A Guide to Visiting Breckenridge, Colorado in the Fall
As a native of Colorado, I can tell you that fall is an amazing time to visit when the aspen trees turn into vibrant colors. One of my favorite areas is Summit County, and Breckenridge is one of the best towns to stay in. Visiting Breckenridge in the fall is amazing for leaf-peeping, hiking, and scenic drives.
Below, you’ll find the best things to do to make the most of Colorado’s fall season in this amazing mountain town.
Things to do in the Fall in Breckenridge
FAQ’s About Fall in Breckenridge
- When is the best time to visit for foliage?
- While the peak foliage time can vary from year to year, the best time to visit Breckenridge in the fall is from mid-September to early October. The fall colors typically peak before October, so the sweet spot is mid to late September
- What is the weather like during the fall in Colorado?
- The area around Breckenridge during fall is known for its beautifully sunny days and crystal blue skies. From mid-September to early October, the weather in Breckenridge is typically cool and crisp, with daytime highs ranging from the mid-50s to low 60s°F (12-17°C) and nighttime lows dropping to the 30s°F (0-5°C). It’s not uncommon to experience frosty mornings and the occasional light snowfall as October approaches, so you’ll want to dress in layers to stay comfortable.
- How far is Breckenridge from Denver International Airport?
View the Fall Foliage on a Scenic Drive
Boreas Pass
There are many scenic drives near Breckenridge and throughout Summit County, and Boreas Pass Road is one of the most popular for viewing fall colors. The drive is about 20 miles long and is accessed just south of downtown Breckenridge. While it is a dirt road, it is well-maintained, but vehicles with good clearance are recommended.
The pass is lined with colorful Aspens and trees that turn to reds and yellows. The pass reaches an elevation of over 11,000 feet and provides expansive views of fall foliage.
Hoosier Pass
Hoosier Pass is about 11 miles from Breckenridge on Highway 9 and is accessible by car, as the road is paved and well-maintained year-round. The pass is popular in the fall due to its scenic views and beautiful landscapes filled with trees and amazing aspen groves. There are several hiking trails, including the Hoosier Ridge Trail, offer amazing views of the Continental Divide.
Hiking & Leaf Peeping
Sapphire Point Overlook
Sapphire Point Overlook is located between Breckenridge and Keystone on Swan Mountain Road and provides stunning panoramic views of Dillon Reservoir, which is surrounded by vibrant fall colors. The overlook is accessible via an easy, short hike, making it a great option for all ages.
Blue River Trail
The Blue River Trail is a great multi-use path that runs along the Blue River. The trail offers stunning views and is accessible for walkers, runners, cyclists, and families with strollers. In the fall, this trail is especially beautiful as the riverbanks are lined with golden trees. There are several trailheads and access points along the Blue River Trail, including parking areas at the Breckenridge Recreation Center and in downtown Breckenridge. These make it easy to start your adventure from different locations within the town.
Sawmill Creek Trail
Sawmill Creek Trail is a popular and beautiful trail and is a great family-friendly option for a hike. The trail is easy to access, with the trailhead located right on the ski mountain near the Snowflake Lift. During the hike, you’ll enjoy great views of Breckenridge Ski Mountain, beautiful forests, wildlife, and spectacular fall colors. The highlight of this trail is Sawmill Reservoir, a small but beautiful alpine lake at the end of the trail.
Reiling Dredge Trail
The Reiling Dredge Trail is a 2-mile round-trip hike that is considered easy to moderate. The trailhead is located in the French Gulch area, just a short drive from downtown. The trail is not only beautiful in the fall, with views of hills lined with golden and red trees, but it’s also historically interesting as it takes you to the old mining ruins of the Reiling Dredge. Here, you can see the massive wooden structure still sitting in a pond. Informational signs along the trail provide insight into the history and operation of the dredge, as well as the impact of dredge mining on the local environment.
More Outdoor Adventures
Fall Festivals in Breckenridge
Oktoberfest
Breckenridge Oktoberfest is a fall event you don’t want to miss. Hosted by Breckenridge Brewery, one of Colorado’s top microbreweries, it takes place in historic downtown Breckenridge. The celebration combines all the great German traditions, and you can even pre-purchase a cute collectible stein. This year, the event runs from September 13-15, 2024.
Breckenridge Film Festival
The annual Breckenridge Film Festival is one of the oldest film festivals in the United States. The festival takes place every September; in 2024, it will run from the 21st to the 24th. The Breckenridge Film Festival showcases a diverse selection of films, including documentaries, shorts, feature films, animations, and student films. It’s known for its intimate atmosphere, where filmmakers and audiences can interact directly during screenings, Q&A sessions, and various events.
Breckenridge Strings, Ciders and Sours Festival
The Breckenridge Strings, Ciders & Sours festival is a fun and lively annual event. This year, the event will take place from September 27-29, 2024. If you enjoy ciders and sour beers, this is the festival for you. Local Colorado brewers come together to offer a diverse range of ciders and sour beers. You can also enjoy live performances by string bands, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
Breckenridge Craft Spirits Festival
The Breckenridge Craft Spirits Festival is an annual event that celebrates the art of distilling. The festival’s main event is the Grand Tasting, where guests can enjoy tastings from numerous distilleries, paired with delicious food from local vendors. In addition to the tastings, the festival often features a range of other activities, such as distillery tours, mixology workshops, seminars on the craft of distilling, and live music. There’s also a lively “Still on the Hill” after-party that caps off the weekend’s festivities. This year, the event takes place from October 11-13, 2024.
Lodging
Lodging in Breckenridge offers a wide variety of options, catering to different tastes, budgets, and needs, making it easy to find the perfect place to stay during your visit. Staying in Breckenridge in the fall offers amazing views and close access to all the activities the town has to offer.
Hotels and Lodges
- Grand Colorado on Peak 8
- Beaver Run Resort
- Hyatt Vacation Club
- Residence Inn by Marriott Breckenridge
