Alternative Routes to Breckenridge

While I-70 is the most common route from Denver to Breckenridge, it can often be congested and prone to closures, especially during winter months. Several alternative routes not only bypass these challenges but also offer unique opportunities to experience the beauty and adventure of the Colorado Rocky Mountains. Whether you’re seeking a scenic drive, a chance to explore lesser-known towns, or an immersive wilderness experience, these alternative routes from Denver to Breckenridge cater to various travel styles and preferences.

At Blue Sky Limo, we have provided thousands of shuttle services from Denver to Breckenridge, navigating both the well-traveled I-70 route and its scenic alternatives. Our expert drivers possess intimate knowledge of these roads, always ensuring that our passengers arrive at their destination safely and comfortably, even when faced with congestion or winter closures. In this guide, we’ll detail the unique features, travel times, and points of interest for each alternative route from Denver to Breckenridge, empowering you to choose the best option for your travel preferences and circumstances.

Alternative Routes from Denver to Breckenridge

Route Name	Distance	Travel Time	Unique Features	Points of Interest
High Country Highway	120 miles	~2h 45mins	Scenic route over Kenosha Pass	Kenosha Pass, Fairplay, Alma, Blue River
Rocky Mountain Wilderness Way	165 miles	~3h 30mins	Passes through Winter Park and Kremmling	Winter Park, Hot Sulphur Springs, Green Mountain Reservoir
Southern Route	215 miles	~4h	Passes through Colorado Springs and South Park	Garden of the Gods, Florissant Fossil Beds, South Park

The picturesque High Country Highway via Kenosha Pass, the adventurous Rocky Mountain Wilderness Way through Winter Park, and the historic Southern Route via Colorado Springs each offer their own unique charms. From breathtaking mountain vistas and quaint historic towns to remote landscapes and seasonal attractions, these routes provide diverse experiences of Colorado’s natural beauty. With detailed directions, travel times, and insider tips on points of interest along the way, you’ll be equipped to plan a journey that’s as unforgettable as the destination itself, allowing you to experience the Colorado Rockies like never before.

Each of these routes presents its own set of advantages and challenges. The High Country Highway offers a balance of scenic beauty and accessibility, while the Rocky Mountain Wilderness Way provides a more immersive mountain experience but with a longer travel time. The Southern Route, though longer, offers a unique perspective of Colorado’s varied landscapes. In the following sections, we’ll explore each route in detail, comparing distance and time, difficulty levels, scenic value, and seasonal considerations to help you choose the perfect route for your journey.

The High Country Highway (via US-285 and CO-9)

The High Country Highway offers a scenic and reliable alternative to I-70, especially when the Eisenhower Tunnel is closed. This picturesque route winds southwest from Denver along US-285 through the heart of Colorado’s high country. As you ascend to Kenosha Pass, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views of the South Park basin and surrounding peaks. The descent into the South Park basin reveals the historic mining town of Fairplay, where you can explore unique shops and restaurants. Continuing north on CO-9, the route follows the serene Blue River Valley, offering glimpses of the towering mountains and lush landscapes. This route bypasses potential closures and provides a tranquil and scenic journey to Breckenridge, perfect for those seeking a more relaxed drive.

Distance: 120 miles
Time: Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes

Points of Interest Along the Way:

• Kenosha Pass: This scenic pass offers breathtaking views of the South Park basin and surrounding peaks, and it offers opportunities for hiking and photography.
• Fairplay: A historic mining town with unique shops and restaurants worth stopping for a meal or exploration.
• Alma: A charming mountain town with a rich mining history featuring historic buildings and scenic views.

Directions:

• From Denver, head southwest on US-285 through the foothills and up to Kenosha Pass
• Descend into South Park basin and pass through the historic mining town of Fairplay
• At Fairplay, turn north onto CO-9 and follow the winding road along the Blue River
• Pass through the charming mountain towns of Alma and Blue River
• Continue on CO-9 until you reach your destination in Breckenridge

The Rocky Mountain Wilderness Way (via I-70, US-40, and CO-9)

For an immersive wilderness experience, the Rocky Mountain Wilderness Way offers a longer but breathtakingly scenic route to Breckenridge. This journey takes you through the heart of the Rocky Mountains, showcasing Colorado’s rugged beauty and pristine landscapes. Starting on I-70, you’ll head west to Winter Park, a charming mountain town known for its world-class skiing. The route continues along US-40, passing through the hot springs town of Hot Sulphur Springs and on to Kremmling, where expansive high country views await. Turning south on CO-9, you’ll traverse dense forests and alpine meadows before arriving in Silverthorne and Breckenridge. This route is perfect for those who wish to explore the wilderness and enjoy the tranquility of the Rockies.

Distance: 165 miles
Time: Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes

Points of Interest Along the Way:

• Winter Park: A popular ski resort town offering year-round outdoor activities and scenic beauty.
• Hot Sulphur Springs: A natural hot spring resort providing a relaxing soak in the midst of the Rocky Mountains.
• Green Mountain Reservoir: A scenic reservoir offering boating, fishing, and relaxation opportunities.

Directions:

1. From Denver, head west on I-70 toward Idaho Springs
2. Take exit 232 for US-40 W towards Winter Park
3. Continue through Winter Park and Hot Sulphur Springs to Kremmling
4. In Kremmling, turn south onto CO-9 towards Silverthorne
5. Follow CO-9 through Silverthorne and into Breckenridge

The Southern Route (via I-25, US-24, and CO-9)

The Southern Route offers a unique journey through diverse Colorado landscapes, from the urban corridor of the Front Range to the high plains and finally into the heart of the Rocky Mountains. While longer, this route provides an opportunity to experience a different side of Colorado before reaching Breckenridge. Beginning on I-25 south of Denver, you’ll pass through Colorado Springs, home to the stunning Garden of the Gods and the U.S. Air Force Academy. Heading west on US-24, you’ll climb into the mountains, passing the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument before entering South Park, a vast high-altitude grassland ringed by mountains. The final leg takes you north on CO-9 through Fairplay and over Hoosier Pass before descending into Breckenridge. This route is ideal for those looking to combine their mountain getaway with some Front Range sightseeing.

Distance: 215 miles
Time: Approximately 4 hours

Points of Interest Along the Way:

• Garden of the Gods: A public park known for its unique geological features and stunning red rock formations.
• Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument: A fascinating look into Colorado’s prehistoric past with well-preserved fossils.
• South Park City Museum: An authentic restoration of a 19th-century mining town in Fairplay.

Directions:

1. From Denver, head south on I-25 to Colorado Springs
2. Take exit 141 for US-24 West towards Manitou Springs
3. Follow US-24 through Woodland Park and into South Park
4. In Hartsel, turn north onto CO-9
5. Continue through Fairplay and over Hoosier Pass into Breckenridge

Choosing the Best Alternative Route to Breckenridge

When selecting an alternative route from Denver to Breckenridge, consider your priorities, time constraints, and vehicle capabilities. The High Country Highway offers a balance of scenic beauty and relative ease of travel, making it an excellent option for most travelers. If you’re seeking a more adventurous and immersive mountain experience, the Rocky Mountain Wilderness Way provides unique opportunities to explore remote and stunning landscapes. The Southern Route, while longer, offers a diverse journey through different Colorado environments and is perfect for those wanting to combine sightseeing with their mountain trip.

Regardless of your route, be sure to check weather and road conditions before departing, and always carry essential supplies like water, snacks, and warm clothing. By taking an alternative route from Denver to Breckenridge, you’ll avoid potential closures and congestion on I-70 and have the opportunity to experience the incredible beauty and diversity of Colorado’s landscapes.