Everything You Need to Know about Breckenridge
Breckenridge
Fast Facts about Breckenridge, Colorado
About Breckenridge
Nickname
Colorado’s Kingdom
Local Resort
Breckenridge Ski Resort
Elevation
9,600 feet / 2,926 meters
Drive time from Denver
~1 1/2 hours
Airport of Choice
Denver International Airport
Closest 14er
Quandary Peak, 14,265 feet
About Breckenridge Ski Resort
Year Established
1961
Summit Elevation
12,998 feet / 3,963 meters
Vertical Rise
3,398 feet / 1,036 meters
Skiable Terrain
2,908 acres
Chair Lifts
34 total, including 1 gondola
Number of Trails
187
Longest Run
Four O’Clock – 3.5 miles / 5.6 kilometers
How to Get to Breckenridge, Colorado
Airports Near Breckenridge
Denver Airport
With Breckenridge located just two hours into the Rockies, the Denver Airport is the most popular airport to fly into when heading to this mountain town. With over 58 million passengers flying to or passing through the Denver Airport annually, it is one of the busiest airports in the world. You can’t fly directly into Breckenridge, but there are a number of options for getting from Denver Airport to Breckenridge, including Breckenridge airport shuttle, taxi services, Bustang, car rentals and more. The trip from Denver Airport to Breckenridge takes you west on I-70 through downtown Denver, into the foothills and up from 5,280 feet in elevation to 9,600 feet.
Eagle Airport
Located in the Vail Valley is the Eagle County Regional Airport, where United Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta fly daily. Just about an hour from Breckenridge, EGE is a great option to cut your drive time down, there are a few downfalls. Due to inclement weather, flights often get delayed or cancelled during the winter. Another con is that there are much fewer transportation options between the airport and Breckenridge. To get from Eagle County Airport to Breckenridge, you’ll head east on I-70 past Beaver Creek, Vail and Copper before coming to Frisco, where you’ll exit and head south to Breckenridge.
Colorado Springs Airport
About 2 1/2 hours southeast of Breckenridge is Colorado Springs, home to the Colorado Springs Municipal Airport. There are 19 nonstop destinations across the nation that Colorado Springs Airport services, as well as 5 airlines that fly in and out daily. Since you can’t fly directly to Breckenridge, this is another great airport nearby. To get from the airport to Breckenridge, take US-24 W into Breck through Fairplay and Alma. We do not operate shared shuttles between Breckenridge and the Colorado Springs Airport, however, private shuttles are available.
Other Transportation Options
Rental Cars
Though versatility is a huge draw toward renting a car while traveling, Colorado’s Rocky Mountains may say otherwise. The first issue travelers come across is the fact that the roads through the mountains can get treacherous during the winter here, and not every car or driver is prepared to take on the snowy conditions. Another downside of renting a car is the ongoing parking issues in nearly every ski town in Colorado. However, if this is your preferred method of travel once you arrive in Colorado, you have plenty of options of where you can rent a car.
Denver Airport houses 12 different car rental services, allowing you to hop off your plane, find your ride, and be on your way. In the winter, shuttling up to Breckenridge and renting a car in town may be your better option. If you’re planning on partaking in outdoor activities all around Summit County, a rental car will be your best bet for getting around quickly and efficiently. Renting a car also gives you the leisure of coming and going as you please. This way you can drive over to Keystone to hit the slopes in the morning, then head west to Vail for an afternoon adventure or dinner and not have to wait around for public transportation.
Traveling to Breckenridge via Car
A road trip with your friends or family may sound like the easiest means of travel, especially when heading cross country. It gives you the freedom of leaving when you want, going where you want, and taking your time getting there. There are plenty of routes to get up to Breckenridge once you get in to Colorado, and your best option will change based on the season and if you’re traveling on a weekend or holiday.
Interstate 70
This is the go-to path when driving to Breckenridge, but should be reconsidered when traveling on the weekends or during a holiday. An abundance of front rangers as well as visitors from out of state use I-70 as their main route, leaving traffic to get incredibly congested during peak times. On the other hand, I-70 should be your preferred path during the winter months. The interstate often closes due to weather conditions, but it’s also the safest route up to the mountains during the snowy season.
Highway 285
This alternative route is only two-lane in a majority of stretches as you get further west but is incredibly scenic and a breath of fresh air away from front range and I-70 traffic. Taking 285 only ads about 45 minutes to your drive but may be a better option on a weekend or holiday.
Breckenridge Airport Shuttles
With plenty of transportation services to and from the airport to a multitude of locations in Colorado, airport shuttles are arguably the most popular way to get from the airport to your destination. Here’s why:
- Shared shuttles are the easiest and most affordable option to travel from point A to point B.
- Though you’re sharing the space with others, shared shuttles are fast and efficient without breaking the bank.
- You can schedule you shuttle in advance, leaving you with the comfort of knowing your ride will be there once you land at the airport.
Peak 1 Express offers comfortable accommodations for those choosing to travel with us on our shared shuttles. Our Mercedes Sprinter vans are all less than a few years old and are equipped with bucket seats and free WiFi on board. Peak 1 Express also takes the stress of traveling through the winter conditions in the mountains off of your shoulders. Our experienced drivers are masters at facing the elements, and you’ll be on the slopes in no time.
Getting Around Breckenridge
Taxis & Uber in Breckenridge
Uber & Lyft
Uber and Lyft are one of the newest transportation methods for a quick lift through town. Download the app on your phone, order a car with a few taps of your thumb, and moments later the vehicle will show up where you are and take you where you need to go. Uber and Lyft tend to be affordable and efficient, and in Breckenridge every weekend. Though Uber seems like a great go-to, that’s not always the case. Uber and taxi availability is never guaranteed, and often prices surge during high demand times that you can end up spending triple what you should on transportation.
Taxis
Jake’s Mountain Shuttle and 453-Taxi are some of the few taxi services offered in the Breckenridge area. Jake’s Mountain Shuttle assures that all of their vehicles are equipped with studded snow tires for optimum snow travel. 453-Taxi provides 24/7 service and has the option to book your taxi online if you’re hanging out in a loud environment. While there are options for taxi service in Breckenridge, they are very limited and nearly never the most effective or affordable.
Other Transportation in Breckenridge
Bus System
Breckenridge Free Ride’s longest bus routes run from just after 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM during the busy season. Check out the Free Ride schedules here. Breckenridge Free Ride has 7 different routes, servicing areas such as Colorado Mountain College, the Satellite Lot, the Wellington Neighborhood on the north side, the various bases of Breckenridge Ski Resort, Warriors Mark, and the Ice Rink on the south side. If you’re traveling outside the Free Ride service area, an affordable option is the Summit Stage bus system. Copper, Silverthorne, Frisco, Dillon, Keystone, Arapahoe Basin, Blue River and Breckenridge are all included in the service area.
Rental Cars
Summit County has a few car rental agencies so you can have your own vehicle for adventures while visiting. In the town of Breckenridge is Breckenridge Rental Car and Mountain High Rentals, Frisco has a Hertz in the heart of town, and Silverthorne has an Enterprise. The one thing you have to prepare for is a price increase during the winter and summer seasons. None of these rental companies have huge inventory, so planning ahead is key if you want to rent a car in Summit County.
On 2 Wheels
The Breckenridge bike path runs parallel to the Blue River, right through town extending to Frisco. The Recreation Path is perfect for leisurely ride through town, a moderate trail ride along the Blue River, or a heart-pumping ride 9 miles north to Frisco. The path is shared with runners, hikers, dog walkers and, of course, bikers, so keep a keen eye out and alert those ahead of you as you approach. There are various gear shops throughout town to rent your bikes. Don’t forget to get a lock!
On Foot
Breckenridge’s Main Street is only about a mile long, making it easy to get around on foot. This quaint mountain town boasts an abundance of delectable cuisine, shopping, and activity all within walking distance of each other. The gondola, located just west of Main Street off of Watson Avenue, is another means of transportation with stops at the Shock Hill neighborhood, Peak 7, and Peak 8 ski areas. Breckenridge’s Ski Resort sits at the top of the gondola, along with a handful of ski-in ski-out hotels and great restaurants. Breckenridge is very pedestrian-friendly, with crosswalks at nearly every block and sidewalks along the streets.
Private Cars for Hire
Private car rentals are a step up to taxis or Ubers, especially for the fact that you can schedule them in advance and solidify your transportation. Powderhound Transportation is a popular private car rental company in Breckenridge, and Peak 1 Express offers private SUVs for hourly hire. Our Chevy Suburban’s comfortably fit five adults and the flexibility with these rentals with give you a professional driver that is at your beck and call, alleviating the stress of potential surge rates from Uber or waiting around for your taxi. Peak 1 Express also offers charter services in our Mercedes Sprinter vans. Our charters are the perfect option for large group transportation, as each van can comfortably fit up to 14 adults.
Zipcar
Zipcar was introduced to Breckenridge just over a year ago. For those who aren’t familiar with the company, car sharing means that there are vehicles located around town that are available for rent through the Zipcar app. Grab a vehicle for an hour or two or lease it for the whole day, then drop it off at the designated spot you picked it up. There are only a handful of cars in Breckenridge, so during busier times of the year, Zipcars may not be available due to increased demand.
Find the Best Lodging in Breckenridge, CO
There are a thousand good reasons why Breckenridge, CO is one of the most popular mountain resort destination areas in Colorado and in the U.S. You’ll find a wide variety of Breckenridge, Colorado lodging options that will work for almost any budget, from shoestring to unlimited. Check out our Breckenridge lodging information for the locals’ insider perspective from the Peak 1 Express local residents!
Breckenridge, Colorado lodging offers a large variety of accommodations options to fulfill any lodging needs. Sign up for our Breckenridge Airport Shuttle service the next time you’re visiting Colorado!
Dining in Breckenridge
Breckenridge restaurants offer a wide variety of delicious dining with something for everyone. This unique mountain town serves up some of the best dining in the region, with locales that range from rustic to regal. With more than 75 restaurants and bars to choose from, the only problem you might have is deciding where “not to eat”. A quick stroll down main street is an easy way to explore the culinary options available, or use our recommendations for places to eat in town as a starting guide. No matter what dining options you seek, Breckenridge restaurants have something for every taste bud and every budget.
Breckenridge Event Calendar
Breckenridge hosts an abundance of events for all different types of festivities. Whether you’re enjoying the warm months in Summit County or hitting the slopes in the winter, you’re sure to find something to do around town when not taking part in outdoor activities.
Winter Events
December
Lighting of Breckenridge & Race of the Santas: Yes, you read that correctly. See the town light up for the upcoming Christmas season, and observe hundreds of people dress as Santa run a race
Dew Tour: Debatably one of the coolest events in Breckenridge every year, the Dew Tour brings some of the greatest athletes to town for a competition. Watch the pros do their thing while indulging in cold beer and live music.
December
Ullr Fest: Celebrate the Norse god of snow and come together with a wealth of locals all praising Ullr for the snowy season and ability to ride fresh powder nearly every day.
International Snow Sculpture Championships: Talent is an understatement when describing the artists who partake in the Snow Sculpture Championships every year. Starting with a block of ice and only a week to work, masterpieces are made in the blink of an eye.
February
Mardi Gras: No, it’s not New Orleans, but it’s the Rockies twist on the classic holiday. Breckenridge celebrates Mardis Gras just as big as the south!
Summer Events
June
Breck Bike Week: Kick off your mountain biking and cycling season with this event, which highlights all type of biking and showcases demos for the upcoming year.
July
Breckenridge Summer Beer Fest: Enjoy live music and top notch brews at the Breckenridge Summer Beer Fest, which has been every year for about a decade.
August
Breckenridge International Festival of Arts: All things art happen on the Festival of Arts weekend, including workshops, displays, and nearly every form of art you can think of – not just limited to paint on canvas!
Colorado Classic Bike Race: Though these pro cyclists don’t ride through every year, the Colorado Classic Bike Race has a leg in Breckenridge often. It’s always awesome to root on the experts and view the race front and center.
September
Oktoberfest: Pushing the end of what one could call “summer”, Breckenridge’s Oktoberfest is held in September every year and is an experience, to say the least. Attendees go all out; including beer guzzling and kilt wearing.
Things to Do in Breckenridge | Summer
AVA Rafting & Zipline is your full service adventure outfitter for the Rockies! With whitewater rafting on 8 rivers across Colorado, 2 thrilling and unique zipline tours, cabins, rock climbing, horseback riding and more, you are sure to make your favorite memory with AVA Rafting & Zipline.
- Fly fishing
- Horseback riding
- Rock climbing
- Golf
- Whitewater rafting
- Hot air balloon rides
- Mine tours
- Dog sledding
- Summer Zipline Tours
Quandary Peak
Breckenridge’s favorite 14er, this peak is a popular hike during the summer season. Start off your morning with a hike to the summit, then hit the town for some well-deserved local brews. Keep an eye out for the mountain goats!
Babysitting and Child Care
Kids can’t tag along on your activity? Want a night out for a fine-dining date or a day on the slopes without the kids? We recommend Resort Sitters for childcare. They are great!
Things to Do in Breckenridge | WINTER
There’s more to Breckenridge than great skiing and shopping and great shuttle service from Peak 1 Express. In fact, Breckenridge activities are as diverse as the state of Colorado itself, offering year-round things-to-do. While in Breckenridge you may get the urge to go snowmobiling, snowshoeing, dogsledding, fly fishing, ATV-ing, sleigh riding, whitewater rafting, ice climbing, horseback riding, or mountain biking – and that’s just the beginning of the list of Breckenridge activities available to visitors. This unique mountain town is in the heart of Summit County with access to some of the state’s most spectacular scenery so plan on having ample time to do all that you’ll want to do when you get here. If you’re looking for things to do in Breckenridge, we have the best locals’ info.
Breckenridge Skiing & Snowboarding Resorts Nearby
Breckenridge Ski Resort
Distance from Breckenridge: <5 miles
Best For: Beginner to Advanced
Summit Elevation: 12,998 feet
Skiable Terrain: 2,908 acres
# of Lifts: 34
Terrain Parks: 4
Average Annual Snowfall: 300 inches
Keystone Ski Resort
Distance from Breckenridge: 15 mi
Best For: Beginner to Advanced
Summit Elevation: 12,408 feet
Skiable Terrain: 3,148 acres
# of Lifts: 20
Terrain Parks: 6 (all within Area 51)
Average Annual Snowfall: 235 inches
Arapahoe Basin
Distance from Breckenridge: 20 mi
Best For: Intermediate to Advanced
Summit Elevation: 13,050 feet
Skiable Terrain: 1,331 acres
# of Lifts: 9
Terrain Parks: 3
Average Annual Snowfall: 350 inches
Copper Mountain
Distance from Breckenridge: 20 mi
Best For: Intermediate to Advanced
Summit Elevation: 13,050 feet
Skiable Terrain: 1,331 acres
# of Lifts: 9
Terrain Parks: 3
Average Annual Snowfall: 350 inches
Other Winter Activities near Breckenridge
Frisco Tubing Hill
SNOW TUBING
970-668-2558
Ice Skating-Stephen C. West Arena
ICE SKATING
970-547-9974
Breckenridge Nordic Center
NORDIC SKIING, SNOWSHOES & RENTALS
970-453-6855
Breckenridge Stables Sleigh Rides
SLEIGH RIDES
970-389-1777
Good Times Adventures
DOGSLEDDING & SNOWMOBILING
970-453-7604
The Spa At Breckenridge
SPA
970-453-9068
Frequently Asked Questions about Breckenridge
What is there to do in Breckenridge?
Breckenridge is a great ski town located in Summit County Colorado. The number 1 activity would be skiing but there is also great golfing, biking, shopping, dining, ice skating and more! Breckenridge has a great downtown area and it is one of the few towns in the Rockies that was established before the ski resort.
Does Breckenridge have better skiing than Keystone?
Keystone is a convenient ski town located at the base of the mountains. There is not a ton of night life and other things to do besides ski, eat and shop. Breckenridge is a larger town with more local residents and the town is separate from the ski village.
What is there to do in Breckenridge Colorado in the winter?
There is great skiing, ice skating, sledding, and 2 awesome Nordic centers. NO matter what time of year it is you can always enjoy world class shopping and dining in downtown Breckenridge.
How long does Breckenridge stay open?
Breckenridge has a long ski season typically ranging from early November until May.
Is the Breckenridge gondola free?
The Breckenridge gondola is free and will take you to the base of the mountains. There are 2 stops near the top of the gondola. One takes you to the base of Peak 7 and the other stop takes you to the base of peak 8.
Is Breckenridge good for beginners?
Breckenridge has a lot of beginner terrain as well as great lessons for all ski level abilities. You will find beginner terrain closer to the base of Peak 8 and Peak 9, and as you get more comfortable there is amazing terrain across the entire mountains.
What should I pack for Breckenridge Colorado?
When visiting Breckenridge, it is always great to pack lots of layers. Cold temperatures accompanied by the bright sun can make you warm enough to be comfortable in just a jacket, but once the sun goes down you might need that big winter coat. Make sure to pack a hat, gloves, and warm socks for any winter travel to Breckenridge. If you don’t have all the layers you need, Winter Wear Rentals can set you up!
Is Breckenridge good for snowboarding?
Breckenridge is a great mountain for snowboarding. There is a lot of terrain geared towards snowboarders, as well as terrain park options and great upper mountain access to large bowls.
Is Breckenridge Colorado a city?
Breckenridge is considered a town in Colorado, but unlike many of the resort towns in the Rockies the town of Breckenridge came before the ski resort. Therefore, Breckenridge has a lot more to offer than just skiing and resort amenities – you will find lots of locals eager to show you the best spots while visiting.
When to Visit Breckenridge
Winter
The busiest time of year in Breckenridge is during the winter. The Breckenridge Ski Resort opens early November and doesn’t close until the end of April each year. A popular time to visit Breckenridge is over Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. Events such as the Race of the Santas and the Dew Tour in December to Ullr Fest in January and Mardi Gras in March keep the entire season full of fun, but February and March are the best months to venture to Breckenridge if you’re on the hunt for prime skiing.
Summer
The common expression of “come for the winter, stay for the summer” couldn’t be more true about Breckenridge. Colorado’s winter yields fresh powder skiing for months on end, but the colorful, sun-filled summers are something spectacular. A plethora of outdoor adventures such as mountain biking, fly fishing, hiking, and rock climbing keep everyone busy throughout the warmer months of the year, as well as some fun events and great concerts. May and early June are great times to visit Breckenridge. The weather has begun to get warmer, but afternoon showers aren’t a daily occurrence in town quite yet. If you’re looking for events in the area, you can try some craft specials at the annual Breckenridge Summer Beer Fest in July, or check out the live music and masterpieces at the International Arts festival in August.
Spring & Fall
Spring and fall are overlooked each year, yet they both are some of the greatest times to visit Breckenridge. The lack of tourists will make you feel like this picturesque mountain town is all yours to explore. Enjoy spring skiing on the open slopes during a blue bird day in April or gaze at the sea of yellow the aspen trees create in the valleys after Labor Day in September. Horseback riding through the backcountry, ziplining among the treetops under snow-capped peaks, and soaking in natural hot springs after a long hike are just of few of the many activities spring and fall have to offer in Breckenridge.
Navigating Breckenridge
Main Street
Situated right through the middle of downtown Breckenridge is Main Street. Restaurants, bars, food trucks, souvenir stops, and top notch outdoor gear stores line this mile-long stretch. On the west side of Main Street toward the ski resort is Park Avenue. Breckenridge’s one large grocery store, City Market, is situated on the north side of town and should be on your list of stops once you arrive. Some great hotels to stay in are on the south side of Park Avenue, including The Village at Breckenridge and Beaver Run Resort. Both are within walking distance of downtown Breckenridge and the chair lifts on Peak 9.
The Mountain
West of Breckenridge up Ski Hill Road is the base of Peak 8 and Breckenridge’s world class ski resort. With 2,908 acres of skiable terrain spread across five mountains of the Tenmile Range in Summit County, this is the highlight of the town and what brings most people to the area each year. Though Peak 7, 8, and 9 are the most popular areas on the Breckenridge Ski Resort, there is also a Peak 6 and Peak 10. The mountain has an abundance of lodging options, including home and condominium rentals through VRBO, Airbnb, and Home Away, as well as some great ski-in, ski-out hotels such as Beaver Run and The Village at the base of Peak 9, The Grand Colorado and One Ski Hill Place at the base of Peak 8, and the Grand Lodge on Peak 7.
South Breckenridge
To the south of town off of Highway 9 is a community called Blue River which sits at 10,000 feet above sea level. If you’re seeking a quaint and quiet vacation rental outside of the hustle of Breckenridge, Blue River is the perfect place to begin your search. The area is just 10 minutes south of the town of Breckenridge, but you’ll feel like you’re out in the wilderness in Blue River. If you head further south on Highway 9, you’ll make your way up Hoosier Pass and past the popular 14er Quandary Peak. The closest town south of Breckenridge and Blue River is Alma, Colorado, the highest incorporated town in North America.
North Breckenridge
On the north side of Breckenridge is Airport Road, which runs on the west side of Highway 9. The Recreation Center, Colorado Mountain College, Breckenridge Distillery, and the ever so popular Broken Compass Brewery are all located off of Airport Road. The free bus in Breckenridge services all of Airport Road, making it easy to get around town. Tiger Run is the last neighborhood heading north out of Breckenridge. This location is a great area to rent if you’re looking for a vacation home a little way out of town. It’s less than a 10-minute drive to downtown Breckenridge on the south side, as well as less than 10 minutes north to the town of Frisco. The Breckenridge Golf Club is a 27-hole course located right off of Tiger Run as well, making for a great day activity just outside of Breckenridge with breathtaking views.
East of Main Street
To the east of Main Street are a few more streets running parallel to downtown, as well as the neighbors of Wellington, Boreas Pass, and Baldy Mountain. Ridge Street and French Street are still part of downtown Breckenridge with some restaurants and shops as well as the post office and a local market. The Wellington neighborhood is on the northeast side of Breckenridge, and in the last few years has developed into a pleasant community with an abundance of new townhomes being constructed. Bald Mountain is a 13,684’ peak to the east of town, with Boreas Pass just south of the mountain. The Ice Rink is located on Boreas Pass Road just to the east of Highway 9, and could be a fun family activity while you’re in town. If you’re looking for a home or condominium rental for your visit to Breckenridge, both Baldy and Boreas Pass neighborhoods are sure to have a multitude of options. Just be sure you know how far your rental is from downtown, especially if you’re planning on having your own two feet as your only form of transportation during your stay.