Breckenridge may have built a reputation as a winter wonderland, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have just as much to offer in the summer! As the snow clears out, the trails open up, and nature comes to life, you’ll discover a whole other side to the magical mountain town. While winter is ideal for snow sports, summer gives you the chance to have exciting adventures throughout Breckenridge’s many beautiful parks. You can hike, bike, and climb all through the season! But with so many parks, how can you decide where to begin? We’ve curated a list of can’t-miss parks around town so that you can have the best, most adventurous summer ever!
White River National Forest
In Breckenridge, summer wilderness exploration is largely centered around White River National Forest. Home to 11 stellar ski resorts, 10 mountain peaks that tower more than 14,000 feet high, and eight unique wilderness areas, odds are that you are familiar with White River National Forest even if you don’t know it by name. Breckenridge Ski Resort is one of many revered attractions located within the forest’s 2.3 million acres. Other major ski resorts in this influential recreational area include Vail, Beaver Creek, and Keystone.
White River National Forest is stunning and diverse. It can be hard to know where to explore! Luckily, we have a few go-to spots that will make marvelous starting points for your summer adventure.
Hard trails…
- Spruce Creek Trail to Mohawks Lake Trail: This heavily-trafficked 8.4 mile out-and-back trail is popular for backpacking, birding, and camping. Along the route, you’ll find waterfalls, wildflowers, and wildlife.
- McCullough Gulch Trail: This 6.4 mile out-and-back trail features lakes, waterfalls, wildflowers, mountain goats, and mountain views.
Moderate trails…
- Mayflower Lake and Mohawk Lakes: This 7.9 mile out-and-back trail is loved for its amazing views and wildflower-painted fields. You may see mountain goats as you hike!
- Spruce Creek Loop: This approachable 4.9 mile loop trail is heavily-trafficked and is full of mountain and lake views.
- McCullough Gulch Waterfall Trail: This 3.6 mile out-and-back trail takes you to a wonderful waterfall.
Town of Breckenridge Trail System
Wondering where all of the easy trails are? The Town of Breckenridge Trail System maintains two excellent trails for casual hikers. Sawmill Reservoir is a popular 1.3 mile trail that features lovely lake views. There’s also Trollstigen, Southside and Illinois Creek Low Trail, which is only 1 mile and is located near the Breckenridge Troll.
Pike National Forest
Pike National Forest (part of the Pike-San Isabel National Forests & Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands system) is an awe-inspiring area that features varied landscapes and numerous recreational opportunities. The trails that are accessible from Breckenridge are fabulous.
- Hoosier Pass Loop is a moderate, 2.8 mile loop trail. It is underrated and beautiful, with views of wildflower fields and frequent wildlife sightings.
- Crystal Lake is also a good hike. It is a moderate 3 mile out-and-back forest trail with pretty views.
Golden Horseshoe Trail System
The Golden Horseshoe Trail System is an outstanding off-road area with 6000 acres of mountain trails. It is popular for dirt biking and hiking. If you’re looking to hike, then you should check out one of the following trails…
- B&B to Reiling Dredge to Minnie Mine: This moderate 2.9 mile loop trail is full of amazing scenery and interesting old ruins.
- Minnie Mine Loop: This easy, kid-friendly 1.5 mile loop trail takes you by historic mines and gorgeous natural scenery.
- To see more trails in the system, visit https://www.alltrails.com/parks/us/colorado/golden-horseshoe-trail-system
Playgrounds
Traveling with kids? Breckenridge has a number of play spaces for the kids!
Prospector Park is a pocket park located on the Main Street Trolley route, right across from Edwin Carter Discovery Center. The play area is rock-themed.
Kingdom Park is a fun place for families. It has a sand ground cover, a seasonal water fountain, athletic fields, playground equipment, and more.
High Line Railroad Park Playground is a unique playground with railroad-themed structures. It is located adjacent to High Line Railroad Museum.
Do you have a favorite park or outdoors space to visit during the summer either in or near Breckenridge? Share it with us in the comments!
