When I think of Breckenridge, Colorado, I picture snowy mountains and skiing. But mostly I imagine the perfect setting for a Hallmark Christmas movie.
I had no idea that the small mountain town of Breckenridge is actually a year round vacation destination. Let’s just say that an invite to visit Breckenridge in late summer/early autumn was a beautiful experience. To appreciate Breckenridge – “Breck,” as the locals call it – you need to visit during both warmer and winter months.
Breckenridge is nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, located 80 miles from downtown Denver. The town of Breckenridge is only 7 miles long and only 2 miles wide, and while the base of the town’s elevation is 9,600 feet, the top elevation on the mountain reaches a whopping 12,998 feet. One fascinating fact is that in 1859, gold was discovered along the Blue River in Colorado and in 1887, Colorado’s largest piece of gold was discovered near Breckenridge, weighing around 13.5 pounds. And yes, you can pan for gold in Breckenridge!
Let’s explore what you can expect to see and do during a late summer/early autumn visit to Breckenridge.
Summer Months in Breckenridge, Colorado
While most think of it as the quintessential ski town, Breckenridge in the summer features a lively downtown with plenty of activities ideal for “not ski” weather. With temperatures ranging from lows in the 40s to highs in the 70s in September, this iconic Colorado mountain town offers lots of fun amidst the most stunning scenic landscape. In fact, on average, Breckenridge has 300 days of sunshine each year.
There is a wide range of different events happening in Breckenridge. Main Street is where you will find many restaurants, cafes, and lots of shopping. And when I say “many,” another fact is that Breckenridge offers 200+ shops and nearly 100 restaurants and bars.
Breckenridge is more affordable in the warmer months plus there are so many free and inexpensive outdoor activities to enjoy. From hiking, biking, and white water rafting to golfing and paddleboarding, there’s something for everyone.
Grand Timber Lodge in Breckenridge
While there are many hotels, resorts, lodges, condos, and rental houses in the town of Breckenridge to choose from, the Grand Timber Lodge comes highly recommended for both summer and winter stays. After a day of outdoor exploring and adventuring, it’s so nice to unwind at the cozy accommodations found at Grand Timber Lodge. It’s located just steps from nature, scenic views, and the iconic Breckenridge ski mountain. This hotel offers more than just a nice room for sleeping. It’s full of fun family activities and amenities including pools, a fitness center, complimentary shuttle bus, spa, on-site ski/bike concierge, a bar, restaurant, 24-hour front desk, and much more. There’s also a Grand Room, Family Fun Center, private movie theaters, and market.
The Grand Room at Grand Timber Lodge
The Grand Room is a gathering space that features floor-to-ceiling windows and a massive sitting porch to soak in the beauty of Breckenridge. Relax surrounded by the breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains along with a huge two-story river rock fireplace. Enjoy a game of pool or read a good book in a comfy, oversized chair. Weekly events feature family game night, family movie night, and art classes. And don’t miss out on the daily afternoon freshly baked cookies.
Grand Timber Lodge Indoor and Outdoor Pools/Hot Tubs
Take advantage of the indoor/outdoor hot tubs and heated all-season pools, locker rooms with showers and changing facilities, and sunning decks lined with lounge chairs. The pool areas also provide you with stunning mountain views.
Refresh Massage Studio at Grand Timber Lodge
Pamper yourself by choosing from a full line of skincare, nail, and body treatments to help restore your mind, body, and soul. All guests are welcome to enjoy this peaceful oasis by relaxing in the Tranquility Lounge, luxuriate in a eucalyptus steam room or dry sauna, and sip on complimentary herbal tea. Reservations required.
Grand Timber Lodge Fitness Center
Get the perfect workout at the Grand Timber Lodge Fitness Center. Open daily, 24 hours/day, you’ll find state-of-the-art fitness machines, towels, and a water station.
The Family Fun Center and Movie Theaters at Grand Timber Lodge
The newly renovated Family Fun Center at Grand Timber Lodge features a fun arcade including pinball, Big Buck Hunter, air hockey, and more. Even more exciting, the lodge features four private movie theaters, each equipped with state-of-the-art video technology operated by using a touch screen pad to select a movie. Choose from 150+ entertaining movies for up to 8 guests in your private movie viewing session. Each theater provides eight luxurious recliners and two bean bag chairs for ultimate comfort. One note: bring your own popcorn, candy, and favorite beverages. Reservations required.
The Boot Saloon and the Grand Timber Lodge Market
The Boot Saloon is a casual eatery offering a menu of comfort food that you can enjoy via room service or sitting near the stone fireplace.
The new Grand Timber Lodge Market is equipped with just about any vacation-related item you can think of – from sunscreen to snacks.
Grand Timber Lodge Accommodations
Select from a spacious studio style to one, two, or three-bedrooms. Grand Timber Lodge provides the comfort and convenience of home with elevated amenities like gourmet kitchens, gas fireplaces, jacuzzi-style tubs, and private mountain-view balconies.
Amenities include:
:: Wi-Fi
:: On-site laundry
:: Fully equipped kitchenette with mini-refrigerator, microwave oven, stove and mini-dishwasher
:: Breakfast counter
:: Hairdryer
:: Humidifier
:: Iron and ironing board
:: Flat-screen televisions/Blu-ray
Summer Activities and Events in Breckenridge, Colorado
The Grand Timber Lodge is conveniently located close to a host of fun Colorado summer activities. Whatever your interests are, you will find something you’ll want to do. It’s a cross between family-friendly fun and some high-adventure, adrenaline-pumping activities. There are also many summer and autumn events like the 4th of July celebration, Breck Beer Festival, Breck Food & Wine Festival, Labor Day Weekend festivities, Oktoberfest, Breck Film Festival, Breck Wine Classic, and Craft Spirits Festival.
While there are so many fun things to do in Breckenridge, here are some popular favorites to consider.
Breckenridge Gondola
The Breckenridge gondola, open year-round, provides breathtaking 360 degree views of Breckenridge and the Rocky Mountains on a 13-minute ride, elevating you 400 feet high. Best of all, it’s a free ride! When you arrive at the top of the destination, you can join the fun at Epic Discovery Fun Park and get something to eat and drink.
Breckenridge Epic Discovery and the Breck Summer Fun Park
And speaking of Epic Discovery, it’s located at Breckenridge Ski Resort, uniquely situated on the slopes along with the Breck Summer Fun Park. Each summer, the Breckenridge Resorts transform into a fun park, chock full of family activities, centered around three alpine slides and an alpine coaster. You’ll also enjoy mountain biking, mini golf, a rock-climbing wall, trampolines, bounce houses, gemstone panning, and more. There are also lots of food and drink options when you take a break from the many adventures.
Activities at Epic Discovery and Breck Summer Fun Park include:
:: Alpine slides
:: Bungee trampoline
:: Climbing wall
:: Goldrunner coaster
:: Mini golf
:: Mountain biking
:: Ropes course
:: Scenic chair lift ride
:: Ziplines
The highlight is the Breckenridge Alpine SuperSlide that features three separate 2,600-foot-long tracks, a mix of sudden dips, crazy turns and rapid speeds. The Gold Runner Alpine Coaster is also a thrill as it sends riders downward 2,500 feet to the bottom.
Breckenridge Welcome Center – Free Museum
You will find the Breckenridge Welcome Center in the heart of the downtown area. In addition to finding maps and guides, you will gain free access to the interactive museum. There’s even a historic log cabin from the 1800s that is part of the museum.
Visit the Breckenridge Troll
This is not a joke. You can visit a troll. Isak Heartstone, also known as the “Breckenridge Troll,” is a fun, free attraction and makes for a great selfie. The troll, originally created for the Breckenridge International Festival of Arts, has somehow become an iconic tourist attraction.
Panning for Gold
Breckenridge has a history in gold mining since Pike’s Peak gold rush in 1894, long before it became a ski destination. You can enjoy panning for gold in many spots around Breckenridge. Plan to visit historic gold mines like the Country Boy Mine, Washington Mine Site and Milling Exhibit, and the Lomax Placer Mine.
High Line Railroad Park and Museum
This museum is free ($5 donation is recommended) and offers you the interesting history of the Breckenridge railroad and how it greatly impacted the town forever. The High Line Railroad Park and Museum gives you the opportunity to walk around an old-fashioned train and young train enthusiasts can let off some “steam” at the playground area.
White-Water Rafting
White water rafting in Colorado may just be the highlight of your Breckenridge vacation if you enjoy high adrenaline adventures. There’s a variety of white-water rafting options near Breckenridge including Silverthorne, where you’ll quickly glide down the Blue River for three miles of exciting rapids.
Breckenridge: Both a Summer and Winter Wonderland
There is so much to do in Breckenridge in the warmer weather, so you’ll certainly want to plan for return trips. Breckenridge is such a picture-perfect mountain town with many activities and adventures.
Grand Timber Lodge is beautiful and in an ideal location with access to many hiking trails and a much-appreciated onsite shuttle downtown. The many impressive amenities at Grand Timber Lodge include the coziness of the Grand Room, the pools and hot tubs, the arcade, and unique private movie theaters. Accommodations are spacious, comfortable, and quiet. Pricing for accommodations in Breckenridge vary according to time of the year, but we were able to lock in $153 per night which is quite reasonable compared to other accommodations.
A few final notes. No matter what time of year you visit, be sure to pack layers of clothing as the mornings and evenings are cool. Expect crowds all year round. Plan activities and make reservations ahead of time, and practice patience as there may be some long lines for some activities. Lastly, to avoid altitude related sickness, hydrate (2-3 liters of fluids daily) and take it easy at least the first day until your body adjusts to the altitude. If you don’t know, symptoms of altitude sickness may include headaches, dizziness, nausea, loss of appetite, fatigue, coughing, and difficulty breathing.
With gorgeous scenery, plenty of activities, and lots of dining options – a trip to Breckenridge in summer is always a good choice. However, we are excitedly looking forward to a winter visit soon.