Dreamy prospects of stunning après panoramas and adrenaline pumping descents become a reality when visiting this rocky resort. Skiers from all walks of life can benefit from the captivating slopes and alluring charm that Breckenridge offers.
We’ve gathered everything you need to know before visiting this incredible ski destination, so stick around to find out the best features of such an enchanting location, and what approach you should have for planning the ski trip of your wildest dreams.
Location, Weather, and Climate at Breckenridge
Breckenridge is situated in Summit County, Colorado, and is the highest village boasting the highest ski resort in the area.
It has a distinct Victorian style, and the resort poses a wide range of twists and turns designed to be enjoyable for visitors of all calibers. The snow
density is quite light, as in most of Colorado, with the best conditions appearing from November to April.
| Month | Temperature (High) | Temperature (Low) | Snowfall (inches) |
| November | 10.0°C | -05.0°C | 2.75 |
| December | 05.6°C | -08.8°C | 6.29 |
| January | 05.5°C | -10.0°C | 5.9 |
| February | 07.2°C | -07.8°C | 8.66 |
| March | 11.1°C | -04.4°C | 8.66 |
| April | 15.0°C | -0.50°C | 10.23 |
It gets incredibly cold, so visitors will need to ensure that appropriate winter gear and clothing is worn, topped with protective measures such as hats and sunglasses while traveling.
Proper gear such as skiing helmets and goggles will provide protection while skiing, and sunscreen should be worn as well.
Additional measures such as umbrellas are advised while participating in non-ski activities or traveling during snowfall. It should also be noted that those visiting this esteemed resort will need to be prepared for some adjustments.
With the world undergoing an array of twists, turns, and changes in 2020, Breckenridge has made a few adjustments in order to accommodate and manage the number of individuals on-site at any given moment.
They have put an array of regulations and measures in place to ensure the safety and health of visitors, skiers, patrons, and staff, with a primary focus on compulsory face coverings, physical distancing, passes, and reservations, lift tickets, cashless transactions, and health screenings for certain activities.
These can be checked out in detail here. Make sure to be up to date with all regulations before venturing out to this amazing resort.
Getting to and around Breckenridge
The easiest way to get the Breckenridge is by flying in and landing at Denver International Airport, after which one can take a 1-hour drive to the ski resort. Car rentals are available at varying prices, and shuttles run throughout the Breckenridge area for easy traversing around the town and resort.
Accommodation at Breckenridge
All visitors hoping to stay at Breckenridge lodging sites will need to have a pass reservation or lift ticket in order to qualify, as these are needed to gain access to areas around the resort as well as ski terrain and other facilities.
This resort boasts a wide selection of 35 different lodging locations, all of which are fantastic for varying reasons offering an array of features and comfort levels for a range of preferences and budgets.
All accommodation areas offer varying sized rooms, which would have to be confirmed with the specific lodging location.
Prices will vary based on dates and duration of staying, but generally, areas closer to the ski resort are more expensive. All amenities are subject to adjustment, so this should be checked before booking.
Ski in/ Ski out Accommodation
All areas offer 24hr front desk service, 24hr security, high-quality bedding, internet, access to an ATM, access to tea or coffee, AC, and additional services like wake-up calls.
Most accommodation areas feature parking facilities, handicap or wheelchair facilities, and additional amenities such as a safe deposit box, telephone access, crib, a baby changing area, daily/weekly housekeeping, laundry/valet services, ironing boards, and many more amenities to improve overall comfort and convenience.
Doubletree by Hilton Breckenridge: This hotel is situated across the street from Peak 9 within walking distance from the SuperChair and QuickSilver lift, boasting stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, the 9600 Kitchen, and an on-site Made Market serving snacks.
This accommodation site features access to a pool and hot tub, buffet breakfast, a cocktail lounge, communal bar, a gym, features a fireplace, a mini-fridge and microwave, plenty of storage space for ski equipment, and much more.
One Ski Hill Place, A RockResort: This luxury area offers accommodation near Peak 8 with quick access to the Breckenridge Gondola, 4 chairlifts, as well as activities including skiing, hiking, snowboarding, and much more.
This lodge features access to a restaurant, bar, and picturesque slope-side skiers’ plaza, and boasts luxury décor made of rich wood, stone accents, expansive windows for breathtaking panoramas, a theatrical fireplace, and high-quality stainless steel appliances.
They also offer access to pools and hot tubs with reservations, access to a steam room and Jacuzzi, housekeeping, and grocery shopping services.
Village at Breckenridge, Condominiums: This area is situated near Peak 9, near fantastic restaurants and boutiques as well as the QuickSilver chairlift, the Breckenridge Ski and Ride School, and child care facilities.
These suites range in size, with studios up to four-bedroom units plus sleeper couches being available, offering access to pools and hot tubs, and featuring a fireplace and full kitchen.
This area boasts a private balcony, deck, or patio, as well as access to vending machines, a sauna and steam room, stores, BBQ areas, and a business library. They also offer free local shuttles and delivery dinner.
Gravity Haus: This eco-friendly area is located at the base of Peak 9 for easy access to facilities, boasting 60 unique rooms with a range of accommodation types for various budgets and preferences, topped with a Japanese mountainside flair.
The area features Dryland which is a high-performance fitness center, Starterhaus which offers a co-working space, Cabin Juice Elevated Eatery and Bar for tantalizing your taste buds with wholesome meals, and Unravel Coffee for an experience of sustainable coffee.
They also offer extras like bike storage, access to hot tubs and saunas, as well as shuttle and bus services.
Crystal Peak Lodge: This deluxe and natural alpine lodge is inspired by the serene and snowy setting, and is located at the base of Peak 7, even offering a private stop on the BreckConnect Gondola.
It’s furnished with lavish upscale décor and interior, featuring underground parking, personalized concierge services, and access to a Jacuzzi, pools, and hot tubs.
This lodge features a dishwasher, DVD player, full kitchen, a fireplace, free local shuttle, and laundry facilities.
Mountain Thunder Lodge: This elegant condo is situated in a woody area with a unique stone and timber aesthetic which enhances the alpine setting, providing a balance between serene seclusion and convenient access to facilities.
They have luxury features such as hot tubs, ski lockers, and shuttle services, in addition to BBQ areas, playgrounds, free parking, full gourmet kitchens, moss rock fireplaces, as well as private balconies or patios. The area provides easy access to fitness centers and gondolas.
Grand Lodge: This sophisticated and luxurious area offers elegant lodging near the SuperChair at Peak 7, located along the BreckConnect gondola route.
They offer paid laundry facilities, access to a gym, communal lounges and bars, a gaming room, a cocktail lounge, BBQ areas, a salon, spa services, as well as pools and hot tubs.
Resort Managers: This family-run lodging area is situated on Main, offering private vacation homes, condominiums, studios, and townhomes suitable for skiers and visitors of all calibers.
They feature paid laundry facilities and free local shuttle services, as well as access to lounges and bars, a gym, BBQ areas, pools, hot tubs, liquor stores, live entertainment, and restaurants.
Beaver Run Resort: Situated near the Beaver Run Super Chair, this hotel offers rooms varying in size as well as free local shuttle services.
They provide access to underground parking, a grocery store, a gift shop, a Jacuzzi, pools and hot tubs, spa services, a mini-golf course, as well as conference rooms.
They also boast a tennis and volleyball court which is usable in summer, topped with banquet facilities, a cocktail lounge, a game room, and a sports bar.
Accommodation Within Walking Distance
River Mountain Lodge: This tasteful lodge is located near ski facilities, featuring condos ranging in size offering fully equipped kitchens, dishwashers, a DVD player, breakfast bars, dining areas, and even sleeper couches.
They offer one free parking space per unit, free ski shuttles, and access to a bar and cocktail lounge, BBQ areas, pools, hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms, as well as a fitness center, topped off with a patio for stunning views.
Grand Timber Lodge: This eco-friendly lodge has been inspired by alpine and wooden influences, and captures the feel of home in its décor and design.
It does not include AC but features a DVD player, dishwasher, and free parking, as well as access to BBQ areas, a bar, fitness area, gaming room, steam room, and sauna, restaurant, and playground.
Gold Camp Condominiums: Nestled between pine trees near Peak 8, this lodge offers homely accommodation featuring kitchens and parking, as well as access to washers and dryers, hot tubs, and even saunas.
It’s 1.25 miles from the shopping and dining areas and has relatively easy access to the ski area.
Pine Ridge Condominiums: This area is situated 1.5 blocks from the Snowflake Ski Lift, featuring fireplaces, kitchens, private balconies, cable TV with HBO, as well as free parking for 2 cars per unit.
It provides easy access to rental shops, picnic areas, and guest computers.
Der Steiermark: This modest lodging area is located within walking distance from facilities and stores, and is 100 yards to the QuickSilver Chair with free ski shuttle services.
They offer access to hot tubs, underground and outdoor parking, and quick access to a classic Mexican restaurant and ski stores.
Elk Ridge Townhomes: This new addition to the Breckenridge lodging collection is located near the Snowflake Lift, providing a selection of deluxe townhomes.
They feature private garages, fully equipped kitchens, fireplaces, and certain units boast private hot tubs. Check details and pricing here.
Additional resorts offering an array of stunning scenery and hospitable housing, offering differing amenities, facilities, and traveling distance to the ski lifts.
Ski areas in Breckenridge
The combined ski area at Breckenridge ski resort is comprised of 187 trails, the longest of which is the 4 O’Clock at 3.5 miles, as well as 2,908 acres of skiable terrain, 40% of which is high alpine.
The mountain has a base elevation of 9,600ft, with the summit reaching a stupendous 12,998ft in altitude. This natural beauty boasts a vertical drop of 3,398ft, topped with plenty of snowmaking coverage and groomed terrain.
Approximately 52% of the terrain is challenging, while 33% is intermediate and 15% is comprised of easy slopes.
The entire area is comprised of 5 breathtaking snowy peaks, is made up of 4 parks, and totals 35 acres. View a detailed map of the resort and trails here.
- Travel and Gondolas
Breckenridge features a wide variety of travel systems for patrons and enthusiastic skiers, including 6, 4, 3, and 2 person lifts, as well as gondolas, surface lifts, T-bars, and Magic Carpets.
- The frontier for Beginner Skiers
This smaller ski park is situated on Peak 9, boasting a wide range of beginner runs comprised of moderate jumps and boxes. This area is fantastic for those who are new to skiing and are just getting into the swing of things.
- Highway 9 for Novice Skiers
This is the entry-level ski park, also located on Peak 9, flaunting a variety of rails, boxes, and jumps designed to kick start the skiing journey of any novice enthusiast. This is an amazing area to practice form, technique, and explore maneuvers, spins, and slides with comfortable challenge levels.’
- Park Lane for Intermediate Skiers
Locals love to hit the slopes in this park, and this area has become an all-around favorite for many skiers, featuring more than enough trails, rails, jibs, and boxes for taking your skiing expertise to the next level and experiencing the thrill of icy peaks.
This park boasts two triple lines and is great for comfortable challenges and enthralling descents.
- Freeway for Advanced Skiers
The Freeway is renowned for the major air and massive spin opportunity that it offers, flaunting a plethora of adrenaline-pumping rails and boxes, topped with 4 huge jumps and an 18’ halfpipe.
This area is mainly popular amongst advanced skiers and pros, but less experienced skiers and visitors enjoy checking out this area to marvel at the park’s miraculous wonders and watch the experts strut their stuff.
- Restaurants and Bars
Peak 7 restaurants include Pioneer Crossing and Sevens, which are fantastic for western food with mesmerizing atmospheres, while Peak 8 boasts Ski Hill Grill, TBar, and The Living Room, all of which flaunt spectacular dishes and mouthwatering meals. Peak 9 restaurants include Ten Mile Station,
The Overlook, and The Maggie, with picturesque panoramas and memorable recipes and refreshments. All of these establishments are hotspots in winter, offering a magical après dining and drinks experience.
Other areas feature 9600 Kitchen, Cabin Juice, and Forest Lounge Bar, offering delectable delights such as pulled pork and classic western dishes.
There are also numerous restaurants in a town near Breckenridge ski resort, including Apres, Blue River Bistro, Broken Compass Brewing, and Hearthstone Restaurant.
However, due to the conditions of reopening the resort, some of these establishments are not currently open for service and will remain closed indefinitely.
Most of the restaurants are planning to open, but specifics will vary depending on the area of the resort and other influential factors.
So, this will need to be confirmed prior to booking, and reservations are now required for après dining in order to manage venue capacity and ensure safety amongst patrons, visitors, as well as staff.
Ski Schools
Both group and private skiing lessons are available at Breckenridge, with a maximum class size of 6 for standard groups and a maximum of 4 for 5 – 6-year-olds. Those aged 3 – 4 years old are provided with private 1-hour lessons or can be included in a full or half-day family session.
All participants are required to complete health screening on the same day prior to joining the class, as are employees, since social distancing cannot always be ensured throughout the lesson, and facial coverings are mandatory.
Lessons are available for ages 3 – 14, as well as those over 15 years old, and are provided for beginners, intermediate, or advanced skiing levels. Specific lessons can be booked in advance here.
Lessons will need to be booked in advance, and lunch will no longer be served. Further details on the group and private ski lessons, pricing, as well as new terms and conditions can be found here.
Ski Rentals
All in-resort ski rental facilities will be accessible, and employees are ensuring protective measures by fully sanitizing equipment between each visitor’s uses.
Equipment is available for delivery to accommodation sites, can be stored at the ski resort overnight, can be returned or exchanged at various locations, and can be reserved online.
Ski Passes
Breckenridge has taken time and effort to revamp the overall structure and experience for visitors and skiers, and one of the primary factors is that reservations and passes are now required for visitors to access the facilities.
This ensures that capacity is managed and social distancing is maintained, promoting a relaxing and enjoyable skiing experience with peace of mind and health safety.
- New Epic Coverage System
Pass holders are also rewarded with priority reservation access, which allows for early bookings, as well as scheduling during peak seasons and holiday seasons.
Along with certain resorts worldwide, Breckenridge has introduced Epic Coverage which is included free of charge for all pass holders, featuring a range of unique and advantageous conditions specific to the nature of the 2020 pandemic.
This includes personal coverage such as refunds associated with injury, jury duty, military transfer, pregnancy, quarantine requirements, job loss, illness or death, visa rejection, and much more.
This also provides coverage for major events such as terrorism, war, natural disaster, and certain resort closure due to the pandemic.
Epic Coverage has two options, one of which provides cover on priority reservation days, while the other provides cover for the core season.
Epic Pass packages vary and may include access to other resorts, as well as additional benefits such as up to 20% savings on food, lodging, ski lessons, equipment rentals, transport, tours, and activities.
This certainly adds a whole new level of customer care, and Breckenridge has really gone the extra mile to ensure the health, safety, comfort, and peace of mind for all individuals visiting the resort.
- Epic Local Pass
Epic Local Passes are usable across multiple resorts which have been included in this system but include Breckenridge in the list of resorts in addition to others.
There is also an Epic Local College Pass which is ideal for students, and the cost of this pass is $749 for adults over 19 years, $599 for persons aged 13 – 18 years old, and $389 for children between 5 – 12 years old.
- Epic Day Pass
The Epic Day Pass is usable across multiple resorts which have been included in this system but include Breckenridge in the list of resorts in addition to others.
Patrons have the option of choosing 1 – 7 total days or this pass, and it provides early access for reserving priority days, as well as Epic Coverage and Epic Mountain Rewards including 20% discounts.
The cost for this pass is $112 for individuals over 13 years old, and $59 for children aged 5 – 12 years old per day.
This increases with the number of days chosen, thus a full 7-day pass would cost $667 for those over 13 years old and $346 for children aged 5 – 12 years old. Check out further details on this pass here.
Terms and conditions will apply for all passes, and specific benefits and access allowances will vary.
Check out the new Epic Coverage system here, and explore further information on how to go about making reservations and obtaining Epic Passes here.
- Summit Value Pass
The Summit Value Pass is a great choice for those visiting Summit County in Colorado exclusively, and it provides access to Breckenridge as well as Keystone but excludes holiday access.
It’s protected by Epic Coverage which adds an extra level of reassurance for visitors, and there is also a Summit Value College Pass which is ideal for students.
This pass also offers 1 free basic wax and 50% discount on one basic tune at Epic Mountain and Gear locations, and certain half-price sales are available at varying locations and times of the year.
This pass costs $609 for adults over 19 years old, $489 for persons aged 13 – 18 years old, and $339 for children aged 5 – 12 years old. Check out more information on the benefits and features of this pass, as well as how to obtain it here.
- Auto-Renew Program for Massive Savings
The new Auto Renew Program is also available with any pass which is purchased, which guarantees that those who enroll are rewarded with the best deals every year with a $49 deposit each Spring, after which the balance is automatically charged in Fall.
Check out more information on how to enroll in this fantastic skiing pass savings program here.
Après-ski and Non-Ski Activities
This area is well known for skiing and snowy scenes, but there are plenty of activities to participate in other than skiing. Luxury treatments like massages and spa services are available throughout the area, as well as at certain accommodation sites.
There are also numerous bars and communal hotspots for an amazing après nightlife experience, topped with a plethora of boutiques and stores for dreamy après shopping sprees. There are facilities for other outdoor activities as well, including biking, hiking, and snowboarding.
Conlcusion
Pros of Skiing in Breckenridge
- Plenty of variety in skiing terrain suitable for all experience levels
- Skiing lessons, ski rentals, and convenient facilities available
- Great facilities for families and young children
- Fantastic selection of ranging accommodation sites
- Incredible ski pass benefits and packages
Cons of Skiing in Breckenridge
- More advanced terrain than intermediate and beginner areas
- Not that many non-ski activities and events
This resort is a fantastic destination for families, friends, and couples, offering a wide selection of features and facilities.
There is an endless amount of skiing opportunities, relaxing post-skiing attractions, and après experiences that await those visiting Breckenridge.