Breckenridge, Colorado, offers some fantastic biking trails with stunning mountain views and diverse terrain for riders of all skill levels. Here are some of the best biking paths in Breckenridge:
1. BreckConnect Gondola & Peaks Trail
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Length: About 7 miles one way
- BreckConnect Gondola: You can take the gondola from downtown Breckenridge to the top of Peak 8, giving you an incredible starting point with a big descent if you want to ride downhill. The gondola ride is free for bikers who have their bikes on board.
- Peaks Trail: From the top of the gondola, you can jump on the Peaks Trail, which winds through alpine forests and meadows. The trail traverses moderate terrain, with some steep sections and rocky areas, but it’s a beautiful route with breathtaking views of the Tenmile Range and Breckenridge Ski Area.
- This route is best for intermediate to advanced riders, with some technical features and rocky spots, but the reward is a memorable ride.
2. Sawmill Reservoir Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Length: About 3.6 miles
- This is a relatively short and easy trail, perfect for beginners, families, or riders looking for a more relaxed ride. It loops around the picturesque Sawmill Reservoir, offering gentle climbs and descents with great views of the surrounding peaks and a peaceful environment.
- The trail is a mix of smooth dirt paths and some sections of light gravel, so it’s an ideal option for those who want a leisurely ride without technical difficulty.
- It’s also a popular spot for birdwatching, fishing, and picnicking, so it’s a great option for those looking to take a break or enjoy a full outdoor experience.
3. Gold Run Gulch
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: About 4 miles
- Gold Run Gulch offers a great intermediate-level ride with a combination of dirt roads and singletrack. The trail features some challenging uphill climbs, but the effort is rewarded with scenic views of the surrounding forests and the opportunity to explore the historic Gold Run area.
- This trail also includes some technical features, including rocky sections, narrow paths, and a few switchbacks, making it a solid workout.
- Riders will pass through areas with rich mining history, and there are plenty of great spots for a break or photo op.
4. Flume Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 5.5 miles
- The Flume Trail is a local favorite, known for its mix of fast, flowing singletrack and challenging, technical terrain. It runs from the Breckenridge Nordic Center, heading toward the Summit County Fairgrounds.
- The trail is often a bit more technical, with tight switchbacks, rocky sections, and some areas requiring skilled bike handling. It has a nice variety of terrain, from mellow singletrack to more difficult features.
- It’s an intermediate ride, but more experienced riders will enjoy the technical challenges. The route also offers amazing views of the surrounding mountains and valley, making it an enjoyable ride for those seeking more than just a leisurely spin.
5. Summit County Recreation Path
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 10.5 miles (one way)
- This paved path runs from Breckenridge to Frisco, offering a scenic, leisurely ride with very little elevation change. It is ideal for families, casual cyclists, or anyone looking for a flat, easy ride through beautiful mountain scenery.
- The path follows along the Blue River and connects with several other trails in the area. It makes it easy to explore more of the region.
- It’s great for cyclists who are looking for a relaxing ride without the challenges of technical trails or steep climbs. The route passes through scenic meadows, forests, and along the water, offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature.
6. Illinois Gulch Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: About 4 miles
- Illinois Gulch is a trail located close to Breckenridge that offers a solid mix of climbing and descending. The trail has rocky, technical sections, making it a bit more challenging for intermediate-level riders. There are several sections with narrow switchbacks, loose gravel, and moderate climbs.
- The route also passes through the Illinois Gulch area, which is rich in mining history. You’ll find great views of the surrounding peaks, and the trail offers the chance to explore some rugged, less-traveled areas of Breckenridge.
- It’s a fantastic choice for those looking for a slightly more challenging but manageable ride. They have varied terrain and scenic surroundings.
These trails provide an excellent range of experiences for different skill levels, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced mountain biker. Whether you want a relaxed ride or something more challenging, Breckenridge has a trail for you!