Hiking is a true family activity. Hiking offers visitors to Breckenridge the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors in a relaxed and peaceful setting. From short hikes that start in town to day hikes in the valleys and mountains as high as 14,000 feet to backpacking adventures and hut trips, Breckenridge is the ideal location for hikers of any ability or age.
Stop by the Activities Desk at the Grand Lodge on Peak 7 for free printed information on local hikes and to take advantage of our staff’s knowledge.
There are a number of trails nestled within the backcountry of Summit County. Here are just a few:
Easy
Sapphire Point:
Open: June-September
Elevation: 9,500 feet
Time: 15 minutes
Distance: .8 mile
From Breckenridge, take Highway 9 north to Swan Mountain Road. Take Swan Mountain Road to its highest point, where you will find a parking area. Park and start the trailhead loop from either corner of the parking lot. Sapphire Point is a fun, short loop for the whole family ranging from kids to grandparents. The views of Dillon Reservoir and Buffalo Mountain are incredible. Pack a lunch and have a picnic and don't forget sunflower seeds for the chipmunks!
Moderate
Mohawk Lakes:
Open: July-September
Elevation: 12,100 feet
Time: 2-3 hours
Distance: 1.2 miles or 2.8 miles
Drive south out of Breckenridge on Highway 9. At about 2.4 miles from the last light as you leave Breckenridge, turn right on Spruce Creek Road and proceed for about 1.2 miles to a well marked parking area and trailhead.
The perfect intermediate family hike, Mohawk Lakes sums up everything magnificent about Summit County. It has sweeping vistas, historic ruins, ore cars, waterfalls and close-up views of massive, rugged peaks. Be sure to bring snacks and plenty of water.
Difficult
Quandary Peak:
Open: July-September
Elevation: 14,265 feet
Time: 7-8 hours
Distance: 3 miles
Drive south on Highway 9 about 7.5 miles from the last traffic light in Breckenridge to Blue Lakes Road on your right. After turning right onto Blue Lakes Road (No.850) you turn right again onto County Road No. 851 and continue approximately 1.1 miles to the trailhead. Parking is limited.
The trail starts moderately but quickly begins a steady, merciless ascent of about 3 miles as it gains over 3,100 feet in elevation. Once at the top, you will have amazing views of other 14ers such as Mt. Lincoln, Mt. Bross, Mt. Grays and Mt. Torreys. If you are going to accept the challenge of this 14er, be prepared for any kind of weather. It changes quickly and you do not want to be caught without the proper gear!
High Country Hiking Tips
- Bring lots of water: Breckenridge has very dry air. Sweat evaporates from the body quickly so continual replenishment of fluid is essential.
- Prepare for any weather: A favorite local’s saying is “If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes.” Always be prepared for different conditions on the trail.
- Wear sunscreen: The sun in high elevations is more intense than at lower elevations and with 300 sunny days a year in Breckenridge you are bound to have sunshine. Make sure to bring sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more and apply often.
- Be courteous: Many trails in Breckenridge are multi-use trails and shared by hikers, bikers and even horseback riders. Bikers must yield to hikers and horseback riders. Announce yourself when approaching. A little friendliness can go a long way!
- Stay on the trail: Going off the trail can damage or destroy sensitive areas. Please respect the natural beauty so others can enjoy.
- Plan ahead: Always leave hiking information with a friend before going out. Arrange to call that person by a certain time after the hike. That way if there is a problem help can be summoned.
- Pick up after your dog: It's the law in Summit County and the right thing to do.
- Good hiking shoes and socks are important: A good pair of hiking shoes and socks can be the difference between the perfect hiking experience and a difficult hike.
For more information on hiking in Breckenridge, please email activities@grandlodgeonpeak7.com or call 970-453-3330, ext. 0 and ask for the Activities Desk.