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Family

4 Family Friendly Hikes in Breck

June 27, 2019

Breckenridge is a beautiful mountain town, centrally located in the Rocky Mountains.  Year-round adventure can be had exploring the trails, creeks and historic sites.  Everywhere you look there are breathtaking mountain views. 

The mountain peaks rise at 12,000 feet above sea level and there are some noteworthy 14ers surrounding the area.  While the quest to climb at 14er may seem a bit daunting for the beginner hiker or for the family, there are many other hikes to enjoy that offer fantastic views.

Below are 4 of my favorite family-friendly hikes that the kiddos and the grandparents can enjoy together.  One thing to note is mountain weather can change quick, so pack a raincoat, water, sunscreen and a hat.   

1. The Iowa Hill Mine Trail (Easy)
If you want to take an easy hike while also combining the rich history of artifacts and coalmines, than this is the hike for you!  The Iowa Hill Mine Trail is an easy 1.5 mile loop and is easy to stay navigated throughout the hike.  The trail winds through an old (abandoned) mine where kids will love exploring the old cabins and various tools that were used during the time.  To get there:  drive from Airport Road south of downtown Breckenridge.  Look for the trail head near the public works building to start your 1.5 mile loop.

2.  Sawmill Trail
This is another easy trail that even the youngest of children will enjoy.  The hike is about 1.5 miles long and follows a stream where you can pack a picnic to enjoy a little time on the water.  You can also fish or take a splash in the refreshing water.  To get there: head to the Snowflake Lift, near the intersection of Four O’Clock Road and Kings Crown Road where you will see the beginning of the hike.

3.  Blue Lakes - Monte Cristo Gulch (Easy to Moderate)
This hike takes you around the stunning blue lake that sits below 14,000 foot Quandary Mountain.  The trail starts above tree line at 11,748 feet.  Hike a little less than a mile and you can settle in at the far tip of the lake where you can relax and take in the views before venturing back to the parking area.  For the more adventurous hiker, go 2.5 miles to a historic mining area surrounded by alpine lakes.  Be ready to take in the crisp mountain air and alpine views!  To get there: drive south on U.S. 9 for eight miles to Blue Lakes Road (Number 850).  Turn right and follow the road for 2.2 miles to the parking area below the dam.  

4. Sapphire Point (Easy)
Sapphire Point is an easy and fun short hiking loop that offers incredible views of Lake Dillon and Summit County.  This is one of the easiest hiking trails in Breckenridge for small children and families.  It is about 1.6 miles round trip and does not have any elevation gain.  Bonus for anyone who has knee pain while hiking up or down - this is a flat trail!  To get to the trailhead, at the intersection of Main Street and Skil Hill Road, drive north on Highway 9 approximately 5 miles to Swan Mountain Road.  Turn right on Swan Mountain Road and then drive for about 3 more miles until you reach the top of the road.  The trailhead is on the left side of parking lot.

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