Breckenridge is not only a travel destination spot for people all over the world, but many also call Breckenridge home, with locals knowing the best of Rocky Mountain activities year-round. Sometimes the best part of traveling is learning what locals are into, as they’ll likely lead you to some exciting events and activities outside of the highly advertised options. Here are 8 great ways to enjoy the Breckenridge area like a local!
Rafting
From Scenic floats to adventurous white-water action, locals love to hit the waters in the summer on the days off or even grab a paddle after a long day at work! Breckenridge Whitewater Rafting has various river options for all levels within an hour’s drive, even offering evening times at some locations!
- Idaho Springs on the Clear Creek: 1 hour East of Breckenridge
- Class III to Class V rapids (This location has later evening times)
- Buena Vista on the Arkansas River: 1 Hour and 15 min SOUTH of Breckenridge
- Class III to V rapids (This location also has overnight and camping opportunities)
- Blue River Express (Closest river rafting option 30 minutes North)
- Class II to III rapids (No outpost and would meet at MM 111- 112 )
- Kremmling on the Colorado River ( 1 hour North of Breckenridge)
- Scenic Float trips ½ and Full Day as well as Overnight trips
- Fly Fishing tours ( 2 or 4 hour options)
- UTV Rentals!
Aerial Activities: Ziplining and Via Ferrata
Experience Colorado from a completely unique angle as you fly through the trees or scale a craggy cliffside! These two aerial adventures both provide a thrilling land-based experience but differ in their execution.
Ziplining is a thrilling outdoor activity where participants glide through the air between platforms or trees, suspended by a pulley attached to a stainless-steel cable. The route often spans varying heights and lengths, providing participants with stunning bird’s-eye views of the surrounding landscape, combining adventure and excitement with the opportunity to appreciate nature
A Via Ferrata course is an exhilarating outdoor adventure that combines rock climbing and hiking elements. It involves navigating a pre-set route along a cliff face, using steel cables, ladders, and iron rungs embedded into the rock for safety and guidance. The journey offers climbers a chance to traverse otherwise inaccessible mountain terrain while enjoying breathtaking scenic vistas. Regardless of one’s climbing experience, Via Ferrata courses offer an exciting opportunity to explore the vertical world safely under the supervision of experienced guides.
Biking
Breckenridge has numerous opportunities to explore the town and its beautiful surroundings on trails or paved paths. Whether you choose to send it downhill on the trails at Breckenridge resort, get the entire family together for a fun ride on Summit County’s rec path system, or both, biking is a great way to get outside, experience the best of the Rocky Mountains, and get some exercise!
Our favorite local gear rental shop, Breckenridge Ski & Sport has a variety of bikes to rent including E-Bikes, Mountain Bikes, Leisure and Gravel Bikes, and Juniors Bikes. Check out a recent guide on bike trails in Breckenridge for every type of rider!
Hiking
Lace up your boots and discover the local’s favorite Breckenridge trails that can get you new heights and sights in the Breckenridge area. Here are a few trails that locals know best!
- Sapphire Point Overlook Trail ( Easy)
- B&B to Reiling Dredge and Minnie Mine Trail ( Moderate)
- Spruce Creek Loop ( Moderate)
- Quandary Peak Trail ( 14’ner ) (Hard)
Check our guide to Spring Hiking in Breckenridge, as well as check AllTrails to view all Breckenridge hikes.
Eats and Treats:
For its size, Breckenridge boasts a robust restaurant scene. Dare to try some Rocky Mountain Osters, or at the minimum, sample a selection of local Colorado beers! Here are a few of our top picks: 
- Aurum Food and Wine– Upscale Dining with an extensive menu sure to suit all palettes
- Downstairs at Eric’s– A local favorite with an arcade!
- Blue River Bistro– Great food fair off Main Street
Stand Up Paddleboarding/ Kayaking
Stand Up Paddleboard and Kayak Rentals can be found all over the area, and locals tend to enjoy paddling on Maggie Pond or Lake Dillon. Lake Maggi also offers SUP yoga, a unique and challenging experience for those looking to up their game!
If you are looking to learn and participate in a guided tour, I suggest you check out our guided floats in Kremmling! These half day SUP or Inflatable Kayak tours take visitors on mild class II rapids down the Colorado River, offering time to relax, sunbathe, swim, and appreciate the beauty of the area.
Live Music
Similar to great food and hip restaurants, the locals definitely know where to go for some groovy tunes in the area! Check these out below.
- Cecilias Night Club and Martini Bar – With three different bar areas, this bar offers opportunities for patrons to enjoy craft cocktails, dance the night away, or catch up with friends.
- Motherloaded Tavern-The Motherloaded Tavern offers live music in a cozy setting, serving yummy, comfort food.
Festivals
Here are just a few upcoming favorite festivals that locals get excited about! These showcase the best of Breckenridge’s food, drinks, music and culture that make this such a special place to visit, especially in the summer.
- Breckenridge Food and Wine: July 28th-30th, starts at 6:30pm/ $75.00 per ticket
- Breckenridge Hogfest– Bourbon and Bacon- August 25th-27th, 2023/ $75.00 per ticket
- 2023 Breckenridge Summer Beer Festival– July 15th, 2023 Starts at 12:00pm/ $25.00 per
These activities and festivals are an integral part of why Breckenridge is an amazing and exciting place to both visit and live! Come discover for yourself the best of Breckenridge and why locals call this beautiful place home.
Written by Sarah Wagner, Contributing Member of the Sales and Marketing Team
Edited by Rosa Canales, Marketing Specialist
