Road Trip from Aurora, CO to Breckenridge, CO
If you're looking for a scenic road trip in Colorado, look no further than the route from Aurora to Breckenridge. This route takes you through some of Colorado's most picturesque towns and scenic mountain passes.
Did you know that Breckenridge is one of the most popular ski areas in the United States, attracting over 1.6 million skiers and snowboarders each year?
Halfway between Aurora and Breckenridge is the charming town of Idaho Springs, CO, located at the base of the Rocky Mountains.
The distance from Aurora to Breckenridge is approximately 90 miles. While the drive is relatively short, it's important to note that you'll be traveling on mountain roads with a lot of twists and turns, so make sure to give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the drive.
Top Five Places to Visit
Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave - Located in Golden, CO, the Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave is a must-visit for Wild West enthusiasts. The museum houses a collection of memorabilia related to Buffalo Bill, while the grave gives visitors stunning views of the foothills and Denver in the distance. Make sure to catch one of the daily Wild West shows to get a taste of what life was like in the 1800s. A great point of interest recommendation in Golden is to take a stroll down Washington Avenue and visit some of the town's quaint shops and eateries.
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre - Located in Morrison, CO, Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is a beautiful natural amphitheater set against the red rocks of the surrounding mountains. The venue hosts concerts and events throughout the year, but even if there's no event happening, it's worth stopping by to take in the breathtaking views. A great point of interest recommendation in Morrison is to stop by Tony Rigatoni's restaurant for some delicious Italian food.
Mount Evans Scenic Byway - Starting in Idaho Springs, the Mount Evans Scenic Byway takes you to the top of Mount Evans, one of Colorado's 14ers. The drive takes you through narrow switchbacks and along sheer cliffs, but the views from the top are well worth it. At the summit, you'll have panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. A great point of interest recommendation on the Mount Evans Scenic Byway is to stop by Echo Lake Park and take a walk around the lake.
Loveland Pass - If you're a fan of breathtaking views and hairpin turns, then Loveland Pass is a must-visit. Located on the Continental Divide, Loveland Pass sits at an elevation of 11,990 feet and is the highest mountain pass in the country that stays open year-round. The views from the top are truly awe-inspiring, and you'll get a sense of what it must have been like for early explorers to traverse the Rocky Mountains. A great point of interest recommendation at Loveland Pass is to take a short hike to the nearby alpine tundra.
Breckenridge Ski Resort - No trip to Breckenridge would be complete without a visit to the ski resort. Even in the summer, the ski resort is a hub of activity, with mountain biking, hiking, and other outdoor activities available. If you're visiting in the winter, of course, skiing and snowboarding are the main attractions. Regardless of the season, the mountain views from the top of the chairlifts are breathtaking. A great point of interest recommendation at Breckenridge Ski Resort is to take the gondola to the top of Peak 8 and have a meal at the restaurant.
Conclusion
The road trip from Aurora, CO to Breckenridge, CO is a stunning journey that takes you through some of the state's most beautiful scenery. From the Wild West history of Golden to the soaring peaks of the Rockies, there's something for everyone on this route. The trip took us approximately three hours, but we took our time and made stops at all of the places listed above. Whether you're a Colorado native or visiting from out of town, this road trip is not to be missed.