Exploring the Continental Falls and Mohawk Lakes Trail
Venture Beyond Downtown Breckenridge:
Step off the bustling city streets of Breckenridge and find yourself immersed in nature's beauty with the Continental Falls Hike and Mohawk Lakes Trail. It's one of our favorite hikes in the area, boasting breathtaking pine forests, enchanting alpine lakes, and the awe-inspiring Continental Falls – the crown jewel of Breckenridge and Summit County!
While it's hard to pin down the distance and elevation gain due to the various starting and ending points, it's essential to research using either All Trails or CoTrex to get a better insight into the challenge you're signing up for.
Trail Stats
- Distance (approx.): 3-10 miles (depending on your chosen path)
- Elevation Gain: It varies significantly, so do your research to prepare accordingly
- Route Type: Out and back
- Difficulty: Moderate to demanding
This trail system includes seven stunning lakes nestled in the valley, and you can park in three distinct areas depending on your vehicle type. The hike's difficulty and distance are subject to change based on your starting point and desired turnaround spot – making it a versatile adventure suited for both leisurely strolls and heart-pounding treks.
Remember, this trail lies at high altitude, and no matter the length or terrain, the views are truly worth the effort. However, proper precautions and preparation are essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
Hiking the Trails
Following the Spruce Creek Trail, you'll find yourself wandering through a picturesque conifer forest. The initial ascent is gentle, providing a warm-up for the more challenging portions ahead. Upon reaching the trailhead, follow signs for the Continental Falls Trail, utilizing the AllTrails Listing as a helpful guide.
The hike's first challenging section is the approach to Mayflower Lake and the base of Continental Falls – a slightly more moderate portion of the trek. From there, continuing to the charming cabins that punctuate the landscape, you'll find signage for Mohawk Lakes.
Using your downloaded trail route becomes invaluable at this point, making it easier to navigate the maze of social trails and find your way to Mohawk Lake and its scenic vistas.
After ascending the series of switchbacks near Continental Falls, you reach Lower Mohawk Lake – an excellent spot for a rest and snack. Those who wish to venture further can proceed to the upper lake, where the wildflers spring to life in the summer!
Getting to Continental Falls and Mohawk Lakes
Starting in Breckenridge, head south on Hwy 9 and make a right onto Spruce Creek Road. After turning left twice on Spruce Creek Road, find the first parking area. A 2WD vehicle or one with low clearance should park here, with an approximately 7-mile round trip and 1,700-foot elevation gain to Upper Mohawk Lake.
If you can navigate your way to the upper parking lot, you'll save around 3.6 miles, making it essential to consider your comfort levels when tackling the rocky, uneven road.
A Few Final Thoughts
This trail is a must-do for visitors to the Breckenridge area! Its magical forests, shimmering lakes, and unforgettable waterfall make it a truly unique experience. With its increased popularity, be sure to start early and plan ahead to avoid the crowds.
For those who love to fish, the beautiful cutthroat trout in both Upper and Lower Mohawk Lakes await – be kind to the environment and practice catch-and-release fishing. Stay well-equipped with plenty of water, layers, and knowledge of day hiking essentials for a successful and safe journey in the Colorado mountains.
Don't forget, driving to the uppermost parking area saves you a significant amount of mileage, making it worth the extra effort – just be mindful of road conditions and your vehicle's capabilities.
Enjoy your trek, and let's help preserve this trail for generations to come by following Leave No Trace principles!
Nearby Hikes:
Besides the Continental Falls Hike, there are several other recommended hikes near Breckenridge, Colorado, including:
- Blue Lakes (easy)
- McCullough Gulch (moderate)
- Hoosier Pass & Crystal Lake (easy-moderate)
- Lake Emma (moderate)
- Quandary Peak & Decalibron 14ers (difficult)
Happy hiking, and remember – adventure awaits!
- Embark on an exhilarating adventure with the Continental Falls Hike and Mohawk Lakes Trail, located close to Breckenridge, offering stunning pine forests, enchanting alpine lakes, and the awe-inspiring Continental Falls.
- While hiking the trails, utilize helpful resources such as the All Trails or CoTrex apps to gain insight into distances, elevation gains, and difficulty levels, ensuring you're prepared for the journey.
- Traversing the seven breathtaking lakes nestled within the valley on this versatile adventure requires proper planning and preparation, including considering starting points, ending spots, and road conditions to create an enjoyable and safe experience in the Colorado mountains.
