Published January 30, 2025
5 Scenic Routes for a Perfect Sunday Drive Around Breckenridge
Sometimes, you just need to hit the road, roll down the windows, and pretend you’re in a car commercial—preferably one where your hair isn’t blowing into your mouth and your sunglasses don’t fly out the window. If you’re in Breckenridge, you’re in luck! These five scenic drives offer jaw-dropping views, fresh mountain air, and just enough twists and turns to make your passengers grip the door handle and say, “Wow, look at that view!” instead of “Slow down, we’re gonna die.”
1. Boreas Pass Road – Where History and Views Collide
Best for: Lovers of golden aspens and people who appreciate “shortcuts” that take twice as long but are totally worth it.
Originally built as a railroad route in the 1800s, Boreas Pass Road now serves as a stunning scenic drive with sweeping mountain views and enough history to make you feel cultured without having to visit a museum. In the fall, the road turns into an explosion of yellow aspens—basically Mother Nature’s way of showing off.
???? Pro Tip: The road is unpaved, so if you’re driving a low-clearance sedan, you will feel every single bump. Consider it a free chiropractic adjustment.
2. Hoosier Pass – A Thrill Ride Without the Admission Fee
Best for: People who like their scenic drives with a side of “Are we too high up?”
Hoosier Pass takes you up to a dizzying 11,542 feet, making it one of the highest mountain passes in the state. As you climb, you’ll get incredible views of Mount Lincoln and Mount Quandary, plus the occasional wildlife sighting—moose, bighorn sheep, and possibly a few nervous out-of-state drivers clutching their steering wheels like their lives depend on it.
???? Pro Tip: If you hear someone in the car say, “Wow, my ears just popped!” you know you’re getting close to the top.
3. Swan Mountain Road – Short, Sweet, and Oh-So-Scenic
Best for: When you want a scenic drive but don’t want to commit to a full road trip.
This is the Goldilocks of scenic drives—not too long, not too short, and packed with perfect mountain and lake views. It winds along Dillon Reservoir, offering multiple pull-off spots where you can snap Instagram-worthy photos and pretend you’re living your best mountain life.
???? Pro Tip: Stop at Sapphire Point Overlook for a picnic and make sure to act casual when chipmunks swarm you for snacks.
4. Loveland Pass – For Those Who Like Their Roads with a Little Extra Drama
Best for: Those who enjoy just enough risk to make the drive exciting, but not so much that you need to update your will.
Loveland Pass sits at a staggering 11,990 feet and provides panoramic views that will make you forget to breathe. Or maybe that’s just the altitude. Unlike the Eisenhower Tunnel (which goes through the mountains like a quitter), Loveland Pass goes over them, delivering hairpin turns, steep drop-offs, and enough adventure to make your passengers say, “I trust you, but also, please slow down.”
???? Pro Tip: If you’re feeling brave, step out at the summit for a quick hike. Just know that walking at nearly 12,000 feet may make you question every life choice that led you here.
5. Independence Pass – The Ultimate “Wow” Drive
Best for: When you want a drive that says, “I should really be in a Subaru commercial.”
Though it’s about an hour from Breckenridge, Independence Pass is worth it. At 12,095 feet, it’s one of the highest paved roads in North America. The drive includes towering cliffs, meadows bursting with wildflowers, and twists so tight you’ll find yourself gripping the steering wheel like it owes you money.
???? Pro Tip: The road is CLOSED in winter—because even Coloradans have their limits.
Thinking About Making These Views a Permanent Part of Your Life?
If you love these scenic drives, imagine living here and waking up to these views every day (without having to book an Airbnb). Whether you’re looking for a cozy mountain retreat or a luxury ski-in/ski-out home, I can help you find the perfect place in Breckenridge.
I’m one of the few A.I. Certified Agents in the world and the ONLY one in Summit County. That means I know ways of marketing that traditional agents don’t even know exist. When it comes to getting your home seen (and sold), I have tools and strategies that give my clients an edge in this competitive market.
Call or text me at (970) 390-3711 or visit KimObert.com—let’s make your mountain home dreams a reality!
Kim Obert – Your Local Expert in Breckenridge Real Estate
