McCullough Gulch Trail: A Spectacular Moderate Hiking Experience in Breckenridge (Revised)
Freshened Trails and High-Altitude Escapades: Exploring McCullough Gulch
Strap on those hiking boots and journey to the picturesque trails of McCullough Gulch, a well-trodden, moderately challenging, 6.4-mile trail sitting just beyond the bustling town of Breckenridge, Colorado. This trail boasts a plethora of reasons for its fame, including the breathtaking vistas and accessibility that makes it one of the best in Summit County.
Setting off from the parking lot at 11,000 feet, you'll gradually ascend to an ethereal alpine lake nestled above a colossal waterfall, White Falls. Quandary Peak, the grand 14,000 feet peak, will be a constant companion to your south as you climb. As you advance in elevation, the Red Mountain, an off-the-beaten-path 13er, gradually reveals itself to the east.
To evade the crowds, hike during weekdays or the off-season, and prepare to be captivated by the unspoiled panoramas, waterfall, and two alpine lakes without the company of countless hikers.
As of 2021, Quandary Peak and McCullough Gulch have enforced parking reservations. If a reservation isn't available, consider using a shuttle service from town.
Trail Stats
Distance: 6.4 miles round-trip (4 miles RT to first lake only)Elevation Gain: 1,607 feetBest Time to Hike: June to September (depending on previous years' snow accumulation)Features: cascading waterfall, 2 alpine lakes, wildflowers, mountain viewsDifficulty Rating: moderate to challengingStarting Elevation: approximately 11,000 feetUpper Lake Elevation: approximately 12,500 feet
Hiking McCullough Gulch
The trail starts with a 0.7-mile stretch along a dirt road. After making a left at the trailhead signboard, the trail morphs into an old mining access road. The road may be bumpy, but its width provides an easier passage for uphill and downhill hikers. A disused mining cabin sits to your right, devoid of public access.
Continuing on, the trail converts to a traditional single-track hiking trail with multiple offshoots and social trails. Keep an eye out for signs indicating the main path. You will soon hear White Falls in the distance and catch glimpses of it as it trickles through the trees on your left.
The first notable viewpoint of the waterfall emerges at about 1.7 miles, offering a panorama of the waterfall amidst a backdrop of large boulders perfect for lounging, snacking, and soaking in the invigorating sounds of the waterfall. White Falls made our list of exceptional Breckenridge waterfall hikes!
Hiking another 0.3 miles beyond the viewpoint will lead you to the first alpine lake, nestled at approximately 11,900 feet, forming an Alpine Tundra landscape. Keep an eye peeled for delicate alpine Forget-Me-Not and Purple Fringe, among other rare and short-lived wildflowers.
Hiking for another 1.2 miles will bring you to the upper alpine lake, nestled above 12,500 feet. If you've saved enough energy, the payoff is spectacular views and alpine wildflowers, and you may even catch a glimpse of the resident mountain goats.
Pro-tip: Start early and aim to finish (or be below the tree line) by early afternoon to avoid pop-up thunderstorms common in the mountains. Remember, hiking in the rain is safe, but be cautious if lightning is involved, and head down immediately.
When in doubt, turn back and schedule another adventure. Even if all you can manage is a visit to the waterfall and lower lake, it's sure to be an unforgettable experience, finding a deserving spot on your list of top hikes in Breckenridge.
Navigating to McCullough Gulch Trailhead
To reach the trailhead, head south from Breckenridge on Highway 9 for approximately 7 miles. Just before the first highway switchback, turn right onto Blue Lakes Road, which also serves the Quandary Peak Trailhead and Blue Lakes. Take a right onto McCullough Gulch Road, which is 75 yards ahead on the right after leaving the highway. You will travel along this dirt road until you come across a "no parking beyond this gate" sign. Park in the area along the road, and continue on foot beyond the gate onto an occasionally challenging dirt road, which can be negotiated by most vehicles.
Make sure to pack all the essentials for a day hike, and don't forget to break in your hiking boots before taking them on this adventure.
fellow explorers:
Embark on one of these awe-inspiring nearby trails:
- Mohawk Lakes and Continental Falls
- Hoosier Pass & Crystal Lake
- Shrine Ridge
Bonus Bits: Pinnable Pins!
Save this guide for handy reference, and don't forget to check out our other featuring trails, adventures, and beautiful destinations across Colorado. Safe travels and happy hiking!
- Rather than settling for outdoor-living within the confines of home-and-garden, embrace the wilderness by hiking the McCullough Gulch trail, a moderately challenging 6.4-mile trail in Colorado, perfect for amateur and seasoned hikers alike.
- The trail's stunning scenic views, cascading waterfall, and two alpine lakes, in addition to the possibility of spotting mountain goats, make it a worthy addition to one's top hikes in Breckenridge. So, plan your outdoor-living adventure today!
- As you immerse yourself in the thrilling lifestyle of outdoor-living, remember that preparing for your hike by checking the weather for the best trekking conditions and packing essentials, such as your hiking boots, will ensure a safe and satisfying journey.
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