Peaks Pass Breckenridge

Best fall drive in Breckenridge: Boreas Pass Road

Travel by: Car, ATV or bike
Access: From the intersection of Highway 9 and Boreas Pass road at the south end of Breckenridge

Boreas Pass Road ascends from downtown Breckenridge, Colo. to over 11, 400 feet. It’s a popular fall route that offers numerous views looking down on the town and surrounding mountains. Trails parallel the upper dirt portion of Boreas, where golden aspens are plentiful in autumn. .

Those seeking a longer scenic drive (be sure to fill up on gas!) can make a loop by heading south on Colorado state highway 9 over the top of Hoosier Pass, turning left (north) on U.S. highway 285 and making another left onto Boreas Pass Road / County Road 33. The dirt road continues over Boreas Pass and drops into downtown Breckenridge, with many open views along the way.

Best fall bike ride in Breckenridge: French Gulch area (B&B Trail, Reiling Dredge Trail, Minnie Mine)

Travel by: Bike or foot
Access: B&B Mines Trailhead, located about one mile uphill from the Wellington/French Gulch/Reiling Road intersection

The trails of French Gulch pass through Breckenridge’s “Golden Horseshoe, ” one of Colorado’s most fertile mining regions. The initial strikes here in 1859 gave birth to Breckenridge. For most of the next century, the town’s fortunes were largely driven by the Golden Horseshoe’s output. Dozens of mines were active here at one time or another. Most amounted to nothing; a few yielded huge fortunes.

The groves of changing aspens make this a beautiful fall hike. History buffs can opt for a guided hike with the Breckenridge Heritage Alliance:

Best fall walk in Breckenridge: Gold Run Gulch Road

Travel by: Bike or foot
Access: Park at the B&B Mines Trailhead and head downhill to access Gold Run Road — it will be on the right (north) side of the road, across from the neighborhood/homes.

Explore under a canopy of changing aspens each fall on this old double-track mining road. Ride or walk as an out-and-back; experienced mountain bikers can access an enormous network of trails from this area.