Continental Falls: A Rocky Mountain Cascade
Hike to Continental Falls near Breckenridge for stunning views, alpine scenery, and a glimpse into Colorado's mining history.
Continental Falls, near Breckenridge, Colorado, is the largest waterfall in the Tenmile Range. A moderate 2.5-mile hike leads to the base of the falls, rewarding hikers with stunning mountain views, alpine meadows, and the remnants of a historic mining operation.
A brief summary to Continental Falls
- Breckenridge, Colorado, 80424, US
Local tips
- Start your hike early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of water, as the trail is rocky and has a significant elevation gain.
- Be careful around the old mining ruins and heed any warning signs.
- Consider continuing your hike past Continental Falls to visit the scenic Mohawk Lakes.
Getting There
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Driving
From Breckenridge, drive south on CO-9 for approximately 2.5 miles to Spruce Creek Road (CR 800). Turn right onto Spruce Creek Road and follow it for about 1.1 miles to the trailhead. Limited parking is available at the trailhead. Some opt to drive further up the rough 4WD road for another 1.5 miles to park closer to the trail. Parking is free.
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Public Transport
Take the Breck Free Ride bus from the Breckenridge Transit Center to a stop near the Spruce Creek Road. From there, it's approximately a 2.5-mile walk to the Spruce Creek Trailhead. The Breck Free Ride is free to all users.
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Walking
From the south end of Breckenridge (junction of Main and South Park Ave), walk south along CO-9 for approximately 2.5 miles to Spruce Creek Road. Turn right onto Spruce Creek Road and walk for about 1.1 miles to the trailhead. This is a lengthy walk, so consider alternative transportation. There are no costs associated with walking.
Discover more about Continental Falls
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Epic Discovery Alpine Camp
5.7 km
Experience the thrill of outdoor adventures at Epic Discovery Alpine Camp in Breckenridge, Colorado, where nature meets excitement.
One Ski Hill Place
6.7 km
Experience luxury and adventure at One Ski Hill Place, the premier ski-in, ski-out resort in Breckenridge, Colorado, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.
BlueSky Breckenridge - By Vacasa
6.8 km
Discover unparalleled luxury and adventure at BlueSky Breckenridge, the ultimate indoor lodging and ski resort in the heart of Colorado's Rocky Mountains.
The Corral at Breckenridge
6.8 km
Experience luxury and adventure at The Corral at Breckenridge, your perfect mountain getaway for skiing, hiking, and relaxation.
Hilton Grand Vacations Club Valdoro Mountain Lodge Breckenridge
6.8 km
Discover the perfect mountain getaway at Hilton Grand Vacations Club Valdoro Mountain Lodge, where adventure meets luxury in Breckenridge, Colorado.
Main Street Station in Breckenridge by Vacasa
6.9 km
Discover the beauty of Breckenridge from Main Street Station, your cozy condominium complex in the heart of Colorado's mountain paradise.
Snow Mansion (Trot-Ski House) by Pinnacle Lodging
6.9 km
Experience luxury and adventure at Snow Mansion in Breckenridge, Colorado - your ideal retreat for skiing, relaxation, and breathtaking mountain views.
Breckenridge Brewery & Pub
6.9 km
Discover the perfect blend of local craft beer and hearty cuisine at Breckenridge Brewery & Pub, a must-visit destination in Colorado's scenic mountains.
Gravity Haus Breckenridge
6.9 km
Discover the perfect blend of luxury, outdoor adventure, and vibrant social life at Gravity Haus Breckenridge, your ultimate mountain getaway.
Broken Compass Brewery Main Street
7.0 km
Experience the essence of Breckenridge at Broken Compass Brewery, where craft beer meets community spirit in a charming setting.
4 O'Clock Lodge A16 by Pinnacle Lodging
7.0 km
Discover the charm of Breckenridge at 4 O'Clock Lodge A16, your cozy mountain retreat with ski-in/ski-out access and modern amenities.
Der Steiermark
7.0 km
Experience the warmth of community at Der Steiermark in Breckenridge, where locals and tourists connect in a cozy atmosphere.
Breckenridge Ale House & Pizza
7.0 km
Experience the best pizza and local brews at Breckenridge Ale House & Pizza, a cozy gem in the heart of Colorado's scenic mountains.
Nature's Own-Breckenridge
7.0 km
Explore Nature's Own in Breckenridge – a charming rock shop filled with unique minerals, books, and delightful toys for nature lovers and families.
Magnolia Mill
7.1 km
Discover the rich mining history at Magnolia Mill, a breathtaking historical landmark in Breckenridge, Colorado, surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes.
Unmissable attractions to see
McCullough Gulch Trailhead
2.7 km
Discover alpine lakes and waterfalls on a scenic hike near Breckenridge. Experience Colorado's natural beauty at McCullough Gulch Trailhead.
Tenmile Range Peak 10
3.0 km
Conquer the heights of Breckenridge: Hike to the summit of Tenmile Range Peak 10 for breathtaking panoramic views of the Colorado Rockies.
Crystal Peak
3.2 km
Hike to panoramic views from Crystal Peak, a stunning summit in Colorado's Tenmile Range, offering a rewarding alpine experience.
Spruce Creek Trail (Dillon Ranger District)
3.2 km
Discover scenic beauty on Spruce Creek Trail: hike through forests, past waterfalls, and to stunning alpine lakes near Breckenridge, Colorado.
Quandary Peak
3.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Quandary Peak, a stunning 14,197-foot mountain offering challenging hikes and incredible views in Colorado's Rocky Mountains.
Quandary Peak Trailhead
4.3 km
Experience breathtaking views and exhilarating hikes at Quandary Peak Trailhead, a premier destination in the heart of Colorado's Rocky Mountains.
Ten Mile Station
5.0 km
Elevated dining and stunning views await at this Peak 9 restaurant, a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort.
North Star Mountain
5.1 km
Hike to the 13,614-foot summit of North Star Mountain in Colorado for stunning views from the Continental Divide; a challenging but rewarding alpine experience.
Drift Peak
5.2 km
Conquer Drift Peak: A challenging hike near Breckenridge with rewarding panoramic views and a sense of high-altitude solitude.
Imperial Express - Highest Ski Lift In North America
5.4 km
Ascend to 12,840 feet on North America's highest chairlift at Breckenridge, offering unmatched views and access to expert terrain.
Observation Tower at Peak 8
5.7 km
Experience breathtaking 360-degree views of the Rocky Mountains from the iconic Observation Tower at Breckenridge's Peak 8.
Breckenridge Ski Resort
6.4 km
Experience world-class skiing and historic charm at Breckenridge Ski Resort, nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies. A winter paradise awaits!
Gold Runner Coaster
6.6 km
Experience a thrilling ride through the forest on Breckenridge's Gold Runner Coaster, a perfect blend of speed and scenic views.
Alpine Slide
6.7 km
Experience a thrilling ride down the mountain at the Breckenridge Alpine Slide, a perfect summer adventure for the whole family!
Breckenridge Fun Park
6.8 km
Experience the thrill of Breckenridge Fun Park, where excitement meets the breathtaking beauty of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado.
Essential places to dine
The Overlook Restaurant
4.7 km
Experience breathtaking mountain views and exquisite Asian cuisine at The Overlook Restaurant in beautiful Breckenridge.
Vista Haus
5.6 km
Discover family-friendly dining at Vista Haus in Breckenridge - where breathtaking views meet delicious cuisine.
Spencer's Restaurant
6.4 km
Experience the best of American cuisine amidst breathtaking mountain scenery at Spencer's Restaurant in Breckenridge.
9600 Kitchen
6.6 km
Experience authentic American cuisine amidst the breathtaking beauty of Breckenridge at 9600 Kitchen.
Ski Hill Grill
6.7 km
Experience mountain dining at its best at Ski Hill Grill in Breckenridge – delicious food and stunning views await!
TBar
6.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of American comfort food and vibrant Mexican flavors at TBar in Breckenridge, Colorado.
The Maggie
6.8 km
Experience classic American cuisine at The Maggie in Breckenridge - where comfort food meets mountain charm.
Robbie's Tavern
6.8 km
Experience authentic American cuisine at Robbie's Tavern in Breckenridge – perfect for unwinding after outdoor adventures.
Sauce on the Maggie
6.9 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Sauce on the Maggie in Breckenridge—where delicious pizza meets cozy mountain dining.
BoLD Restaurant and Bar
6.9 km
Experience Mediterranean flavors at BoLD Restaurant and Bar in Breckenridge – your ultimate breakfast and brunch destination.
Cabin Juice
6.9 km
Experience the best of Breckenridge dining at Cabin Juice - where local flavors meet culinary creativity in a charming atmosphere.
Blue Moose Restaurant
6.9 km
Experience delightful breakfasts at Blue Moose Restaurant in Breckenridge, featuring famous cinnamon rolls and an inviting mountain atmosphere.
Mi Casa Mexican Restaurant and Cantina
7.0 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Mi Casa Mexican Restaurant in Breckenridge—where every meal feels like a fiesta.
Empire Burger
7.0 km
Discover delicious burgers and family-friendly dining at Empire Burger in Breckenridge - the ultimate spot for food lovers!
South Ridge Seafood Grill
7.0 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at South Ridge Seafood Grill in Breckenridge - where every dish tells a story of flavor and quality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Breck Sports - The Maggie
6.8 km
Explore Breckenridge's premier ski rental service at Breck Sports - The Maggie, your top choice for winter sports equipment and expert advice.
Breck Sports - Village
6.9 km
Discover the ultimate ski and snowboard experience at Breck Sports in Breckenridge, where quality gear meets exceptional service.
Folcland
6.9 km
Explore Folcland in Breckenridge for unique women's clothing that captures the essence of local culture and style.
Rocket Fizz Breckenridge
6.9 km
Experience the whimsical world of sweets at Rocket Fizz Breckenridge, where nostalgia meets an eclectic candy paradise.
Christy Sports
6.9 km
Discover the best outdoor gear and rentals in Breckenridge at Christy Sports, your adventure starts here with bicycles, skis, and snowboards.
Faith & Flair Boutique
6.9 km
Explore distinctive fashion at Faith & Flair Boutique in Breckenridge, where style meets comfort amidst the scenic Colorado mountains.
Breckenridge Store
7.0 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Breckenridge Store, your one-stop shop for memorable souvenirs in Colorado's mountain paradise.
La Cima Mall
7.0 km
Experience shopping like never before at La Cima Mall in Breckenridge, where local charm meets retail delight amidst stunning mountain views.
Ohana Breckenridge
7.0 km
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Bear Claw Trading Co
7.0 km
Explore Bear Claw Trading Co in Breckenridge: Your ultimate destination for local fashion and outdoor gear in the heart of the Rockies.
Russian Gifts
7.0 km
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Main Street Mall
7.1 km
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Global Candle Store
7.1 km
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Joy of Sox
7.1 km
Explore Joy of Sox in Breckenridge for unique gifts, fashion accessories, and delightful toys that capture the essence of Colorado.
The North Face
7.1 km
Explore the great outdoors with quality gear from The North Face in Breckenridge, your ultimate sportswear destination for adventure.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Coppertop Bar & Restaurant
6.4 km
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Base Nine
6.4 km
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Cecilia's Nightclub and Cocktail Bar
7.0 km
Experience Breckenridge's nightlife at Cecilia's Nightclub and Cocktail Bar, where cocktails and dancing blend for an unforgettable evening.
Burke and Riley's Irish Pub
7.0 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Burke and Riley's Irish Pub in Breckenridge, where delicious food, drinks, and live music meet the charm of Ireland.
Brooklyn's Tavern and Billiards
7.0 km
Experience the lively atmosphere at Brooklyn's Tavern and Billiards, Breckenridge's favorite bar and pool hall, perfect for relaxation and fun.
Molly Jacks
7.1 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and diverse drink selection at Molly Jacks, a must-visit bar in the heart of Breckenridge, Colorado.
The Absinthe Bar
7.1 km
Discover the charm of The Absinthe Bar in Breckenridge, where unique cocktails and a cozy atmosphere create unforgettable memories.
Ski Town Chicken Joint
7.2 km
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Fireside Lounge
7.3 km
Discover the warmth of Fireside Lounge in Breckenridge, a cozy bar perfect for relaxing after mountain adventures with great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Prospector
7.3 km
Discover Prospector in Breckenridge, where expertly crafted cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere come together for an unforgettable night out.
Napper Tandy's Irish Pub
7.5 km
Discover the charm of Napper Tandy's Irish Pub in Breckenridge, CO, where authentic Irish food and drinks meet a lively atmosphere.
Before & After, Coffee & Cocktails
26.3 km
Discover the unique blend of artisanal coffee and handcrafted cocktails at Before & After in Leadville, Colorado.
The Manhattan Bar
26.3 km
Experience the charm of Leadville at The Manhattan Bar, where friendly service meets a cozy atmosphere and affordable drinks await.
Scarlet Tavern
26.4 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Scarlet Tavern in Leadville, Colorado, where craft cocktails and friendly faces await after your mountain adventures.
The Famous
26.5 km
Discover The Famous in Leadville, where gourmet pizzas meet a vibrant sports bar atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.
