Breckenridge's Fabulous Waterfall expedition
Marvelous Waterfalls Close to Breckenridge, Colorado Worth Exploring
Find the finest waterfalls in and near Breckenridge, Colorado's Rocky Mountain heaven. Explore these spectacular waterfalls, some easily reachable, while others require a more adventurous trek.
Here's the scoop on Breckenridge's top waterfalls:
- Continental Falls
- One of the most majestic waterfalls near Breckenridge, Continental Falls is an incredible sight to behold. It's a massive cascading marvel that flows from Lower Mohawk Lake to Mayflower Lake. You can glimpse it from Boreas Pass Road across the valley. Explore the trail to experience other lakes and panoramic views. Check out our guide to Mohawk Lakes and Continental Falls to learn more.
- White Falls
- White Falls is a stunning cascading waterfall nestled on the McCullough Gulch trail. The journey boasts stunning mountain vistas, wildflowers, pine forests, and much more. It's about a 1.6-mile hike to the waterfall, with the first lake just 0.3 miles away. The terrain surrounding the falls offers perfect spots for a picnic and sunbathing before your return trip. Discover everything you need to know about hiking McCullough Gulch before setting out.
- Blue Lakes Waterfall
- Easily accessible, the Blue Lakes Waterfall is a treasure in Breckenridge's backyard. This picturesque waterfall is just a mile’s round-trip hike and hardly any elevation gain. Explore the area known for its stunning granite cliffs, social trails, and crystal-clear water. The waterfall flows between Upper Blue Lake and Lower Blue Lake, best visited in early summer. Explore our article on Blue Lakes near Breckenridge for helpful tips to plan your visit.
- Booth Falls
- Although in Vail, Booth Falls is a doable day trip from Breckenridge. The incredible cascading waterfall is accessed by a 4.2-mile hike through stunning canyons boasting wildflowers, pine forests, and aspen groves. This is one of the best waterfalls in the area, well worth the visit.
- Brown's Creek Waterfall
- For those ready for a challenge, venture to Brown's Creek Waterfall, located a short drive from Breckenridge. The trail is just over 6 miles round-trip with 941 feet of elevation gain. The waterfall is simply breathtaking, and you can spend time exploring the small town of Buena Vista further.
- Hanging Lake
- You might recognize Hanging Lake from social media feeds; it's truly one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the USA. The lake is a stunning turquoise and features several waterfalls flowing over the cliff into the lake. The 3-mile roundtrip hike is steep but well worth it. Remember to book a spot in advance via VisitGlenwood.com and read the AllTrails listing for all the details.
- Willow Falls
- Willow Creek Falls is another fantastic summer and fall hike near Breckenridge. The trail is around 5.2 miles roundtrip and rated as “moderate” by AllTrails. The breathtaking views and waterfalls are worth the effort.
- Montgomery Reservoir & Magnolia Mill
- Head over Hoosier Pass from Breckenridge to discover Montgomery Reservoir, a man-made lake covering a mining town once home to 1,000+ residents. After the gold rush, the town was sold, and today, the lake gravity feeds drinking water to Colorado Springs. After heavy snowmelt in May, the river becomes a roaring spectacle near the Magnolia Mill ruins. You'll find a beautiful waterfall that cascades forever near the site. Check out the coordinates for a fantastic view: 106.084°W 39.357642°N.
- Wheeler Lake Falls
- Most people haven't discovered the beauty of Wheeler Lake Falls, nestled high above Magnolia Mill. The trail takes you past endless wildflowers to a stunning alpine lake with several waterfalls cascading into the lake. The hike is the longest of all the waterfall hikes, but the seclusion and beauty make it all worthwhile. For a detailed trail report, visit my write-up on Wheeler Lake.
Best Time to Experience Breckenridge's Waterfalls
While most snow melts in May for roaring waterfalls, many AREA waterfalls won't be accessible at that time. June and July are the prime months to see the waterfalls near Breckenridge, offering enough snowmelt for hiking access and breathtaking waterfall sights. If you wait until August or September, some waterfalls may be light flows or dry entirely, depending on rainfall that summer.
Final Thoughts
The hiking and biking trails around Colorado's Rocky Mountains boast some incredible waterfalls. These selections are our favorites, showcasing the beauty and diversity of the waterfalls near Breckenridge. Make sure you bring the required day hiking essentials, including hiking snacks, water, and outdoor apps. Have an unforgettable adventure exploring these stunning waterfalls.
Consult my ultimate guides for the best of the best Breckenridge activities:- Best Wildflower Hikes near Breckenridge- Best Hiking near Breckenridge- Best Summer Activities in Breckenridge- Best Winter Hikes near Breckenridge
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- The outdoors lifestyle in Breckenridge, Colorado is perfect for hiking enthusiasts, offering diverse trails leading to breathtaking waterfalls such as Continental Falls and White Falls nestled amidst the Rocky Mountain landscapes.
- For home garden enthusiasts seeking a taste of adventure, their love for nature can extend beyond their home gardens to discovering waterfalls in the wilderness, like the Blue Lakes Waterfall in Breckenridge.
- Travelers who appreciate picturesque landscapes can include waterfall expeditions in their itineraries, with destinations like Booth Falls in Vail and Hanging Lake in Glenwood Springs, both offering unparalleled beauty and Instagram-worthy views.
- While exploring Breckenridge's waterfalls, one might find opportunities to integrate outdoor apps into their adventure, enhancing their hiking experiences and ensuring they are well-prepared for the trails ahead.
