Town located at the base of the Tenmile Range, is a popular destination for skiers, and Summer attracts outdoor enthusiasts with hiking trails, wildflowers, fly-fishing, and mountain biking
From Denver (81 mi): Take N Broadway and W 8th Ave to W 6th Ave/6th Ave. Freeway. Follow US-6 W and I-70 W to CO-9/N Summit Blvd in Summit County. Take exit 203 from I-70 W. Continue on CO-9. Drive to N Pine St in Breckenridge.
Overview
Breckenridge is a former gold mining town in Summit County at the base of the Tenmile Range, with a well-preserved Victorian main street (a National Historic District), and Breckenridge Ski Resort, which has been a leading ski area since ski trails were first cut in 1961. In January it hosts the International Snow Sculpture Championships, where teams carve 20-ton blocks of snow.
Highlights
- Skiing: five peaks (Peaks 6 to 10) and the BreckConnect gondola from town
- Main Street: shops, breweries, and restaurants in old mining buildings, and the Breckenridge Distillery
- Summer: hiking, mountain biking, and the Blue River Recreation Trail
Things to Do
Discover Colorado's Historic Mining Town Turned Mountain Adventure Hub
Breckenridge is a vibrant mountain town located in Colorado's Summit County at an elevation of approximately 9,600 feet. Founded during the Colorado Gold Rush in 1859, Breckenridge combines rich mining history with world-class outdoor recreation, a lively downtown district, scenic alpine landscapes, and year-round activities. Today, it is one of Colorado's most popular destinations for skiing, hiking, biking, festivals, and mountain adventures.
Explore Historic Main Street
Breckenridge's charming downtown features beautifully preserved Victorian-era buildings that house restaurants, breweries, art galleries, boutiques, museums, and specialty shops. Visitors can stroll along Main Street and experience the town's blend of historic character and modern mountain culture.
Visit Breckenridge Ski Resort
Breckenridge Ski Resort is one of the most visited ski resorts in North America, offering access to five mountain peaks, extensive ski and snowboard terrain, scenic chairlift rides, alpine hiking, mountain biking, and breathtaking views of the Tenmile Range.
Experience Breckenridge's Mining Heritage
The town's history is showcased through attractions such as the Breckenridge Welcome Center Museum, the Barney Ford House Museum, and historic mining sites throughout the area. Visitors can learn about the gold rush era and the pioneers who helped establish the community.
Enjoy Year-Round Outdoor Recreation
Breckenridge offers hiking, mountain biking, fishing, rafting, golf, horseback riding, skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and wildlife viewing. Its location within the Rocky Mountains provides easy access to alpine lakes, mountain passes, and scenic wilderness areas.
Top Trails
McCullough Gulch Trail
Length: Approximately 6.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: About 1,400 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
One of the area's most popular hikes, this trail leads to waterfalls, alpine lakes, meadows, and stunning mountain scenery. Wildflowers and panoramic views make it a favorite during summer months.
Sawmill Reservoir Trail
Length: Approximately 2 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: Moderate
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Beginning near downtown, this family-friendly trail climbs through forests to a peaceful mountain reservoir with scenic views overlooking Breckenridge.
Mohawk Lakes Trail
Length: Approximately 7 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: About 1,700 feet
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
This spectacular alpine hike passes waterfalls, historic mining remains, and multiple high-elevation lakes surrounded by rugged mountain peaks. It is considered one of Summit County's premier hiking destinations.
Boreas Pass Trail
Length: Variable distances available
Elevation Gain: Moderate
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Following a historic railroad route, this trail offers beautiful views of the Tenmile Range, aspen groves, wildflowers, and remnants of Colorado's mining and railroad history.
This article uses material from the Wikipedia article and official pages for gobreck.com, fs.usda.gov, Breckenridge, Coloradolorado, released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.
