Breckenridge has been a top destination for snowboarders ever since the resort was one of the first to allow riders on their slopes back in the 1980s. To this day, the world-class resort sprawled across the Colorado Rockies continues to attract snowboarders of all levels, from first-timers to Olympic-level professionals.
Why You’ll Love Riding Breckenridge
The open, inclusive atmosphere that led to Breckenridge embracing snowboarding early in the game is one of the biggest reasons riders come back to the resort town again and again.
Riders going on a snowboarding adventure at Breckenridge have more than 200 trails to choose from, ranging from beginner-friendly greens and blues to more intense double-black diamonds.
The chairlift serving the resort’s famed Peak 8, the Imperial, reaches the highest elevation in all of North America. If that isn’t impressive enough, Breckenridge ranks amongst the top freestyle snowboarding parks in the county.
Where to Snowboard
A day of snowboarding in Breckenridge begins at one of the mountain’s five Peaks. Three of the Peaks, 7, 8, and 9 are accessible by a main base. The other two, 6 and 10, can only be reached by chairlift from one of the bases.
The best place to ride will depend on your ability level. Beginners can start in Peak 9’s learning area, and eventually make their way to Peak 7’s blue trails. Peak 6 gives riders a chance to hike to their destination and take intermediate runs all the way down.
Peak 8 offers a little something for everyone, including the renowned Park Lane terrain park which features rails, a superpipe, jumps, and more! Experienced riders looking for a challenge should head to Peak 10, which boasts black diamond trails with impressive, over-the-tree line views.
Tickets
Visitors heading to Breckenridge for snowboarding can choose between multiple ticket options, based on their length of stay. Full or half-day weekday or weekend passes are great for riders spending 24 hours or less on the slopes.
Multi-day passes range from two to seven days. Ticket prices are dynamic. This means you may pay more or less depending on the time of year or how far in advance you place your order. Riders can find better deals by purchasing their tickets online, but there is always the opportunity to buy lift tickets in person.
The best bang for your buck is a season pass, which allows riders to access Breckenridge and other sister resorts for a one-time cost. The Epic Pass, started by Vail Resorts, goes on sale for a limited time before the beginning of the snow season. The Epic Pass is also dynamically priced, the earlier you grab your pass, the less you’ll pay.
Where To Rent Gear
Breckenridge has convenient snowboarding equipment options located across the resort. Riders can get their helmets, boots, and snowboards delivered straight to their lodging.
Visitors can order all of their gear online or walk into any of the shops to get recommendations from experts. Returns are pretty straightforward as well, and riders can slide into shops on Peak 8 and 9 to get a tune-up or a binding adjustment before heading out on the trail.
What to Pack
While Breckenridge, Colorado typically has 300 days of sunshine during snowboarding season, the weather is still downright frosty. Riders planning to hit the slopes all day should protect themselves against the elements by wearing layers of thin, warm clothing.
Most riders wear wool or man-made thermals or long underwear as a base layer. Next, put on a fleece or sweater to keep heat in and regulate your temperature on the slopes. Special snowboarding socks are made from fast-drying materials that wick away melted snow and sweat. The final layer usually includes a waterproof jacket and pants that prevent snow from penetrating the inner layers.
Of course, riders should protect their hands with thick water-resistant gloves. In windy conditions, a neck gaiter can come in handy. Skiers and snowboarders alike should wear a high-quality helmet to protect themselves in case of a fall.
Where to Eat and Relax
The Breckenridge après-ski experience is amongst the best in the world. Riders can choose from more than 11 on-resort restaurants serving meals at all times of the day.
The historic Breckenridge downtown core also offers an array of dining and nightlife choices. Some favorites of locals and visitors alike include the Roostalk Restaurant on Main Street and Briar Rose Chophouse and Saloon, known for its prime rib and steak dishes.
Getting There & Around
Breckenridge is only an hour away from the Denver International Airport. While travelers can rent a car, using the extensive shuttle service can be more convenient.
Not only do shuttle services transport riders to and from the airport, but they can also take visitors to their accommodations or the heart of Downtown Breckenridge.
Traveling between trails and peaks takes a bit more know-how. Only Peaks 8, 9, and 7 are accessible by a base. To reach Peak 6, you must start at Peak 8 and make your way to the Imperial SuperChair. Peak 10 can be accessed through the Breckenridge Ski Area in Peak 9.
The town of Breckenridge also coordinates a free bus service, known as the Breck Free Ride, which runs every 15 to 30 minutes. Visitors can use the bus route to get to some of the most popular downtown areas and many of the mountain trails.
The Summit Stage bus is another free service that travels even further out. Hop on for a free ride to nearby resorts, such as Arapahoe Basin and Keystone.
When to Snowboard in Breckenridge
Breckenridge is open for snowboarding from late fall to early spring. The best conditions coincide with the Colorado winter, which lasts from December to March.
Peak travel times include school holidays, Saturdays, and college spring break, which falls in March. To avoid lines, riders should head to the slopes on a weekday. If that’s not possible, booking all activities in advance can greatly reduce wait times.
Is Breckenridge Good for Beginners?
While Breckenridge may be the top destination for some of the world’s best snowboarders, it has always provided a welcoming environment for beginners. The oldest ski and snowboarding school on Peak 8 was started and run by the resort's founders.
Today, first-timers can work on their skills in the extensive learning areas on Peak 8 and Peak 9. Both areas have beginner-friendly features, such as carpet lifts, gentle green and blue trails, and instructor-led classes. The beginner areas are also close to the base and the downtown core, which makes it easy to access whether you’re staying on or off the mountain.
Breckenridge offers snowboarding courses for all age groups. Kids under 13 can take part in the Discovery Series, while the Burton Learn to Ride program helps adults sharpen their riding skills. Paying for lessons, lift tickets, and equipment in one package can also help visitors save money.
Breckenridge is Calling
Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting your snowboarding journey, Breckenridge offers an unparalleled experience. As the first resort to open its slopes to snowboarders, it ignited a revolution that forever changed the winter sports landscape. Today, Breckenridge continues to captivate and inspire riders from around the world. Start planning your next snowboarding adventure early to get the best experience from this legendary destination.