9 Summer Activities in Breckenridge You’ll Love

From the iconic Breckenridge gondola to horseback riding through Breckenridge's alpine trails and rafting adventures near Keystone, summer in the Rockies is pure bliss!

Breckenridge, one of Colorado's most beautiful mountain towns, may be world-famous for its winter magic,  but the fun hardly stops when the snow melts. Come summer, Breck transforms into a sun-soaked playground of mountain trails, cool alpine air, and endless outdoor adventures waiting around every corner. If you're flirting with the idea of spending summer in the Rockies, you're in for a treat!

Let's kick things off with a quick look:

1. Epic Discovery: gondola rides, zip-lining, alpine coasters, and mountain adventures.
2. Hiking Trails: from McCullough Gulch to Sawmill Creek, surrounded by wildflowers and waterfalls.
3. Indulge in Water Activities on Maggie Pond: paddleboarding, kayaking, or relaxing by the water.
4. Biking and Whitewater Rafting: scenic paths and thrilling rapids on the Blue and Arkansas Rivers.
5. Fly Fishing in Colorado's Scenic Waters: tranquil rivers, mountain lakes, and expert local guides.
6. Score Big on the Greens: tee off at the Jack Nicklaus–designed Breckenridge Golf Club.
7. Horseback Riding Through Scenic Trails: guided rides with panoramic views of the Tenmile Range.
8. Historic District on a Walking Tour: explore Breck's gold rush heritage and restored landmarks.
9. Summer Events: enjoy the International Festival of Arts, Food & Wine Festival, and Summer Beer Fest.

At Great Western Lodging, we specialize in premium, boutique-style vacation rentals, taking pride in creating a true mountain escape where comfort meets adventure.

As locals, we know Breckenridge, Frisco, and Keystone like the back of our hands, and our blog is packed with insider tips for your next mountain getaway. Visiting our region for the first time? Planning a ski trip? Into summer mountain thrills? We've got you covered!

In this blog post, I've curated a list of the best warm-weather activities in Breckenridge that will make your summer vacation truly special.

Ready for a fun-filled summer in the Rockies? Let's dive right in!

1. Have fun at EPIC DISCOVERY

Located within Breckenridge Ski Resort, Epic Discovery turns the mountain into a summer playground filled with thrills, views, and plenty of fresh air. Ride the gondola up for sweeping alpine scenery, zip through the trees, or take on the coaster for a rush that rivals the winter slopes. From high ropes to rock walls and even a round of mini-golf at the base of Peak 8, this spot packs fun into every corner of the season.

What You'll Love

• Zip-lining through forest canopies and across mountain ridges.
• Flying down the Gold Runner Alpine Coaster.
• Exploring lift-access mountain biking trails.
• Riding the scenic BreckConnect Gondola.
• Tackling bridges, swings, and obstacles on the Challenge Course.
• Scaling the Gold Summit Climbing Wall.
• Playing mini-golf with a stunning alpine backdrop.

2. Hit the Hiking Trails

Summer hiking in Breckenridge is pure mountain magic. The trails come alive with bright wildflowers, rushing creeks, and fresh alpine air that makes every step worth it. From challenging climbs to easy forest strolls, there's a trail for every kind of hiker. Two local favorites, McCullough Gulch and Sawmill Creek, show off Breck's beauty at its best, each with a unique mix of views, wildlife, and charm.

What You'll Love

• Brilliant wildflowers lining the trails in full summer bloom.
• The refreshing sound of waterfalls and rushing mountain streams.
• Sweeping lake and mountain views from McCullough Gulch Trail.
• Easy access to Sawmill Creek Trail, just steps from downtown Breck.
• Family-friendly paths with gentle elevation and shady forest cover.
• The chance to spot moose and other wildlife in the early morning.

3. Indulge in Water Activities on Maggie Pond

Tucked at the base of Peak 9, Maggie Pond is one of those Breckenridge gems that feels made for summer afternoons. The calm water mirrors the mountains, and there's a cheerful, easygoing vibe that invites you to linger. It's small enough to feel cozy but big enough for a few hours of sun, paddling, and pure mountain calm. Bring a drink, dip your toes, and let the scenery do the rest.

What You'll Love

• Paddleboarding with postcard-worthy mountain views.
• Peaceful kayak and pedal boat rides on calm alpine water.
• Plenty of space to unwind or cast a line for a lazy bit of fishing.
• Easy access from Breckenridge Village, no long drives or hikes needed.
• Picture-perfect sunsets make for an ideal evening picnic spot.

4. Biking and Whitewater Rafting Adventures

When it comes to summer fun in Breckenridge, biking and whitewater rafting are among the most beloved family-friendly activities. There are plenty of easy biking trails that the whole family will enjoy. Top locations with paved paths ideal for families include Wellington Bike Park, Blue River Rec Path, and the Breckenridge Town Trail System.

Looking for an adrenaline rush? Whitewater rafting is the perfect choice. With the Blue River and Colorado River close by, you'll have access to numerous rafting excursions tailored to both beginners and seasoned rafters. Another superb location for whitewater rafting is the Arkansas River near Keystone, particularly the Buena Vista and Browns Canyon sections.

5. Fly fishing in Colorado's scenic waters

With its rich waters, beautiful landscapes, and variety of locations, Breckenridge provides the perfect backdrop for a summer fly-fishing adventure. This is a delightful experience, offering both beginners and seasoned anglers a chance to cast their lines in some of Colorado's most scenic waters.

What You'll Love

• Casting along the Blue River with the Rockies in full view.
• Brown and rainbow trout rising in clear, cold water.
• Hidden alpine lakes that feel a world away from Main Street.
• The mix of easy access and wild, untamed scenery.
• Local guides who know every bend, pool, and secret stretch.

6. Score Big on the Greens

Golfing in Breckenridge during the summer offers a unique experience, combining the challenge of playing at high altitude with stunning mountain views. The centerpiece for golfing in the area is the Breckenridge Golf Club, which boasts a world-class course designed by Jack Nicklaus.

What You'll Love

• Three distinct 9-hole courses that can be mixed for a full round.
• Drives that travel farther thanks to the high elevation.
• The Jack Nicklaus design blending challenge and beauty.
• Quiet fairways framed by the Tenmile Range.
• A good chance of spotting wildlife between holes.

7. Horseback Riding Through Scenic Trails

Horseback riding is a classic Rocky Mountain adventure with a twist of old-west charm. Trails wind through quiet forests, open meadows, and high ridges with wide-open views of the Tenmile Range. It's one of those activities that feels both relaxing and thrilling,  a great way to see Breckenridge from a different angle.

What You'll Love

• Peaceful alpine trails surrounded by pines and wildflowers.
• Sweeping views of the Continental Divide.
• Guided rides available for all skill levels.
• Breckenridge Stables near Peak 9, a local favorite.
• Fresh mountain air and plenty of photo-worthy moments.

8. Discover the Historic District on a Walking Tour

The Breckenridge History Walking Tours are a fascinating way to explore the town's rich history and learn about its origins as a bustling mining town during the Colorado Gold Rush. These guided tours are especially enjoyable during summer as they take you through Breckenridge's charming historic district, with stops at notable landmarks, restored buildings, and sites that bring the town's past to life.

What You'll Love

• Walking through Breck's beautifully preserved historic district.
• Hearing stories about the town's gold rush roots and eccentric locals.
• Visiting restored boarding houses where miners once lived.
• Joining themed tours like the spooky Walk Through the Darker History.
• Taking the signature Historic Walking Tour for a complete picture of the town's past.

9. Join the Locals at Summer Events

Breckenridge hosts a variety of vibrant summer festivals that celebrate its unique culture, art, and outdoor lifestyle. Joining local events is a great way to add fun to your summer vacation, meet the locals, and experience the Rockies' culture.

Here are our favorite summer events in Breckenridge:

• Breckenridge International Festival of Arts: This multi-day event is a celebration of the arts, showcasing everything from visual art installations to live performances. The festival often includes interactive outdoor exhibits that blend with the natural beauty of Breckenridge, creating a unique cultural experience.

• Breckenridge Food and Wine Festival: This festival features a wide selection of wines from around the world, along with gourmet food pairings, live music, and stunning mountain views. It's a great event for wine lovers and those looking to enjoy a day of indulgence in the scenic setting of Breckenridge.

• Breckenridge Summer Beer Festival: A favorite among craft beer enthusiasts, this festival brings together over 40 breweries offering a wide range of beers to sample. Live music, local food vendors, and happy locals add to the amazing atmosphere of this highly anticipated summer festival.

Quick FAQ: Summer Activities in Breckenridge

1. What are the best summer activities in Breckenridge?

Breckenridge offers a wide variety of outdoor adventures in summer, including hiking, horseback riding, rafting, mountain biking, golfing, and fly fishing. You can also ride the gondola to Epic Discovery for zip-lining, alpine coasters, and scenic views.

2. Can you go rafting near Breckenridge?

Yes. The Blue River, Arkansas River, and Colorado River are all nearby and offer excellent rafting for both beginners and experienced paddlers. Local outfitters like AVA Rafting and Breckenridge Whitewater Rafting organize guided trips.

3. Is the Breckenridge Gondola free?

Yes, the BreckConnect Gondola is free to ride and runs from downtown Breckenridge to the base of Peak 8. It's a fun, scenic way to access Epic Discovery and other mountain activities.

4. Where can I go horseback riding in Breckenridge?

Breckenridge Stables near Peak 9 offers guided rides through alpine meadows and pine forests with beautiful mountain views. It's one of the most popular summer experiences in the area.

5. Are there family-friendly biking trails in Breckenridge?

Absolutely. Try the Blue River Rec Path, Wellington Bike Park, or the Breckenridge Town Trail System — all offer smooth, easy rides perfect for families.

6. When is the best time to visit for summer festivals?

Most festivals take place between late June and early August. Highlights include the Breckenridge International Festival of Arts, the Breckenridge Food and Wine Festival, and the Summer Beer Festival.

7. Can beginners try fly fishing in Breckenridge?

Yes. There are plenty of beginner-friendly spots along the Blue River and at nearby alpine lakes. Local guides are available for lessons and half-day trips.

8. Where should I stay during my summer visit?

For comfort, convenience, and local charm, Great Western Lodging offers luxury vacation rentals in Breckenridge, Frisco, and Keystone, including pet-friendly and ski-in/ski-out options.

How can you make your trip to Breckenridge even better?

At Great Western Lodging, we offer a superior selection of luxury properties, ski-in/ski-out options, and downtown lodgings in Breckenridge, Frisco, and Keystone.

Staying in one of our properties, we guarantee you'll have nothing less than a 5-star experience during your trip to Colorado.