Not surprisingly, Breckenridge, Colorado, is one of the best places on earth for trail running. Whether you are looking for a casual run or a high mountain road race, this town has it all. Most of Breckenridge�s running trails are shared by hikers and bikers alike, but with wide dirt tracks and open skies, there is plenty of room on the road for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts. Most trails begin above tree level, which means that you�ll need to bring water, gel packs, and sunscreen with you on your run. And, since this is wilderness country, stick to the marked trail ways without venturing off into open woods � although it�s tempting! Runners will find trails that lead up mountain sides, through old mining camps, and past waterfalls. But put your best pair of trail running shoes on, you�ll need the extra grip. For the really adventurous (and for those looking for a great workout) hike or climb up a mountain side trail and then run back down the trail to the base � this will help work your quadriceps and will allow you to feel the wind in your face on the way back down, which is half the fun of running.

If you are seeking something a bit more competitive, the Nike Summit Trail Running Series is an annual event that brings runners from all over the nation to the small town of Breckenridge. The event runs from June to August and welcomes runners from all levels to join in the fun. The various races range form 5k-12k, but most of them are an uphill battle. Ranging from the tree lined Baker�s Tank run to the Horseshoe Gulch 12k run, runners are sure to enjoy the sound of feet hitting earth for once � you won�t find any street racing here! In order to encourage youth involvement in physical activity, any runners under the age of eighteen can register for free. No matter what your ability level is, there is nothing in the world like the feeling that you are alone on a long, winding road that seems to go on through the mountains forever.

Welcome to the wild, wild, west. Back in its heyday, Breckenridge, Colorado, was a coal mining town and nearly everyone got around on horseback. While most ordinary people used horses as everyday transportation, the Rocky Mountain trails that exist today were paved by gun slinging cowboys attempting to take control of dusty roads and gold mines. If you find yourself in the sleepy little town, try your hand at trail riding by heading to the BreckStables.

Over one hundred horses await any type of rider from beginner to experienced. Each trail ride takes about 1 � hours to complete, and they are all accompanied by an experienced guide. The ranch is open from May to September and promises visitors the ride of a lifetime. You�ll gallop through the continental divide, trot over rivers, and walk next to beavers building their dams. Private lessons and tours are also available if you want to feel like a real renegade.

In addition to these magnificent trail rides, the ranch offers breakfast rides that include a hearty meal before you head out, and dinner rides that include a sumptuous fest and live music upon your return to the ranch. If straddling a saddle isn�t for you, the ranch also offers carriage rides that tour the town, or as an alternate mode of transportation to pick you up and drop you off wherever you want to go. Make sure you bring your camera, you�ll want a picture of your horse (with you on top of it) swimming through a muddy river. Whatever you do, don�t miss this unique Breckenridge experience.

Belay, piton, prusik, rapel � if you want to actual understand what these terms mean, you�ll have to try your hand at rock climbing. No other place on earth has been so perfectly carved, literally, out of stone for rock climbers to enjoy than the Rocky Mountain Range. And no better town sits at the base of this range than Breckenridge does. Whether you have been hiking for years, or whether you�ve never really been into sauntering along dirt paths, perhaps you need to kick it up a notch and try your hand at scaling mountain walls.

In an odd way rock climbers resemble Superman as they awkwardly edge themselves up intimidating mountain edges attached to ropes and propelled by sheer human strength. While you�re in Breckenridge, why not try your hand at wearing tights? Well, you don�t actually have to don the superhero costume to head up a cliff, but a bit of that infamous courage might help. And if you aren�t brave enough to go it alone (and why would you want to) head to one of the towns two hiking companies. The Adventure Company or The Rocky Mountain Guides will gladly assist you in scaling rock walls. These skilled experts offer beginner, intermediate, and advanced courses to help you get over your fears. They will teach you how to gain your own ground, tackle rough edges, and use your own strength to your advantage. Choose either a half or a full day hike depending on the amount of stamina you possess. With metal hooks, ropes, and non-optional helmets as part of your necessary equipment, this is not your average adventure.

When you trade city lights for the night time sky, and sky scrapers for tall mountains, not taking advantage of your surroundings would be ludicrous. What better way to explore the Rocky Mountain Range in Breckenridge than to tie on your hiking boots, grab your walking stick, and head out to explore some of nature�s finest trails. Breckenridge offers its visitors a multitude of trail options ranging from beginner trails to expert peaks.

One of the best, most scenic trails in Breckenridge is the McCullogh Gulch Trail. This trail begins at a breathtaking 11,080 feet and offers climbers a view of Atlantic Peak, Pacific Peak, and Fletcher Mountain. When you�re this high up in the sky, soaring eagles are your only companions � you won�t even find any trees up here. What you will find are glaciers, waterfalls, and awe inspiring views. This trail is perfect for beginners and intermediate hikers alike, as it begins easily and becomes a bit more difficult throughout the trail, but it�s nothing that a good pair of hiking shoes can�t conquer.

If you want to spend an entire day on a hike, then the Spruce Creek Trail may be just the thing you�ve been craving. Clear you mind, and you senses with this trail that begins at 10,320 feet. You�ll pass Lower Crystal and Upper Crystal Lakes and gain access to other peaks and trails throughout your ascent. Stop for a break and a bite to eat at a cozy cabin that sits at 11,320 feet. You�ll want to rest and relax a bit before making your descent down, just make sure to check the weather report � nobody wants to be caught in a storm at this elevation!

For a bit of history, head to the Blue Lakes/Mount Cristo Trail. This relatively moderate, two hour hike will bring hikers through mining relics 11,748 feet above the tree line. Not only will you be able to experience all that nature has to offer at such a high elevation, but you�ll be able to see how Breckenridge life used to be when it was a mere mining town.

Whatever your ability may be, one of these trails (or any of the many other trails that Breckenridge has to offer) is sure to satisfy your craving to return to nature.

If you are tired of sharing the road with oncoming traffic, or biking through the heart of a city traffic jam, head to Breckenridge, Colorado, where the trails carved by Mother Nature await you. For most of these trails, you�ll want to bring along your mountain bike, some sunscreen and an easily accessible camera � these are not your ordinary trails. Breckenridge trails range for beginner terrain to very advanced terrain, but no matter which trail you choose you are sure to be surrounded by the Colorado Rockies, green grass, and an occasional piece of history now and again.

Perhaps the most famous trail in Breckenridge is the Hoosier Pass. This trail leads right through the Rocky Mountain Range, and you will have no choice but to feel very, very, small amidst these towering giants. Before you attempt this trail, make sure you are well supplied. This eleven mile uphill trail can be grueling in hot weather, but entirely worth the trip. The trail takes you to the top of the Hoosier pass (the highest point on the TransAmerica trail), and through the Blue River for a total gain of 11,541 feet. When you reach the top, you�ll have the best scenic view from anywhere in town.

Equally as stunning as the Hoosier Pass is the Colorado Trail. This trail is not exclusive to Breckenridge, as it spans the entire state, but Breckenridge does offer cyclists a perfect twenty-six mile loop of the trail. This trail is a one way track, and is composed of dirt � which makes for a fun ride. But make sure you share the road; you won�t be alone on this trail. Due to its breathtaking scenery this path is also very popular with hikers and other bikers, so go ahead and strike up a conversation you never know who you�ll meet on such a whimsical path as this.

If you are seeking a real thrill ride (and you are an expert cyclist) the Wheeler Trail is for you. The entire length of this trail is above tree line � that means that you will be on top of the world. But be prepared for weather changes, at this elevation only the animals know when a storm is brewing.

If you are looking for some trails that are a bit easier, and family friendly, you�ll want to choose either the Boreas Pass or the Burro Trail. These two trails are nice, novice trails that don�t require any extra skill or courage. Although not an extremely difficult trail, the Boreas Pass will take you through remnants of a town that was once known for its mining. Many mining relics still remain near the trail today, which makes an interesting, historical, and healthy activity for the whole family. The Burro trail is also a decent alternative, though this trail is closer to town and is used by many pedestrians. No matter what kind of biking adventure you seek, Breckenridge is known across the globe as a biker�s haven.