Three Amazingly Awesome Hikes to Enjoy in Breckenridge this Autumn
Just because the summer crowds have thinned out and the kids are back in school doesn't mean Breckenridge has nothing to do. In fact, some would say that autumn is the best time to visit this quaint mountain town.
Breckenridge is home to gorgeous hiking trails that wind through aspen groves and offer stunning views of the valley below. Autumn is the perfect time to hit the tracks since the temperatures are milder and the leaves change color. Not to mention, the courses are less crowded now that summer is over.
Here are my top three favorite hiking trails near Breckenridge:
Pro tip: bring a jacket for when you reach the summit! Take water and dress for inclement weather (layers). It can turn quickly. Be prepared, and don't forget your camera.
Hoosier Pass Loop
Short but sweet! The Hoosier Pass loop Trail is located about 15 minutes South of Breckenridge, Colorado, right off Highway 9 at the top of the pass. There is ample parking, and the trails in this area are clearly marked. The whole loop is around 3.5 miles.
The trail leaves on two tracts and forks right and left from the parking lot. It loops around and connects (not shown on the map) to itself. I prefer turning left and returning to the small peak on the continental divide west of the parking lot. It gets you above the tree line quickly.
SPECTACULAR 3600 VIEWS of five fourteeners and the Placer Valley! "Wow" is probably the best word to describe this hike. There is some elevation gain and steady rise on this moderately strenuous hike, so you may need to take it easy (it starts at about 11,500 feet). If you consider hiking here, be aware of the weather. It can turn quickly.
Black Powder Pass Trail
A 3.4-mile out-and-back trail. It starts 9 miles up the Boreas pass road from the ice rink in Breckenridge, Colorado. It is a moderately challenging route taking a little longer than 2 hours to complete (unless you are a trail runner).
The trailhead is just above 11,500 feet and takes you to the saddle between Baldy and Boreas Mountains. Summiting Baldy is only a short additional hike. The best times to visit this trail are June through October.
The drive to get there is impressive and connects Breckenridge and Como along the old narrow gauge railroad bed. The dirt road is one lane wide but is in moderate condition. You will be standing on top of the continental divide at the trailhead. The road is closed in winter, so you will need back-county, touring gear, or a snowmobile to reach the saddle.
Some old station buildings are situated on the divide and can be rented nightly during winter. Don't forget your camera! Views are GREAT!
Monte Cristo Gulch and McCullough Gulch
Starting from the McCullough Gulch Trailhead, you will find yourself alongside Monte Cristo Creek as you hike up to the Blue Lakes. The short trip is 2.8 miles each way, which is very popular and relatively forgiving.
You will need to go up a few short steep sections, but it is not too bad. Going past the Blue lakes, Monte Cristo Gulch gets more demanding with uneven footing followed by very steep terrain.
You may want to bring safety ropes to the top. But lets you know what being in the Colorado Wilderness really feels like. You will be across from Quandary peak, the closest fourteener to Breckenridge.
Reach out anytime if you need other tips or information about Summit County. I'm always here to help!
- George, Owner of Perfect Mountain Home
