Breckenridge in October signals a major transition in the Rocky Mountains. It’s that precious sliver of time between the heat of summer and the bustle of winter ski season. Take in breathtaking fall scenery, celebrate spooky season and find solitude on Breckenridge’s trails and around historic downtown. If you’re lucky, you may even have a chance to enjoy some of the first snowfall of the season and take in views of Breckenridge’s snow-capped peaks mixed with golden leaves. Embrace the crisp mountain air, grab a cozy flannel and explore our favorite October activities and planning tips.
Weather
October is a great time to take in the last of autumn’s golden aspen leaves as well as snowy mountain tops. There are hundreds of miles of trails in and around Breckenridge, so whether you’ve done your fair share of hiking or biking, or you’re new to the activity, you’re sure to find a trail that will meet your needs. Trail accessibility will vary depending on weather and snowfall, so be sure to check-out trail conditions before you go.
Does it snow in Breckenridge in October?
Breckenridge in October combines the best of both worlds. The summer heat is gone, but you can still hit the trails and the stoke is high for the upcoming ski and snowboard season. Temperatures in October range in the 50s, sometimes dropping into the 40s with an occasional snowfall, and sometimes reaching the 60s, perfect for après on the patio.
What should I wear in Breckenridge in October?
During the daytime, it’s the perfect weather for cozy fall attire. Sweaters, boots, chunky scarves and light jackets are the norm, and fall-flavored lattes and spiced ciders are readily available at Breckenridge’s local coffee shops. As always, bring layers and sun protection for changing weather conditions. It could be sunny one day and snowy the next!
October Events & Festivals
Craft Spirits Festival
The Breckenridge Craft Spirits Festival is Colorado’s premier craft spirits festival, bringing together some of the finest distillers to share their talents, fun times, artisan snacks and the quality spirits. The Breckenridge community turns into a distilling-mecca with one-of-a-kind experiences planned throughout the weekend.
The Still on the Hill Grand Tasting is the festival’s premier event and most sought after ticket of the weekend.
Dia De Los Muertos Celebration
Dia De Los Muertos, or “Day of the Dead,” is a traditional Mexican holiday celebrating ancestors and loved ones who’ve passed. Join BreckCreate for a two-day commemoration of featuring hands-on workshops, art installations, and performances on the Arts District campus.
Spooky Season Activities & Halloween in Breckenridge
Ghost & Historic Tours
Ready to get spooked? Explore the darker side of our wild west past with chilling tales of the ghosts that remain here on a ghost or cemetery walking tour. Check out Breckenridge Tours’ Ghostly Tales tour, or the Voices from the Grave tour which starts at the site of the original cemetery of Breckenridge. Learn about Breckenridge’s rich history by taking a guided historic tour, hike or mining tour with Breckenridge History. Don’t miss out on Breckenridge’s free museums around town, too!
The Haunting at Breck Theater
Join BreckCreate and Breckenridge Backstage Theater’s live event that combines haunted tales and performances from professional actors with a spirited interactive haunted house. Get there early for spooky activities, live storytellers, riddles, puzzles, and quests, photo opportunities, and unique cocktails and treats. Each year brings a new theme to downtown Breckenridge!
Pumpkin Patch Wagon Rides
Hitch a ride on a horse-drawn, Amish hand-made wagon with Breckenridge Stables! Enjoy views of the majestic Ten Mile Range and Mt. Baldy while riding approximately 20 minutes to a scenic destination. Hop off the wagon to a pumpkin patch and snag a pumpkin which is included in your experience. Enjoy good company, take pictures, and hope to see wildlife next to a pond while picking the perfect pumpkin to take home. You’ll hop back in the wagon to enjoy another 20-minute ride back to the Clubhouse. Warm blankets will be provided.
What else is there to do in Breckenridge in October?
Hit The Trails
The temperatures have cooled off and the trails aren’t as crowded, meaning it’s the perfect time to hike or bike the hundreds of miles of trails in and around Breckenridge. Enjoy solitude on some of our most popular trails as all the summer visitors have gone. Start checking off the list from our favorite Breckenridge hikes and be sure to Leave No Trace while you’re out!
For the most part, trails are dry during this time of year (although an occasional snow or sleet may occur). Always pack extra layers for changing mountain conditions and check the weather before you head out. Stick to dry trails as to not ruin them for other explorers!
Eclipse Movie Theater
Visit Breckenridge’s only movie theater, the Eclipse Theater, to catch a flick year round! The Eclipse offers a variety of blockbuster, indie, classic, foreign, and outdoor films. Don’t forget to stock up on fresh popcorn and snacks, plus the adults can enjoy local beer and wine on tap.
Taste Your Way Though Town
Did you know Breckenridge is home to the highest winery and the highest distillery in North America? Or some of the best breweries in Colorado? Drink local and head out to one of these libation stations for a behind the scenes tour, tasting, blending class, flight, or afternoon delight! Opt for a bike and brew tour along the rec path to the north side of town to enjoy cocktails and games outdoors at Broken Compass Brewery or Breckenridge Distillery.
If you love Breckenridge’s tasty concoctions, don’t miss the Breckenridge Craft Spirit Festival. The event features small-batch distillers, artisan spirit seminars, a spirited cooking class, scavenger hunt, fine local cuisine and of course, plenty of sampling.
Craft and Create
Get artsy and try something new with BreckCreate’s workshops and classes. Bring the whole family and try throwing your own pottery, making candles, glass blowing and more! Check the schedule for the lineup of activities and classes. Don’t miss their other events like concerts, open studios and shows too!
Cozy up and let your creative juices fly inside Breckenridge’s paint your own pottery studio, Ready Paint Fire! Enjoy fun projects like pottery and canvas painting, candle making, mosaic art, glass fusing and more! Guests can follow tutorials or let their imagination flow. Unwind and relax with a glass of wine or beer, or bring your own snacks to indulge while you craft. Ready Paint Fire is the perfect evening activity for all ages, those who don’t want to ski, or those who need to take a rest!
Head Underground
Head just 2 miles outside town to the historic and restored Country Boy Mine, which offers underground mine tours and even gold panning! In the midst of the majestic Rocky Mountains, the Country Boy Mine was one of the largest and most famous gold mines in Breckenridge, Colorado. Today, enjoy the many activities the mine has to offer. Gold pan, pet the burros, slide down the 55 foot ore chute, explore the authentic mine site, view the exhibits and equipment that were used in the mine and visit the general store.
Treat Yourself
October is the perfect time to catch up on self care and get ready for ski season. Treat yourself and explore many of the massage and spa deals around town during the transition time or head to a yoga class during your stay. Take it one step farther and head to the Breckenridge Recreation Center to soak in the hot tub or sweat in the sauna.
Head to the River
While fly-fishing is available year-round in Breckenridge, fall is one of our favorite times to fish. The weather and water conditions can often be more stable than spring or summer, leading to a nice stretch of amazing dry fly fishing. Head out on your own or sign-up for a full or half-day guided tour to get geared up, transported, and taught the secrets of casting and catching by a local expert. Guided tours are available for those who are new to the sport, new to the area or those who are just looking for a good time!
Escape Rooms
Seek clues, solve unique puzzles, answer questions, and work together to try to escape! These all-age-friendly Breckenridge-themed rooms consist of stories, decorations, and technology to immerse you in a fun game for all. You’ll have 60 minutes to complete each of your adventures! You can also check out these outdoor escape rooms in town. This is a great bonding activity for families, friends, date nights, bachelorette, bachelor or birthday parties, co-workers, and teammates.
Looking for more activities? Check out or list of 50 Things to do this Fall in Breckenridge, and additional Indoor Activities in Breckenridge.
Tips for Traveling to Breckenridge in October
Before you head out to the local restaurants, stores or coffee shops, check with the Breckenridge Welcome Center to see what’s open, what’s closed and where to get the best deals.
If you have a winter gear wish list and a hankering for good food, head to Breckenridge in October to take advantage of all the great pre-season deals. Many clothing and gear stores heavily discount in the fall to make room for this winter’s newest models and styles.
No car? No Problem. Breckenridge’s easily walkable town and a trail network accessible just blocks from Main Street, most activities–including skiing, hiking, biking, shopping, eating, live music and more–are just a short stroll away once you reach downtown Breckenridge. Take advantage of our free bus system, free hotel shuttles, bike rentals and ride-share apps.
