Breckenridge is a quaint Victorian town built on the ancestral lands of the nomadic Ute Indians who lived in harmony with moose, elk, deer, bears, cougars, and many other creatures. The Utes called this beautiful spot on the Blue River where the peaks and glen unite "Nah-oon-kara," meaning "softly beautiful valley." In 1859, the first European settlement began alongside the river and, with the onset of the gold rush, the town prospered. It was here that Colorado's largest gold nugget, a 13-pounder dubbed "Tom's Baby," was found in 1887. Many of the original buildings from that era remain, i ... More
Luxury condos and townhouses, 2 blocks from Breckenridge's historic Main Street – This elegant resort with a stone and timber design and stylish alpine decor combines seclusion, accessibility, casual mountain ambience, and contemporary refinement. It has ski-in/gondola-out access from Peak 8 via the Skyway Skiway. Take complimentary transportation to lifts, restaurants, and shops. Breckenridge offers authentic charm, frontier spirit, breathtaking scenery, and numerous outdoor activities.
Ski-in/ski-out resort at the base of Peak Nine, with a luxurious spa – You're just 50 yards from the Beaver Run Super Chair and 350 yards from the Quicksilver Six lift at this ski-in/ski-out resort. In winter, the resort runs a complimentary on-demand shuttle to town. Breckenridge was established as a 19th-century mining town, and its Main Street boutiques and restaurants maintain a Victorian air.
Slopeside hotel with easy access to ski lifts and historic Main Street – This conveniently located hotel is near the center of town, just 50 yards from Breckenridge Ski Resort's Peak 9 Base Area's chairlifts. It's a great base from which to take part in a range of outdoor activities, in all seasons. The property is a stop on the town's free shuttle route and offers its own complimentary shuttle service.
Ski-in/ski-out hotel in a year-round, family-friendly, active destination – This recently renovated hotel is 75 yards from the base of the Breckenridge Ski Resort and steps from historic Main Street. It's part of the resort complex "where Breckenridge meets the mountain," with numerous restaurants, shops, and events. There's complimentary shuttle service around town. Breckenridge was established during the 19th-century Gold Rush era.
Year-round, family-friendly resort, conveniently located to ski slopes – This riverside property with a mountain resort ambience is situated at the base of Breckenridge Ski Resort as well as just steps from Breckenridge's historic and bustling Main Street. The ski-in/ski-out hotel is 12 miles west of Keystone, 20 miles northwest of Copper Mountain, and 35 miles east of Vail.
Year-round, family- and group-friendly resort, with ski-in/ski-out access – This condo resort is conveniently located at the base of Breckenridge Ski Resort and steps from historic Main Street. It's anchored by a pedestrian plaza with dining and shopping; is adjacent to the Peak 9 Quicksilver Super6 chairlift; and is 12 miles from Keystone, 20 miles from Copper Mountain, and 35 miles from Vail.
Value lodge on Breckenridge's historic Main Street, near ski lifts – This comfortable hotel with a log cabin exterior is especially appealing to the budget-conscious and offers great Rocky Mountain views and an authentic taste of Colorado's frontier heritage. It's situated on the south end of historic and vibrant Main Street, within walking distance of the slopes, restaurants, and shops.
Breckenridge is a quaint Victorian town built on the ancestral lands of the nomadic Ute Indians who lived in harmony with moose, elk, deer, bears, cougars, and many other creatures. The Utes called this beautiful spot on the Blue River where the peaks and glen unite "Nah-oon-kara," meaning "softly beautiful valley." In 1859, the first European settlement began alongside the river and, with the onset of the gold rush, the town prospered. It was here that Colorado's largest gold nugget, a 13-pounder dubbed "Tom's Baby," was found in 1887. Many of the original buildings from that era remain, including the circa 1880 building that housed the town's first newspaper, "Ye Editor," the 1860 "Choy Laundryman's Chinese Laundry," and the 1870 "Gold Pan Saloon," one of the oldest bars west of the Mississippi.
When the mining days began to wane, another boom hit Breckenridge with the discovery of its "White Gold." Incredible skiing put Breckenridge on international ski maps and broke the boom and bust cycle forever. Twenty-first century Breckenridge's claims to fame are its 4 interconnected mountains, more than 2,000 skiable acres, wilderness adventure, and one of the largest historic districts in Colorado. Visitors praise the echoes of the past that are all around to remind them of the colorful history of this welcoming and authentic Wild West town!
Please note that times reflect flights to Denver. Driving time from Denver to Breckenridge is 2 hours.
New York City 4.25 hrs
Miami 4.5 hrs
Philadelphia 4.25 hrs
Boston 4.5 hrs
Los Angeles 2.25 hrs
Chicago 2.75 hrs
Dallas-Fort Worth 2 hrs
San Francisco 2.5 hrs
Arapaho National Forest: This pristine wilderness straddles the Continental Divide and is named for the Plains tribe that hunted in the rugged Front Range during the summer. In fact, the game-drive structures that the Arapaho used to ambush game are still visible. The forest quickly goes from tame woods to the Rockies at their most wild — raw, exposing visceral geologic formations such as jagged ridges, broken buttresses, cloud-piercing pinnacles, and glaciers cracked by crevasses. Mountain climbers ascend the peaks, while others hike, bike, photograph wildlife, and swim, and yet others come just to rejuvenate amid the serene beauty.
Gold Mine Tour: Country Boy Mine in Breckenridge offers daily underground mine adventures. You can venture into a mountain, explore the original workings of the mine as they feel, hear, and smell what it was like to be a Colorado miner over 100 years ago. Visitors walk around the mine site and experience the thrill of sliding down a 35-foot ore chute, and have a chance to view old photos and other fun exhibits.
Breckenridge sits in a high mountain valley along the Continental Divide in central Colorado surrounded by the aspen-covered Rocky Mountain peaks soaring up to 13,000 feet. The vertical drop is 3,398 feet and there are over 2,000 accessible acres of ski terrain including above timberline bowls, moguls, chutes, groomed runs, glades, and a snowboard park. The town contains the oldest historic district in Colorado.
The extreme altitude and alpine climate cycle through the four distinct seasons, each with its own beauty and related activities. Snowfall averages 300 inches each year and summer is known for its mild temperatures, cool evenings, and low precipitation.
Spring 51°
Summer 70°
Fall 56°
Winter 24°
The famous "champagne powder" covers the slopes from November to April, but summers are a wonderful and little-known secret. The mountains are blanketed with wildflowers and festivals fill the valley, creating a whole new playground for outdoor folks. Temperatures are warmest and wildflowers are at their peak in July and August, when resorts are amazingly uncrowded. Also, many locals say their favorite month is September, when autumn sets the aspen leaves ablaze in gold and scarlet hues.
Skiing And Snowboarding: Breckenridge Ski Area covers 2,043 acres across 4 interconnected mountains with 23 lifts. "Champagne powder" covers the slopes from November to April, when ski season is at its peak. The Rocky Mountains soar up to 13,000 feet, with vertical drops as high as 3,398 feet. There are over 2,000 accessible acres of ski terrain, including above timberline bowls, moguls, chutes, groomed runs, glades, and a snowboard park. Snowfall averages 300 inches a year.
Historic Countryside: Breckenridge is a Victorian town built on the ancestral lands of the nomadic Ute Indians who lived in harmony with moose, elk, deer, bears, cougars, and many other creatures. The Utes called this beautiful spot on the Blue River "Nah-oon-kara," meaning "softly beautiful valley." This pristine wilderness straddles the Continental Divide, where the landscape quickly goes from tame woods to the Rockies at their greatest. Jagged ridges, broken buttresses, and cloud-piercing pinnacles push their way up into the sky. The town prospered during the gold rush, and it was here that Colorado's largest gold nugget, a 13-pounder dubbed "Tom's Baby," was found in 1887. Its old time, wild west appeal is an attraction in itself.
Active Pursuits: Many, many people come to Breckenridge in the winter to ski and snowboard, but there are loads of other things to do, both in the winter and in the other months of the year. Sleigh rides and dog sledding can be fiercely competitive activities here. In the spring and summer, fly fishermen descend on the waters around Breckenridge, including the Colorado, Blue, Eagle, and Williams Fork rivers, as well as a number of trophy lakes and ponds. Rainbows and browns in excess of 20 inches can be caught on dry flies. This area of scenic wilderness is also perfect for hiking and mountain biking, and you can even play a round of golf at the Breckenridge Golf Club.
Skiing & Snowboarding: Of course, it's the #1 reason people visit, and with 4 mountains, a vertical rise of almost 3,400 feet, and 139 trails, it's no wonder! The longest run is 3.5 miles, the trails vary for all skill levels, and ski school is always in session. Boarders can look forward to their own terrain park and half-pipe. Breckenridge lift tickets are also interchangeable with those at Keystone, and on select days at Vail and Beaver Creek.
Snowmobiling: See Jaques Peak and North Sheep Mountain up close, play in the shadow of the Holy Cross, Gore, and Ten Mile Ranges. Cruise the forgotten roads of Kokomo Ghost Town and relive the gold rush at the Colonel Seller Mine. As the sun sets behind the Rockies, settle in for a catered meal under the stars.
Dog Sledding: Learn to mush and command your team of Siberian Huskies on a thrilling ride through the Arapaho National Forest or just snuggle back under the blankets and leave the driving to the pros, whichever you prefer!
Cross Country Skiing: Hundreds of miles of pristine trails in the Arapaho National Forest offer set tracks and soft blankets of new snow. The Breckenridge Nordic Center also has set tracks, groomed trails, and ice skating.
Snowshoeing: Imagine walking atop several feet of fresh snow, your movements silenced by the immensity of Mother Nature and your mind free to wander. New shoe models weigh only a 1 or 2 pounds and make navigating the snow a breeze.
Gold Panning & Mine Tours: Venture into the 100 year-old Country Boy mine on a guided tour that takes you more than 1,000 feet underground. Catch the fever as you pan for real gold in Eureka Creek just like the prospectors did in the late 1800s! Feel, hear, and smell what it was like to be a Colorado miner over 100 years ago as you walk around the mine site and experience the thrill of sliding down a 35-footore chute.
Mountain Biking: The Arapaho National Forest contains a network of 200 miles of trails and mining roads serviced by the Quicksilver chairlift all summer. Rentals, lessons, and tours are available.
Golf: Enjoy several world-class courses, like the Breckenridge Golf Club course designed by Jack Nicklaus and named one of Golf Digest's Top 75 Upscale Courses. Don't be surprised if you drive like a pro — the air is so thin golf balls fly 20% farther!
White Water Rafting: When the spring sun begins melting the ice, the rivers return to their rushing ways. Paddle down the Arkansas River past the canyon walls and striking rock formations. Choose your speed — mild or wild!
Fly Fishing: More than 100 miles of major river fishing as well as thousands of miles of streams, 10 major reservoirs, countless glacial lakes, and jaw-dropping scenery surround Breckenridge. Lessons, equipment, and guided toursare available.
Horseback Riding: A serene canter through the Rocky Mountain wilderness or adrenaline-pumping lessons in cattle driving and rodeo riding are some of your options for enjoying the west like the cowboys of old.
Hot Air Ballooning: Float up, up, and away above the Arapaho National Forest for a stunning view of the Rockies during a crisp sunrise or long-shadowed sunset flight.
Breckenridge cuisine dazzles with American, International, and the latest fusion trend. With over 50 restaurants, there's something to suit varying budgets and tastes, from quaint coffee shops to bustling breweries. Most venues are casual and rustic, though some serve fine cuisine in elegant rooms.
Gourmet
The Hearthstone was originally constructed in the early 1880's as a log home. In 1989 it became The Hearthstone, and has sonce gone on to receive accliam such as "Overall Winner" at the Taste of Breckenridge Festival. Fresh seafood, hand-cut steaks, and wild game make it a favorite with the locals. The extensive California wine list has received the Wine Spectator "Award of Excellence" several years in a row, and the service deserves its own award! 130 South Ridge Street
Pierre's Riverwalk Cafe: Chef Pierre prepares meals to order in the open kitchen, using the finest, freshest ingredients available. Trained in France, and beginning his culinary career at the tender age of 14, Pierre blends American and French cuisine without confusing the palate. Every plate is picture perfect, from the Rocky Mountain trout to the Roasted Duck Breast. The wine list features over 100 selections from both France and the US. Sip on a fine port or cognac while savoring a freshly baked dessert. 137 South Main Street
Highly Recommended
The Briar Rose Restaurant & Bar is named after the old Briar Rose Silver Mine, and was a boarding house in the 1800s that fed weary miners. Today it serves some of the best slow roasted prime rib, wild game, fresh seafood, poultry, and pasta in town. The extensive wine list is very good too. 109 East Lincoln
Swan Mountain Inn: This charming hideaway boasts one of Breckenridge's best restaurants. The four course meals are heavenly delicious, from starter to dessert. Entrees range from local cuisine to imported specialties,and include elk medallions pan seared with juniper and sage, King Canyon buffalo top sirloin, and Alaskan king crab legs. A gastronomic oasis hidden deep in the woods, a meal at the Swan Mountain Inn is well worth the drive. 16172 Highway 9
Local Flair
Nordic Sleigh Rides are evening events that take you back in time. Huge Belgian draft horses pull you through the alpine wilderness to a recreated 1800s mining camp. A ragtime piano player greets you as food cooks on a 19th-century wood stove, followed by shows about the era and famous Wild West characters. Pick-Up at 1200 Ski Hill Road
Breckenridge Brewery & Pub opened in 1990 and has quickly become one of the favorite spots for locals and visitors alike. Take a seat in the dining room and feast over the view of the Ten Mile Range while enjoying excellent pub fare and handcrafted beers at very reasonable prices. Favorites are Rocky Mountain Nachos, Brewery Wings, and Pan Fried Walleye Filet. As for the beer, there are always a number of regular and seasonal brews, notably the Avalanche Ale (an American Amber with slight hop character), and the Trademark Pale Ale (an American Pale Ale with sweet floral hop character). 600 South Main Street
Romantic
The Wellington Inn serves classic menu selections like Beef Wellington and Cherry Roast Duck with regional flair. The Victorian decor of lace tablecloths, glowing tapered candles, fresh flowers, and classical music enhances the romance! 200 North Main Street
The Top Of The World Restaurant: Watch the sun set on the Rocky Mountains and treat yourself to the regional delights of the menu in this intimate, fire-lit setting. When it's just the two of you, the courteous wait staff take special care to guard your privacy as you relish the moment. Try the tantalizing Veal Scaloppini, and the grilled polenta stack layered with mozzarella. After dinner move to the comfortable lounge for cocktails and a seat by the fire. 112 Overlook Drive (The Lodge & Spa At Breckenridge)
Long known for its outstanding nightlife, the club scene in Breckenridge has reached epic proportions in the last few years. While most of the old favorites are still around, new and updated venues bring a cosmopolitan flair to the mountains. Stylish interiors, regular DJs, and big-name performers are the foundation of the new scene. Whatever kind of party you're in the mood for, Breckenridge has it. This dynamic resort is also home to some of the state's most acclaimed theater companies, staging musicals, dramas, comedies, one-actor shows, terrific ensembles, and star performances.
Pubs: The Breckenridge Brewery & Pub is the result of one man's dream to ski all day and drink great beer all night, and now that dream comes true for all his guests too, as his is the only microbrewery in town. Clancy's Irish Pub is the best place to go for a quiet chat and a pint, since everyone knows that a Guinness doesn't like loud music, loud people, or bright flashing lights.
The Olive: One of the newer hotspots in town, this is a chic, sophisticated nightclub for 30- to 50-somethings to kick back with a martini or groove on the dance floor without being crushed by a mob of sweaty Gen Nexters.
Downstairs at Eric's: 120 different beers with 22 on tap, 16 TVs with 2 satellites and 8 receivers, and delicious barbecue, chicken and burgers — these are the main things you need to know about Eric's. The whole family can have a good time here since there's also an arcade for the kids and the attitude is totally easy-going.
Gold Pan Bar & Grill: Sporting the oldest continuously operating liquor license west of the Mississippi, this has been a locals' favorite for drinks, food, and fun since 1881.
Backstage Theatre: This highly-acclaimed drama company presents award-winning theater in a cozy atmosphere. Shows sell out quickly so call ahead!
Chevy Truck US Snowboard Grand Prix: The finest international athletes compete at the second stop of this USSA series. The Grand Prix is one of the world's most prestigious snowboard circuits, so expect incredible performances and parties to match. January
International Snow Sculpting Competition: Teams from across the globe come to compete in this annual event. Prepare to be amazed as frozen masterpieces emerge from 20-ton blocks of frozen snow, with sculptors working day and night. The Russians are the ones to beat in this surprisingly heated competition. Last week in January
Breckenridge Bump Buffet: One of Breckenridge's long-standing spring skiing traditions, combing talent and fun as telemarkers tackle the bumps dressed in zany costumes. It's cabin fever madness! April
Spring Massive: This is a multi-faceted, interactive festival including entertainment, family fun, competitions and freeriding! Experience legendary spring skiing and riding. Includes incredible lodging and lift packages. April
Breckenridge Music Festival: Two months of riveting classical concerts featuring the Breckenridge Music Institute Festival Orchestra and Chamber Ensembles. Special guest artists and conductors perform, and there are also galas, music camp, and children's concerts. August
Rubber Duck Race: It's a "quacky" fundraising event with thousands of rubber ducks shooting the rapids of the Blue River toward a finish line. This charity event is a terrific end-of-summer party with a BBQ and family entertainment. August
13th Annual Meet the Artists: An arts and crafts show featuring more than 50 artists organized by the Summit County Arts Council. September
Breckenridge Festival of Film: This renowned event has become the standard for mountain film festivals, each year bringing in new directors, screenwriters, and celebrities. Past premiers included Pleasantville and LA Confidential. September
Oktoberfest: Despite its name, this holiday was first held in September 1810 by King Ludwig of Bavaria in appreciation of wife. Today it's all about good Bavarian food, German beer, the jagermarsch and oompah music! September
Year-round, casual clothes are appropriate pretty much everywhere, with the occasional need for "smart casual" in a few upscale restaurants. Layered clothing and a medium-gauge jacket are the best choice for spring and autumn, and loose, natural fibers in summer. Wear heavy, layered, waterproof clothing and boots in winter.
We strongly advise that you confirm the following information and regard this only as a basic guide.
Altitude: At 8,750 feet, "the air is rare" with oxygen pressure 40% lower than at sea level. This thin atmosphere makes "low landers" a little sluggish at first, and preventative measures are recommended, like avoiding alcohol and caffeine for a few days, drinking lots of fluids, and avoiding overexertion for 2-3 days.
Sunburn: The combination of bright sun and reflective snow can cause skiers to burn more easily than at lower elevations. Wear sunblock and sunglasses with UV protection.
Breckenridge Resort Chamber: 311 S Ridge Street, PO Box 1909, Breckenridge, CO 80424, phone 970-453-2913, fax 970-453-7238, email gobreck@gobreck.com