Breckenridge Hiking Trails: Top 8 Trails for All Skill Levels
Located in Summit County, Colorado, Breckenridge sits at the base of the Rocky Mountains surrounded by five peaks. The city ranks as a top ski resort in Colorado, however summer and fall months welcome visitors to hike, which also ranks among the top things to do. And don’t worry about skill level because novice or expert, there’s a trail just for you. Find the top Breckenridge hiking trails and get ready for adventure.
Top 8 Breckenridge Hiking Trails for Summer and Fall Scenery
Easy to Moderate Trails in Breckenridge
Spruce Creek Loop Trail
Spruce Creek Loop doubles as a top Breckenridge hiking trail in the summer and popular cross-country ski trail in winter. Located off Spruce Creek Road, visitors find an easy 4-mile hike through forests where they enjoy mountain views.
Burro Trail
Starting at the base of Peak 9, Burro Trail measures between 6 to 7 miles. This trail features lots of shaded trees, runs along Spruce Creek and eventually meets Spruce Creek trail. By itself, this is a shorter day hike, or pair it with Spruce Creek trail for a half-day adventure.
Sawmill Creek Trail
Located outside of downtown Breckenridge and ideal for those new to the area, Sawmill Creek trail offers a gentle walk measuring 1 to 1.5 miles. Most of the hike is shaded, and plan to admire the reservoir before heading back. This option is also an ideal place for a family or couple’s picnic.
Breck Hiking Trails: Moderate to Difficult
McCullough Gulch Trail
Rated among the top Breckenridge hiking trails according to online reviewers, McCullough Gulch trail measures nearly 3 miles with an elevation of 951 feet. Aside from scenic mountain views and wildlife, the stars of this trail are the lake and waterfalls. Although this is a moderate hike, keep an eye out for snow – even in summer – and move at a leisurely pace.
Blue Lakes Trail
High in elevation but short in distance, Blue Lakes trail offers a quick workout and scenic views. The trail measures about 2 miles at 11,000-feet elevation, and hikers travel through the gulch to see a lake, wildflowers and mountain goats, which are common. Those not acclimated to hiking in high elevations may want to start here.
Lily Pad Lake Trail
Lily Pad Lake trail is located near Breckenridge in Eagles Nest Wilderness area, which is a short drive from Silverthorne. This route measures just over 3 miles, and hikers enjoy mostly flat and wide space perfect for active families. This spot is pretty popular during weekends, so visitors recommend hiking this trail during the week or in the morning.
Mohawk Lakes Trail
Another top hiking trail in Breckenridge that offers waterfall views is Mohawk Lakes trail. This option measures nearly 7 miles and features two lakes: Lower Mohawk and Mohawk Lake. To spend a full day outdoors, start at Spruce Creek trail and look for Mayflower Lakes trail. Once on the trail, stop to see lakes, streams and wildlife. Packed snow is also common, so plan accordingly.
Quandary Peak Trail
Feel like a challenge? Plan to hike Quandry Peak, perhaps Breck’s most difficult trail. This favorite measures just over 6 miles round-trip with a height over 14,000 feet in elevation. Many find the altitude most challenging, so pack plenty of snacks and water. Once at the top of Quandry Peak, enjoy panoramic views and wildlife. Expert hikers also recommend this hike after a few days in Breckenridge, once guests adjust to the altitude.
Cool off with these Breckenridge water activities, ideal for the whole family!
Plan your outdoor escape and check out these Breckenridge vacation rentals.