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About Breckenridge
When you book a Breckenridge ski vacation through Ski.com, you're not just planning a trip; you're embarking on an adventure to one of the premier ski resorts in Colorado, and indeed, in all of North America. Known affectionately as "Breck" by the Summit County locals, this destination offers the quintessential Rocky Mountain ski experience, combining world-class skiing that caters to all skill levels. The lively town offers a diverse selection of restaurants, boutiques, and cozy coffee shops, perfect for warming up after a day in the snow. Breckenridge’s family-friendly atmosphere ensures that everyone—from little ones to seasoned adventurers—finds something to love.
With five peaks and over 2,900 acres of skiable terrain, Breckenridge caters to skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Breckenridge is also home to North America’s highest chairlift, the Imperial Express, which provides breathtaking views and access to unforgettable runs. With an average annual snowfall of 300 inches and a state-of-the-art lift system, Breckenridge guarantees an incredible ski or snowboard experience.
In addition to its varied ski terrain, Breckenridge boasts a wide array of lodging options to suit every budget, from cozy mountain cabins to luxurious resort accommodations. Foodies will delight in the town's great restaurants, offering everything from quick bites to gourmet dining experiences. The lively base area is a hub of winter activities, ensuring there's never a dull moment, even for those who prefer to take a day off from skiing.
5 best things about Breckenridge according to our Mountain Travel Experts
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Where to stay in Breckenridge
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How to get to Breckenridge
Breckenridge, Colorado, is easily accessible via three main airports. Denver International Airport (DEN) is 104 miles away with a transfer time of about 2 hours 15 minutes and is the most popular option with frequent shuttles like Epic Mountain Express and rental cars available. Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) is 63 miles away, and with a commute time of approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, offers a closer alternative with limited shuttles, rental cars and private transfers. Also consider Colorado Springs Airport (COS), 110 miles away with a 2-hour-30-minute commute time, and provides rental cars and private car services.
Getting around
The town offers a free public transit system, the Breckenridge Free Ride, which connects major lodging areas, the ski resort, and Main Street. The Summit Stage provides free regional bus service to nearby towns like Frisco and Keystone. For those staying near the slopes, walking is a great option, as many accommodations are ski-in ski-out or just a short stroll from lifts and amenities. Taxis and ride-shares are also available.
Skiing in Breckenridge
With more than 2,900 acres of skiing and riding terrain for all levels, a handful of world-renowned terrain parks and half pipes, and a state-of-the-art ski and snowboard school, it's easy to understand why Breckenridge is one of the most popular ski resorts in Colorado. Beginner skiers can comfortably learn to ski at the base of Peak 8 and 9, while intermediates have their pick of pristine groomed runs at Breckenridge, as well as intermediate bowls from the new Peak 6 terrain. Expert skiers can ski challenging lines off of the summit of Peak, or get air on one of Breckenridge’s five world-class terrain parks. The terrain options for every skier are limitless on a Breckenridge ski vacation.
Beginner Skiing in Breckenridge
There are plenty of beginner runs and easy-to-ride magic carpets and chairlifts throughout the ski resort that make Breckenridge a great destination for people looking to learn how to ski or snowboard. The bottom areas of Peak 8 and Peak 9 are the main Breckenridge beginner skiing zones. Getting to these areas is easy from anywhere on the mountain. Boasting over 90,000 lessons a season, the Breckenridge ski school is one of the best in North America for getting new skiers and boarders on snow. Every beginner should take at least one lesson to learn the fundamentals of skiing or snowboarding. You’ll be happy you did.
Expert Skiing in Breckenridge
Family vacations in Breckenridge
A Breckenridge family ski trip will be one of the most cherished memories you and your children will ever create. Breckenridge is such a family-friendly ski resort that parents and kids return year after year. There’s terrain for all levels of skiers, activities for the entire family to enjoy, and a calendar of events made specifically for a family ski vacation. When the kids aren’t skiing there’s a mountain roller coaster to ride, a children’s museum to visit, and hills to sled or tube down. Downtown Breckenridge is a snapshot of the good old days; kids can run freely along Main Street and jump in shops or candy stores, or head to the arcade to play video games. Whether your family is on the slopes exploring the resort or walking through town, there are plenty of fun things to do together on a Breckenridge family ski trip.
On the mountain, you’ll find several zones specifically designed for family skiing. The Dragon Trail at the bottom of Peak 8 is a great experience for young kids and parents to share. The Dragon Trail is a themed run at the bottom of Peak 8 that children will want to go to time and again. There’s a fun trail for kids into “Ski-a-Lot Castle,” where you cross a moat and encounter dragons. Jump into the dragon’s lair to warm up with a hot chocolate or head back to the bottom of Peak 8 to explore more of the beginner terrain. Peak 9’s Haunted Forest and Ripperoo’s Forest are fun trails through the trees made for beginner kids. Tweens and teens will be psyched on the terrain parks that are scattered throughout Breckenridge. Aside from Freeway Terrain Park—which is the biggest and where you can find X Games athletes and pros practice—Breckenridge’s four other terrain parks are designed to be progressive and fun for all levels.
Families can enjoy ice skating at the Stephen C. West Ice Arena, snow tubing at nearby Frisco Adventure Park, or exploring the Gold Runner Alpine Coaster, a thrilling downhill ride through snowy forest terrain. Adventurers can embark on dog sledding, snowmobiling, or a guided snowshoe hike to immerse themselves in the area’s natural beauty. Historic Main Street is lined with charming shops, art galleries and restaurants, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Ten Mile Range. Just an hour's drive from the Denver International Airport, Breckenridge is easily accessible, making it a favorite destination for both domestic and international visitors.
FAQs
Breckenridge, Colorado, can be expensive, but it also offers a range of options to fit different budgets. Lodging costs vary widely—luxury ski-in ski-out accommodations can be pricey, especially during peak winter months, but there are also more budget-friendly hotels and vacation rentals available. Dining in Breckenridge ranges from upscale restaurants to casual eateries and breweries, so there are options for both splurging and saving. Activities like lift tickets and equipment rentals tend to be on the higher end, however, comparable to other major ski resorts, particularly during the holiday season.
The best month to visit Breckenridge depends on what you’re looking to do. For skiing and snowboarding, March is often ideal—snowfall is plentiful, the mountain typically boasts deep powder, and the days are warmer and longer. If you like fewer crowds and cheaper rates, January can also be a great month, with crisp, snowy conditions and quieter slopes after the holiday rush. Maybe you’re not necessarily into skiing, but want to enjoy winter activities like snowshoeing or exploring the festive town? December is magical, with holiday lights and plenty of local events.