Mud season or “shoulder” season in Breckenridge and Summit County is dramatically more quiet than our bustling holiday season. Traffic is less congested, and it’s easy to just walk in without a reservation at most restaurants…which are usually still open. Historically, many restaurants and businesses would close during mud season, but our mountain towns have managed to remain attractive getaways for individuals and families, even if the ski resorts are closed and trails are not dry yet.
As the tourist crowds clear, many locals venture away as well. Day trips to lower elevation in Colorado or Spring Break trips to Mexico or Hawaii are perfect for these transition days.
Day Trips from Breckenridge
Two fun favorite day trips of locals include:
Buena Vista – You can head to BV for mountain biking or hiking on trails along the river. Catch happy hour at the Surf Hotel and dinner at House Rock Kitchen, and end with dessert across the street at Louie’s ice cream. Book a night at Mount Princeton Hot Springs with friends on a full moon night, or camp under the stars. Stop at Eagle Rock Ranch Mercantile on the way back for some cuts of premium Colorado pasture raised premium beef or go around through Leadville and grab dinner at Treeline Kitchen.
Glenwood Springs – When the area is restored, hike up to Hanging Lake and then soak in the Hot Springs. There are awesome opportunities for hiking, climbing, and fishing, in addition to the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. Award winning restaurants right in the center of town include Riviera Scratch Kitchen (reservation required) or the Pullman.
Volunteer
If you are staying close to home, sign up to volunteer with the town clean up days around the area. Breckenridge is having theirs on May 21, 2022 at 9 AM. Meet at the River Center to begin. More info here.
FIRC can always use an extra hand. The Family & Intercultural Resource Center has a volunteer calendar so locals can sign up to help with the Thrift Store, Dillon Farmers Market, and their food pantry. They also have a great new program that will collect summer activity items for kids, like balls, skateboards, etc. Reach out for more info.
Eat Out
Restaurants tend to be a little more quiet during mud season, so it’s a great time to take advantage of getting together with large groups of friends and eating out. Just double check their hours, as they may close earlier.
A few great restaurants to try:
- Whiskey Star and their upstairs, outdoor deck
- Carboy Winery and their new spring club wines
- Aurum and their incredible happy hour
Travel to Mexico
Many locals travel to Baja, Mexico during the summer to warm up, relax or surf. Stay in towns like San Jose del Cabo, Todo Santos/Cerritos, La Paz, or Puerto Penasco.
Garza Blanca (pictured above) is an all inclusive resort in Cabo San Lucas where you can enjoy ocean views, luxurious treatment, dry weather, a rooftop bar/pool, live music and more!
Local activities include: boat tours to the arch, jeep/razor tours, deep sea fishing, surfing, swimming, biking, etc.
Make sure to make a reservation at Flora Farms for a special farm to table dining experience!
Whether you stay close to home or travel the world, I’d love to hear about your favorite things to do during mud season. And as always, please reach out with any real estate needs. Happy to answer any questions about the current market and our community.
Paula Stanton & Associates 