Top Picks for Sizzling Summer Fun in Breckenridge: Insider Advice from a Resident
Crankin' Up the Fun in Breck: A Slammin' Breckenridge Summer Guide
Breckenridge, Colorado? A familiar place after residin' here for quite some time. This mountainous stretch of Colorado Rockies terrain has been a gold mine (pun intended) for outdoor adventures, thanks to my enduring determination to conquer every awesome activity it offers.
Now I'm spillin' the beans, sharin' a handpicked list of my personal best summertime happenings in Breck. You don't need a friggin' bazillion summer to-do lists, 'cause these bad boys are the cream of the crop.
#1: Hike That Good S***
Hittin' the trails? It's a no-brainer that hiking's the bee's knees in Breck. It's a veritable treasure trove of paths, stretching far and wide, just waitin' to be explored.
Breath-snatchin' vistas, wildflowers that'll dazzle your eyes, pine forests deep as the dark, alpine lakes to make George Clooney jealous, rivers and streams that'll wet your whistle—you name it, Breck's got it.
From easy walks for the whole fam like the Blue Lakes north of town to challenging treks that'll make you pant, like climbing Black Powder Pass or the hard-core hike to Mohawk Lakes, there's a route for every hiker. And for an experience y'all won't forget, train your ass off to reach the summit of a 14er and stand on top of Quandary Peak, our local 14,000-foot peak.
Check out my favorite hikes based on features, 'cause why not, like best waterfalls near Breckenridge, Best Wildflower Hikes near Breckenridge, and Best Hoosier Pass Hikes.
#2: Take a Ride on Boreas Pass Road
Scenic drives? Boreas Pass, baby! A dusty, gravel road that takes you up to the ghost town of Boreas, once thrivin' in the old Wild West times, is the best scenic drive in this neighborhood.
Start in Breck, and in about 9 miles, you'll find yourself at the top of Boreas Pass, also part of the Great Continental Divide. You can go either ape-s*** and ride all the way over into Como, or just turn back and enjoy the ride like a chillaxin' penguin.
Remember to toss a square at overlooks that catch your attention – these puppies got jaw-droppin' views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
If you're a hiker, some of our favorite hikes start from this road. When you reach the summit, get knee-deep in the history of the old town – it's worth a gander-round.
#3: Get Your Epically Discovered Adventure On
Summertime comes, and Breck Ski Resort turns into an activity playground called Epic Discovery, home to some of the best outdoor activities in Breck. To get the ball rollin', make your way to the gondola from town and head up to Peak 8.
Pick up a ticket (or nab some online) and prepare to have your breath taken away by the multitude of activities. Mini golf, bungee trampolines, eats, and the GoldRunner Coaster are just the tip of the iceberg – but don't discount the scenic chairlift ride on the Colorado Superchair, which'll take you high up without making your legs cry.
At the top, there's more fun to be had with rock climbing walls, gemstone panning, a ropes course, and several hiking trails. And if you dig mountain biking, there are plenty of trails tailored to bikers.
This could turn into an all-day excursion, but remember to time it right – weather's the boss on this excursion, so drive carefully and play safe.
#4: Party it Up at a Fest
Breckenridge is the shindig central of Colorado. With various festivals throughout the year, you'll find the vibe eclectic and vibrant – from monthly art fests to delicious food and wine events like the Food & Wine Festival.
Empty your wallet for the Breckenridge Bourbon & Bacon Festival, toast to Colorado's brew at the Summer Beer Festival, or catch some lively tunes at the Bluegrass & Beer event in Keystone. Check the calendar for what's goin' down in downtown Breck or the surrounding Summit County region.
#5: Dig Deep into History
If you're a history buff, the Breckenridge Heritage Alliance has got ya covered. Join guided tours and visit museums – the Walk Through History Tour that covers downtown Breck is a personal favorite. Check out the High Line Railroad Park and Barney Ford Museum, too.
website: BreckHistory.org or hit them up in person at the Breckenridge Welcome Center in Blue River Plaza (downtown Breck) for more deetz.
Ghost tours? Yeaaa, if the chill down y'all's spine ain't enough, explore the creepy Country Boy Mine for a spooky and unique experience.
#6: Get Wet on Lake Dillon (or the river)
Just a teeny-tiny 10-minute drive from Breck is the gorgeous and mountain-surrounded Lake Dillon. The Dillon Marina offers lakeside eatin', sailin' tours, pontoon boat, SUP, and kayak rentals, but swimming ain't an option here, y'all.
If you're feelin' adventurous, book a white water rafting trip with a local outfitter – Colorado's rivers got some of the best rafting in the country, and there's a ride for every skill level.
#7: Scorch Some Rubber with Bike Adventures
Need a way to explore the area that's fun and fast? Bike rentals, both regular and e-bikes, are readily available in Breck and Frisco. Take a ride around Dillon Reservoir and the neighborin' towns on the numerous paved bike trails.
Our fave route? Book a Vail Pass bike ride with Rebel Sports in Frisco. They'll shuttle you and your bike to the top of Vail Pass, and the 14-mile downhill ride back is one you won't forget.
If e-bikes are more yer speed, ride 'em on the bike-friendly 18-mile trail around Lake Dillon to soak in the lake beauty without gettin' wet.
#8: Get Some Adrenaline Pumpin'
Breck's got your back for those cravin' somethin' new and thrillin'. From hikers who'd never hike a mountain to folks who ain't fished since they drank beer in mud boots, there's an adventure for every adrenaline junkie in the woods.
One of my favorite adven-tales was rentin' four-wheelers – howlin' good times, y'all. Adventure Time Rentals will provide the toys and show you where to go for an outdoor adventure you'll remember forever.
#9: Shop 'til you Drop
Main Street in Breck is a picturesque and colorful display of buildings that'll make y'all wanna do some explorin'. From tiny boutique shops to outdoor gear brands and International Diamond Center, there's plenty to peruse.
Shop if that's yer bag, but even if you're not much of a retail rat, a walk down Main Street is worth it for the scenery alone.
#10: Discover Summit County
Breckenridge's bubblin' right in the middle of an amazing region of the Rocky Mountains. Check out the nearby small towns like Keystone, Copper Mountain, Vail, Frisco, Dillon, and Silverthorne.
With Breck as your base camp, take the time to explore these little towns, each one offerin' its own set of fun activities. If you don't got wheels, no probs – hop on the Free Ride bus or Summit Stage bus and get rollin'.
#11: Get Your Epic Tipple On
Got a favorite flavor? No problem – Breck's got it. Wine tastings, breweries, and distilleries, oh my! This could be a great indoor event (rainy day) or just about any time you want a change of pace.
For wine tastings, check out the Carboy Winery, Continental Divide Winery, and Ridge Street Wine. Spirits seekers, head to the Breckenridge Distillery.
If beer's yer thang, my top picks are Breckenridge Brewery, Broken Compass, and the Breckenridge Tap House. Foodies? Roostalk, Briar Rose, and Breckenridge Distillery restaurant are our faves for high-end eats.
#12: What to Do Inside on a Rainy Day
Ain't no rule that says y'all got to be miserable on a rainy day in Breck – we've got options, so don't let the clouds bum you out.
Step into the Stephen C. West Ice Arena for public ice skatin' and even disco skatin' on select Friday nights. The arena is the home base for the Breckenridge Vipers, a semi-pro hockey team.
Hit up the Breckenridge Recreation Center for a fun indoor water park, lap pool, gym time, and racquetball games, all included in your day pass. Some other fun indoor activities include axe-throwin', treasure hunts at Country Boy Mine, and old-school movie watching at the Eclipse Theater.
When to Visit
Breckenridge's snowy mountains transform into magnificent summertime landscapes once the skis are retired. Quite late in the year compared to other places, the high elevation hikes usually don't melt until July.
But if you can't make it in July, no stress – late September or early October is another fantastic time to sample Breck's vibrant fall foliage.
Get outside. Explore. Make memories. Breck's got your whole summer covered.
- There's no denying that hiking is the crown jewel of outdoor activities in Breckenridge during summer, with a myriad of trails offering breathtaking views, dazzling wildflowers, and alpine lakes.
- For a scenic drive experience, consider taking a ride on Boreas Pass Road, a dusty, gravel road leading to the ghost town of Boreas and providing jaw-dropping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Visit Breckenridge Ski Resort during summer as it transforms into Epic Discovery, offering a plethora of activities for adventure-seekers, including mini golf, bungee trampolines, and scenic chairlift rides.
- To immerse yourself in Breckenridge's vibrant culture, discover the various festivals throughout the year, showcasing diverse arts, delicious foods, beer, and music.
- For history enthusiasts, there are numerous museums and guided tours to explore, such as the Walk Through History Tour, the High Line Railroad Park, and the Barney Ford Museum.
- Lake Dillon, just a short drive from Breck, offers stunning mountain views and the opportunity to rent kayaks, pontoon boats, or SUPs. White water rafting trips can also be booked with local outfitters.
- To navigate the area quickly and enjoyably, rent bicycles or e-bikes and explore the numerous paved bike trails around Lake Dillon or book a Vail Pass bike ride with Rebel Sports.
- Adrenaline junkies will find their thrill with outdoor activities like four-wheeler rentals, hiking, fishing, and mountaineering, catering to every level of experience.
- Shopping enthusiasts can stroll down Breckenridge's colorful Main Street, with a variety of boutique shops, outdoor gear brands, and unique stores to explore.
- Journey beyond Breckenridge and explore the surrounding small towns like Keystone, Copper Mountain, Vail, Frisco, Dillon, and Silverthorne, each offering its own set of fun activities.
- Unwind with a tipple at one of Breckenridge's wineries, breweries, or distilleries, or dine at high-end restaurants showcasing local flavors.
- On rainy days, opt for indoor activities like ice skating at the Stephen C. West Ice Arena, exploring the Breckenridge Recreation Center, or watching old-school movies at the Eclipse Theater.
