The Best Hikes for Leaf Peeping Near Breckenridge
Every year, as soon as the Pumpkin Spice Latte becomes available to order, the countdown to leaf peeping season begins. Areas across Colorado peak at different times, depending on local temperatures, altitude, and rainfall that year. Historically, the stunning aspens that draw hikers and leaf peeping enthusiasts to Breckenridge, start turning golden mid-September, reaching their peak by the end of September into early October, just in time for snow to start collecting on the mountains.
The crisp fall air, glowing aspen groves, and sunny autumn days make Breckenridge an ideal place to soak in the magic of fall in Colorado. Planning your next leaf peeping trip or looking for the perfect fall hike while you're in town? Check out our list of the 6 Best Fall Hikes for Leaf Peeping Near Breckenridge!
1. Sawmill Reservoir
Photo by Patrick Conway on AllTrails
This 1.3-mile trail is short with only 232 feet of elevation gain, making it a terrific trail for families and hikers of all ages. From the trailhead you’ll hike along the shaded path to the reservoir which then opens up with beautiful views of the Ten Mile Range in the background. There is limited parking at the trailhead of this popular hike (and overflow parking on county roads is prohibited), so we recommend parking in town and taking the FREE shuttle bus to the trailhead. This trail is dog friendly but please remember to bring bags for picking up after your dog. Keep an eye out for wildlife, moose have also been known to frequent this trail.
For more information on Breck Free Ride, click here.
Length: 1.3 Miles
Rating: Easy
Elevation Gain: 232 Feet
Route Type: Loop
Trailhead: Snowflake Trailhead
2. Aspen Alley
Photo by Tom Curt on AllTrails
True to its name, Aspen Alley is a prime leaf peeping trail, surrounded by beautiful golden aspen groves. This 2.6-mile hike is rated as moderate for its 528 feet of elevation gain on the hike back up to the trailhead. The trail is used for both hiking and biking, so keep an eye out for bikers coming downhill. Dogs are welcome on this trail but must be on leash.
Length: 2.6 Miles
Rating: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 528 Feet
Route Type: Out and Back
Trailhead: Boreas Pass Loop Trailhead
3. Rainbow Lake
Photo by Carly Bush on AllTrails
Rainbow Lake Trail offers incredible access to some of Summit County’s must beautiful wilderness area right from the heart of Frisco. This 1.5-mile hike is great for families with young kids or anyone looking for a quick walk in the woods. The trail will take you through aspens and brush and along a short boardwalk with mountain views to Rainbow Lake. Dogs are welcome on this hike and may be off leash in some areas.
Length: 1.5 Miles
Rating: Easy
Elevation Gain: 167 Feet
Route Type: Out and Back
Trailhead: Rainbow Lake Trailhead
Find this blog post helpful? Make sure you bookmark this page for the next time you’re in Breckenridge!
4. Meadow Creek Trail
Photo by Kyle Renaud on AllTrails
This out and back trail is rated as moderate for the 2,286 feet of elevation gain. The hike starts out shaded, eventually opening up to outcroppings with stunning views of the Ten Mile Range, Lake Dillon, and rolling hills covered in different shades of green, yellow, and orange. Enjoy impressive views of the Gore Range where the trail intersects with Gore Range Trail No. 60. Be prepared for multiple water crossings, however you’ll be able to cross most on fallen logs or small bridges. Dogs are welcome on this trail but must be on leash.
Length: 8.4 Miles
Rating: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 2,286 Feet
Route Type: Out & Back
Trailhead: Meadow Creek Trailhead
5. Angler Mountain
Photo by Michelle Goerlitz on AllTrails
This moderately rated out and back trail is beautiful any time of year, covered in wildflowers in the summer and bright golden aspen in the fall. With a little over 1,000 feet of elevation gain, the beginning of this hike can feel steep, but the effort pays off with expansive views of the Gore Range. This trail initially takes hikers up a hillside through private property so please stay on the trail. Dogs are allowed on this trail but must be leashed.
Length: 4.2 Miles
Rating: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,135 Feet
Route Type: Out and Back
Trailhead: Angler Mountain Trailhead
6. Prospect Hill
Photo by Cassie Sinichko on AllTrails
This 6.1 mile hike is rated as moderate for the steady incline to the halfway point and has a total elevation gain of 1,135 feet. The scenic trail offers sweeping views of the Ten Mile Range and Breckenridge ski area. Parking at the trailhead is limited and we recommend taking Breckenridge’s FREE shuttle bus.
For more information on Breck Free Ride, click here.
Length: 6.1 Miles
Rating: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,092 Feet
Route Type: Loop
Trailhead: Gold Run Road
Are you planning to tackle this list with your friends and family? Make sure to tag us on Instagram at @breckenridgeassociates when you post your hike so we can reshare!
Find It In The Source
Our annual publication is your go-to guide when buying, selling, and spending time in Breckenridge and Summit County. Stay on top of this year's market trends, listings, important news, what to do in town, and more!
Posted by Breckenridge Associates Real Estate on
Leave A Comment