As July and August are defined by scorching temps around the country, Breckenridge, Colorado remains cool with temperatures in the 70s and virtually no humidity in its alpine environment. Beat the heat and head to Breckenridge for a cool-cation.
1. Get up in the high alpine
For crisp mountain air and views that take your breath away, take a hike or ride the chairlift up into the high alpine. As you hike along shady trails, you might even stumble across lingering patches of snow! Along the way, enjoy the babbling streams, cascading waterfalls, and lakes created by the Rocky Mountain snowmelt. The brave might even take a dip in a high alpine lake!
- Local’s Tip: From mid-July through August, you can expect quick afternoon thunderstorms, so be sure to start hiking and biking early in the day, keep an eye on the weather, and always pack extra layers.
2. Play in the Blue River
There’s no better way to beat the heat than heading to the river. In the heart of town, kids (and kids at heart) love to play in Blue River Plaza, jumping along the rocks and dipping their toes in the ice-cold water. A locals’ favorite river spot is located just behind the Recreation Center, where the water pools deep enough for a true cold plunge. Be bold and be safe, as the icy water is not for the faint of heart!
All along the river, anglers vie for Colorado trout in world class fly fishing spots. Whether a fly fishing novice or seasoned pro, there are several great outfitters in town who can hook you up (pun intended) with gear and a guide. Guides will know the best spots and help you get in tune with the taste buds of local trout.
3. Breckenridge Pools
Is it really vacation without a pool–especially a pool with a view?? Whether staying near Main Street or mountainside, Breckenridge hotels offer some of the best pools to keep you cool during your stay and enjoy the amazing mountain scenery while you play. Soak up the sun, take a refreshing dip, and get the whole family out for pool time at one of Breckenridge’s hotels.
4. Chill(y) nights for stargazing
When the temperatures drop at the end of the fun day, take time to soak in the memories under the night sky. Step outside late at night–usually darkness sets in around 10 pm in the summertime–to take in the cosmic views. The dark sky above and clear Colorado skies are perfect for stargazing. Don’t forget to add a warm layer, as overnight temperatures can drop into the 40s.
5. Patio Season
Our Colorado mountain town is graced with 300+ days of glorious mood-boosting sunshine a year, and after a day of play, there’s nothing better than lounge time on the sun-soaked patios and decks in Breckenridge. Kick back, relax and raise a cold one to beating the heat. And grab an ice cream cone for the kids, too!
6. Mines, Museums, and Tours
Is there any better way to cool off than being chilled to the bone? Prepare to be haunted by Breckenridge’s mining ghosts of the past on a ghost tour, or step into history (and out of the sun) by visiting a free historic museum. There’s one location in Breckenridge that is always 45°F, and that’s Country Boy Mine. Take a tour of this real gold mine and explore 1,000 feet into the earth to enjoy a true underground experience.
7. Try Stand Up Paddleboarding or Whitewater Rafting
Stand-up paddleboarding (also called SUP) is a relaxing way to spend an afternoon! The Maggie Pond is great for beginners and offers convenient walk-up rentals as well as SUP Yoga. For a little more thrill, try whitewater rafting with one of Breckenridge’s great local outfitters. Ranging from scenic float trips that are great for families with smaller children to excursions with heart-pounding Class IV and V rapids, there’s a rafting trip for just about everyone.
