Best Breckenridge Stargazing Spots
In Breckenridge, we fly a little closer to the sun. And the moon. The lack of light pollution and our natural high-perched vantage points make for unforgettable galactic viewing.
Super moons, eclipses, meteor showers, once-in-a-lifetime comets and shooting stars punctuate the Breckenridge night sky and amaze onlookers. Be sure to check in with NASA to find out when the next major sky-watching event is happening.
Stargazers and astrological aficionados will appreciate these high-mountain passes and overlook spots.
Hoosier Pass
Boreas Pass
Known for its gilded scenic drive glory each fall, this paved-into-dirt road features east to west views and will actually take you from Breckenridge over to tiny town Como. In the winter, the former narrow gauge railroad route closes to auto traffic and offers a serene opportunity to park at the closure gate and snowshoe or cross-country ski the snow-packed road. We recommend trekking to the Baker’s Tank landmark a few miles in and setting up your stargazing post at this stunning clearing. Check out our winter hiking guide for more epic trails!
Sapphire Point
One of the county’s best lookout locations, Sapphire Point is just north of Breckenridge on Swan Mountain Road. The easy paved parking lot and clear signage make this White River National Forest overlook a stargazing go-to. Bring flashlights or headlamps and make the short walk from your car to the first vantagepoint where built-in stone seating rests high above Dillon Reservoir and moonlight reflects off the peaceful lake below. Don’t forget to fuel up before for your adventure with a hot toddy or boozy hot cocoa from our local bars and restaurants in town!
Peak 8
If you prefer a little sweat equity with your astrology, go for a moonrise skin at Breckenridge Ski Resort. Park in the Stables Lot and walk across the street to the base of Peak 8. Click into your free-heel ski or snowboard bindings and begin your heart-pounding uphill climb. Once you reach the ski patrol hut at the base of the T-Bar, turn around and take in your view of town twinkling below and endless galaxies overhead. For the ultimate experience, opt to view the stars after adventuring via hot tub at one of the amazing soaking spots in Breckenridge.
Blue River Plaza
In the middle of town, pull up a bench in the Riverwalk Plaza and look west toward the ski resort on a clear night. The silhouetted TenMile Range carves a majestic backdrop left to right from Peak 10 to Peak 6 and beyond while the star-splattered sky sprawls in an impressive canvas above. During the winter months, be sure to grab a hot cocoa and check out the holiday lights!
