Adventure Travel

8 Summer Activities To Try In Breckenridge, Colorado

Experience a different side of this ski town

The Vacationeer
Stunning mountain lake, Breckenridge, Colorado.

Breckenridge is an “up for anything kind of town. This Colorado ski village, located at the base of the Rocky Mountains, is known for year-round alpine activities and Gold Rush history.

Here are eight of the top things to do in Breckenridge in summer.

Mature couple hiking, Breckenridge, Colorado.    

1. Explore By Trying Geocaching

Geocaching is an ideal combination of hiking and treasure hunting. Download the Geocaching app or rent a GPS to use latitude and longitude to find hiding spots around Breckenridge.

Visit the Breckenridge Tourism Office to get started on a unique Breckenridge experience. 

2. Refuel At Breckenridge Distillery

Turn this activity into an afternoon adventure. Head downtown to Breck Sports and rent a cruiser bike or Townie to explore the historic downtown. End your ride at one of the most popular watering holes in Breckenridge.

The Breckenridge Distillery is one of the top bourbon makers in the world, so take a tasting tour to learn the secret to their success. 

After your tasting, hop on the complimentary shuttle and ride to the Airport Road location to dine in the Distillery’s new upscale restaurant.

3. Soak Up History On Boreas Pass

Mountain bikers on picturesque uphill ride, Breckenridge, Colorado.   

What began as Breckenridge Pass in the 1860s as a route to reach the gold mines is now a stunning 22-mile road through the Continental Divide, known as Boreas Pass. This breathtaking hour-long drive through Colorado’s central Rockies leads you up and over an 11,481-foot summit. 

Today, you can see historical remnants of this old mining area. At the top, look for the historic Section House, boxcars of what used to be a train station, and “Ken’s Cabin,” one of the oldest known buildings in the Breckenridge area.

Other highlights include the ghost town of Dyersville, the Sawmill Museum, Washington Gold Mine, mountain biking paths for all skill levels and hiking trails filled with serene mountain panoramas.

4. Appreciate The Arts At Breckenridge Arts District

The Breckenridge Arts District is part of Breck Create and includes a one-acre campus of restored historic structures home to studios and creative spaces for tours, classes and special events. Spend your time admiring public art, galleries and artists in residence. Check out their calendar for special events, festivals and workshops.

Horseback riding tour, crossing stream, Breckenridge, Colorado.   

Also located in Breck Create is the Breckenridge Backstage Theater. This vibrant, long-running theater is part of the art district and brings on-stage entertainment to the whole family.  

5. Embark On A Horseback Riding Excursion

Embrace your inner cowboy and saddle up for an equestrian experience. Explore the rustic Breckenridge, including the Tenmile Range, as its frontiersman explored it a hundred years ago.

There’s a tour for every skill level, ranging from short and family-friendly to day-long treks through the wilderness. 

6. Experience Thrills At Epic Discovery

Visiting Epic Discovery is a must-visit whether you have an hour or a full day. Start at Peak 8 Base Camp and enjoy the journey through the forest on a Gold Runner Alpine Coaster. Glide up on the Colorado Super Chair for a bird’s-eye view of three of Colorado’s famous “14ers.” You can also zoom down the zip line, pan for gold or partake in various heart-pumping activities, from bounce houses to wall climbing. 

7. Float, Paddle Or Raft Your Way Around 

Rafting tour, aerial view, Breckenridge, Colorado.   

Breckenridge is home to five rivers, so whether you’re looking for an easy-going float trip or an adrenaline-fueled adventure, there’s something for everyone along Breckenridge’s waterways. Choose your tour by the river, duration or price to find the best one for you. 

8. Take A Hot-Air Balloon Ride

From late May through early October, take to the sky for views high above seven counties in Colorado. Soar above the tallest peaks in Breckenridge via hot-air balloon as you appreciate an unmatched perspective of the vast Rocky Mountains.

Read “Breckenridge Off The Slopes: 8 Things To Do Besides Skiing” for wintertime activities for non-skiers.

 

Vacationeer

The Vacationeer

The Vacationeer is a collective of Hilton Grand Vacations storytellers whose goal is to inspire travelers to go further. We're always on the lookout for new destinations to explore, useful travel tips, and unique ideas to help you plan the most memorable vacations possible.

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