Hiking

Enjoy hiking?  There are numerous hiking trails in and around Breckenridge, Colorado. From generally flat trails through alpine meadows to challenging hikes to remote mountain tops, there is something for everyone. Here are a few of our favorite nearby hikes along with tips to make your Breckenridge hiking experience safe, fun and successful.

Black Powder Pass – A great introduction to hiking in Breckenridge, Colorado, Black Powder Pass is 3.4 miles round trip and offers hikers incredible views.  Mid-summer you'll find an added bonus of spectacular wildflowers.  To reach Black Powder Pass drive south on Route 9.  Turn left onto Boreas Pass Road.  Take this road 9.6 miles to an old railroad section house.  Park here and access the trail to the northeast of the building. 

Mohawk Lake – You'll experience beautiful waterfalls, historic ruins, incredible scenery and a high mountain lake during your hike to Mohawk Lake.  The 7 mile roundtrip hike is intermediate as it ascends 1,700 vertical feet. To access the trailhead, drive south on Route 9 for 2.4 miles.  Turn right on Spruce Creek Road and continue 1.2 miles to a well marketed parking lot and the trailhead. 

Quandary Peak – Ready for a more advanced hike to the top of a 14,000 foot peak?  Quandary Peak is a great challenge for the adventurous and experienced hiker.  To access the trailhead drive south on Route 9 for 7.5 miles.  Turn right onto Blue Lakes Road.  Make a second right onto Number 851 and proceed for 1.1 miles to the trailhead and a small parking lot.  Quandary Peak is 14,265 feet tall and requires 3 miles of hiking from trailhead to summit.  Start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms on this high mountain peak. 

Breckenridge Hiking Tips

1. Be Prepared – The weather and conditions can change rapidly in the Breckenridge mountains.  Thus it is important to be prepared.  Remember the essentials: map, communications devices such as a cell phone, food, sunscreen, water, warm clothing, rain gear, and more.
2. Don't Hike Alone – Plan on hiking the trails in and around Breckenridge with a partner.  Not only it is more fun to hike with others it is also safer.
3. Consider the Altitude – The town of Breckenridge, Colorado sits at 9,600 feet.  Acclimating to the high altitude takes time and should be done gradually.  Thus when picking an appropriate hike for the day consider the altitude.  If it is early in your trip to Colorado, hike at the lower elevations.  Once you acclimate, then head to the top of a fourteener.
4. Have Fun – Hiking is a great Breckenridge summer activity.  Remember to take the time to look around and enjoy the scenery.  Plan hikes that are both fun and challenging.

Visit Summit County Explorer for more trails and information on Breckenridge hiking.