By Josh Cooley, Examiner.com
In Breckenridge, Colo., Aspens, Cottonwoods and a smattering of other deciduous trees are fully ablaze in hues of gold, yellow, red and orange.
Fall colors peak earlier here due to colder temperatures at higher elevations. With an elevation of 9,600′, Breckenridge generally sees leaves start transitioning by mid-Aug. and peak by the end of Sept.
Now’s the perfect time to explore some classic trails in and around Breckenridge to experience the full glory of fall foliage in the high country. But hurry, it’ll go fast. Colors are peaking in stages depending on the area and elevation during the next 10 days or so. Many trees have already lost their leaves.
Following are five great areas to explore in and near Breckenridge on foot or mountain bike to see vibrant fall colors:
- French Gulch – two miles East of Breckenridge, this area has a network of mellow trails with spectacular fall colors amongst remnants of mines and views of the Breckenridge Ski Resort
- Boreas Pass – one of the area’s most popular destinations for viewing fall foliage with great views of the Tenmile Range
- Breckenridge Ski Resort – the ski area has some nice stands of Aspens on the lower sections of the mountain with mellow easy to moderate hiking trails
- McCullough Gulch – the trail is located seven miles south of Breckenridge off Hwy 9 and is one of the areas most scenic hikes
- Placer Valley/Alma, Colo. – The area from the top of Hoosier Pass on the Continental Divide to the Town of Alma is ripe with gorgeous stands of Aspens and mountain scenery.
Pick up a trail map in Breckenridge at a shop like Carvers or Christy Sports for detailed directions to trails.