There are a number of trails nestled within the backcountry of Summit County. Whether you are a beginner hiker, hiking with the whole family or a more advanced hiker, there are plenty of trails to choose from.  Here are just a few.

Easy
Sapphire Point
Open:  June-Sept.
Elevation:  9500 feet
Time:  15 Minutes
Distance:   .8 mile

From Breckenridge, take HWY 9 N to Swan Mountain Road.  Take Swan Mountain Road to its highest point, where you will find a parking area.  Park and start the trailhead loop from either corner of the parking lot.

Sapphire Point is a fun, short loop for the whole family ranging from kids to grandparents.  The views of Dillon Reservoir and Buffalo Mountain are incredible.  Pack a lunch and have a picnic and don’t forget sunflower seeds for the local residents (chipmunks), they love visitors.

Moderate

Mohawk Lakes
Open:   July-Sept.
Elevation:  12100 feet
Time:  2-3 hours
Distance:   1.2 miles or 2.8 miles

Drive south out of Breckenridge on HWY 9. At about 2.4 miles from the last light as you leave Breckenridge, turn right on Spruce Creek Rd. and proceed for about 1.2 miles to a well marked parking area and trailhead.

If you would like an intermediate family hike this one sums up everything magnificent about Summit County.  It has sweeping vistas, historic ruins and ore cars to waterfalls and close-up views of massive, rugged peaks.   Be sure to bring snacks and plenty of water.

Difficult

Quandary Peak
Open:   July-Sept.
Elevation:   14265 feet
Time:  7-8 hours
Distance:   3 miles

Drive south on HWY 9 about 7.5 miles from the last traffic light in Breckenridge to Blue Lakes Road on your right. After turning right onto Blue Lakes Road (No.850) you turn right again onto No. 851 and continue approximately 1.1 miles to the trailhead. Parking is limited.

The trail starts moderately but quickly begins a steady, merciless ascent of about 3 miles as it gains over 3,100 feet in elevation.  Once at the top, you will have amazing views of other 14ers such as Mt. Lincoln, Mt. Bross, Mt. Grays and Mt. Torreys.  If you are going to accept the challenge of this 14er, be prepared for any kind of weather.  It changes quickly and you do not want to be caught without the proper gear!

For more great hikes around Summit County, click here!