Craving a Challenge? 5 Hard Hikes Near Breck
A Short List of Hard Hikes Near Breckenridge
Short and easy hikes are great for beginners, but for seasoned adventurers, a challenging trek is often what’s needed to get the adrenaline pumping. Fortunately, the Rocky Mountains offer plenty of demanding routes, with some even reaching the mountain peaks. Breckenridge is a prime location to access these tough trails and push your hiking limits.
Join us today while we explore some of the hardest and longest hikes around Breck. From Quandary Peak to Wise Mountain, these tough inclines pay off with incredible and unforgettable 360 degree views.
Bag a 14er on a 6-Mile Quandary Peak Climb
Just south of Breckenridge lies one of the most popular mountain hikes in the region: Quandary Peak Trail. This 6.3-mile trail wanders through the trees for its first bit before climbing above the treeline in a series of switchbacks (which are often rocky, so watch out) that lead you straight to the peak, boasting over 3,000 feet of elevation gain across the hike. However, because of its relative ease compared to other 14ers in the area, this hike is one of the most sought-after in the Breckenridge area, so be prepared to navigate the crowds as you work your way up to the top of Quandary.
Because of its popularity, you do have to make reservations to park at the trailhead from June to September, but any other time of the year parking is first come, first serve. For those of you who are new to mountain climbs like this one, be sure to leave early in the morning to get to the peak before the afternoon thunderstorms roll in over the mountains.
Stretch Your Leg Muscles with the 8-Mile Crystal Lake Trail
If you love feeling the burn in your calves and thighs from pushing yourself up a tough route, our next hike is perfect for you. The 8.4-mile Crystal Lake Trail is more than worth the effort of climbing over 2,500 feet of elevation–you’ll be rewarded with incredible views of the mountains and two different alpine lakes that sparkle in the mountain sunshine. And for those of you who don’t want to hike the entire way up, there is the option to drive a 4WD vehicle up to the lower lake and begin your hike from there.
There are some water crossings required on this hike, so be aware before you set out that your feet might get wet at some point. Also be sure to arrive early to the parking lot–it fills up fast during the busy summer months.
Trek from Town to the Top of Peak 10 on this 13-Mile Hike
Want to spend all day hiking through Breck’s awe-inspiring ski areas? Then the Peak 10 Trail is a great choice for you. This long and steep trek totals 13.6 miles and will take up the majority of the day, plus it’s a great quad workout as you’re heading uphill for most of the climb. This hike is the perfect chance to see the ski hills during the summertime, with Peak 9’s Overlook as part of the trek, and you’ll gain over 3,000 feet of elevation along its route. You’ll be rewarded with views that only skiers and snowboarders have been able to capture, plus you’ll get in one of the best workouts of your life.
Parking is limited at the trailhead, but there is a shuttle bus that will take you directly to the beginning of the trailhead to start your day of uphill climb.
Climb Nearly 3,000 Feet on the 7-Mile Peak 8 Trail
Our next trail selection is not for the faint of heart: the 7-mile Peak 8 Trail. For those who are fans of finding their own way and scrambling over rocks and scree, this trail is for you. There are two options for starting out on the Peak 8 Trail–you can find your own way from the trailhead, or you can take the Superchair up to begin your hike at a good altitude and avoid some of the tough switchbacks. Either way, you’ll be climbing almost 3,000 total feet in elevation across this route, but the reward is more than worth it: incredible views of the mountains as well as Breckenridge below await you.
Reach the Top of Wise Mountain on this 7-Mile Trek
Want to climb a mountain but aren’t sure if you’re quite in shape to hit a 14er? Then check out the Wise Mountain Trail, located about 15 minutes northwest of Breckenridge. You’ll begin your hike along the North Fork Trail, which is also an off-roading area that is popular with locals and out-of-towners.
As you climb the 2,273 feet of elevation spread out across this hike, you’ll get closer and closer to Wise Mountain’s peak, where there is a surprise awaiting you: a tumbling-down log cabin built in the late 1800s. Stop there for a rest before heading back down the mountain and enjoying some Rocky Mountain views.
Find More Breckenridge Activities on Our Blog
Hiking through the mountains surrounding Breckenridge may be tough, but the sore legs are worth the climb when you’re afforded incredible views of both the town and the Rocky Mountains beyond. From Peak 8 to Peak 10, you’ll also be able to see ski areas in ways that many have never seen before, all without their blanket of snow.
Hoping to find some more Breck activities to enjoy on your next trip? You’ll find plenty of recommendations on the LocalVR Travel Blog, like our guide to discovering nature in Breck or our list of the best social-media-worthy photo spots in the area.