Breckenridge Resort Guide

Situated high up in the Colorado Rockies, Breckenridge is renowned for its high snowfall and five fabulous peaks, all easily accessible from the lively historic town.

Known affectionately by locals as ‘Breck’, Breckenridge is a firm favourite with our customers. Not only because it has 2,908 acres of incredible and varied skiing terrain, but also it is a wonderfully colourful and heritage-rich town, surrounded by pine forests and snow-topped mountains.

Main Street sits at its heart, thrumming with shops, bars, restaurants and accommodation, and runs along the base of the mountain. The setup here means that once you arrive, you’ll unlikely need a car, as everything is accessible on foot or by bus. We’ve been coming to Breckenridge for over 20 years and want to share with you our guide to one of the UK's most favourite American ski resorts.

The skiing in Breckenridge is divided into the five ‘Peaks’. The wide, groomed runs of Peaks 7, 8 and 9 are perfect for beginners and intermediates while Peaks 8 and 10 offer more challenging slopes with exhilarating bowls and glades at higher altitudes. The resort is a paradise for intermediates and is well known for its excellent ski school.

Peak 6 - The smallest of the peaks, but expert and advanced skiers can enjoy some challenging terrain in Serenity Bowl and on Six Senses. These can be reached after a short hike from the Kensho Superchair. You can also enjoy a really long blue run from near the top of Peak 6 all the way down to the base of Peak 7.

Peak 7 - The Independence SuperChair will whizz you up to the top of Peak 7 in no time so you can get plenty of laps in on a network of cruisy blues. If you’re an intermediate looking for a confidence-building run then seek out Claimjumper, a long blue which winds down to the bottom of Peak 8.

Peak 8 - Great for mid-level skiers who are also up for a bit of a challenge. From the top of the Colorado Superchair and Peak 8 Superconnect, you can choose to ski the long and gentle runs of 4 O’Clock and Springmeier or you can take on some black diamonds. If you’re staying at One Ski Hill Place you’ll love Peak 8 - all of these runs wind right down to your doorstep! For beginners, there is also a lovely selection of greens at the top of Rip’s Ride chair. The top of Peak 8 is also the highest point of the entire resort, so if you’re an advanced skier, make sure you make your way up to the top of the Imperial Express Superchair for some iconic views and rip-roaring double black diamonds.

Peak 9 - Intermediate blue run heaven! If you’re an intermediate then you’ll have an absolute blast skiing a delightful network of wide blues as you lap the Mercury and Beaver Run Superchairs. Peak 9 is also the best place in the resort to learn, with a dedicated beginners' area at the base. The Quicksilver Superchair to the top is slow, meaning that beginners can get on and off without any fretting.

Peak 10 - Where the locals head and one of the quietest areas with only black diamonds from the top. Crystal offers a serious challenge for those who like their moguls, or you can dip into the Dark Rider glades for some steep and deep powder turns. If you’re an ambitious intermediate and are looking to try your hand at black runs for the first time, Double Jack and Centennial are great options - they’re steep and will certainly give you a thrill, but not so daunting that less experienced skiers can’t give them a go.

Altitude - You may have read about the altitude in Breckenridge but don't be put off. Whilst it is a high resort at nearly 10,000 feet (13,000 feet at the highest point), it’s all about taking it easy.

1. If you start feeling light-headed, stay on the easier slopes to give your lungs time to adjust. It may take a couple of days.

2. Avoid alcohol - don't have more than one beer on your first couple of nights as it will go straight to your head.

3. Drink lots and lots of water. Carry a small bottle of water at all times, plus there are lots of mountain restaurants to take breaks.

4. Small oxygen bottles are sold at the shops, which can help you out if you start feeling altitude sickness.

If you find that the altitude is affecting you badly (which is not that common), let the team at your hotel know and they'll be able to help you - they’re used to helping people with altitude sickness!

Sun protection - Colorado prides itself on 300 days of sunshine a year and at 10,000 feet, even on a cloudy day, you will need sun protection. Have your sunscreen with you at all times and remember that you need to apply it every two hours.

Maximise your time in Colorado and get even more out of your skiing holiday, by skiing multiple resorts in the area. On the same lift pass, you can also explore Keystone, Vail and Beaver Creek - all within a one-hour drive of Breckenridge.

Accommodation in Breckenridge is largely concentrated around Main Street which runs parallel to the base of the mountain, but there are ski-in ski-out lodging and hotel options right at the base as well. We have visited and hand-picked the best places we think you’d want to call home during your stay, ranging between 3 and 5 star-rated. The great thing about Breckenridge is that everything you need is within walking distance, yet many of the lodges also offer free shuttle services too, so you should be able to get around comfortably.

We recommend 3*+ The Village for larger parties, which is in a superb position at the base of Peak 9. Condos tend to be bigger and more spacious than most, with a choice of one, two and three-bedroom options, sleeping up to 10 people. They have great facilities including a games room and pool-basketball. The Village makes for a convenient central meeting point, with shops, rentals, cafes and of course the Quicksilver SuperChair on your doorstep, meaning you’re a few steps away from the network of cruisy green runs.

It’s fair to say that every accommodation type we offer is suitable for families, but one that tops it for us is 3*+ Beaver Run Resort. Like The Village, it is located at the base of Peak 9, but it exits right onto the magic carpet, which is super close to the ski school. This condo-hotel has a range of hotel rooms and suites with up to two bedrooms that sleep six, and well-connected facilities include an indoor pool, mini-golf, games room, laundry facilities and a convenience stoor, plus a spa and massage area if you want a moment to treat yourself. You'll also be within walking distance of Main Street.

Taking things up a notch is 4* Gravity Haus Breckenridge, a modern, boutique hotel with 60 contemporary rooms that can sleep between two and 10 people. They have unbeatable facilities, including a gym, Japanese-inspired onsen and sauna, a restaurant and café, plus live music to boot.

The diamond in the crown of luxe ski hotels in Breckenridge is 5* One Ski Hill Place, a premium ski-in ski-out resort offering one to four-bedroom self-catering condos with beautiful modern furnishings and balconies that show off spectacular valley or mountain views. There’s an array of facilities to enjoy from the comfort of the hotel, including a bowling alley, arcade games room, two indoor pools, a sauna, steam room and hot tubs.

A five-minute walk from Main Street and the exciting buzz of town is 3*+ River Mountain Lodge, a self-catering option with a range of hotel rooms and condos to pick from, sleeping up to six people. Facilities include a bar, pool, hot tub, sauna, gym and free parking. River Mountain Lodge is a ski-in-only location, accessed via the gentle 4 O’Clock Run which carves through the town and ends on the opposite side of the road to the hotel. Whilst you are closest to Peak 8, a short shuttle ride provides access to three lifts from across the road.

Last but by no means least of our recommendations is the 3*+ Pine Ridge Condos. They are a great affordable self-catering option for groups and families thanks to their flexibility with room and bed arrangements, including loft condos that enable you to comfortably accommodate more guests without breaking the bank. Facilities include a pool, hot tubs, gym and free parking. Much like River Mountain Lodge, Pine Ridge is ski-in only and nearest to Peak 8, accessed by the Snowflake lift. The shuttle stops outside so you’ll be on the mountain in no time!

The resort operates its own free bus routes around town which are regular and efficient. You can download the resort’s bus app for the most up-to-date travel information. Many properties, such as One Ski Hill Place, also operate free “on-call” shuttles that run until evening. The Summit County buses run from Breckenridge to Keystone and Arapahoe Basin and take around 30 minutes. There is a ski bus operating to Vail most of the season which costs around $40pp and takes roughly one hour.

Breckenridge has a fantastic range of bars and restaurants. The town is lively in the evening with over 80 venues to choose from, there’s something to suit every budget and taste. There's plenty on the mountain to keep you fuelled during your hours on the slopes too.

• Columbine Café serves hearty breakfasts, from blueberry maple bacon pancakes to eggs benedict to grits and gravy, you’ll be sure to have a wholesome start to the day at one of Breck’s most popular cafes. Opens all week, 7.30am to 1.30pm.
• Cabin Juice Restaurant at Gravity Haus is located at the base of Peak 9, the hotel’s restaurant is open to the public, serving a variety of brekky and brunch options daily from 7am.
• The Crown is near Peak 8, and a great spot for breakfast burritos, pastries and bagels, for breakfast and brunch, opens every day at 8am.

• The Overlook is located at the top of Peak 9, The Overlook brings you a sumptuous selection of Asian food. Keep yourself going for the afternoon with hearty chicken and rice bowls, steam buns, green curry and their signature Rocky Mountain Ramen.
• Vista Haus serves simple hand-held meals on Peak 8, including BBQ Brisket Sandwiches, Walking Tacos, Hot Dogs and Chilli Cheese Dogs, all with spectacular Rocky Mountain views out the window.
• Pioneer Crossing is Breckenridge's newest on-mountain restaurant on Peak 7. Here you can enjoy plantain rice bowls, pork green chilli tacos and cinnamon churros!
• Ski Hill Grill & TenMile Station are perfect stops to refuel. Located at the bases of Peaks 8 and 10, they serve hot and satisfying food, including a range of sandwiches, burgers, pizza, chilli, mac and cheese and baked potatoes. Open 10am to 2pm.

• Mi Casa is considered the best Mexican in town. Although you can't pre-book at weekends, turn up early and pop your name on the list, then head to the bar for a margarita.
• The Hearthstone serves naturally raised beef and game, and sustainably caught seafood. This is for a special occasion, so make sure you pre-book this one.
• The Goldpan Saloon is a real Western bar and the oldest one in town dating back to 1879.
• Downstairs at Eric's will quench your cravings for pizza, wings (and/or) beer. The bar is open until midnight. After your dinner and drinks, head downstairs for a fun-filled time in the arcade room.
• Briar Rose Chophouse & Saloon serves the best American beef and steak in any manner of your choosing.
• Kenosha accommodates large groups. Incredible burgers, wraps, meat platters and huge portions!

Peak 10

• TenMile Station, located at the base of the Falcon SuperChair on Peak 10, is a welcome sun trap and great for a well-deserved end-of-day drink.

Peak 9

• Quandary Tequila Bistro at the foot of the Quicksilver SuperChair overlooks The Maggie Pond and is a fabulous hangout at the end of the day, with après running daily 3pm to 5pm, serving draft beer, cocktails, wine, and flavoursome, mouth-watering snacks.
• The Maggie is located opposite the Quandry and is a great spot to gather everyone for an after-ski refreshment.
• Coppertop Bar & Restaurant is in a perfect ski-in ski-out location at the base of the Beaver Run SuperChair and is a great spot for live music, drinks specials and a bit to eat.
• Mi Casa Mexican Restaurant is across the road from Peak 9 and runs a happy hour from 3pm to 5pm. Grab some fish tacos, nachos or house wings to eat alongside.

Peak 8

• The TBar is a popular après spot, conveniently located beside the Rocky Mountain SuperChair and the BreckConnect Gondola, serving comforting and hearty foods, hot toddies, cocktails, and a large range of microbrewery beers. DJs get the weekend started every Friday and Saturday.
• Robbie’s Tavern, an independently owned, slopeside bistro, serves homemade finger food, salads, chilli bowls, and sweet treats, with a range of beers on tap, wine, and hot and cold cocktails.

Peak 7

• Seven’s can be found at the base of the Independence SuperChair­­ and is a great meeting place at the end of the day. It has a sun deck with gorgeous mountain views, plus a dining room and bar, offering a range of diverse food and drink options.

You are in the right place, as downtown Breckenridge is buzzing with bars and live music venues. To name a few…

• Ember is a fantastic spot of an evening, with low ambient lighting and a tantalising selection of cocktails, wines and spirits. They also serve an array of creative culinary treats if you are looking for a bite to eat too.
• RMU (Rocky Mountain Underground) is an intimate hangout with a wonderful community feel where you can enjoy light bites, craft cocktails and beer, whilst listening to live music and open mic, and events like bingo.
• The Motherload Tavern is in the centre of town and comes alive at night with live music, karaoke and trivia nights.
• The Gold Pan Saloon, near the BreckConnect Gondola, is a fabulous old-time pub that has served as a watering hole for 140 years. By night it ramps things up, with live music and DJs creating an energetic atmosphere, making it a great place for a knees-up with the locals.
• Napper Tandy's Irish Sports Bar welcomes you in with its laid-back atmosphere. come here for a game of pool and live music of all genres.
• Cecilia's Nightclub and Cocktail Bar, close to the Peak 9 base, is a sure bet if you’re looking for a club night and late-night bar.

The best value and biggest supermarket is City Market on the outskirts of town. Windy City Pizza will also deliver directly to your door.

If you don't ski or you’re taking a time-out from the slopes, there are plenty of attractions and activities to do while you’re staying in Breckenridge.

• Snowmobiling - Enjoy an exhilarating ride, and scoot across the Georgia Pass on an unforgettable guided tour, where you can stop regularly for the incredible views.
• Dog sledding - Cruise behind a team of dogs who lead you across vast blankets of snow – you might even get the chance to direct the sled yourself.
• Snowshoeing - There are plenty of trails available all year round, but a guided snowshoe hike is a great way to experience the snowy forest and learn about the local history along the way.
• Fat biking - Chunky, grippy bike tyres allow you to roll through downtown Breckenridge and out onto local pathways past the river.
• Fly fishing - Discover the best spots in Breckenridge to fish on a half-day or full-day fishing package through local guides. Whatever your age or ability, fly fishing is available for you to try.
• Snowcat tours - Hop up into the heated cabin of a snowcat and enjoy a scenic tour from Breckenridge Nordic Centre. You’ll even stop along the way at a historic mining cabin for smores and hot choccy. It’s a fabulous option for groups or families with younger children.
• Cross-country skiing - Breckenridge Nordic Centre also operates cross-country skiing on regularly groomed blue and green trails. Ski rental, retail, wax service and a repair shop are available at the centre.
• Sleigh rides - From November through to April you can enjoy sleigh rides from Breckenridge Stables that begin at the base of Peak 9 and take you up the mountain. You can choose to be dropped off for a delicious dinner at a yurt on the mountain or just make the journey to take in the breathtaking beauty of the Rockies.
• Ice Skating - Get your skates and enjoy a fun session at the outdoor rink at the base of Peak 8. Alternatively, if you are in the southern part of town, the Stephen C. West Arena is open year-round for public skating, hockey and figure skating activities. Make sure you check the calendar for local hockey games.

• Breckenridge Recreation Center - In addition to a gymnasium, the facility contains indoor tennis courts, lap and leisure pools, a water slide, a racquetball court, basketball courts, indoor rock-climbing wall (top rope, bouldering and lead climbing) and an indoor track.
• Cinema - The Eclipse has three screens and shows current films.
• Distillery tour - Head behind the scenes of the award-winning Breckenridge Distillery, and enjoy a tour of the facilities with - of course - the opportunity to sample the distillery’s gin, vodka and Bourbon Whiskey.
• Spa - Relax and rejuvenate with a massage treatment during your stay at Breckenridge.  You’re spoilt for choice, with The Rejuvenation Center, located adjacent to the Aquatics Center in One Ski Hill Place, the Blue Sage Spa and Harmony Wellness Spa, both in the town centre.
• Museums and tours - Learn all about the rich history of Breckenridge through the museums and guided tours available via the Breck History website. This includes the Breckenridge Welcome Center Museum where you’ll learn how Breck has evolved since it began in the 1800s, and the Barney Ford House Museum where you can visit the house of Barney L. Ford an escaped slave, prominent entrepreneur, and Breckenridge's first black businessman. Historic walking tours run in winter but be aware that they are subject to cancellation during severe weather.
• Shopping - There are over 200 shops in Breckenridge itself and the outlet shopping at Silverthorne (a half-hour shuttle ride away) is a must for bargain hunters.

Childcare - For children aged 12 months to 4 years old there is either the Peak 8 Childcare Centre or the Village Child Care. Reservations are recommended although drop-ins are allowed if there is space. Parents are required to remain in Breckenridge at all times while children are enrolled.

Babysitting - Breckenridge Nannies offers hourly rates and flexible care. They offer overnight care and add-on activities including cookie decorating and crafting.

Kids' Ski Lessons - Breckenridge offers child group ski and snowboard lessons for all ability levels, ages three to 14. For a little extra cost, you can book group lessons that are limited to six skiers or snowboarders.

Sledding and tubing - The Runway Sledding Hill is great fun for kids who want to have a go at tobogganing, saucer sliding or tubing - and it’s free! 

Kids' Lessons - Child group ski and snowboard lessons for all ability levels, ages three to 14. Lessons are half-day (two and a half hours) or full-day (six hours) and children will be grouped according to their age and ability. For a little extra cost, you can book group lessons that are limited to six skiers or snowboarders.

Adult Lessons - Adult group ski lessons for all ability levels, ages 15+. Lessons are half-day (two and a half hours) or full-day (five and a half hours) and skiers will be grouped according to their ability. Groups are limited to ten skiers or snowboarders.

Private Lessons - Private ski and snowboard lessons for all abilities and ages are the best way to advance your skills at your own pace. Lessons are half-day (3three hours) or full-day (six and a half hours).

Beginner Lessons - Learn at your own pace in private lessons or with other adults of a similar skill level in a fun, safe environment. Breckenridge's Green Run Guarantee will have you skiing or boarding a qualifying green run in three lessons or you'll get a fourth lesson for free.

Adaptive Lessons - Customised learning especially designed for skiers and snowboarders with disabilities and special needs.

Backcountry skiing - Head out with a local guide to explore the vast Colorado backcountry. Enjoy carving through this technical terrain whilst practising uphill and downhill skiing techniques, and learn how to select the best routes and how to traverse safely in avalanche territory. Run by Colorado Adventure Guides.

Ski with a ranger (free) - Enjoy a cultural and natural history on-mountain tour, learning about the flora and fauna of the surrounding area with the Friends of the Dillon Ranger District. Trips run for free (for those with a full lift pass) from January to March, and you need to be an intermediate-level skier to join.

Where is Breckenridge?

Breckenridge is located high up in the Rocky Mountains in the State of Colorado in the USA.

How do you get to Breckenridge from the UK?

The easiest route is to fly direct from London Heathrow to Denver International Airport (approx. nine hours). Then take a transfer from Denver along Route 70 to the resort (approx. two hours) - we recommend using the Epic Mountain Express shuttle bus. Travelling from the flat plains in the east of Colorado into the gigantic Rocky Mountains makes for a remarkable scenic journey.

What is the closest airport to Breckenridge?

Denver International Airport which you can fly directly to from London Heathrow.

When does Breckenridge open for skiing?

Breckenridge typically opens in early to mid-November depending on snowfall.

When does the ski season end in Breckenridge?

Breckenridge is blessed with a long ski season thanks to its high altitude and typically closes for skiing around mid-May.

How high is Breckenridge?

High! The town of Breckenridge sits at an altitude of 9,600 feet, while the resort's summit elevation is 12,840 feet. 

What time zone is Breckenridge?

Breckenridge runs on MST/MDT, 6/7 hours behind the UK.

Do you need a car in Breckenridge?

As Breckenridge, Vail, Beaver Creek and Keystone are included on the same lift pass, if you are planning on skiing more than one resort we would highly recommend hiring a car. You’re going all that way and can ski these other resorts for free!