Dubbed as one of the country’s favorite ski resorts, Breckenridge is a quaint town in Colorado that has made a name for itself as the best spot for travelers looking for skiing destinations. But what others may not know is that there’s so much more to see and things to experience from this charming district. Think wine tasting at some of the finest local wineries, historical tours, craft breweries, and food. But, let’s focus on the town’s alpine adventures - perfect for travelers who are fond of the wild. There are only three things you need to do to complete some of the best hikes of Breckenridge: start as early as possible, bring water, and of course, put on your game face. The rest is already there - stunning views, wildflowers, aspen groves, and so much more. If you’re ready for your next adventure, don’t forget to check out our list of the best hiking and trekking spots in Breckenridge, Colorado.
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1. Mohawk Lakes
This is a stunning trekking spot that might prove to be challenging. Known for its natural wonders, Mohawk Lakes is often used for fishing, fly fishing, and camping in addition to hiking. Those who want to take a challenging hike will have to start at Spruce Creek Trailhead, and this is said to be difficult and strenuous. The path the hikers will go through consists of lodgepole pines and bushy areas. After taking this trail, hikers will arrive at Mohawk Lakes Trail, which showcases a lot of amazing views and is perfect for recreation. One tip: make sure to pack light - since the trails can be a little tricky you don’t need the additional weight on you.
Mohawk Lakes
Address: US 9 and Spruce Creek Road, Breckenridge, CO
2. Wheeler Pass Trail
Wheeler Pass Trail in Summit County is an 11-mile (17.7-kilometer) trail stretching along Colorado’s Tenmile Range, giving anyone who chooses to hike the place unobstructed views of Breckenridge and the majestic Copper Mountain. With an elevation of 12,502 feet (3,810 meters), hikers will have to trek a combination of level and steep trails. One of the best things about hiking here, apart from its elevation, is the high alpine lake and glacial cirque view trekkers will get to see. The best time to walk the path is from July to late August, where wildflowers are in their full glory.
Wheeler Pass Trail
Address: White River National Forest, Co Rd 1260, Silverthorne, CO 80498, United States
3. McCullough Gulch Trail
Boasting streaming waterfalls, meadows, and caves, McCullough Gulch Trail is an astounding hiking spot in Breckenridge. With an elevation of 810 feet (246.88 meters) and a length of 2.7 miles (4.34 kilometers), this trail is more on the moderate side in terms of difficulty. So if you’re after a hike that is between easy and strenuous, this is the perfect hiking spot for you. It will only take you an hour or two to complete depending on your pace. For the best pictures, make sure to stop in between your trek and take a great shot of the wonders surrounding you.
McCullough Gulch Trail
Address: 4192 State Highway 9, Breckenridge, CO 80424, United States
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
4. Iowa Hill Loop
If ever you find yourself roaming around Breckenridge and looking for a pleasant venture, you might enjoy a simple hike to the famed Iowa Hill Trail. One of the closest trails in town, Iowa Hill is known for its historic mining sites that you’ll pass through while doing the hike. It’s recommended for families with little kids since the trails are flat and easy to navigate. It will take you an hour or two to complete the 2-mile (3.22-kilometer) loop depending on your pace and your breaks.
Iowa Hill Loop
Address: 1605 Airport Rd, Breckenridge, CO 80424, United States
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
5. Burro Trail
This is a perfect fit for families looking for some outdoor bonding with the youngsters. Featuring a 6.1-mile (9.82-kilometer) moderately trafficked trail near Breckenridge, Burro Trail is a family-friendly hiking destination in Colorado. With an elevation gain of 918 feet (279.8 meters), you’ll be able to see breathtaking and picture-worthy views. The best time to visit is from March until October when the flowers are in bloom. You can bring your dogs with you, but make sure to keep them on a leash. You can start trekking at the base of Peak 9. From there, it will take you along a creek through a tropical forest and astounding meadows.
Burro Trail
Address: Starting at the base of the Peak 9 ski area at Breckenridge near Beaver Run Resort, Breckenridge, CO
6. Hoosier Pass Loop
One of the easiest hikes in Breckenridge, Hoosier Pass Loop is a 3-mile (4.83-kilometer) roundtrip hike featuring an elevation of 180 feet (54.86 meters). Experience a hassle-free alpine experience by indulging in a hike at this loop trail, which will allow you to enjoy spectacular landscapes without needing to climb up to a high altitude. While hiking the pathways, make sure to breathe in and take marvelous pictures of the mountain views. If you do decide to come here, it’s ideal to do so during July and August, when the area is the most alive with wildflowers.
Hoosier Pass Loop
Address: CO Route 9, Breckenridge, CO
7. Sawmill Creek Trail
If you’re someone new to the hiking scene, you might enjoy the scenic Sawmill Creek Trail, which starts beneath Snowflake Lift near Kings Crown Road. The tracks and pathways you’ll have to go through are all leveled and easy to trek. It’s a sound hiking spot for families with children because of its short length, stretching only 1.5 miles (2.41 kilometers) roundtrip. One of the best things about taking this hike is you’ll get to take in all the beautiful sceneries around you. And to make your trip more enjoyable and memorable, consider bringing packed food and indulging in a picnic after arriving at the destination.
Sawmill Trail
Address: Four O'Clock Road, Breckenridge, CO
8. Quandary Peak
If you love taking new challenges and you are someone who lives for the next thrill, you might consider taking a 10-kilometer (6.3-mile) roundtrip hike to Quandary Peak. One of the most strenuous trails in Breckenridge, Quandary Peak is open for hikers year-round. To avoid the harsh afternoon light, opt to start early morning so that you’ll be off the trail by early noon. Although the trail is dog-friendly, you might reconsider bringing your furry pet with you, since some of the paths can be rough and might wound your pets. But, if you still want to bring them with you, make sure to keep them leashed.
Quandary Peak
Address: Hyway 82, Hoosier Pass area, Mount Quandary, Breckenridge, CO
9. Blue Lakes Trail
Rated as a difficult hike, Blue Lakes Trail welcome travelers looking for their next adventure. Featuring a 7.9-mile (12.71-kilometer) hike, this option is ideal for hikers who are capable of trekking through rough and steep pathways. Blue Lakes is in southwest Colorado, in the stunning Mount Sneffels Wilderness, which will be one of the highlights when you trek here. If there’s one thing to expect while doing the hike besides the uneven trails, it’s the impressive view you’ll get to see, including wildflower-filled meadows and alpine forestry. Make sure to pack light and bring water with you.
Blue Lakes Trail
Address: Blue Lakes Rd, Breckenridge, CO 80424, United States
10. Bald Mountain Trail
Situated on the southeast side of Downtown Breckenridge, Mount Baldy, also known as Bald Mountain, covers almost the entire eastern boundary of Colorado. Although there are 27 Bald Mountains, this specific trail is 13,690 feet (4,172 meters) high and is the tallest among them. As its name implies, the pathways the hikers will walk through are rather barren. One of the things you’ll notice while ascending the rugged alpine tundra is the warm-toned landscape with stunted vegetation. Although the hike might not sound ideal, the views at the summit are incredible and worth seeing.
Bald Mountain Trail
Address: White River National Forest, Co Rd 1260, Silverthorne, CO 80498, United States
Welcome to the most favored ski destination in America
Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, your family, or a group of friends, Breckenridge is always a fascinating destination. Enjoy stunning views of alpine forestry, breathtaking streams, and historic mines while indulging in one of the best hikes in Breckenridge, Colorado. Do make sure to check out these awesome hiking and trekking spots in Breckenridge for a good start.
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