4 fall outings for the whole family

This writer, for one, will never understand why some folks call fall the “Off Season.” Sure, up here in Breckenridge it’s the time of year when a little too cold and wet to mountain bike and the slopes aren’t open yet, when the river’s too low to float and the puffy jackets start coming out of the closet.

But fall is also one of the most beautiful times of year in the Colorado mountains, and with the falling temperatures and changing leaves come smaller crowds, cheaper lodging, and many mellower activities that can be great for the entire family. Here are four of the best.

1. Explore the town

The recreational opportunities around Breck are so endless it’s easy to forget about one of the area’s best attractions: the town itself. Reacquaint yourself with this old western mining town’s rich historical past with a kid-friendly walking tour courtesy of the Breckenridge Heritage Society. For a seasonally appropriate twist, especially around Halloween, there’s a haunted tour that highlights the spookier parts of Breck’s past.

2. Fishing 

Fall is high time for fishing in Summit County, when dropping river flows draw the biggest trout out of the lakes and experienced anglers flock to the rivers. However, there are plenty of opportunities even for first-time casters. Lake Dillon provides a great place close to town for kids to dip their lures, and with a significant population of trout, there’s a good chance they just might get a bite.

For those looking to get away from the shoreline and troll the depths of the reservoir, the Frisco Marina offers boat and fishing pole rentals. If your family is feeling a bit more adventurous, many local outfitters such as the Mountain Angler and Breckenridge Outfitters offer trips that combine beginner instruction with fun tours of the surrounding rivers including the Blue, Eagle, and Arkansas.

3. Leaf Peeping

While talk of fall foliage tends to bring to mind the multi-colored grandeur of the Northeast, the Rocky Mountains are just as beautiful with only a few hues: the bright golds, crimsons, and yellows of the aspen tree. Aspens are the only native deciduous trees that lose their leaves in winter, and they tend to grow in large groups, creating spectacular patches of bright yellow that stand out among the evergreen pines.  There are many places to view to the fall foliage close to town. Boreas pass is a great driving destination, and the Peaks Trail is a family friendly hiking option with amazing views.

4. Early Season Skiing

Summit County is home to some of the earliest opening days in North America, and Breckenridge resort is no exception. With this year’s inaugural turning of the lifts scheduled for November 8, there’s plenty of early season skiing to be done. Skiing in November often means warmer temperatures and fewer trail choices, which can be a blessing in disguise for families trying to stick together. Opening day itself can be a great time for the whole family as well, with awesome food, costumes, and activities.

Looking for more great fall activities? Check Breckenridge.com for more information, including a searchable list of seasonal attractions!

— Jonathan Gang