Breckenridge Ski Resort (My Complete Guide)

I’m a Colorado local and avid skier, and in this guide, I share exactly what to expect when visiting Breckenridge Ski Resort. 

Having an Epic Pass, Breckenridge Ski Resort is my go-to mountain this season. It’s one of the best Colorado ski resorts, loved for its expansive terrain, slopeside lodging, and après ski fun.

Here’s what I’ll cover in this post: 

• ℹ️ About Breckenridge Ski Resort
• 🏨 Where to Stay
• ✨ Things to Do
• 🍽️ Restaurants
• 💡 Tips for Visiting
• 🗺️ Breckenridge Ski Resorts’ Map
• ❓ FAQs

About Breckenridge Ski Resort

Breckenridge Ski Resort Stats

• 📍 1599 Ski Hill Rd., Breckenridge CO 80424
• 📞 (970) 453-5000
• 💻 Website
• 📅 Ski area open November 9, 2022 to May 30, 2023 (estimated)
• 🎿 Lift Hours: 8:30 am to 4 pm 
• ⛰️ Summit elevation: 12,998 feet (3,962 meters)
• ❄️ Average Snowfall: 286 inches (726 centimeters)
• 🗺️ Acres: 2,908
• 🏂 Number of trails: 187
• ⛷️ Vertical drop: 3,398 feet (1,036 meters)
• 🚡 Number of ski lifts: 35

Breckenridge Ski Resort History

In 1958, a group of geologists surveyed Breckenridge and the Tenmile Range. After deeming it a suitable mountain town location, Ralph Rounds took interest. At the time, he was the president of the Porter and Rounds Lumber Company, which was based out of Kansas. But just 2 years later, Ralph became the largest private landowner in Colorado’s Summit County. [ Source]

He purchased around 5,000 acres to build summer cabins around Dillon Reservoir, which hadn’t yet been dug out. The idea of Breckenridge Ski Resort wasn’t on his radar. But his family often skied at Aspen Highlands, one of the oldest Colorado ski resorts. Here, they met Trygve Berge and Sigurd Rockne, who became good friends with Ralph’s son, Bill. [ Source]

In January 1961, a friend drove Sigurd and Bill high up on Peak 8 using his military weasel, which is similar to a snowcat. They skied down today’s Blue Spruce run and decided that Peak 8 would be an ideal ski area. Bill pitched the idea to the board of his father’s lumber company, and they broke ground in May of that year. 

Breckenridge Ski Resort opened Peak 8 on December 16, 1961. That first season, lift tickets were $4 for adults and $2.50 for children. The resort featured one double chair lift, a short T-bar lift, and a ski school, which Sigurd and Trygve owned and operated for a decade. [ Source]

Breckenridge Ski Resort Terrain

Today, Breckenridge Ski Resort features 35 lifts and 187 marked trails. Those new to skiing and snowboarding can attend private and group lessons, available for all ages. Beginner runs make up 14% of skiable terrain, with most green trails near the bases of Peaks 8 and 9. 

Blue runs account for 31% of the terrain. If you’re an intermediate skier, Peaks 6, 7, 8, and 9 offer plenty to explore — though skip Peak 6 on windy days, as it’s highly exposed. 

Experts, especially, will love to ski Breckenridge. 55% of this resort features black and double black diamond trails. Experience high alpine terrain via the Imperial Express, which takes you to the top of Peak 8. Ski Horseshoe Bowl and the steep gladed runs off E-Chair. And for more expert-only terrain, check out Peak 10 and the hike-to areas where you’re sure to find deep powder stashes. 

Four terrain parks add even more variety and cover 25 acres. Eldorado and Highway 9 Terrain Parks are beneath the Mercury Superchair (Peak 9). Near the 5-Chair lift (Peak 8) lies Toyota Banked Slalom and Park Lane, the largest of Breckenridge’s terrain parks. 

🗺️ Need A Visual? See this detailed winter trail map of Breckenridge Ski Resort.

Where to Stay Near Breckenridge Ski Resort

Here are some of the best places to stay near Breckenridge Ski Resort: 

• Crystal Peak Lodge by Vail Resorts – Spacious apartment-style lodging with in-room amenities, a hot tub, a fitness center, and ski-in, ski-out access to Peak 7.
• One Ski Hill, A RockResort – Set at the base of Peak 8, this resort features fully-equipped condos, an indoor pool and a hot tub, and 3 on-site eateries.  
• Beaver Run Resort – Enjoy two pools, a spa, a health club, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant at this resort found at the base of Peak 9. 
• The Lodge at Breckenridge – Roughly 3 miles from the resort, this boutique hotel features a restaurant, two hot tubs with a view, and more affordable nightly rates. 
• Gold Point Resort by Vacatia – With rooms as low as $169 per night, this resort is one of the best budget picks in Breckenridge, and is just 4 miles from the ski lifts. 
• Browse Top Apartment rentals on VRBO
• Browse Top Apartment rentals on Plum Guide

Breckenridge features tons of options for ski-in, ski-out lodging. You’ll find places to stay at the bases of Peaks 7, 8, and 9. As a reminder, Peak 7 is best suited for intermediate skiers, while Peaks 8 and 9 cater to all ability levels. 

For more affordable options, look at hotels just east of Breckenridge Ski Resort. They offer incredible views of the resort and surrounding White River National Forest. 

See our guide on Where to Stay in Breckenridge for more insights and hotel suggestions.  

5 Things to Do Near Breckenridge Ski Resort

Cross-Country Skiing

Enjoy classic and skate ski trails at two premier nordic centers.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 453-6855 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 4 pm daily, closed Fri, Sat & Sun | Entrance: $27 adults, $22 seniors over 64, free under 13 | 👉 Browse Ski & Snowboarding Gear on REI

In the winter, cross-country skiing is one of the best things to do in Breckenridge. Head to either Breckenridge Nordic Center or Gold Run Nordic Center to experience this activity. Each offers more than 18 miles (30 kilometers) of groomed trails for all skill levels. Some are dog-friendly, while others are also open to snowshoeing.

Sleigh Ride

Dash through the snow on this charming winter experience.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 453-4438 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 8 pm daily | Entrance: $89 adults, $69 ages 4 to 12, free under 4

From November through April, Breckenridge Stables hosts several sleigh ride tours. Board at Peak 9 or the Gold Run Nordic Center. Warm blankets and hot chocolate keep you toasty as you dash through the snowy forest. Dinner tours are also available from the Gold Run outpost, which include a buffet and live entertainment. 

Fat Tire Biking

Pedal along snowy paths, then enjoy a beer in downtown Breck.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 453-2055 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 6 pm daily | Rental Cost: Varies, starting at $50 | 👉 Fat Bike Beer & Distillery Tour

Ridden is located off Main Street in downtown Breckenridge. The company offers half-day and full-day fat tire bike rentals. Most bikers will prefer groomed trails, which you can find at the Gold Run Nordic Center. The Blue River Recreation path that connects Breckenridge and Frisco is another solid choice. 

However, there’s nothing more “Colorado” than outdoor fun followed by beer. Consider their Fat Bike Beer & Distillery Tour to enjoy stops at Broken Compass Craft Brewery and Breckenridge Distillery. 

Breckenridge Brewery & Pub

Sip experimental beers from a famous Colorado brewery.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 453-1550 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 9 pm daily

While wandering Main Street, don’t miss the original Breckenridge Brewpub. This famous Colorado brewery is one of the nation’s pioneers of craft beer. While you can buy an Avalanche Amber Ale and Juice Drop Hazy IPA in many places, only this location offers the brewery’s experimental beers. Sample these après ski and enjoy a full food menu, too.  

Downtown Breckenridge

Explore shops and eateries, and attend a winter festival.

📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Strange But True Breckenridge Tour

You’ll find a variety of entertainment in downtown Breckenridge, one of Colorado’s best mountain towns. As mentioned, breweries are abundant on Main Street, as are restaurants (see below). You’ll find both locally-owned and brand-name shops in town, selling everything from souvenirs to gear and apparel.

Cultural attractions include public art and some of the best festivals in Colorado. Check out Ullr Fest in December and the International Snow Sculpture Championships in January. See the town’s calendar for more upcoming events. 

Restaurants Near Breckenridge Ski Resort

Sample some of the best places to eat near Breckenridge Ski Resort: 

• Tenmile Station – Located at the base of Peak 10, these soups and sandwiches may be overpriced, but the views and vibes are unbeatable. 
• Robbie’s Tavern – Enjoy comfort food classics, a full bar, and patio seating at the base of Peak 8.
• Breckenridge Brewery & Pub – A famous Colorado brewery serving globally-inspired eats and award-winning ales.  
• Mi Casa Mexican Restaurant and Cantina – Mexican favorites like tacos and tamales, plus a lengthy list of creative margaritas. 
• Michael’s Italian Restaurant – A cozy Italian eatery loved for its baked ziti, chicken parm, and saucy spaghetti and meatballs. 
• Castaways Cove – This tiki bar features Hawaiian staples like spam musubi, poke bowls, and colorful cocktails. 
• Blue River Bistro – An upscale bistro offering seasonal New American fare, a variety of martinis, and a jazz playlist.  
• Tin Plate – A renovated 1880s mining cabin dishing out pizzas for every palette. 

Like most Colorado ski resorts, Breckenridge has restaurants on the mountain and at the base of its ski lifts. Expect the food at Tenmile Station, Vista Haus, and other similar eateries to be overpriced. But, they’re convenient choices and you simply can’t beat the views.

For lower costs and greater variety, head to downtown Breckenridge. Here, you’ll find all sorts of cuisines and atmospheres, from lively pubs to romantic date night spots. 

Tips for Visiting Breckenridge Ski Resort

If Commuting from Denver, Leave Early

This doesn’t apply as much on weekdays, but especially on weekends, you’ll want to be leaving Denver before sunrise. I-70 traffic starts to back up around 6:30 am. Sure, you’ll arrive at the resort before the lifts open. But hanging out in one of Breckenridge’s coffee shops is much more enjoyable than a stop-and-go commute. 

Know Your Parking Options

There are several places to park when visiting Breckenridge Ski Resort. If parking downtown, take the BreckConnect Gondola to Peaks 7 and 8. There’s also slopeside parking for Peaks 7 and 8 at the Breck Park Stables Garage. For Peak 9 access, find slopeside parking at the Beaver Run Lot. Fees vary, with weekend rates as high as $40 for the day.

For free parking, head to the Airport Road Lot. From there, free buses will transport you to the BreckConnect Gondola.

Dress in Layers

Colorado weather changes drastically throughout the day. It might be 10°F (-12°C) when you arrive at Breckenridge, but above 30°F (-1°C) come mid-day. Wear moisture-wicking, insulated clothing to be comfortable, adding and removing layers as needed. Winter jackets and snow pants with venting zippers are also ideal for varying temperatures. 

👉 Don’t Miss: See my Colorado Packing List so you don’t forget any of the essentials! 

Breckenridge Ski Resort Map

FAQs About Breckenridge Ski Resort

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Thanks for reading my guide to Breckenridge Ski Resort! I hope you enjoy the world-class skiing and countless amenities this incredible ski town has to offer.