When ski season starts and you’re ready to hit the slopes, few places have more impressive options than Colorado. Breckenridge, among the state’s standout resorts, has something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or willing to travel for an unbeatable ski experience, Breckenridge should be at the top of your list this winter.
Why Breckenridge?
Ideally located in the famed Rocky Mountains, Breckenridge offers world-class skiing and so much more. The historic ski town dates back to the Colorado gold rush of the late 1850s. In fact, one of the largest gold nuggets ever discovered in the state, weighing in at almost 14 pounds, was found in Breckenridge back in 1887. The town still has some buildings and artifacts from this period, giving the area a special charm.
In the 1960s, two professional skiers from Norway, Trygve Berge and Sigurd Rockne, traveled to Breckenridge to build a lumber yard. Together with developer Bill Rounds, they started the town’s first ski school, built on a philosophy of fun and the love of the mountains.
That pioneering, welcoming spirit can still be felt today, especially in the resort’s après-ski scene. In addition to more than 2,900 acres of trails, Breckenridge offers hundreds of gourmet dining and shopping options, a vibrant nightlife scene, and a plethora of accommodations ranging from rustic to luxury.
The Slopes
Breckenridge skiing and snowboarding trails cover an impressive five peaks and crisscross their way over the picturesque Rockies. The enormity of the resort is great news for skiers at all levels, who can find just the right amount of challenge on one of the nearly 200 trails.
All trails begin and terminate in one of the resort's three main bases, known as Peaks 7, 8, and 9. Peak 8, the oldest, was the site of Norwegian co-founders Rockne and Berge’s first ski school. Today, it is the home of Breckenridge’s most updated areas, including the renowned Ski and Ridge school and ticket office. Peak 8’s Imperial Express ski lift holds the title for the highest elevation chairlift on the continent and travels almost 13,000 ft in the air!
The impressive Peak 8 summit is just steps away from the top of the Imperial Express. Skiers can see sweeping views of the Tenmile Range, Breckenridge town, Lake Dillon, and other gorgeous mountain ranges.
Although skiers at all experience levels can access suitable trails from the Peak 8 base, the most well-known trail is the double-black diamond Imperial Bowl, which offers the ultimate Breckenridge experience; powdery terrain and scenery for miles. Visitors can also use Peak 8 to access Park Lane, a state-of-the-art terrain park.
Peak 7 is no place for beginners. It’s a no-fuss, all-action slope with a few dining options. While not as high as Peak 8, Peak 7’s summit is just shy of 12,700 feet tall. From Peak 7, skiers can reach several SuperChairs and gain access to Peak 8.
Peak 9 features something for everyone. You can find it all at this base- equipment, lessons, dining, and shopping. Skiers at all levels can start their day here and enjoy the skiing experience at the Village and Beaver Run base areas. Mogul lovers should also head to Peak 9 for a taste of Breckenridge’s most extreme skiing trails, the Peerless.
Breckenridge’s other Peaks, 6 and 10, are not bases but offer a lot of adventure and challenge. Peak 6- only accessible from Peak 7- is a captivating, above-the-treeline experience for the most seasoned skiers. Peak 10 is also a maze of advanced trails delivering a variety of terrain, from glades to moguls.
Lodges
Breckenridge is not just a resort, but a veritable ski town, full of diverse accommodations. Some of the most sought-after properties are located right at the base of the mountain, and make it possible for visitors to wake up, strap in, and get on the slopes.
You can find lodges on Peak 8, 7, and 9, or in the downtown area, just steps away from Peak 9. There’s plenty of elegant and inviting lodges slightly further away that offer frequent shuttle buses to transport their guests to and from the resort.
Snack and Refreshments
At Breckenridge, skiing is not the only activity to look forward to. The resort is well-known for its food culture. The slopes have nearly a dozen restaurants offering everything from casual bars to upscale dining.
Visitors can also choose from the hundreds of eateries in the downtown area, many of which offer delivery services that bring delicious meals to your lodge. Taking a stroll into town for a night out is also worth the time, as some local restaurants are also historic. For example, the Gold Pan Saloon has served up drinks since 1879. The much-beloved Tin Plate and Hearthstone restaurants have operated for over 130 years!
Gear
One of the best things about Breckenridge skiing vacations is that you can travel light. Instead of hauling your ski equipment to the resort, you can stop in any of their shops and pick out what you need. Renting skis is also a great way to try out the latest gear before making a purchase.
Skiers can get a custom fitting by specialized staff and pick up their equipment at their accommodation. Returns are just as seamless. Besides skis and poles, visitors can also go to any gear shop on the resort or in the town center to find all the essentials like hats, gloves, neck warmers, and ski socks.
Lift Tickets
No one likes waiting in line at the chairlift. That’s why Breckenridge sets limits on daily lift tickets. It's best to buy tickets in advance, especially if you are traveling during popular periods.
Visitors can buy tickets online at the Breckenridge website or in person at the ticket offices. Daily passes have weekend and weekday rates. Those staying multiple nights can choose between a two-day or a week pass. If skiers must check out before their multiple-day pass runs out, it's possible to get refunded for unused days.
If you’re planning on skiing in Breckenridge several times this winter, buying a season pass may be your best bet. Buying an Epic, Ikon, or Mountain Collective pass not only grants access to Breckenridge but also some of the top ski resorts in the world.
Transportation Around
Depending on where you’re staying, getting to the chairlift can be as simple as skiing out the front door. However, it's super simple to get around Breckenridge, even if your accommodation is not on a base.
Many of the lodges downtown offer their guests free shuttle service to and from the mountain. Visitors who choose to bring their own car can park at most hotels or vacation homes. As parking in the town of Breckenridge can be sparse, even those who drive in may want to take advantage of the shuttle or call a taxi or car service to hit the town for après-ski.
The town of Breckenridge also offers a free bus service that transports skiers between downtown and Peak 8 and 7. Other buses bring visitors door-to-door from Breckenridge to other nearby resorts, including Keystone and Copper Mountain.
Breckenridge for Beginners
Breckenridge is the resort of choice for many professional skiers, but it is also a fantastic learning environment for first-timers. Peak 9 is the beginner zone. It has gentle trails and an open learning area where anyone can go at their own pace.
You can choose from group or private lessons with teachers at the resort’s famed ski school. Once you’re ready to take on intermediate trails, you can find fun blue and green terrain across Peaks 8 and 9.
When is the Best Time to Visit Breckenridge?
Ski season at Breckenridge tends to last between mid-November to the end of May, depending on the weather and snowfall. Snow conditions are at their peak during the high season, which runs from December until April. Saturdays tend to be the busiest, as that is the time locals and tourists head to the mountain. Visitor numbers also increase around school holidays.
As the high season tends to coincide with bigger crowds and higher prices, planning a ski trip on a weekday can save both time and money.
How Many Days Do You Need at Breckenridge?
At Breckenridge, night skiing is not an option, so you will need to make the most out of the daylight hours. As some Peaks are only accessible from specific bases, most people cannot experience all the trails in one day. That’s why most travel guides suggest spending at least three days in the resort town.
Conclusion
Skiing in Breckenridge, Colorado is a must-do experience for any winter sports enthusiast. From its breathtaking alpine scenery to its world-class slopes, this charming mountain town has carved a special place in the hearts of skiers worldwide.