Think Breckenridge, Colorado is nothing more than a bougie ski town? Think again. Hundreds of miles of hiking trails carve through the high mountain terrain, often right from downtown! There are practically unlimited opportunities to head into wilderness areas or backcountry whether you’re looking for a family-friendly stroll or a challenging summit. We recently explored the area ourselves, but also tapped a few local friends and fellow outdoorists to share some of their picks for the best hikes in Breckenridge. So grab your boots (or hiking sandals) and get to it!
Don’t forget that Colorado is notorious for afternoon storms in the summer. Don’t find yourself on an unprotected peak if a lightning storm starts rolling in; descend to where there’s some tree cover! Bring a rain jacket, just in case. Worried about altitude sickness? Read about how to prevent and treat it in this article.
5 Hikes in Breckenridge, CO
Crystal Peak: 7.5 miles
Hiking a 14er (a peak over 14,000 feet) is a popular Colorado activity. But fourteeners can be overcrowded na overrated. Try a 13er instead! This one is just a few minutes drive from downtown Breckenridge and offers a quiet, lovely, still challenging route to the summit, with is just under 14,000 feet. In fact, Crystal Peak is a Colorado Centennial Trail: One of the 100 tallest peaks in the state. And it’s more than worth the trip up.
In the summer the trail is popping with wildflowers like fuschia Indian paintbrush, yellow elephant head and purple aster. And at the summit, on a clear day, there are endless peaks, valleys and views all around you. Start at the trailhead at the first intersection of Spruce Creek Rd. and Crystal Lake Rd. (the second lot offers a slightly shorter hike but the road requires a 4WD vehicle). The road will pass Francie’s Hut (an amazing place for an overnight or two) then split off into Crystal Trail at Lower Crystal Lake. Bring a digital map because the trail can get a bit hard to follow the closer you get to the peak. Do it as an out-and back for the simplest route.
Spruce Creek to Mohawk Lakes: 6.4 miles +
Considered moderate to difficult, this stunning high-alpine hike passes Continental Falls and historic mining ruins on the way to three beautiful mountain-ringed alpine lakes–more if you keep going past Mohawk Lake. It’s a popular trail—and for good reason—so locals with experience recommend going mid-week to avoid the crowds.
Start this hike at the Spruce Creek Trailhead and prepare for a gradual climb (that gets steeper prior to each lake). Once you’ve taken a dip in the chilly waters and had your fill of mountain views, you can head back the way you came for a straight out-and-back or make the route a lollipop if you’d prefer to take Spruce Creek Rd. (a 4WD road) back to your car.
Black Powder Pass: 3.4 Miles
This moderate hike isn’t quite as difficult as other options because it starts right on the Continental Divide, so you’re already at a pretty high elevation from the start. But that doesn’t mean there’s not still some uphill involved. This out-and-back starts out gradual but then climbs faster the closer you get to the pass. Don’t worry about having to catch your breath, though, because you’ll likely want to take a break every three minutes to take in expansive views and a unique perspective from what feels like the top of the world (according to locals who enjoy the hike). Don’t forget your camera or phone because wildflowers abound in the summer.
To get to the trailhead at Boreas Pass, drive down Boreas Road. You’ll pass several other great hikes on the way (Aspen Alley, Bakers Tank), but find a parking spot, grab your pack, and get hiking on the Black Powder Pass Trail!
Burro Trail: 1-8 Miles+
Depending on how far you want to go, this out-and-back can be easy to moderate or moderate to difficult. It starts at the base of Peak 9, just across from Hotel Alpenrock at Beaver Run Resort, and ascends to Francie’s Cabin and Crystal Lake/Crystal Peak if you really want to log some miles (8+). The first mile follows a scenic wooded stream before it sends you climbing through dense forest. Because of its ease of access from town, it’s a moderately popular trail. It’s quiet, peaceful, and offers more shade than most summit hikes.
Start on Burro Trail near the Quicksilver chairlift at Beaver Run and hike until you feel like turning around. Or better yet, book a night or two at Francie’s Cabin, a backcountry hut (more like a large cabin) that’s more comfortable and cozy than you might think.
Sawmill Reservoir: 1.3 Miles
This short, easy loop around a picturesque reservoir is the perfect way to spend a warm afternoon. The best part: It’s not so far or involve so much uphill you’ll be wiped out by the time you get there. Once you do, you can take a dip, marvel at mountains, or just continue around the lake or onto connecting trails if you prefer. It’s even walkable from town and great for a relaxed stroll, paddleboarding, or letting the dog splash in the water while enjoying serene views.
Follow the trail that starts near the Snowflake lift at Beaver Run Resort and follow along the creek on the tree-lined trail until you reach the reservoir. There’s also a road most of the way up, so the reservoir and trail can be crowded on weekends; be prepared.
Other Things to Do in Breckenridge
Looking for ideas for how to fill your time between hikes? Try one of these suggestions:
- Visit Precious Plastics or sign up for a class to craft art out of discarded plastics.
- Make a reservation at Canary, Hotel Alpenrock’s legit speakeasy (there are secret entrances involved).
- Take a mountain bike clinic with VNTR Birds (women/trans/femme only–#SorryNotSorry, dudes).
- Check out local art at galleries.
- Visit the Farmers Market on Thursdays through the summer.
- Grab a craft cocktail or mocktail at Breckenridge Distillery (they offer a free shuttle from town).
- Do yoga on the lawn or on a SUP with Meta Yoga.
Bottom Line
Those who live in Breckenridge know the best hikes in Breckenridge. So heed their recommendations and explore these trails ASAP if you’re in the area this summer. After you acclimate to the elevation, of course. 😜 Wander on.
