Breckenridge is full of hundreds of miles of trails and national forest land, so picking the right trail for the family can be a difficult task. Luckily for you, there are plenty of family-friendly trails that are just the right distance to keep everyone happy. Read on to find trails that are short and sweet but jam-packed with Colorado beauty. 

Sawmill Reservoir  

This is one of the most accessible and popular trails in Breckenridge as it is close to downtown. The majority of the trail follows closely along a creek shaded by trees before emerging at the reservoir. Sawmill Reservoir is dotted with benches so you can rest and enjoy the calm reflection of the mountains, or you can cast a line with a valid Colorado fishing license. 

Distance: 1.3-mile loop 

Difficulty: Easy 

Burro Trail 

This is a great out-and-back trail that goes on for 4 miles, but don’t be intimidated by the distance, you can turn around at any time to make it the perfect length for your family. The hike starts right at the base of Peak 9 near the Quicksilver Chairlift, conveniently located close to downtown Breckenridge. The hike features pine forest, a creek, meadows and a plethora of wildflowers.  

Distance: 8 miles out-and-back 

Difficulty: Moderate 

Blue River Trail 

Need an easy stretch of the legs for the family? Head to the Blue River Trail, a gentle out and back trail that provides shaded forest, open meadows and ends at a creek. Be on the lookout for wildflowers and wildlife and be sure to stick to the trail as the route travels along private property lines. 

Distance: 3 miles out-and-back 

Difficulty: Easy 

Reiling Dredge 

Take a step back in time with this historical hike. Along the route you’ll see many mining relics and rock piles left from the glory days of mining in Breckenridge. You’ll come across the Reiling Dredge, a 114-year-old mining boat still standing on a small pond. Many other trails connect to this area like the Minnie Mine trail so you can take a loop and discover even more mining history. 

Distance: 2.1 miles out-and-back 

Difficulty: Moderate 

Cucumber Gulch Trail 

Cucumber Gulch is a designated wildlife preserve in Breckenridge that contains 52 acres of wetlands and is home to moose, elk, deer, beaver and over 47 bird species. Along the route, you’ll encounter serene beaver ponds and pine forest. After your hike, catch the free gondola to town at the base of Peak 8 and get an aerial view of the trails you just strolled. Since this is a wildlife preserve, you’ll need to leave your four-legged friend at home. 

Distance: 2.7 miles out-and-back 

Difficulty: Easy 

Family Hiking Quick Tips 

Leave No Trace 

Always make sure to follow the Leave No Trace principles when enjoying the outdoors: pack it in and pack it out (trash, waste, dog poop, etc.), pick up trash along the trail, stick to the trail (avoid side trails and shortcuts) and leave the trail better than when you arrived. 

Bring Layers 

The weather can change quickly in the high alpine! Make sure you are always prepared with moisture-wicking layers. Afternoon storms are common, so having a packable rain jacket and a warm layer will ensure you are prepared no matter the weather.  

Pack the Necessities 

Always make sure to pack a reusable water bottle and fill it up before your hike! In addition, the sun is much stronger due to the high altitude of Breckenridge, so make sure to apply sunscreen ahead of time and bring extra to reapply as needed.  

Now that you and the family have a plan, it’s time to hit the trails! If you’re looking for more challenging hikes with amazing views, check out our picks for the most scenic hikes in Breckenridge. Happy trails!