Breckenridge might be known as a ski town, but it’s also a runner’s paradise. Boasting a variety of trails and unbeatable scenery, you should definitely pack your running shoes when you visit Breck.
Trail Running: Trails abound right outside the door of many Breckenridge house rentals. If you are an explorer by nature, it’s not a bad idea to check out the options around your rental home. Chances have it that a groomed trail is nearby. However, if you prefer to have your route set, Breckenridge offers unlimited options, depending on length and level. For example, the Blue River out and back gives runners the mix of a paved bike path that leads into a single-track dirt route, all followingthe Blue River north of town. The entire route is just over five miles.
Trail Running in Breckenridge
Climbing Trails: One of the best things about running in Breckenridge is the challenge of the incline. While you can certainly set the treadmill in uphill mode, Breckenridge offers much better scenery than what you’ll find inside the gym. A good spot for uphill running is Carter Park. This quiet and rural setting gives you some options; however, a park loop affords access to many spots for up and down hill jaunts at just under six miles.
Scenic Trails: There’s likely no such thing as a running trail in Breckenridge that doesn’t offer unbeatable views. Still, if you’re focused on checking out some of Breckenridge’s most inspiring landscapes, look no further than the Boreas Moonstone Loop. Starting with a steep uphill climb up Boreas Pass road, you’ll fight little traffic and be awarded panoramic views of the Ten Mile Range. The Moonstone trail route back to town is equally steep, but every bit as rewarding when it comes to the eye candy views.
Long Distance Trails: If you’re training for a longer race, you won’t find a better route than the almost 21-mile run from Breckenridge to Hoosier Pass. This road run is very hilly with several steep climbs, but once again the scenery will motivate you along the way. If you can rise to the challenge of this run, you should certainly reward yourself with a spa day on Main Street to follow.
High Altitude Trails: Running at high altitude can certainly be exhilarating, but remember that the air is thin up there. Wait a few days before approaching a high-altitude run so that your body has time to adjust to the elevation gain. Once you and your body are ready, check out the route from the Ice Rink to Peak 8’s base. Starting at 9,600 feet, you’ll climb to the Peak 8 parking lot at 9,800 feet, giving you spectacular views of the Ski Resort. And, if you are lucky enough to visit during wildflower season, you’ll be in for a paint brushed mountain treat.
Races: Don’t hesitate to show off your abilities by joining the races in Breckenridge. The Summit Trail Running Series offers runners of all abilities six trail running races around the Breckenridge area. Routes include French Gulch, Peak 9, Horseshoe Gulch, and many other Breckenridge favorites.
A visit to Breckenridge is certainly a time to unwind and relax. But, the running trails offer so much opportunity and scenery that you certainly don’t want to miss out. Starting your day with a scenic run in Breckenridge is the perfect way to spend each vacation morning. Running in Breckenridge guarantees that you won’t be disappointed.
