutting right onto the new trail, hikers will continue upward to a small group of high-alpine ponds and be treated to excellent views along the way. The trek to the lake is short, but intense, gaining several hundred feet in elevation.

Both trails are popular with hikers and trail runners and get medium usage in the summer time. Hikers are likely to meet other trail users particularly on the weekends.

Allow at least two hours for the round trip to Lilly Pad Lake.

For more information on the North Tenmile and Meadow Creek tails as well as other Summit County hikes visit the White River National Forest website at www.fs.usda.gov/whiteriver and select the “recreation” tab at the left of the page and then “hiking.”