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Cucumber Gulch Wildlife Preserve: A Mountain Wetland Sanctuary

Discover Breckenridge's wild side: Explore Cucumber Gulch, a unique wetland preserve teeming with wildlife and natural beauty.

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Cucumber Gulch Wildlife Preserve, a 188-acre sanctuary near Breckenridge's Main Street, protects rare fen wetlands and diverse wildlife. It's a vital habitat for moose, elk, beavers, and the endangered boreal toad, offering easy hiking trails amidst stunning natural beauty.

A brief summary to Cucumber Gulch Wildlife Preserve

Local tips

  • Dogs are not allowed in the preserve to protect the delicate ecosystem and wildlife.
  • Access the preserve through designated trailhead portals only.
  • Stay on established and signed trails to help protect the preserve.
  • Group sizes are limited to 8 people or less.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Main Street Breckenridge, head east towards Ski Hill Road. Walk along Ski Hill Road for approximately half a mile. The Nordic Center, which serves as one of the main access points to Cucumber Gulch, will be on your right. From there, follow the signed trails into the preserve. Note that a fee may be required to access the trails in the winter.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Breckenridge Free Ride bus to the Breckenridge Nordic Center stop on Ski Hill Road. From the bus stop, walk a short distance to the Nordic Center and access the Cucumber Gulch trails from there. The Breckenridge Free Ride is free of charge.

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Discover more about Cucumber Gulch Wildlife Preserve

Just a mile from downtown Breckenridge, Cucumber Gulch Wildlife Preserve offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a protected wetland ecosystem. This 188-acre preserve is home to 77 acres of rare fen wetlands, a landscape shaped over millennia by groundwater. These wetlands provide a critical habitat for a diverse array of wildlife, including moose, elk, deer, beavers, and nearly 50 species of birds. Keep an eye out for the state-endangered boreal toad, a key indicator of the preserve's ecological health. The preserve features a network of trails suitable for relaxed hiking and wildlife viewing. The terrain is relatively gentle, making it an ideal destination for families and those seeking a peaceful outdoor experience. While access to the gulch itself is restricted during the summer to protect the fragile ecosystem, the surrounding trails offer ample opportunities to observe wildlife in their natural habitat. Remember to stay on designated trails and respect the preserve's regulations to minimize disturbance to the animals and their environment. Cucumber Gulch's location, nestled between the town and the Breckenridge Ski Resort, highlights the importance of conservation efforts in the face of development. The Town of Breckenridge has been actively involved in protecting the area since the inception of its Open Space Program. Management efforts include seasonal wildlife closures, interpretive signage, and ongoing research to assess changes in the wetlands and wildlife populations.

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