Up High on the Down Low: 72 Hours of Outdoor Adventure in Breckenridge, Fall Edition

If you have ever visited Breckenridge, Colorado in the fall, then you have likely experienced the euphoria that comes with the golden leaves, crisp air, and the all-around happiness of locals and visitors alike. Here is a 72 hour plan to achieve your own high level of stoke in one of the coolest towns in the Rockies.

Day 1

Upon arriving in Breckenridge head to Bivvi Breckenridge to check in to drop off your gear, and then head over to Angel’s Hallow for lunch. It has the best deck in town and with a killer view and even better margaritas.

Then take a ride the BreckConnect Gondola to get incomparable views of the changing leaves, the Breckenridge valley, and the Tenmile range in all of its offseason glory.

Once the sun starts to se, take a slow drive up to Boreas Pass. This road will give you endless vantage points to view the sunset. It is also a great place to go camping, as most of the land is managed by the forest service and the BLM. At the top of Boreas pass are several old buildings and train cars to explore, documenting the rich mining history of the area.

Head back into town for dinner at Traverse Restaurant for a meal that features locally sourced and sustainable ingredients. Head out onto the deck for an after dinner drink and a great view of the Tenmile Range.

Close out the day with drinks at the Gold Pan Saloon. A popular spot with locals, it boasts one of the longest standing continuous liquor licenses this side of the Mississippi River and a helluva bloody mary.

Day 2

Wake up early and head out to get breakfast at Crown Coffeehouse, a delightful cafe with access out the back to the Blue River and its newly restored riverfront; an all around great place to enjoy your morning coffee.

Next up is an overnight trip to Francie's Cabin (make reservations!). Be sure to pack enough camp food for lunch, dinner, and then breakfast the next morning. Don’t forget hiking snacks! Francie’s is part of the 10th Mountain Division Hut Association and they have a helpful "what to pack" list  to make sure you are prepared for your stay.

The hut is beautiful and only requires a short, <2 mile hike but be forewarned: there is a lot of elevation gain! From the hut you have easy access to numerous trail systems, and at night you can enjoy the large wood burning stove, the sauna, and great views of the mountains and stars.

Day 3

Get up early to climb one of the best ‘13er’ hikes in the area: Crystal Peak . Bring plenty of water, gorp, raingear, fleece, and sunscreen for this 8.6 mile round trip out-and-back trail. You will pass upper and lower Crystal Lake along the way and if it is one of Colorado’s classic cloudless autumn days, it is a perfect chance to take a refreshing dip before continuing on your hike.

Upon your return to Francie’s, if you have not yet used the Suana, do so and then head back into town.

Head over to Sawmill Creek and check in to one of their condos for a night of luxury. Conveniently located only 5 minutes from Main Street, there is a stream flowing through the middle of the complex and on a quite night is a great way to fall asleep.

For dinner walk over to The Dredge, possibly the most unique restaurant in Breckenridge. The Dredge claims to be “the highest floating restaurant” in the world: a 2 million pound replica of a mining dredge floating in the middle of the Blue River.

For after dinner drinks (and a ton of fun) head to the Rocky Mountain Underground. Part ski-shop, part-beer-garden, part-tavern, “RMU” is a raucous gathering place for both locals and visitors.

Day 4

Grab your final breakfast at Amazing Grace, just a short walk from the condo. They have a hidden deck out back and their breakfast burrito is killer.

Finally, on your way out of town be sure to stop by Snow Caps Sled Dogs and take a once in a lifetime family friendly tour with these gorgeous huskies of summer dog sledding.