Since the town of Breckenridge pre-dates the ski area by 102 years, the place blissfully lacks a master-planned feel and has authentic, historic, small-town charm. You may feel away from it all tucked in the White River National Forest in Breckenridge, but you are really in the epicenter of Colorado's best!
You are within 30 minutes from 5 other major ski areas: Vail, Keystone, Arapahoe Basin, Copper Mountain and Loveland!! Plus, the huge shopping center Outlets at Silverthorne are a mere 20 minute, stunningly scenic jaunt!
In and around Breckenridge, a pervasive network of historic mining trails offer fabulous chances to explore the valley on a mountain bike, a dog sled, snowmobile, cross-country skis, snowshoes or even feet! Other surprisingly year-round activities include fishing, museum and historical sites tours, hot air balloon rides and mine tours. You can get private, guided tours on virtually any activity imaginable!
During summer, climb a nearby 14er (14,000+ foot mountain) at Quandary Peak. Bike rental shops will point you to the paved bike path along the Blue River stretching for miles of scenic beauty on the way to Frisco. From Frisco you can bike to Keystone, around Lake Dillon and even to Vail Pass!
Breckenridge is serious about summer fun with the Gold Runner (raised rail) Alpine Coaster, hit howling speeds on the famous Alpine Slide, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h91OUmOEHio&feature=related plus take scenic chairlift rides, pan for gems, go bungee jumping, play miniature golf, go white water rafting and take a 4x4 off-road tour!
Did you know The Town of Breckenridge owns a Jack Nicklaus-designed, 27-hole golf course? Not only have numerous national and regional honors have been bestowed on the course, but the golf ball flies farther and straighter than at lower elevations, since there is less air resistance. As summer wanes, taking a drive on Boreas Pass Road during the fall is one of the best places to see fall color in the Colorado – perfectly timed to be the weekend of OktoberFest! Don't miss Breckenridge's many fun and wacky festivals throughout the year!
Despite the appreciation for preserving the old town area, massive ski area improvements continue to enhance the skier experience at Breckenridge. With a new bridge, now you can ski right down to Main Street to Colorado’s largest and best-preserved historic district. The Breck Connect Gondola is right next to the free bus depot, which loads in the middle of the parking lot! Breckenridge banished the death marches schlepping gear!! You'll find everything from steep, above-timberline chutes and bowls to groomed greens and everything in between. There are five terrain parks and half-pipes for skiers and boarders, with the terrain park called “Freeway” rated as one of the best in the United States!
Truly world-class cuisine awaits at many of Breckenridge’s 60 restaurants, plus a vibrant arts scene, numerous spas, and over 200 stores. Downtown Breckenridge shops offer everything from extravagant to oddball. Don’t forget - if name brands are your thing, the expansive Outlets at Silverthorne are only minutes away. Breckenridge somehow blends the indulgent with the funky and friendly that make this town a must-see (and do) for ANY season!
