Summiting North Star Mountain
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.
North Star Mountain, a 13,614-foot peak on the Continental Divide in Colorado, offers a challenging but rewarding hike with stunning views. The most common access is via the east ridge from Hoosier Pass, involving a Class 2+ ridge walk with some rock navigation.
A brief summary to North Star Mountain
- Colorado, US
Local tips
- Start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, which are common in the Colorado Rockies, especially during the summer.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as the hike can take 5-6 hours round trip.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Layers are recommended.
Getting There
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Driving
The most common access to North Star Mountain is from Hoosier Pass. From Breckenridge, drive south on CO-9 for about 20 minutes to reach Hoosier Pass summit. From Alma, take CO-9 North for about 11 miles to the summit parking area. Parking is available at Hoosier Pass, but it can be busy on summer weekends. There are no fees for parking.
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Hiking
From the Hoosier Pass parking area, the trailhead is located on the west side of the road. Follow the 4WD road heading up the ridge. The hike is approximately 8 miles round trip with 2,400 feet of elevation gain. Be prepared for a Class 2+ ridge walk with some rock navigation.
Discover more about North Star Mountain
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Magnolia Mill
2.5 km
Discover the rich mining history at Magnolia Mill, a breathtaking historical landmark in Breckenridge, Colorado, surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes.
Epic Discovery Alpine Camp
10.6 km
Experience the thrill of outdoor adventures at Epic Discovery Alpine Camp in Breckenridge, Colorado, where nature meets excitement.
Bakers Tank Water Tower
11.4 km
Explore the historic Bakers Tank Water Tower in Breckenridge, Colorado, a beautiful landmark surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and rich local heritage.
One Ski Hill Place
11.7 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.
The Corral at Breckenridge
11.8 km
Experience luxury and adventure at The Corral at Breckenridge, your perfect mountain getaway for skiing, hiking, and relaxation.
BlueSky Breckenridge - By Vacasa
11.8 km
Discover unparalleled luxury and adventure at BlueSky Breckenridge, the ultimate indoor lodging and ski resort in the heart of Colorado's Rocky Mountains.
Hilton Grand Vacations Club Valdoro Mountain Lodge Breckenridge
11.8 km
Discover the perfect mountain getaway at Hilton Grand Vacations Club Valdoro Mountain Lodge, where adventure meets luxury in Breckenridge, Colorado.
Snow Mansion (Trot-Ski House) by Pinnacle Lodging
11.9 km
Experience luxury and adventure at Snow Mansion in Breckenridge, Colorado - your ideal retreat for skiing, relaxation, and breathtaking mountain views.
Main Street Station in Breckenridge by Vacasa
11.9 km
Discover the beauty of Breckenridge from Main Street Station, your cozy condominium complex in the heart of Colorado's mountain paradise.
Breckenridge Brewery & Pub
11.9 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.
Breckenridge History: Washington Mine & Milling Exhibit
11.9 km
Discover the intriguing history of Breckenridge at the Washington Mine & Milling Exhibit, where the spirit of the mining era comes alive amidst stunning Colorado landscapes.
Gravity Haus Breckenridge
12.0 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
12.0 km
Experience the essence of Breckenridge at Broken Compass Brewery, where craft beer meets community spirit in a charming setting.
Breckenridge Ale House & Pizza
12.0 km
Experience the best pizza and local brews at Breckenridge Ale House & Pizza, a cozy gem in the heart of Colorado's scenic mountains.
Der Steiermark
12.0 km
Experience the warmth of community at Der Steiermark in Breckenridge, where locals and tourists connect in a cozy atmosphere.
Unmissable attractions to see
Quandary Peak
2.3 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.
Montgomery Reservoir
3.1 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and outdoor adventures at Montgomery Reservoir, a serene lake nestled in the Colorado mountains.
Mt Lincoln
3.1 km
Conquer Colorado's majestic Mount Lincoln, the eighth-highest fourteener, for breathtaking views and a rewarding alpine adventure.
Quandary Peak Trailhead
3.3 km
Experience breathtaking views and exhilarating hikes at Quandary Peak Trailhead, a premier destination in the heart of Colorado's Rocky Mountains.
McCullough Gulch Trailhead
3.4 km
Discover alpine lakes and waterfalls on a scenic hike near Breckenridge. Experience Colorado's natural beauty at McCullough Gulch Trailhead.
Drift Peak
4.1 km
Conquer Drift Peak: A challenging hike near Breckenridge with rewarding panoramic views and a sense of high-altitude solitude.
Continental Falls
5.1 km
Hike to Continental Falls near Breckenridge for stunning views, alpine scenery, and a glimpse into Colorado's mining history.
Crystal Peak
6.5 km
Hike to panoramic views from Crystal Peak, a stunning summit in Colorado's Tenmile Range, offering a rewarding alpine experience.
Tenmile Range Peak 10
7.3 km
Conquer the heights of Breckenridge: Hike to the summit of Tenmile Range Peak 10 for breathtaking panoramic views of the Colorado Rockies.
Spruce Creek Trail (Dillon Ranger District)
7.8 km
Discover scenic beauty on Spruce Creek Trail: hike through forests, past waterfalls, and to stunning alpine lakes near Breckenridge, Colorado.
Mayflower Gulch Trail
8.3 km
Explore Colorado's mining history amidst stunning alpine scenery on the Mayflower Gulch Trail near Frisco.
Ten Mile Station
10.1 km
Elevated dining and stunning views await at this Peak 9 restaurant, a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort.
Imperial Express - Highest Ski Lift In North America
10.2 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
10.6 km
Experience breathtaking 360-degree views of the Rocky Mountains from the iconic Observation Tower at Breckenridge's Peak 8.
Breckenridge Ski Resort
11.4 km
Experience world-class skiing and historic charm at Breckenridge Ski Resort, nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies. A winter paradise awaits!
Essential places to dine
The Overlook Restaurant
9.7 km
Experience breathtaking mountain views and exquisite Asian cuisine at The Overlook Restaurant in beautiful Breckenridge.
Vista Haus
10.5 km
Discover family-friendly dining at Vista Haus in Breckenridge - where breathtaking views meet delicious cuisine.
Spencer's Restaurant
11.4 km
Experience the best of American cuisine amidst breathtaking mountain scenery at Spencer's Restaurant in Breckenridge.
9600 Kitchen
11.6 km
Experience authentic American cuisine amidst the breathtaking beauty of Breckenridge at 9600 Kitchen.
Ski Hill Grill
11.7 km
Experience mountain dining at its best at Ski Hill Grill in Breckenridge – delicious food and stunning views await!
TBar
11.8 km
Experience the perfect blend of American comfort food and vibrant Mexican flavors at TBar in Breckenridge, Colorado.
The Maggie
11.8 km
Experience classic American cuisine at The Maggie in Breckenridge - where comfort food meets mountain charm.
Robbie's Tavern
11.8 km
Experience authentic American cuisine at Robbie's Tavern in Breckenridge – perfect for unwinding after outdoor adventures.
Sauce on the Maggie
11.9 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Sauce on the Maggie in Breckenridge—where delicious pizza meets cozy mountain dining.
BoLD Restaurant and Bar
11.9 km
Experience Mediterranean flavors at BoLD Restaurant and Bar in Breckenridge – your ultimate breakfast and brunch destination.
Cabin Juice
11.9 km
Experience the best of Breckenridge dining at Cabin Juice - where local flavors meet culinary creativity in a charming atmosphere.
Blue Moose Restaurant
12.0 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
12.0 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Mi Casa Mexican Restaurant in Breckenridge—where every meal feels like a fiesta.
Empire Burger
12.0 km
Discover delicious burgers and family-friendly dining at Empire Burger in Breckenridge - the ultimate spot for food lovers!
South Ridge Seafood Grill
12.0 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
11.8 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
11.9 km
Discover the ultimate ski and snowboard experience at Breck Sports in Breckenridge, where quality gear meets exceptional service.
Folcland
11.9 km
Explore Folcland in Breckenridge for unique women's clothing that captures the essence of local culture and style.
Christy Sports
11.9 km
Discover the best outdoor gear and rentals in Breckenridge at Christy Sports, your adventure starts here with bicycles, skis, and snowboards.
Rocket Fizz Breckenridge
11.9 km
Experience the whimsical world of sweets at Rocket Fizz Breckenridge, where nostalgia meets an eclectic candy paradise.
Faith & Flair Boutique
11.9 km
Explore distinctive fashion at Faith & Flair Boutique in Breckenridge, where style meets comfort amidst the scenic Colorado mountains.
La Cima Mall
12.0 km
Experience shopping like never before at La Cima Mall in Breckenridge, where local charm meets retail delight amidst stunning mountain views.
Breckenridge Store
12.0 km
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Bear Claw Trading Co
12.0 km
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Ohana Breckenridge
12.0 km
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Russian Gifts
12.0 km
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Global Candle Store
12.1 km
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Main Street Mall
12.1 km
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Joy of Sox
12.1 km
Explore Joy of Sox in Breckenridge for unique gifts, fashion accessories, and delightful toys that capture the essence of Colorado.
The North Face
12.1 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Coppertop Bar & Restaurant
11.4 km
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Base Nine
11.5 km
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Cecilia's Nightclub and Cocktail Bar
12.0 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
12.0 km
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Brooklyn's Tavern and Billiards
12.0 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
12.1 km
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The Absinthe Bar
12.1 km
Discover the charm of The Absinthe Bar in Breckenridge, where unique cocktails and a cozy atmosphere create unforgettable memories.
Ski Town Chicken Joint
12.2 km
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Fireside Lounge
12.4 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
12.4 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
12.5 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
21.9 km
Discover the unique blend of artisanal coffee and handcrafted cocktails at Before & After in Leadville, Colorado.
The Manhattan Bar
21.9 km
Experience the charm of Leadville at The Manhattan Bar, where friendly service meets a cozy atmosphere and affordable drinks await.
Scarlet Tavern
22.0 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Scarlet Tavern in Leadville, Colorado, where craft cocktails and friendly faces await after your mountain adventures.
The Legendary Silver Dollar Saloon
22.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and rich history at The Legendary Silver Dollar Saloon in Leadville, Colorado, where great food and local brews await.