Fall is our beautiful transition season in Breckenridge. We don’t want to let go of summer activities quite yet, but we’re getting excited for winter and ski season to arrive. In addition to golden leaf peeping, hikes, historical tours, creative endeavors, and festivals, there are so many special mountain activities to fill your itinerary during a fall visit to Breckenridge. Of course, the leaves are spectacular, but the time between seasons is full of things to do and is a must-do for any traveler. Here are some of our favorite fall activities in Breckenridge besides leaf peeping.
Hiking and Biking
Until snow covers the ground, you can enjoy hiking and biking around Breckenridge with our extensive trail network both paved and dirt trails. The temperatures have cooled off and the trails are less crowded, making it the perfect time to enjoy high alpine lakes, pine forests, and incredible views. Try taking an easy bike ride or a casual stroll along the Blue River Rec Path for a gentle paved option, or explore some of our favorite hiking trails. As always, pack extra layers and sun protection for changing mountain conditions and check the weather before you head out.
Golf and Fly Fishing
Golf and fishing don’t end when summer does. Fly fishing guides around town offer fly fishing year-round in the Breckenridge area. Additionally, fall is said to be one of the best times to fish – the weather and water conditions are more stable, creating a nice stretch of amazing dry fly fishing.
Once you’ve hit the river, head to the world’s only 27-hole Jack Nicklaus-designed Breckenridge Golf Course throughout Indigenous Peoples Day weekend (typically the 2nd weekend in October). Visiting golfers will get an immediate confidence boost as the golf ball flies farther and straighter than at lower elevations due to less air resistance.
History Museums and Tours
Breckenridge is rooted in its past and boasts one of the largest historic districts in Colorado. Create memories with affordable guided historic tours and hikes, and enjoy free, family-friendly museums operated by the Breckenridge History and Breckenridge Tours. Learn about the gold-seekers, town builders, madams and scoundrels who color Breckenridge’s mining past. Visit the cemetery, walk through the historic district, take a tour, or visit one of the many museums, such as the home of Barney Ford, an escaped slave who made a fortune in Breckenridge with his hospitality. Or, as Halloween approaches, take a walking ghost tour to hear spooky stories of the ghosts that allegedly never left.
Pick Up A New Hobby
Breckenridge offers plenty of indoor fall activities when the weather turns iffy or when you are simply ready to curl up with a good book. Get creative with classes from Breckenridge Creative Arts in glassblowing, metalworking, ceramics, painting, writing, photography and so much more for all ages. These classes are great for all creative levels and offer instruction and guidance.
Festivals and Special Events
Fall is festival season and our calendar is packed full of special events and festivals! Oktoberfest combines the warmth of summer with the golden colors of fall. Fill your steins, grab a pretzel as big as your head, and spend the day dancing with loved ones to traditional Bavarian tunes or take the kids to the Fun Zone on the south end of Main Street for bounce houses, face painting, costume contests and more. Film buffs won’t want to miss Breck Film Fest, held the third weekend in September. Adventure reels, outdoor themes, and the craft of filmmaking are highlights of the festival. Summit Huts Association holds the Backcountry Ball every year in October to kick off the coming winter season, where you can meet and mingle with locals who are passionate about self-propelled winter backcountry experiences. Still on the Hill, the Craft Spirits Festival features an ever-growing list of spirits-makers from Colorado and beyond.
With all there is to do in Breckenridge in the fall, it might just become your favorite time to visit.
