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Graced with a charming historic downtown, endless ski runs and a down-to-earth feel, Breckenridge is a nice change from Colorado’s high-traffic resorts. Established in 1859, Breckenridge was a prosperous mining town, and it was here the largest gold nugget in Colorado was unearthed. Today, the city’s colorful past is still on display as visitors can explore authentic Victorian buildings, pan for gold in nearby mines and dive into the town’s history at a variety of museums. Enveloped in rugged mountains and lush greenery, Breckenridge entices outdoor enthusiasts with a host of recreational opportunities, too.
Year-round Thrills at Breckenridge Ski Resort
Breckenridge Ski Resort always has something fun in store, no matter what time of year you visit. Featuring four mountain peaks and 2,358 acres of powder runs, this resort is the ultimate haven for snow sport lovers. Here, skilled skiers and snowboarders can take on double black chutes and race down some of the best freestyle terrain in America while enjoying captivating panoramic views. Beginner-to-advanced groomed trails also cater to cross-country skiers and snowshoe enthusiastss.
A herd of mountain goats near a hiking trail in the hills above Breckenridge. Photo Sparty1711/Getty Images/iStockphoto
Hiking Aplenty
In the summer, trade in your skis for hiking boots. Home to hundreds of miles of trails, this area is the perfect destination for hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing and backpacking. Those who want to take it easy can follow paved paths along the gorgeous Blue River, while serious trekkers can summit mountains over 14,000 feet above sea level. Various types of wildlife can be found here, too, including black bears, moose, deer and approximately 50 types of birds.
Biking and Boating Breckenridge
Continue your outdoor explorations by cycling on the Summit County Recreational Pathway System. Also known as Recpath, this 55-mile paved bike trail system connects Breckenridge to various towns nearby. Featuring elevations between 8,777 feet and 10,563 feet, Recpath offers rides of varying difficulty to accommodate everyone from tourists to professional riders. Recreational cyclists can enjoy a relaxed journey along the Dillon Reservoir, while those looking for a challenge can ascend 1,500 feet over 13 miles to reach the summit of Vail Pass. The Dillon Reservoir also is a great place to launch a kayak or canoe.
Getting ready to Kayak on the Dillon Reservoir. Photo: Lunnderboy/Getty Images/iStockphoto
Breckenridge Backswings
Bring your A game to Breckenridge Golf Club. Nestled at the foot of the Ten Mile Mountain Range, this course is home to three championship nines: the Bear, the Beat and the Elk, all of which are Jack Nicklaus Signature courses. At every hole, you’ll be treated with dazzling views of snow-capped mountains, picturesque wetland areas and more. If you’re lucky, you may even spot beavers, deer, elk and other creatures who call the course home.
Discover the Past at Every Turn
You can tell Breckenridge is proud of its Victorian heritage and mining roots. Bursting with over 250 buildings dating back to the 1880s, the town invites you to uncover its rich past through captivating museums and historic sites. One of the top attractions here is the Edwin Carter Discovery Center, one of the oldest museums in Colorado. Edwin Carter was a taxidermist who collected animal specimens from the Rocky Mountains. His extensive collection eventually became the basis for the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. At the discovery center, you’ll get to see interactive displays about this famous Breckenridge local and get hands-on at a taxidermy workbench. Afterward, stop by the Barney Ford Victorian House to learn about Barney Ford, an escaped slave who later became a black civil rights leader. If you’re feeling lucky, take a tour of the Washington or Country Boy mines and try your hand at gold panning. Whatever you find is yours to take home. You can also learn about the important role sawmills played during the mining boom at the outdoor Breckenridge Sawmill Museum. Other popular historic sites nearby include Summit Ski Museum, High Line Railroad Park, William H. Briggle House and more.
Vibrant City Life
Packed with exciting activities, festivals and attractions, Breckenridge knows best when it comes to entertaining. Book a hot air balloon ride any time of the year to see the enchanting mountains from a whole new perspective. The town is also a Certified Colorado Creative District thanks to its many art spaces and events. Stop by the Breckenridge Arts District to appreciate works of art at numerous galleries and studios. While you’re here, check out the Backstage Theater and National Repertory Orchestra for top-notch performances. If you’re in town during winter, celebrate the Nordic god of snow at Ullr Fest by wearing horned Viking hats and watching parades. Or, watch artists turn blocks of ice into masterpieces at the Budweiser International Snow Sculpture Championships. In the summer, dance the days away at the annual music festival held at Riverwalk Center.
For More Information:
Colorado Tourism Office
1-800-265-6723
www.colorado.com
Breckenridge Tourism Office
888-251-2417
www.gobreck.com
