When you need to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Summit County is the perfect escape. There are dozens of breathtaking trails to choose from, but I’ve chosen one easy and accessible trail to tell you about. The trail begins near downtown Breckenridge and has incredible views of the ski runs and the town. The course also has a fairly easy running surface, although watch for rocks and tree roots.
For a fun three-mile run, start at the Morning Thunder trailhead. Follow the dirt singletrack up a short hill and to the right. The path is fairly flat and follows a canopy of Aspen trees. At the marked sign, follow the Pence Miller trail to the right. You’ll get a beautiful view of the town of Breckenridge with the majestic mountain peaks rising in the backdrop. Turn right at the Shock Hill trail sign. Although there isn’t much grass to keep you from straying from the trail, the path is outlined with tree limbs so runners and cyclists keep erosion of the habitat at a minimum.
The highlight of the run is the sweeping views of the ski slopes of Breckenridge. Wildlife is abundant in this area, so there are signs to remind you to keep your dog on the marked path. You’ll also run by a small pond and quaint cabin. Shortly after you pass the cabin, turn left off of the Shock Hill trail and onto Cucumber Gulch. You’ll run through a few houses and cross a large pedestrian bridge. After the bridge, follow the Pence Miller trail sign, then turn left onto the Morning Thunder trail to return to the start.
This is a short run, but there are many ways to lengthen the run by exploring the trails beyond Shock Hill. You can pick up free Summit County hiking and biking trail maps at Great Adventure Sports, which is located at 400 North Park Avenue in the City Market shopping area.
Bikers are allowed on the trail, and you’re allowed to bring your dog. In the winter, this trail is marked as a snowshoe path.
To get there, follow State Route 9 into Breckenridge. Turn right onto Park Avenue, then right onto Mountain Thunder Drive. You can park on the side of the road by the trailhead or park in the public lot on Park Avenue.