Waterfall Hikes | A Local’s Guide

Watching the cascading water glisten over rocks while you sit back and enjoy the view… what could be better? We’ve compiled the best waterfall hikes in Summit County just for you. Grab your hiking buddy and go on a picturesque waterfall adventure this summer.

MCCULLOUGH GULCH TRAIL

Distance: 2.9 miles
Elevation Gain: 892 feet
Route Type: Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time to Hike: April – October
Dogs OK? Yes

The lake and waterfall views are absolutely incredible around sunset. There is some rocky and mixed terrain about halfway up, so be careful, but the views are worth the effort. The trail itself is spectacular; during the summer the trail blooms with wildflowers.

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MOHAWK LAKES / CONTINENTAL FALLS TRAIL

Distance: 8.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,129 feet
Route Type: Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time to Hike: July – September
Dogs OK? Yes (and horses)

This challenging but fun trail increases in elevation towards the end (keep going!), but there is a beautiful waterfall that rewards you halfway up. The views are phenomenal. It takes about an hour to get to Lower Mohawk Lake and Continental Falls and another 20-30 minutes to get to the top. It can get a little crowded, so weekdays might be your best bet.

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BLUE LAKES TRAIL

Distance: 1.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 342 feet
Route Type: Out & Back
Difficulty: Easy
Best Time to Hike: May – October
Dogs OK? Yes

This is a laid-back Breckenridge waterfall hike for those who don’t want to commit to anything crazy. The best part? The views are JUST as rewarding! You’ll also most likely see some mountain goats roaming around, which is always fun.

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Blue Lakes
Photo: Betsy Thompson (All Trails)

WILLOW FALLS TRAIL

Distance: 11.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,864 feet
Route Type: Out & Back
Difficulty: Moderate
Best Time to Hike: Accessible year-round
Dogs OK? Yes, but must be kept on a leash

This hike is incredibly beautiful; it’s worth the long trek! This is the perfect place for camping or a mini-backpacking trip if you really want to get into it. Signage is a little tricky, make sure you do some research before getting here so you know where to go. Along with the spectacular waterfall, expect a plethora of wildflowers and possibly some mountain goats.

Directions

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Willow Falls
Photo: Breyen Yim (All Trails)

Now get out there and explore!

(Don’t forget a water bottle and sunscreen)

Check out these resources before your hike:

Visit BreckenridgeTrails.org for information, maps and updates on town trails.

Stop by Mountain Outfitters for maps, books, gear and more.

Make a weekend of it and stay at one of our Breckenridge properties. Find the best deals at The Grand Colorado on Peak 8, Grand Lodge on Peak 7 and Grand Timber Lodge.