Breckenridge is an outdoor paradise in the winter, with breathtaking mountain views and some of the country’s most famous slopes.
Though it’s truly a four-season resort community, “Breck,” as the locals call it, is best-known for its superb skiing and winter sports. A fresh blanket of snow provides breathtaking scenery and ignites a passion for getting outside. You can swoosh the legendary downhill runs, stroll charming Main Street, or slide over snow-covered streets on a sleigh while you breathe the crisp mountain air.
Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Breckenridge is more than a Shangri-la for adrenaline-seekers; it has a thriving culture all its own. This historic town has more than 300 days of glorious sunshine a year. Coupled with more than 300 inches of average snowfall, it’s the perfect winter playground: A bluebird sky above you and pristine pearly-white snow below you.
What’s even better? Getting to Breckenridge is quick and easy.
From Dallas, hop a plane at DFW Airport or Love Field. In mere hours, you’re landing in the mile-high city of Denver — easy-peasy. It’s just as easy even if you’re flying in from Austin, San Antonio, or Houston.
In Denver, take one of the convenient hourly shuttle services from the airport to Breckenridge. In less than three hours, you’ll be in town. Almost everything is within walking distance, but complimentary shuttle service is also available.
Mining Town History
Breckenridge was a gold-rush base camp in the 1850s. Today, it mixes western hospitality with Victorian architecture: Restored gingerbread-embellished wooden houses line the streets. Its rugged beauty attracts nature-lovers, artists, and vacationers alike.
The town’s historic district is one of the largest in Colorado and is a defining element of Breckenridge’s identity. At night, Main Street sparkles with colorful lights and an upbeat vibe. Everywhere you look, the mountains and ski runs frame the horizon.
I love browsing the unique shops and art galleries in the historic buildings on Main Street, with plenty of dining and drinking options to experience. If you’re a history buff, Breck houses more than 10 local museums and historic sites that serve as a window into Breckenridge’s deep, gold mining past.
Skiing is one of the top reasons to visit Breckenridge. The Breckenridge Ski Resort spans five peaks, with more than 187 trails supported by 34 lifts. The mountain runs are perfect for every level of skier, snowboarder, or sledder. No matter which one you try, the views will astound you.
The free Breck Connect Gondola ties the town to the ski resort, providing the thrill of riding a gondola even if you don’t ski. The short trip offers beautiful views of the town below, the Tenmile Mountain Range, and the Cucumber Gulch Wildlife Preserve. Stops along the way to the top offer fun activities, shopping, and delicious eatery choices.
The International Snow Sculpture Championships are a must-see event in January. Snow artists from around the world come to Breckenridge to compete, creating gravity-defying sculptures.
These massive works carved from snow are amazing to view during the day and cast a completely different look at night. Colorful lights create highlights and shadows over the pieces.
Breckenridge is one of those places you visit, fall in love with, and return to every chance you get. There is truly something for everyone in this charming and friendly mountain town.
When you go:
Accommodation options are varied and plentiful, with hundreds of hotels and many condo units. For information, go to www.gobreck.com.
