Continental Falls: A Rocky Mountain Cascade
Hike to the majestic Continental Falls near Breckenridge, Colorado, and witness the beauty of the Tenmile Range's tallest waterfall.
Continental Falls, near Breckenridge, Colorado, is the largest waterfall in the Tenmile Range. The falls cascade down a rocky face through three chasms, offering scenic views and a rewarding outdoor experience. The popular Mohawk Lakes trail leads to the falls, showcasing alpine meadows and historic mining remnants.
A brief summary to Continental Falls
- Breckenridge, Colorado, 80424, US
Local tips
- Visit during late spring to early fall for the best hiking conditions and wildflower blooms.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of water, as the trail can be steep and rocky.
- Consider starting your hike early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends.
- Be prepared for changing weather conditions, as the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable.
- Take your trash with you and stay on established trails to help preserve the natural environment.
Getting There
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Driving
From Breckenridge, drive south on CO-9 for approximately 2.5 miles to Spruce Creek Road (CR800). Turn right onto Spruce Creek Road and follow it for about 1.1 miles to the main trailhead parking lot. Note that low-clearance vehicles should park here. Higher-clearance 4WD vehicles can continue another 1.5 miles up the rough road to park closer to the trailhead. Parking availability is limited.
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Public Transport
Take the Breck Free Ride bus from the Breckenridge Transit Center to the stop closest to Spruce Creek Road. From there, walk or bike along Spruce Creek Road to the trailhead. Check the bus schedule and route map for the most up-to-date information. The Breck Free Ride is free to use. There is limited parking at the trailhead.
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Walking
From the south end of Breckenridge, follow CO-9 South for approximately 2.5 miles. Turn right onto Spruce Creek Road (CR800) and walk 1.1 miles to the Spruce Creek Trailhead. Be aware that this is a lengthy walk along a road with vehicle traffic. Once at the trailhead, follow the Spruce Creek Trail to Continental Falls.
Discover more about Continental Falls
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Epic Discovery Alpine Camp
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One Ski Hill Place
6.7 km
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BlueSky Breckenridge - By Vacasa
6.8 km
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The Corral at Breckenridge
6.8 km
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Hilton Grand Vacations Club Valdoro Mountain Lodge Breckenridge
6.8 km
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Main Street Station in Breckenridge by Vacasa
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Snow Mansion (Trot-Ski House) by Pinnacle Lodging
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Breckenridge Brewery & Pub
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Gravity Haus Breckenridge
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Broken Compass Brewery Main Street
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4 O'Clock Lodge A16 by Pinnacle Lodging
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Der Steiermark
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Breckenridge Ale House & Pizza
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Nature's Own-Breckenridge
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Magnolia Mill
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Unmissable attractions to see
McCullough Gulch Trailhead
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Tenmile Range Peak 10
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Crystal Peak
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Spruce Creek Trail (Dillon Ranger District)
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Quandary Peak
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Quandary Peak Trailhead
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Ten Mile Station
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North Star Mountain
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Drift Peak
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Imperial Express - Highest Ski Lift In North America
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Observation Tower at Peak 8
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Breckenridge Ski Resort
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Gold Runner Coaster
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Alpine Slide
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Breckenridge Fun Park
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Essential places to dine
The Overlook Restaurant
4.7 km
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Vista Haus
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Spencer's Restaurant
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9600 Kitchen
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Ski Hill Grill
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TBar
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The Maggie
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Robbie's Tavern
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Sauce on the Maggie
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BoLD Restaurant and Bar
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Cabin Juice
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Blue Moose Restaurant
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Mi Casa Mexican Restaurant and Cantina
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Empire Burger
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South Ridge Seafood Grill
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Breck Sports - The Maggie
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Breck Sports - Village
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Folcland
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Rocket Fizz Breckenridge
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Christy Sports
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Faith & Flair Boutique
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Breckenridge Store
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La Cima Mall
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Ohana Breckenridge
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Bear Claw Trading Co
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Russian Gifts
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Main Street Mall
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Global Candle Store
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Joy of Sox
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The North Face
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Coppertop Bar & Restaurant
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Base Nine
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Cecilia's Nightclub and Cocktail Bar
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Burke and Riley's Irish Pub
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Brooklyn's Tavern and Billiards
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Molly Jacks
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The Absinthe Bar
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Ski Town Chicken Joint
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Fireside Lounge
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Prospector
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Napper Tandy's Irish Pub
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Before & After, Coffee & Cocktails
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The Manhattan Bar
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Scarlet Tavern
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The Famous
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