Breckenridge, Colorado is one of our favorite mountain towns to visit. It is located at the base of the Rocky Mountains’ Tenmile Range and is known for its ski resort and year round alpine activities. Main Street is lined with apparel shops, restaurants, and great mountain views. Beyond the great downtown area, there are also several family friendly hikes in and near town. These are the best hikes for children of all ages to enjoy, while still adventurous and scenic for the adults. Here are some of our favorites:
Find Izak, the Troll– Izak Heartstone is a 15 foot tall wooden troll structure located on the Trollstigen Trail in the southeast corner of the Stephen C. West Ice Arena parking lot in Breckenridge. This is a short, 1 mile loop with the surprise of the troll at the turnaround point.
Sawmill Reservoir– this is a 1.3 mile loop around a 10-acre lake located at 9,938 feet elevation surrounded by White River National Forest land in Breckenridge. The lake allows non-motorized boats along with fishing (with a fishing license) and swimming. It was a great spot to let the kids put their feet in the water.
Blue Lakes Trail– Blue Lakes Trail- This is about a 25 minute drive from downtown Breckenridge and is a 1 mile out-and-back trail near Blue River, Colorado offering a little waterfall and beautiful views of the lake. This will bring you close to Quandary Peak, one of the only 14ers (peak over 14,000 feet) in Summit County. FYI: There is a winding gravel road to get to this trail.
Lily Pad Lake Trail– This is about a 35 minute drive from downtown Breck to Silverthorne. It is considered a moderate hike that is a 3.3 mile out-and-back trail. There are two bodies of water, one filled with lily pads and the other offering an amazing reflection of clouds, mountains, and trees on the clear water.
Old Dillon Reservoir Trail– This is about a 22 minute drive from Breckenridge to Silverthorne. This is an easy 1.7 mile loop that has amazing views of the Tenmile Range and Continental Divide. Enjoy beautiful views of the lake and the mountains above.
