Are you looking for a beautiful mountain getaway? Look no further than Breckenridge, Colorado. This charming ski town has something for everyone, all year round. It’s perfect for outdoor lovers and those wanting a true Rocky Mountain experience.
Key Takeaways
- Breckenridge Ski Resort boasts 187 runs on nearly 3,000 acres of terrain.
- The town offers a variety of winter activities, including dog sledding, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing.
- Breckenridge is a popular summer destination with hiking, mountain biking, and whitewater rafting.
- The historic downtown district features charming shops, galleries, and a lively arts and cultural scene.
- Visitors can enjoy a range of dining and nightlife options, from craft breweries to fine dining establishments.
About Breckenridge
Breckenridge, Colorado, is a historic mining town turned into a top-notch Breckenridge ski resort. It was founded in 1859 by gold seekers. The town sits almost 10,000 feet high and has a Victorian-era charm. Its streets are lined with colorful buildings.
The Town and the Ski Resort
The Breckenridge ski resort is close to downtown. It offers 5 peaks and nearly 3,000 acres of skiing. Since 1961, it has grown with new lifts and terrain.
Outdoor Activities and Events
Breckenridge makes visitors feel at home with its friendly vibe and many Breckenridge outdoor activities. In winter, enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and ice climbing. The town hosts events like the Ullr Fest and the International Snow Sculpture Championships.
Summer brings hiking, biking, rafting, and fly fishing. The town is also known for its arts and culture. Events like the Breckenridge Film Festival and the Breckenridge Beer Festival happen all year.
“Breckenridge has a unique ability to make visitors feel like locals, with its friendly community vibe and abundance of outdoor activities.”
Getting to Breckenridge
Getting to Breckenridge, Colorado, is easy with several options. Renting a car at Denver International Airport (DIA) is a top choice. It’s about 90 minutes away and lets you see Breckenridge and nearby ski resorts like Vail and Beaver Creek. Make sure to rent an SUV or a car with four-wheel drive. The I-70 highway to Breckenridge requires special tires or snow chains in winter.
Renting a Car in Denver
If you want an easy way to get there, try the Epic Mountain Express shuttle from Denver airport to Breckenridge. This service is direct and reliable. It offers a luxury ride with drivers who know how to handle the snowy roads. It’s a good choice if you don’t want to drive in the snow.
Epic Mountain Express
Choosing how to get to Breckenridge is easy. You’ll find it’s a beautiful trip filled with outdoor fun. Enjoy the mountains and all they offer.
Winter Activities in Breckenridge
Breckenridge is famous for its top-notch skiing and snowboarding. The Breckenridge Ski Resort has 2,908 acres of terrain over five peaks. But, there’s more to do in this Colorado town during winter than just skiing and snowboarding.
Visitors can also try:
- Snowmobiling through scenic trails
- Fat biking on groomed paths
- Winter fly fishing in the area’s rivers and streams
- Dog sledding excursions with Siberian Huskies
- Ice climbing on frozen waterfalls
- Nordic skiing and snowshoeing on over 30 miles of trails
Breckenridge also has fun winter events like the Ullr Fest. This festival honors the Norse god of snow. With so many snow activities and events, Breckenridge is a top spot for winter fun.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Snowmobiling | Explore miles of scenic trails with guided tours that offer insights into Breckenridge’s mining history and local wildlife. |
| Fat Biking | Enjoy winter biking on groomed trails, Main Street, or combined with brewery and distillery tours. |
| Dog Sledding | Take a six-mile dog sledding tour through the Rocky Mountains with a team of Siberian Huskies. |
| Nordic Skiing | Breckenridge offers over 30 miles of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails across two Nordic centers. |
Breckenridge Ski Resort
In the Rocky Mountains, the Breckenridge Ski Resort is a winter paradise. It offers amazing skiing and snowboarding. With over 2,900 acres and nearly 200 trails, it suits all skill levels.
Whale's Tail and Lake Chutes
The Breckenridge Ski Resort shines with the Whale’s Tail and Lake Chutes. The Whale’s Tail gives thrilling runs for experts. Lake Chutes are known for their steep, extreme skiing.
To get to Lake Chutes, brave skiers and riders use the Breckenridge Imperial SuperChair. This is the highest chairlift in North America. After a short hike, they hit the slopes full of adrenaline.
Highest Chairlift in North America
The Breckenridge Imperial SuperChair is a marvel, reaching almost 13,000 feet high. It opens up challenging and rewarding terrain, like the famous Lake Chutes. From the top, skiers see the Tenmile Range and then tackle steep, high-alpine runs.
Epic Mix App
The Epic Mix app is a cool feature at Breckenridge Ski Resort. It tracks your skiing activities with RFID technology in lift tickets. You can see how many lifts you’ve taken, vertical feet skied, and more.
It also shows real-time lift wait times. This helps you spend more time skiing. Plus, the app takes professional photos on the mountain. You can share them on social media or buy them, making skiing at Breckenridge more fun.
Best Time to Visit Breckenridge
Breckenridge, Colorado, is open all year and has lots to offer. The best time to go depends on what you like. If you love skiing, February is the best month for great snow.
The winter is perfect for skiing and snowboarding. But, spring in Breckenridge is great too. The snow is still great, and it’s less crowded, making it more peaceful.
In summer, Breckenridge is a dream for outdoor lovers. You can hike, bike, raft, or fish. The town also comes alive with art and culture in the summer.
Choosing when to visit Breckenridge means finding something amazing every time. It’s known for its beauty, fun activities, and history. It’s a place that will leave you with great memories.
| Season | Best Experiences |
|---|---|
| Winter | Skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, ice skating |
| Spring | Skiing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, fewer crowds |
| Summer | Hiking, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, fly fishing, cultural events |
“Breckenridge offers a year-round playground for adventure enthusiasts, with each season showcasing its unique charm and opportunities.”
Where to Rent Ski Gear in Breckenridge
When you’re heading to Breckenridge for skiing, renting gear is often easier than bringing your own. Christy’s Sports and Ski Butlers are top choices for Breckenridge ski rentals.
Christy’s Sports has many locations in Breckenridge. They offer a wide range of high-quality ski and snowboard gear for rent or demos. Their team will help you pick the right gear for your level and the snow. They’re known for their Boot Fit Guarantee, making sure your boots fit perfectly.
Ski Butlers is another excellent spot for where to rent ski gear in Breckenridge. They deliver and pick up right at your door, making renting easy. With Ski Butlers, you can avoid the rental lines and hit the slopes quickly.
| Rental Option | Online Discount | Reservation Deadline | Refund Policy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Christy’s Sports | 20% off walk-in prices | 10 days prior to arrival | Fully refundable up to 7 days before rental |
| Ski Butlers | 20% off snowboard packages | 10 days prior to arrival | Fully refundable up to 7 days before rental |
Choosing Christy’s Sports or Ski Butlers means you’ll get great equipment for your Breckenridge ski vacation. Both offer excellent service and high-quality gear for unforgettable skiing.
Breckenridge, Colorado: Best Things to Do - Top Picks
Breckenridge, Colorado, is a gem in the Rocky Mountains for those who love adventure and nature. It has lots of activities and attractions for everyone.
The historic downtown area is a top spot, with 249 preserved structures from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. You can walk the streets, check out shops and galleries, and learn about the mining past. Make sure to take the Behind Swinging Doors Saloon Tour to hear about the 18 saloons that used to be here.
For history buffs, the Valley Brook Cemetery is a must-see. It started in 1882 and shows the town’s pioneering spirit. The Breckenridge Backstage Theatre, now renovated, holds 137 people and hosts various shows all year. Don’t miss the Breckenridge Music festival, with over 40 performances each summer.
Art lovers will enjoy Breckenridge’s lively arts scene. The Breckenridge Arts District is full of creativity, with studios, galleries, and big sculptures. The Breck Film Festival brings in over 100 independent films and filmmakers every year.
Adventure seekers will find plenty to do in Breckenridge. Try Escape Room Breckenridge, where you might succeed 40% to 85% of the time, or Mountain Time Escape Room with its exciting themes.
Don’t forget to visit Broken Compass brewery for over 12 craft beers or check out the town’s dining scene. You’ll find cozy restaurants, bars, and tasting rooms.
Whether it’s winter or summer, Breckenridge has something for everyone. With top-notch skiing, snowboarding, and indoor fun, it’s a place you can’t miss.
Where to Eat in Breckenridge
Breckenridge is famous for its top-notch skiing and outdoor fun. But, it’s also a food lover’s paradise. The town has moved beyond the usual ski-town food to offer a wide variety of high-quality meals. There’s something for everyone’s taste and preference.
Best Happy Hours
Looking for a place to relax after skiing? Breckenridge has great happy hour spots. Modis is a local gem known for its amazing appetizers and drinks. The Briar Rose Chophouse and Saloon offers half-price drinks during happy hour, perfect for steak lovers.
Best Bar Food
Breckenridge also has bars and pubs with tasty bar food. The Blue Stag Saloon is a favorite for its wide food selection and top-notch burgers. Ollie’s Pub and Grub is another spot for sports fans and live music lovers, with delicious burgers.
For Mexican food, Rita’s is the place to go. They serve house-made salsa, hand-pressed margaritas, and tasty tacos in a fun setting. The Breckenridge Tap House is great for craft beer and slow-braised meat tacos.
Whether you want happy hour specials or delicious bar food, Breckenridge has it all. The town offers a wide range of dining options to make your visit unforgettable.
Top Activities in Summer
Breckenridge, Colorado, is famous for its top-notch skiing in winter. But, it’s also a great place for fun in the summer. The Epic Discovery Breckenridge is a key spot for outdoor adventures and discovery.
Epic Discovery Breckenridge
At the Epic Discovery Breckenridge, you can try out exciting activities, like:
- Riding the Gold Runner Coaster, a 2,500-foot-long alpine coaster with amazing views
- Conquering the 40-foot climbing wall
- Tackling the tough ropes course
- Soaring through the air on the Little Flyer Zip Line, perfect for those 30-100 lbs
Then, take the Colorado SuperChair lift up to Peak 8 for breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains. This sets the stage for your adventure.
Beyond the Epic Discovery, Breckenridge has more Breckenridge summer activities. You can hike, bike, raft, or fish. Plus, don’t miss the Breckenridge Beer Festival for a fun event.
Looking for thrills or just want to relax? Breckenridge has it all in the summer. From the Epic Discovery Breckenridge to the town’s Breckenridge attractions, there’s plenty to do in this beautiful Colorado spot.
Shopping and Nightlife in Breckenridge
Breckenridge’s historic Main Street is the town’s shopping and nightlife hub. It’s filled with local boutiques, art galleries, and specialty shops in Victorian-style buildings. You can find unique items at the Fresh Soap Company, Midsommar Hat Company, and Folcland.
At night, Breckenridge becomes a hotspot for apres-ski fun. Bars like the Gold Pan Saloon, Broken Compass Brewing, and the Breckenridge Distillery offer craft cocktails, locally brewed beers, and live music. These places have a wide range of drinks, from the Vieux Carre to Notcho Granny’s Peach Pie.
The Breckenridge Distillery is the world’s highest distillery, making award-winning bourbon, vodka, and gin. The Gold Pan Saloon has been around since 1879 and has a dance floor. Burke & Riley’s Irish Pub serves Irish classics and has a fire pit for singing along.
The Riverwalk Center is a 750-seat venue with big-name acts and local favorites. The Blue River Concert Series features rock and country music. Breckenridge Music also hosts outdoor concerts and events.
Other great spots include the Blue Stag Saloon with its mountain cabin vibe and live music. Napper Tandy’s is perfect for events with live music and trivia nights. Brooklyn’s Tavern & Billiards is great for pool and beer lovers. The Motherloaded Tavern offers live music and karaoke, and Mi Casa has NFL action and wing specials.
The town’s free public transport makes exploring Breckenridge’s shopping and nightlife easy and safe. It’s a great way to check out the Breckenridge Main Street and its bars.
Where to Stay in Breckenridge
Breckenridge, Colorado, has many Breckenridge lodging options for different tastes and budgets. You can find everything from luxurious ski resorts to cozy mountain lodges. This lively town has something for everyone.
For a top-notch experience, think about One Ski Hill Place. It’s a top Breckenridge hotel at the base of Peak 8. You’ll enjoy a ski concierge, spa, fitness center, indoor pools, and a private movie theater.
If you want a cozy and social spot, The Bivvi Hostel is great. It’s a log-cabin-style Breckenridge vacation rental with a free breakfast, outdoor hot tub, and a bar. It’s perfect for solo travelers and groups.
The Fireside Inn Bed & Breakfast and Hostel has historic charm. It offers breakfast vouchers, an indoor hot tub, free laundry, and ski and gear storage. It’s a cozy and handy choice.
Families or big groups might like the Cypress Mountain Chalet. It’s a luxury Breckenridge vacation rental with hot tubs, a free shuttle, a BBQ grill, and ping pong. It’s private and has many amenities.
Breckenridge has a wide range of places to stay, from luxury ski resorts to budget-friendly lodges. You can find the perfect spot for your needs and likes.
Conclusion
Breckenridge, Colorado, is a top spot for a mountain adventure, no matter the season. It’s famous for its top-notch skiing and snowboarding in winter. But it also has lots of outdoor fun, cultural spots, and events all year round.
In summer, enjoy hiking and mountain biking. In winter, try ice climbing and dog sledding. Breckenridge has something for everyone, no matter your interest or skill level.
The town’s old-world charm and friendly vibe make it perfect for a trip to Colorado. You’ll love it whether you come in ski season or summer. Breckenridge is a ski town that’s always ready for fun, with lots of outdoor activities and cultural things to do.
See the old gold rush buildings on Main Street and the amazing ski resort. Breckenridge is a real treasure in the Rocky Mountains. It’s great for adventure, chilling out, or a mix of both. This lively Colorado town will make you want to come back for more.
