Breckenridge, Colorado is known around the world for its outstanding skiing during its winter months. Along with the fact that the ski resort is the highest in Colorado at a base elevation of 9,600 feet, there are tons of popular things to do in Breckenridge, Colorado during the winter! It has become a popular vacation spot for families, adrenaline junkies, and snowboarders/skiers.
But, there are things to do in Breckenridge, Colorado that AREN’T just skiing and snowboarding for the other types of vacationers out there! Breckenridge, Colorado is home to a lot more than just snow-covered slopes and can be enjoyed by everyone, even those that have no interest in riding down the mountain!
1. Hit the Slopes and Give Snowboarding or Skiing a Try
David and I are avid snowboarders so OF COURSE, we are going to provide you with a review of the riding in Breckenridge! Unlike a lot of mountains out west, Breck has something to offer for beginners, intermediates, and experts. Looking for slow, regularly groomed, green trails? Breck has that. Looking for pow stashes through the glades? Breck has that too! No matter what type of rider or skier you are, you will find happiness on the slopes! Just as a fair warning, expect to pay about $109 a day for a lift ticket. If you plan on skiing for a couple of days, consider buying an Epic Local Pass. It pays for itself within a week and covers a ton of ski resorts around the world!
Some Advice for Beginners
Always consider taking a lesson, especially if you are super new to either skiing or snowboarding. While having a significant other or friend teach you is great and cost-efficient, having someone else give you corrections may come across less insulting. David is a great teacher and all, but sometimes I just need to hear the corrections come from someone else that is NOT my boyfriend! Lessons are available for entire families, children, or adults.
As a beginner, always make sure to read what trails the lift services. We often notice so many people get accidentally caught where they aren’t comfortable. Read the signs and make sure you stay on trails that make you feel most comfortable! We’d recommend checking out Peak 9 – it’s not as crowded on this side of the mountain and has a ton of green and easier blue trails for beginners!
Some Advice for Experts
Breck has tons of expert terrain depending on what you’re looking for. If you’re more of a groomer-oriented skier/rider, check out Peak 10. There, you’ll find tons of steep, black trails that you can haul butt down! If you’re into bowls, or maybe experiencing a bowl for the first time, we’d suggest Peak 6 and Peak 8. Peak 6’s bowls offer blue trails that are groomed. Peak 8’s Imperial Express Superchair is the highest operating lift in North America at 12,840 feet and brings you up to some of the most challenging terrain in Breck. We personally love riding through the glades, so if you’re looking for some awesome glade trails, check out Peak 7, 8, and 10.
2. Dog Sledding
Ever wonder what it would be like to be in an Iditarod race? Well, maybe this is something you can finally make a reality. Dog sledding was definitely one of my favorite activities of all time. Good Times Adventures offers 1-hour tours for about $90 a person. Throughout the experience, you get to actually run the dogs, ride in the sled, and be with your guide in a passenger sleigh. The 6-mile trip is absolutely beautiful and if you’re a dog person like us, how can you say no to all those happy pooches?
3. Grab Some Crepes at Crepes A La Carte
Crepes A La Carte has THE best crepes in Breckenridge (the best I’ve personally ever had). They offer a large variety of combinations or an opportunity to build your own. If you want some delicious crepes, head here early. This stand gets extremely crowded with lines that go around the block during certain parts of the year!
4. Hit the Town for Some Shopping
Ski resort towns are awesome for anyone looking to do some shopping, and Breckenridge is no exception. There are tons of shops that feature jewelry, antiques, sporting goods, winter clothing, souvenirs, gifts, and home furniture. I always find something truly unique when I go!
5. Experience the Shotskii During the Ullr Parade
Every year during the second week of January, the town of Breckenridge holds its annual shot ski. Breck is currently the world record holder for the longest shot ski and they consistently break it each year. If you happen to be visiting Breckenridge during the week of Ullr, sign up for the shot ski! It’s an experience worth having for only $12. After your delicious shot of Breckenridge Bourbon, stay for the Ullr Parade (I promise, you won’t be disappointed). After the parade, they generally hold a huge bonfire, as well.
6. FREE Sledding in Breckenridge
Who wouldn’t want to be in the Rocky Mountains and not go sledding? While it may be tempting, especially when they get a huge snowstorm, it is forbidden to sled on the resort property. Expect a pricey fine If you are caught. However, Carter Park offers a sledding hill at the south end of High Street adjacent to Breckenridge Elementary School where sledding is FREE and LEGAL!
7. Check Out the Breckenridge Brewery & Breckenridge Distillery
We love trying local beers, wines, or hard liquors. I mean, gives you a reason to get a few drinks in, doesn’t it? If going to Breckenridge Brewery, I’d highly suggest getting my go-to sandwich, the Turkey Apple with turkey, brie, bacon, apple, and pomegranate reduction (my mouth is watering just thinking of it…). As far as beers go, you gotta try a little bit of everything with a flight.
When it comes to Breckenridge Distillery, my go-to is the Breckenridge Bourbon. Even if you aren’t much of a dark liquor fanatic, I’d recommend giving this one a try – it’s smooth and worth the taste!
8. Eat, Eat, and Eat Some More
There are tons of great restaurants in Breckenridge, Colorado that it would be impossible to list them all. A few of the absolute favorites that I would recommend would be Blue River Bistro and Relish. If you’re looking for a restaurant with a really beautiful view of the mountains, check out Hearthstone!
9. Wine Tasting at Continental Divide Winery
The Continental Divide Winery in Breckenridge, Colorado offers wine tastings and a wine blending experience, which allows you to blend a variety of different wines. What better way to relax on vacation than making some wine! Reservations are required in advance for the wine blending experience!
10. Get High on O2 at the Oxygen Lounge
Since the summit of Breckenridge reaches 12,998 feet, visiting the O2 Lounge to get some extra oxygen may help you avoid altitude sickness. The Oxygen Lounge provides its customers with 15, 30, and 45-minute sessions of air that are about 90% oxygen. Prices range between $12 and $25. Visit the Oxygen Lounge about 24 to 48 hours after you arrive to avoid any severe effects of the altitude.
Still in Colorado? Check out Colorado Springs – there are tons of outdoor activities you may love!