Walking down the main street of Breckenridge the first thing that struck me was the unusual combination of Alpine chic and American West. A bit like seeing the Matterhorn in a cowboy movie if you know what I mean! Founded in 1859 back in the days of gold mining, Breck certainly has its roots in the old West and today, thanks to its 9600 foot elevation and guaranteed winter snow, the name of Breckenridge is as synonymous with winter sports as any Swiss, Austrian or Canadian resort.

Now though, it's summertime. The snow's gone, the skiers have left town and that same high elevation brings cool fresh mountain air to Breckenridge and Summit County. Like any
resort of its stature, there's plenty going on in town throughout the summer.

Beginning in early June with the Breckenridge Film Festival followed a week later by the Kingdom Days celebrating the town's mining history in the Old West - there's that contrast again - to theatrical and sporting events surrounding the Fourth of July and Labor Day weekends, there's no shortage of entertainment here for those who want it. The greatest treasure though of Breckenridge and its surroundings are the hundreds of square miles of wilderness that make up some of the highest parts of the Rockies. The sun warmed meadows, cool scented forests and high peaks where the snow lingers far into summer are a true paradise to the hiker or mountain biker.

The hiking trails range from forest walks suitable for the kids to treks up over the nearby Tenmile Range including one of my favorites, the Colorado "Fourteener" Quandary Peak. The climb is not difficult in summer - just get a weather forecast before going and heed the warnings about storms! For mountain bikers there are trails offering all levels of difficulty, and the fact that Breck was voted one of the best places to take the kids on a bike ride should reassure the less experienced that biking here can be fun.  Despite the height of the mountains, it doesn't have to be an extreme sport! Indeed, there are 55 miles of car-free asphalt trails going as far as tranquil Lake Dillon, another of my favorite spots.

Finally, my Dad would never forgive me if I didn't mention golf! The highly rated Breckenridge Municipal Course boasts 27 holes made up of 3 championship nines designed by Jack Nicklaus. Their names of Bear, Beaver and Elk are for very good reason - all three animals have been seen here. Would a 500 pound black bear count as a hazard?

This guide to Breckenridge in the summertime was brought to you by Pete Buckley.