With only a month or so left of summer, it’s time to take advantage of Breckenridge’s stunning high alpine environment. While we love being on the water, we also enjoy exploring the area’s highest and best peaks. The Breckenridge area offers opportunities for everyone to adventure in the high alpine with easy through challenging hikes and routes available.
Learn about how to adapt to Breckenridge’s higher altitude before setting out on your adventure. We previously detailed some of these in our best spring hiking in Breckenridge post, but we have added even more hikes, as well as broken them down by ability.
Easy
These hikes are a great option for families or those less experienced looking to experience Breckenridge’s mountains for a shorter adventure.
- 2.3 miles out and back
- 465’ elevation gain
- Waterfalls, alpine views, wildflowers
- 1.3 miles out and back
- 232’ elevation gain
- Creek views, reservoir, easily accessible
- 1.5-mile loop
- 209’ elevation gain
- Historic mine, shaded trail, mountain views, aspens
Learn more about historic mines near Breckenridge
- 2.9-mile loop
- 679’ elevation gain
- Mountain, lake, and high alpine scenery
Moderate
These routes provide a bit more challenge, as they increase in mileage and elevation gain, yet they should not require extreme endurance.
- 7.9 miles roundtrip
- 1,922’ elevation gain
- Multiple alpine lakes, waterfall, wildflowers
- 16 miles out and back (or shuttle for a one way trip)
- 1213’ elevation gain
- Mountain views, streams, also ideal for mountain biking,
- 7 miles out and back
- 1443’ elevation gain
- Lake views, wildflowers, views of the Gore Range
Advanced
These hikes and routes offer the chance for experienced adventurers to explore the highest and best of the Breckenridge area.
- 10.5 miles out and back
- 3074’ elevation gain
- A challenging 13,000-foot peak, views of Breckenridge and surrounding mountains
- 9.7-mile loop
- 3,371’ elevation gain
- Several lakes, alpine terrain, class III scramble to the peak, wildlife spotting
Red Cone Whale Peak Adventure Loop
- 16-mile loop
- 4,789’ elevation gain
- Traverse the Continental Divide Trail, summit 13,000-foot Whale Peak, stunning views, wildlife spotting
What do I need for my hiking trip?
Lots of water
We recommend at least 2 liters depending on the length of your hike and how hot it is. At higher altitudes, it is also especially important to stay hydrated! We love the Katadyn Filter. This allows you to fill up in any freshwater streams or running water along your route!
Good shoes
Footwear will make or break your experience in the mountains. We tend to prefer hiking shoes or trail running shoes to boots, but any sturdy shoe with tread will work. Just make sure you break them in before to avoid blisters!
A raincoat
It’s important to be off the trail by the afternoon to avoid afternoon storms, yet there’s always a chance that you may be caught. A raincoat will keep you warm and protected.
A map (downloaded or printed)
Colorado’s trails are usually well defined, but it is always important to carry a map with you. You often will not have service in mountainous areas, so if you are relying on your phone or an app, make sure you also download the route for off-road navigation.
Snacks!
A must have for a day on the trail. We love trail mix, granola bars, honey stinger waffles, fruit, and crackers for items that are easy to pack and eat while hiking.
Sunscreen
Colorado’s sun is strong, especially in the mountains! We recommend sunscreen and a sun shirt for those that need the most coverage.
We can’t wait for you to start exploring Breckenridge’s trails. While you’re in beautiful Breckenridge, join us for an Arkansas River adventure just 1 hour and 15 minutes from Breckenridge. Here, you can cool down on the water with a rafting adventure or continue exploring the Rocky Mountains on our zipline and Via Ferrata courses! Learn more about rafting the Arkansas River, and book your adventure today!
Written by Rosa Canales, Copywriting Marketing Specialist
