Waterfall Hikes | A Local’s Guide

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.

Couple Hiking on Breckenridge Ski Resort in Summer

A locals Guide to Trail Etiquette in Breckenridge

Locals in Breckenridge and the Summit County area move here for the lifestyle. Much of that lifestyle involves getting outside and on the trails. Whether it is hiking, biking, or the rare encounter with the wildlife, there is a courtesy guide everyone should follow when enjoying these trails.

1.) Share The Trail

  • Hikers – Step to the side when possible to do so.

Hikers, try and step aside when a biker is behind / in front of you. Some bikers on trails clip-in to their pedals, this makes it much easier for a hiker to stand to the side and let the bikers pass. With the lush forestry in this area, some bikers are unable to navigate anywhere but the trail making it easiest for the hiker to step to the side.

  • Bikers – Speak up when coming up on hikers!

Though bikers might be going much faster than hikers, it can be difficult for hikers to hear a biker from far away. Make sure to alert with “on your left” or “coming down” to let hikers know of your existence. Out of courtesy for hikers, slow down. Anyone who loves to mountain bikes loves the adrenaline of going fast through the trees however, for safety reasons, when passing a hiker, it is best to slow down.

  • Horseback Riders

Horses are not very common to see in Breckenridge however; the rare encounter does happen. Not all horses are friendly, and some can be hard to stop so do not try to go up and pet the horses unless invited to do so.

*** Please note that Bikers must yield to hikers and horses and uphill traffic has the right of way!

2.) Wildlife

There is a large number of wildlife in Breckenridge. This wildlife includes foxes, chipmunks, deer, elk, Moose, bears, and even the occasional mountain lion. Though it is uncommon to come across some of the more dangerous wildlife, it is recommended to not feed any wildlife. Please also keep a safe distance from the wildlife. Though some of these critters are used to people, they are still wild, and we can never predict what they might do. For the safety of yourself and others, keep a respectable distance. For more information on wildlife in Breckenridge click here!

3.) Waste

One known saying in Breckenridge is “if you pack it in, pack it out”. There is nothing that irks locals more than seeing a trashed campsite or trail. If you bring food on your hike or biking trip, please make sure to take it out with you. One of the easiest ways to keep track of trash is to bring a backpack that allows you to store it until you see a trash can, typically located at the trail head.

The locals of Breckenridge and summit county view the trails as their own backyard. If you are visiting Breckenridge this summer, make sure to consider the environment and others before heading out and enjoy the beauty that makes Breckenridge a year round vacation destination!

Hikes for the Whole Family in Breckenridge

If you have ever been to Breckenridge, you know just how many outdoor activities are going on all summer long. If your looking to spend time with the family and get outside, try a family friendly hike in town and use this guide to help you plan for every level of hiker in your family!

  • 4 O’clock Run (1-2 1/2 hours round trip)

Known as a popular ski run in the winter, this run turns into a great hike in the summer! This trial can be accessed right off of Main Street in Breckenridge and offers some great views! (go as far or short, as you like). This trail has moments of flats as well as some steep inclines so make sure to bring a pair of tennis shoes or hiking boots! The mid-way point leads you to the Breckenridge maintenance shack . From here, you can see the mountaintops without looking up or enjoy a bird’s eye view of town. It typically takes a round trip of 1 hour for this route. Need more exercise? Continue to take the tail to the top of ogf the ski resort by follow the chair lift.

  • Carter Park (1 – 2 Hours round trip)

Brining your dog for the family adventure? Carter Park is a great place to bring the dogs and kids! This recreational park offers plenty of activity for the whole family. Check out the Dog Park or head up the “Breck Steps” for a great hike. Be cautious! These steps are steep and a high incline- but don’t fret! Though these steps can be steep as soon as you get to the top, take in the mountain views and scenery! From here you can see all of Breckenridge ski resort and the 4 peaks it spans across. Continue on Moonstone trail for a mellow hike to the top.

  • Cucumber Gulch (1 – 3 hours)

Among one of the more popular trails in Breckenridge this hit trail offers some great wildlife and scenery. This trail follows the Gondola to Breckenridge ski resort. This trail has times of incline but is relatively mellow hike fit for the whole family! This trail sits in the valley below Breckenridge Ski Resort and is nestled in trees for great shade coverage as well as true mountain scenery. Before heading to this trail make sure it is open and if your thinking of bringing the furry one, watch out – locals refer to this spot as “Moose Country”!

There is a hiking trail in Breckenridge for everyone. If you are looking to get out spend some time with the family while also enjoying the outdoors try one of these trails in Breckenridge!