McCullough Gulch Trailhead: A Rocky Mountain Ascent
Hike to alpine lakes and waterfalls near Breckenridge. A moderate trail with stunning views of Quandary Peak and the White River National Forest.
McCullough Gulch Trailhead, near Breckenridge, Colorado, provides access to a scenic, moderately challenging hike through forests, past waterfalls, and up to alpine lakes beneath the gaze of Quandary Peak. It's a popular destination for those seeking alpine beauty and a taste of the rugged Rockies.
A brief summary to McCullough Gulch Trailhead
- 4192 CO-9, Breckenridge, Colorado, 80424, US
- +1970-468-5400
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- During summer, parking is limited and requires reservations made in advance at hikequandary.com. Consider using the shuttle service from Breckenridge to avoid parking hassles.
- The trail can be steep and rocky in sections; wear sturdy hiking shoes and be prepared for some boulder navigation.
- Bring layers of clothing, as the weather in the high alpine environment can change rapidly, even in summer.
- Be aware of potential afternoon thunderstorms, especially if hiking to the lake. Start your hike early to avoid being caught in a storm.
Getting There
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Driving
From Breckenridge, drive approximately 8 miles south on Colorado Highway 9. Turn right onto Blue Lakes Road (County Road 850). Continue a short distance and turn right again onto McCullough Gulch Road (County Road 851). Be aware that parking at the trailhead is extremely limited and requires reservations between June 14 and September 14. Parking is prohibited on McCullough Gulch Road, Blue Lakes Road, and Highway 9, with fines up to $1,000. During the restricted period, you may need to park at the Quandary Peak Trailhead and walk approximately 1/4 mile up McCullough Gulch Road to the trailhead. Cost: Parking reservations range from $10 for a short-term (4-hour) reservation to $30-$55 for a full-day reservation, depending on the day of the week. Fines for illegal parking can be up to $1,000.
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Shuttle
During the summer months (June 14 - September 14), a shuttle service operates from Breckenridge to the Quandary Peak Trailhead. From there, a second on-site shuttle will take you to McCullough Gulch. Check the schedule and reserve your spot in advance at hikequandary.com. The McCullough Gulch shuttle runs from 8 am to 4 pm, seven days a week. Cost: Shuttle tickets are $0 for residents (with proof of residency) and $7 for non-residents (round trip).
Discover more about McCullough Gulch Trailhead
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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