Snowshoe through a scenic gulch to the old Boston Mine site via the Mayflower Gulch Trail. It is a very photogenic area, particularly for sunrise or sunset. There are options to continue to beautiful 13'ers in Atlantic, Pacific, Drift, and Crystal mountains
To begin, park in the large parking lot. In the winter months, it is usually plowed except right after a large storm. The parking lot can be reached via highway 91, approximately 6 miles south of Copper Mountain and will be on the east (left if coming from the north) side of the road. Begin up the obvious trail that follows a 4x4 road, which is drivable with high-clearance in the summer and covered in ski/snowshoe tracks in the winter.
Continue up the road for a little over two miles until you reach the basin. You will be walking primarily through a pine forest until you get to the basin. Once at the basin the views will really open up! The old buildings are obvious and there are no restrictions in exploring here. Take your time and explore the basin or climb the valley on either side for wonderful views!!
If one is interested in climbing the 13K'ers in the area Atlantic and Pacific are reached via ridges on the north side of the valley. Crystal and drift peaks can be accessed via the ridge on the south side of the valley. If one is interested in climbing these peaks in the winter months, winter mountain gear including ice axes and crampons are required as well as self-arrest skills.
Note: the area can be prone to avalanches so take appropriate precautions and check the CAIC forecast before venturing out.
ADDITIONAL MILEAGE:
If you're looking to venture 2 miles beyond the Old Boston Mine, check out the Mayflower Gulch Grand Traverse adventure.