Breckenridge, Colorado

Breckenridge, Colorado, is a spectacular mountain town full of charm and adventure, sitting at 9,600 feet above sea level. The town is well known for its top-notch ski resort, and while it is truly amazing to visit in the winter, we think the summers are superior when the snow starts to melt and fill our rivers with rushing rapids once again. Visit Breckenridge in the summer to experience mountain biking, stand-up paddleboarding, hiking, and you guessed it, Breckenridge rafting!

Blue River

Breckenridge Rafting

The Blue River runs through Breckenridge and feeds into Lake Dillon. Whitewater rafting on the Blue River is the closest rafting to Breckenridge. However, the ability to offer commercial rafting trips on the Blue River is dependent on the water levels and snowpack from the previous winter. Flows on the Blue River vary from year-to-year, and when flows are low, we recommend guests experience an alternative incredible rafting trip — Browns Canyon National Monument on the Arkansas River.

Arkansas River

Buena Vista Rafting

Buena Vista, Colorado is a hub for all things river sports! The beautiful and scenic drive from Breckenridge to Buena Vista takes about an hour and fifteen minutes. Buena Vista or “BV”, as the locals call it, is home to one of the most popular stretches of river in the United States, Browns Canyon National Monument.

Canon City Rafting

In Cañon City, you will find “Colorado’s Grand Canyon” a.k.a the Royal Gorge. Whitewater rafting through the Royal Gorge is an incredible experience that allows you to see the canyon from a unique perspective. The drive from Breckenridge to Cañon City takes 2 hours, and just like the drive to Buena Vista it is beautiful!

Directions

Breckenridge to Buena Vista

Take Hwy 9 south to the Hwy 285 intersection in Fairplay (23miles). Turn right on Hwy 285 south and go 35 miles. After crossing the Arkansas River and just past Johnson Village, turn/veer right toward Buena Vista on Hwy 24 W. Go 1 mile to CR 319 (look for the blue Performance Tours Rafting sign on Hwy 24, 1 mile before Buena Vista). Turn left on CR 319 and go ¼ mile to the office.

Breckenridge to Buena Vista Google Maps Directions

Breckenridge to Cañon City

Take Hwy 9 south to Fairplay. Continue south on Hwy 9 to Hartsel. Continue South on Hwy 9 towards Canon City to the Hwy 9/US Hwy 50 junction. Turn left (east)on Hwy 50 and go about 1 mile to the turnoff for the Royal Gorge Bridge. Turn right on the road to the Royal Gorge Bridge and we are approximately ¼ mile down from Hwy 50 on the right.

Breckenridge to Royal Gorge Google Maps Directions

Dining in Breckenridge

Downtown Breckenridge has more than 200 bars, restaurants and shops in the historic downtown area. Whether you’re looking for brunch, lunch, dinner or happy hour, there are plenty of dining options to satisfy your appetite. Check out a few of our favorite spots below!

Lodging in Breckenridge

Guests can choose from many hotels and lodging properties in Breckenridge. Narrow down your search on GoBreck.com or check out a few of our recommendations below!

Things to do After your Breckenridge Whitewater Rafting Experience

Breckenridge is a great place to experience the beauty of Colorado, and those looking for an unforgettable mountain experience will be sure to make a lifetime of memories staying here. We believe no trip to Breckenridge is complete without booking a whitewater rafting trip near Breckenridge, but your stay here will offer you ample access to hiking, gondola rides, scenic drives, and so much more. For those looking to do some mountain biking, there is something available for every skill level. Hiking can be enjoyed year-round in Breckenridge, but the best time to enjoy the trails is from June to September. Some of our favorite hikes include the Burro Trail, Blue Lakes Trail, Indiana Gulch Trail, and the Peaks Trail, but with over 100 trails in the area, you can’t go wrong with any direction you choose.

One of the more unique features of Breckenridge is the free gondola connecting the downtown area of Breckenridge with the ski resort. Riders are transported to Breckenridge’s Peak 7 and 8, where they can enjoy great food and drink as well as year-round activities offered by the resort. Some of these summer activities include Zip Lining, Alpine Slides, a mountain coaster, and plenty of other great options for the whole family. One of the best parts about visiting Breckenridge is the scenic drives, available to visitors in every direction. You will likely have to take one to arrive at this charming mountain town, but some of our favorites include Loveland Pass, Boreas Pass Road (Breckenridge to Como), and the unforgettable trip from Breckenridge to Buena Vista.

All your adventures here are sure to leave you with an appetite, so be sure to visit our friends at BreckFast for a morning bite, or for those with more adventurous tastes, try out Mount Golian Grill for authentic Mongolian cuisine. If you’re looking for more traditional fare, grab a classic cheeseburger at Empire Burger before you leave. If you’re looking for a place to stay, you’ll find outstanding service, impeccable views, and luxurious pools at one of the many stellar resorts. We recommend the Grand Timber Lodge, Crystal Peak Lodge, or Grand Lodge.

There are plenty of adventures to be had, but always be sure to stop and enjoy some of the best whitewater rafting near Breckenridge, Colorado while you’re here.