Breckenridge vacations offer activities everyone loves, but when you need a restful break, take to the roads. Follow a scenic route to the mountaintops or to the banks of a roaring river. Pack some water and snacks before heading out from your Colorado vacation house, and enjoy some fun face time with your favorite people as you take in the ruggedly majestic views.
Boreas Pass Drive
From the start of this scenic tour, striking scenery is just outside your window. The Blue River flows briskly beside you as you start up the gentle 3 percent grade, and ahead you can view the spectacular Tenmile mountain range. The road follows the path of the narrow gauge railroad that operated from the early 1870s to the late 1930s, and partway up, you will pass the water tank that refueled the old steam engines. From the south end of town, take Boreas Pass Road -- also called County Road 10 – about 3.5 miles until you reach the Baker’s Tank trailhead. You can stop here and stretch your legs or continue driving until you reach the summit of the pass, which sits on the Continental Divide. Just over 10 miles past the summit, you will come to Como, Colorado, a ghost town from the railroad days. Arches of aspens make this drive even more spectacular in autumn, filling Breckenridge vacations with vibrant color.
Hot Sulphur Springs Trip
With so many premium Breckenridge homes for rent, you and your family will find the Colorado vacation house that you have dreamed about. However, when you get the urge to venture out, a scenic drive to Hot Sulphur Springs provides a welcome change of pace. Just an hour and a half from town, this relaxing trek takes you past the headwaters of the upper Colorado River and through the Byers Canyon gorge. As you head north from Breckenridge on Highway 9 toward Hot Sulphur Springs, you and your family can drink in the heady views of the Gore mountain range and the Green Mountain Reservoir. Once you arrive at your destination, you can enjoy a soak in the rejuvenating waters once revered for their healing powers by the native Utes. Seven natural springs bubble up from the depths of the earth, warmed by subterranean volcanic fires. The local resort offers day rates for the pools as well as towels and refreshments.
Colorado River Headwaters Byway
Breckenridge vacations are not complete without a scenic drive to Loveland Pass, the nation’s highest year-round roadway. This route is a favorite for serious cyclers, and in winter you’re likely to encounter backcountry skiers and snowboarders. The Loveland summit tops out at nearly 12,000 feet above sea level, so if you and your crew plan to take advantage of the hiking trails at the summit, pace yourself accordingly. Up above the tree line, the mountain vistas are incomparable, and photo ops abound. Breckenridge homes for rent are a great starting point for this type of day trip since the summit is a mere 48 miles away. From town, take the Swan Mountain Road for about 5 miles before turning left onto US-6. As you near Loveland Pass, follow the signs to the large parking area at the summit.
Buena Vista/Arkansas River Drive
The Arkansas River is one of the top rafting waterways in the country, and you can get there from your Colorado vacation house in about 75 minutes. Travel south of town via Highway 9, turning right onto Highway 284 when you reach the town of Fairplay. Stay on this route for about 35 miles until you come to Highway 24. Turn right, and you will arrive in Buena Vista in just a few minutes. You’ll love the view of the Collegiate Peaks, some of the highest the Rockies has to offer at more than 40,000 feet. If your family is up for adventure, choose from one of several rafting outfitters and guides, enjoy world-class fly-fishing or explore the area’s mining and railroad legacy at one of the area's historic sites.
For many, scenic driving tours are the highlight of Breckenridge vacations. The natural beauty of Colorado awaits just a short ride from Breckenridge homes for rent.