Val’s Breckenridge Guidebook
City/town information
This Colorado ski town offers guests the ultimate in mountain vacations. Located less than 90-minutes west of Denver, the resort sits in the midst of Colorado`s most amazing Rocky Mountain scenery. Guests visit the resort year-round and take advantage of all types of outdoor activities including downhill skiing, snowboarding, hiking, snowmobiling, biking and more. The ski resort is considered one of the best destinations in North America by Ski Magazine and Skier Magazine.
Winter Activities
Winter is always on our minds. And, the abundance of winter activities in Breckenridge boggles the mind. Of course, Alpine skiing and snowboarding are going to rank as the top choices for winter activities. However, there is certainly a lot more to do than just hitting the world-class ski slopes. Consider the following for other alternatives to skiing: snowshoeing, tubing, sleigh rides, ice-sculpturing, snowmobiling, winter coaster, dog sledding, and more. For "off-the-mountain" activities consider cross-country skiing, ice-skating, snow biking, etc. Reach out to us if interested in booking any of these activities.
Summer Activities
No doubt that Breckenridge can be considered the perfect summer mountain resort. Most visitors would say the same about the winter, too. With the combination of its silver mining resume, historic downtown, on-mountain action, artistic feel and a deep appreciation for the outdoors, Breck offers something for anybody. Take a few moments to review the resort`s new EPIC Discovery activities. It includes activities such as tubing, alpine slide, obstacle course, mountain roller coaster, ziplines, climbing walls, miniature golf, and more.
596 locals recommend
Breckenridge
This Colorado ski town offers guests the ultimate in mountain vacations. Located less than 90-minutes west of Denver, the resort sits in the midst of Colorado`s most amazing Rocky Mountain scenery. Guests visit the resort year-round and take advantage of all types of outdoor activities including downhill skiing, snowboarding, hiking, snowmobiling, biking and more. The ski resort is considered one of the best destinations in North America by Ski Magazine and Skier Magazine.
Winter Activities
Winter is always on our minds. And, the abundance of winter activities in Breckenridge boggles the mind. Of course, Alpine skiing and snowboarding are going to rank as the top choices for winter activities. However, there is certainly a lot more to do than just hitting the world-class ski slopes. Consider the following for other alternatives to skiing: snowshoeing, tubing, sleigh rides, ice-sculpturing, snowmobiling, winter coaster, dog sledding, and more. For "off-the-mountain" activities consider cross-country skiing, ice-skating, snow biking, etc. Reach out to us if interested in booking any of these activities.
Summer Activities
No doubt that Breckenridge can be considered the perfect summer mountain resort. Most visitors would say the same about the winter, too. With the combination of its silver mining resume, historic downtown, on-mountain action, artistic feel and a deep appreciation for the outdoors, Breck offers something for anybody. Take a few moments to review the resort`s new EPIC Discovery activities. It includes activities such as tubing, alpine slide, obstacle course, mountain roller coaster, ziplines, climbing walls, miniature golf, and more.
Skiing
What would the perfect mountain town be without its mountain? Boasting 5 peaks, 2,908 skiable acres, 187 trails, four terrain parks and the tallest chairlift in North America, Breckenridge Ski Resort offers unforgettable skiing and riding for all ability levels. Considered by many to be one of the best ski resorts in Colorado, Breckenridge combines unique character with unmatched terrain and impeccable service to stand out from the rest.
Peak 9
Peak 9 is perfect for first time skiers and riders. Before hitting the hill, consider booking a lesson. Ski and ride school is a great experience and teach you good techniques, mountain safety and help you get a feel for navigating the mountain.
The Quicksilver SuperChair is the best lift for beginners on Peak 9. Exit to the left at the top of the lift and take the green run, Silverthorne, which winds under the lift. This run is long, wide and perfect for practicing turns. One you are feeling confident, hit one of the many the tree trails bordering the run.
Peak 9 has a number of great intermediate blue runs. Gold King is a long blue run that runs along the ridge towards Peak 8. To get to Gold King, hop on the Beaver Run SuperChair. Exit to the right then keep your speed up as you pass the Overlook Restaurant and hit the cat track to the left of the two man chair lift. Gold King is a long, groomed blue run with opportunities to cut through the trees or attempt a few moguls.
Peak 7
There is a lot to love on Peak 7 from the rolling corduroy under the Independence Chair to high alpine bowls and breathtaking views above tree-line. It is one of the best places to start the day with easy access from the gondola to wide-open fresh groomed terrain to warm up your legs and a central location to connecting you to the T-bar’s upper mountain terrain, peak 8 and Peak 6 too. Follow along for a top to bottom guide and some tips on how to make the most of your day Peak 7.
Peak 8
Peak 8 is a great bet for a late-season ski. Access can be made much easier using the County Roads that zigzag up Breck's slopes. These roads open up after the snow melts.
Peak 8 has a variety of terrain, but all of it is considered "expert" by the Breck owners. It is all double black diamond or greater. The Lake Chutes are some of the toughest terrain that I have ever skied in-bounds at a resort. They are a "must-do" for any serious Colorado skier. Also, the Imperial Bowl is a very enjoyable descent, and is quite popular.
612 locals recommend
Breckenridge Ski Resort
1599 Ski Hill RdWhat would the perfect mountain town be without its mountain? Boasting 5 peaks, 2,908 skiable acres, 187 trails, four terrain parks and the tallest chairlift in North America, Breckenridge Ski Resort offers unforgettable skiing and riding for all ability levels. Considered by many to be one of the best ski resorts in Colorado, Breckenridge combines unique character with unmatched terrain and impeccable service to stand out from the rest.
Peak 9
Peak 9 is perfect for first time skiers and riders. Before hitting the hill, consider booking a lesson. Ski and ride school is a great experience and teach you good techniques, mountain safety and help you get a feel for navigating the mountain.
The Quicksilver SuperChair is the best lift for beginners on Peak 9. Exit to the left at the top of the lift and take the green run, Silverthorne, which winds under the lift. This run is long, wide and perfect for practicing turns. One you are feeling confident, hit one of the many the tree trails bordering the run.
Peak 9 has a number of great intermediate blue runs. Gold King is a long blue run that runs along the ridge towards Peak 8. To get to Gold King, hop on the Beaver Run SuperChair. Exit to the right then keep your speed up as you pass the Overlook Restaurant and hit the cat track to the left of the two man chair lift. Gold King is a long, groomed blue run with opportunities to cut through the trees or attempt a few moguls.
Peak 7
There is a lot to love on Peak 7 from the rolling corduroy under the Independence Chair to high alpine bowls and breathtaking views above tree-line. It is one of the best places to start the day with easy access from the gondola to wide-open fresh groomed terrain to warm up your legs and a central location to connecting you to the T-bar’s upper mountain terrain, peak 8 and Peak 6 too. Follow along for a top to bottom guide and some tips on how to make the most of your day Peak 7.
Peak 8
Peak 8 is a great bet for a late-season ski. Access can be made much easier using the County Roads that zigzag up Breck's slopes. These roads open up after the snow melts.
Peak 8 has a variety of terrain, but all of it is considered "expert" by the Breck owners. It is all double black diamond or greater. The Lake Chutes are some of the toughest terrain that I have ever skied in-bounds at a resort. They are a "must-do" for any serious Colorado skier. Also, the Imperial Bowl is a very enjoyable descent, and is quite popular.
Sightseeing
Maggie Pond is an ideal place for families and first-timers to try paddle boarding. It offers incredible views of the Tenmile Mountain Range, a convenient in-town location and extremely calm waters.
Maggie Pond is located at the base of Peak 9 near Main Street Station, and is a continuation of the Upper Blue River as it begins its flow through downtown Breckenridge. It’s an easy walk from Main Street and a perfect way to spend an hour (or two, or three) of your day.
12 locals recommend
Maggie Pond Boutique
South Main StreetMaggie Pond is an ideal place for families and first-timers to try paddle boarding. It offers incredible views of the Tenmile Mountain Range, a convenient in-town location and extremely calm waters.
Maggie Pond is located at the base of Peak 9 near Main Street Station, and is a continuation of the Upper Blue River as it begins its flow through downtown Breckenridge. It’s an easy walk from Main Street and a perfect way to spend an hour (or two, or three) of your day.
Lake Dillon offers spectacular views of Rocky Mountains.Lake Dillon is another popular SUPing and kayaking location with several beach access points, including from the Frisco and Dillon Marinas. Both Marinas offer paddle board and kayak rentals which include a demonstration of paddle boarding technique if needed. If you have your own board or kayak, you can launch at either marina or one of the many beach access points around the lake.
Lake Dillon Drive
Lake Dillon DriveLake Dillon offers spectacular views of Rocky Mountains.Lake Dillon is another popular SUPing and kayaking location with several beach access points, including from the Frisco and Dillon Marinas. Both Marinas offer paddle board and kayak rentals which include a demonstration of paddle boarding technique if needed. If you have your own board or kayak, you can launch at either marina or one of the many beach access points around the lake.
Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountain ski country, One Ski Hill Place in Breckenridge, Colorado, is a skier's dream. Ideally situated at the base of Breckenridge Ski Resort's Peak 8, these luxury ski-in and ski-out condominiums are just steps from the BreckConnect Gondola, which easily transports you to Peak 7 and into the charming town of Breckenridge. Plus, experience Rocky Mountain thrills during the summer months on the Gold Runner Alpine Coaster, the Alpine Slide, climbing wall, Super Putt golf course, and more being just steps from the Breckenridge Fun Park.
One Ski Hill Place
1521 Ski Hill RdLocated in the heart of the Rocky Mountain ski country, One Ski Hill Place in Breckenridge, Colorado, is a skier's dream. Ideally situated at the base of Breckenridge Ski Resort's Peak 8, these luxury ski-in and ski-out condominiums are just steps from the BreckConnect Gondola, which easily transports you to Peak 7 and into the charming town of Breckenridge. Plus, experience Rocky Mountain thrills during the summer months on the Gold Runner Alpine Coaster, the Alpine Slide, climbing wall, Super Putt golf course, and more being just steps from the Breckenridge Fun Park.
Main Street Breckenridge is known for it’s incredible shopping and dining scene but it also serves as the central hub of everything Breckenridge with fun events, festivals, music, an abundance of activities for all ages and interests happening all year long. The best part is once you park the car or take the shuttle in for your trip you can walk anywhere, which means more time outside enjoying the mountains and enjoying the views.
11 locals recommend
South Main Street
South Main StreetMain Street Breckenridge is known for it’s incredible shopping and dining scene but it also serves as the central hub of everything Breckenridge with fun events, festivals, music, an abundance of activities for all ages and interests happening all year long. The best part is once you park the car or take the shuttle in for your trip you can walk anywhere, which means more time outside enjoying the mountains and enjoying the views.
The Blue River Plaza is a great central location where older kids can splash in the shallows of the Blue River and toddler’s can play sandbox and mini play area. Stop by the Welcome Center to grab a map of town or pick up a scavenger hunt ($10) to uncover more fun on your own. Head across the bridge to enjoy the grass on the Riverwalk lawn or walk upstream to the dredge pond for a chance to feed the fish below.
6 locals recommend
Blue River Plaza
137 S Main StThe Blue River Plaza is a great central location where older kids can splash in the shallows of the Blue River and toddler’s can play sandbox and mini play area. Stop by the Welcome Center to grab a map of town or pick up a scavenger hunt ($10) to uncover more fun on your own. Head across the bridge to enjoy the grass on the Riverwalk lawn or walk upstream to the dredge pond for a chance to feed the fish below.
Hiking Trails
Accessed from the Lehman ski trail just across from Beaver Run at the bottom of Peak 9. It heads uphill, over the river and through the woods with some lovely vistas, wildflowers and wetlands too. It is a classic out-and-back route so you can make it as short or long as you like as well as access additional trails to extend or vary your route. Plan for a moderate incline and give yourself time to catch your breath and enjoy the view.
Burro Trail
Burro TrailAccessed from the Lehman ski trail just across from Beaver Run at the bottom of Peak 9. It heads uphill, over the river and through the woods with some lovely vistas, wildflowers and wetlands too. It is a classic out-and-back route so you can make it as short or long as you like as well as access additional trails to extend or vary your route. Plan for a moderate incline and give yourself time to catch your breath and enjoy the view.
The Sawmill Creek trail starts at the base of Snowflake chairlift on Four O’clock Rd. It rises slowly uphill along a creek eventually tops out the Sawmill Reservoir with wonderful views of Breckenridge Ski Resort over the water. Take a nice stroll around the Lake or take a seat on the well place benches along the shore. Connect to the Reservoir Trail on the far side of the lake to loop back to snowflake lift.
Sawmill Creek
The Sawmill Creek trail starts at the base of Snowflake chairlift on Four O’clock Rd. It rises slowly uphill along a creek eventually tops out the Sawmill Reservoir with wonderful views of Breckenridge Ski Resort over the water. Take a nice stroll around the Lake or take a seat on the well place benches along the shore. Connect to the Reservoir Trail on the far side of the lake to loop back to snowflake lift.
Get to know this 6.4-mile out-and-back trail near Breckenridge, Colorado. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 32 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking and snowshoeing, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are June through October. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas.
38 locals recommend
McCullough Gulch Trailhead
4192 CO-9Get to know this 6.4-mile out-and-back trail near Breckenridge, Colorado. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 32 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking and snowshoeing, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. The best times to visit this trail are June through October. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas.
Nature preserve featuring picturesque trails with signs noting nearby wildlife, plus tram rides.
7 locals recommend
Cucumber Gulch Wildlife Preserve
1599 County Rd 3Nature preserve featuring picturesque trails with signs noting nearby wildlife, plus tram rides.
Explore this 1.5-mile loop trail near Breckenridge, Colorado. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 41 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking, trail running, and walking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
Snowflake Trailhead
Explore this 1.5-mile loop trail near Breckenridge, Colorado. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 41 min to complete. This is a very popular area for hiking, trail running, and walking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
Food scene
Located at One Ski Hill Place - sit out on the Plaza patio at The Ski Hill Grill and watch all the action on the slopes with great food and drinks this year. Lounge on the Breck Beach while choosing from a menu that features several world cuisines at this cafeteria-style eatery.
Ski Hill Grill
1521 Ski Hill RoadLocated at One Ski Hill Place - sit out on the Plaza patio at The Ski Hill Grill and watch all the action on the slopes with great food and drinks this year. Lounge on the Breck Beach while choosing from a menu that features several world cuisines at this cafeteria-style eatery.
Eclectic American comfort food served in a cozy cottage eatery with a patio & mountain views.
74 locals recommend
Twist
200 S Ridge StEclectic American comfort food served in a cozy cottage eatery with a patio & mountain views.
Innovative New American fare, unique cocktails & craft beer served in stylish, rustic-chic environment.
90 locals recommend
Aurum Breckenridge
209 S Ridge StInnovative New American fare, unique cocktails & craft beer served in stylish, rustic-chic environment.
Historic house with classy decor & mountain views turned luxe eatery with elevated American cuisine.
Certainly one of the best restaurant in Breckenridge.
299 locals recommend
Hearthstone Restaurant
130 South Ridge StreetHistoric house with classy decor & mountain views turned luxe eatery with elevated American cuisine.
Certainly one of the best restaurant in Breckenridge.
New American dishes with a Colorado touch in a refined bi-level space with brick walls & a skylight.
97 locals recommend
Modis
113 S Main StNew American dishes with a Colorado touch in a refined bi-level space with brick walls & a skylight.
Upscale bistro dishing up rustic American classics & artisanal cocktails with live jazz & blues.
362 locals recommend
Blue River Bistro
305 N Main StUpscale bistro dishing up rustic American classics & artisanal cocktails with live jazz & blues.
Inviting local microbrewery, bar & eatery offering craft beers & pub grub in a TV-enhanced setting.
333 locals recommend
Breckenridge Brewery & Pub
600 S Main StInviting local microbrewery, bar & eatery offering craft beers & pub grub in a TV-enhanced setting.
Broken Compass Brewing opened its doors in 2014, fulfilling a lifelong dream of owners Jason and Jolene Ford. The ensuing years have seen BCB grow from a tiny little brewery and taproom off the beaten path to a must-visit destination for both Breckenridge lifers and tourists alike, culminating in a brand new taproom opening on South Main Street in winter 2021.
8 locals recommend
Broken Compass Brewery Main Street
520 South Main StreetBroken Compass Brewing opened its doors in 2014, fulfilling a lifelong dream of owners Jason and Jolene Ford. The ensuing years have seen BCB grow from a tiny little brewery and taproom off the beaten path to a must-visit destination for both Breckenridge lifers and tourists alike, culminating in a brand new taproom opening on South Main Street in winter 2021.
Fishing
Outdoor enthusiasts of all ages enjoy fly fishing from the shores of the Blue River just steps away from Main Street. You can learn to cast, get your license and find out where the fish are biting with the help of our local outfitters and guides at Breckenridge Outfitters and Mountain Angler.
11 locals recommend
Blue River
Outdoor enthusiasts of all ages enjoy fly fishing from the shores of the Blue River just steps away from Main Street. You can learn to cast, get your license and find out where the fish are biting with the help of our local outfitters and guides at Breckenridge Outfitters and Mountain Angler.
Activities
Exploring the mountain at Breckenridge Ski Resort isn’t just a winter activity! Embark on a summer adventure with Epic Discovery, offering a combination of scenic, family-friendly and thrill-seeking outdoor activities designed to immerse guests in Breck’s High Alpine environment. Epic Discovery offers a variety of zones and activities designed to immerse guests in nature while highlighting Breck’s rich landscapes, local history and possibilities for adventure.
19 locals recommend
Epic Discovery at Breckenridge
170 Watson AvenueExploring the mountain at Breckenridge Ski Resort isn’t just a winter activity! Embark on a summer adventure with Epic Discovery, offering a combination of scenic, family-friendly and thrill-seeking outdoor activities designed to immerse guests in Breck’s High Alpine environment. Epic Discovery offers a variety of zones and activities designed to immerse guests in nature while highlighting Breck’s rich landscapes, local history and possibilities for adventure.
When most people think about Breckenridge, Colorado, they think skiing but Breckenridge has so much more to offer visitors. There’s great biking, hiking, horseback riding and fly fishing, plus year-round shopping and dining along Breckenridge’s charming Victorian Main Street. But consider trying one of the newest warm-weather adventures available in Breckenridge — a Colorado canopy zipline adventure!
13 locals recommend
AVA Rafting & Zipline
116 Huron RoadWhen most people think about Breckenridge, Colorado, they think skiing but Breckenridge has so much more to offer visitors. There’s great biking, hiking, horseback riding and fly fishing, plus year-round shopping and dining along Breckenridge’s charming Victorian Main Street. But consider trying one of the newest warm-weather adventures available in Breckenridge — a Colorado canopy zipline adventure!
Breckenridge has three championship nines, the BEAR the BEAVER and the ELK. All three nines are Jack Nicklaus Signature courses. Playing at 9300+ feet in elevation, each nine offers a mountain golf experience. Panoramic views of the snowcapped Colorado Rockies can be seen on every hole. Dense wooded areas give way to open native grassland and wetland areas. It is not uncommon to spot wildlife during your round including beaver, deer, elk, moose and sometimes even a bear. With the fantastic views and wildlife you may experience, you realize a visit to the Breckenridge Golf Club offers more than just golf!
193 locals recommend
Breckenridge Golf Club
200 Clubhouse DrBreckenridge has three championship nines, the BEAR the BEAVER and the ELK. All three nines are Jack Nicklaus Signature courses. Playing at 9300+ feet in elevation, each nine offers a mountain golf experience. Panoramic views of the snowcapped Colorado Rockies can be seen on every hole. Dense wooded areas give way to open native grassland and wetland areas. It is not uncommon to spot wildlife during your round including beaver, deer, elk, moose and sometimes even a bear. With the fantastic views and wildlife you may experience, you realize a visit to the Breckenridge Golf Club offers more than just golf!
The Breckenridge Heritage Alliance offers signature tours recounting the history and mystery of our quaint mountain town’s past. There is a tour for everyone with expert local guides sharing stories of old miners to bawdy saloons, Victorian ladies, lingering spirits to haunted houses. The Walk through History, Haunted Breckenridge, Swinging Doors Saloon Tour all meet at the Breckenridge Welcome Center and run most days of the week.
Breckenridge Heritage
The Breckenridge Heritage Alliance offers signature tours recounting the history and mystery of our quaint mountain town’s past. There is a tour for everyone with expert local guides sharing stories of old miners to bawdy saloons, Victorian ladies, lingering spirits to haunted houses. The Walk through History, Haunted Breckenridge, Swinging Doors Saloon Tour all meet at the Breckenridge Welcome Center and run most days of the week.
There is always something fun and creative happening in the Arts District with live performances, public art, outdoor and drive-in movies, classes and workshops to get your creative juices flowing. Breckenridge Creative Arts also offers interactive docent-led tours to showcase the Town’s public art collection, the Arts District campus and highlight art and culture in our community. Breck Create describes the tours are conversational, interactive and appropriate for all ages.
Breckenridge Creative Arts
136 South Main StreetThere is always something fun and creative happening in the Arts District with live performances, public art, outdoor and drive-in movies, classes and workshops to get your creative juices flowing. Breckenridge Creative Arts also offers interactive docent-led tours to showcase the Town’s public art collection, the Arts District campus and highlight art and culture in our community. Breck Create describes the tours are conversational, interactive and appropriate for all ages.