Description

This is an easy hike at the edge of Breckenridge, where residential areas transition into wild mountains.

The trailhead is along French Gulch road a few miles east of town, and the route leads west along the forested north-facing slope of this valley below Bald Mountain.

The path is an old mining road now closed to vehicles and open to hiking and biking.

Other trails in the area provide options for loops of varying distance and difficulty. From a small parking area and gate on the south side of French Gulch Road, follow the dirt road which dips down to cross the creek then cuts a climbing traverse gradually upward.

The apex is at mile 1.4 at the Old Sallie Barber Mine.

A tower and a few buildings still remain here, as well as large tailings piles in a clearing that affords a photogenic view of the valley.

Return the way you came or continue down the other side of the hill to meet the paved portion of Sallie Barber Road in another 1.5 miles. When you hit the pavement, you can turn right onto Barney Ford Trail to head downhill then meet a singletrack that loops eastward back to where you started.

Alternatively, you can use Sallie Barber Road as an access to the trail up Bald Mountain.

Spur trails within the first mile head uphill from this road to hit the ridgeline and continue to the top. Sources: https://www.hikingproject.com/trail/7039512/sallie-barber-road https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/colorado/sallie-barber-mine-trail