What To Do In Breckenridge

The beautiful, bright blue Breckenridge summer skies are back,

the river is flowing more powerfully than the early spring melt trickle, and flowers are budding and blooming. The summers are what make locals, well, locals. Most of us wanted to come and live in this quaint mountain town for a winter season, but claimed Breckenridge as home because of its amazing summers.

Plenty to see and plenty to do. With Kingdom Days, Fourth of July celebrations, Sunday Farmers Markets, free concerts, the PRCA Rodeo, art festivals, beer festivals, movie festivals, the USA Pro Cycling Challenge, and more, Breckenridge certainly does not fall asleep when the ski season is over. The town is alive, vibrant and bustling with people from near and far.  Aside from the variety of events, there are plenty of activities including biking, hiking, rafting, kayaking, exploring and more. There is something to do for everyone.

The gondola and the Peak 8 Fun Park will be up and running on June 14^th. Take the gondola up to Peak 8 from town and enjoy a fun-filled day for the entire family. Race through the trees on the Gold Runner Coaster, or for a little bit longer of a rush, make your way to the alpine slide and zoom down any of the three 2,600 foot long tracks. Prove your putting skills at quite possibly the most scenic mini golf course. The Peak 8 Fun Park also features a rock climbing wall, Mineshaft Maze, SuperBungee Trampoline, a bouncy castle and scenic chairlift rides that will take you to some awesome hiking trails. New to the park are 4x4 off-road and Segway tours! For more information, visit: http://www.breckenridge.com/info/summer.aspx#activities#Top

For thrill seekers, bring your mountain bike or rent one at the Peak 8 Base Area, and load it on the Colorado SuperChair. There are 11 blue and black mountain-bike trails to choose from and range from single track and mountain roads with banked corners, berms and bridges to challenge any rider. Chair hauls are not included in the Fun Park Pass, and are $15 for single rides or $30 for unlimited rides for the day. For the novice, Breck is now offering beginner and intermediate/advanced mountain bike lessons for ages six and up. Guides are available to take your riding to the next level, but are also available to take your family down the hill as well.

Have older kids that want to experience the park, but also have wee ones that aren’t quite big enough to participate? No problem. There is a children’s center onsite that provides childcare for $20 per hour for kiddos ages 2 months to 5 years old and are open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Ticket  Prices:

You can purchase a full day pass, or pay for individual activities. If it’s your first time, I would recommend purchasing the pass to get a taste of everything. Guided tours are not included in the day pass, but are definitely worth checking out!

Adult Fun Park tickets are $68 and children’s tickets (ages 3-7) are $34.

For more detailed information, visit: http://www.breckenridge.com/info/summer.aspx#summerpricing

Summer Hours of Operation:

June 14 - September 2 from 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
September 6 - 15: Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only
Dates & times are weather permitting

Save 40% off Lodging on Your Visit to Breckenridge This Summer! Stay for as low as $60 per night in a Grand Timber Lodge studio! Click here for more details: http://bit.ly/14dMLgy

The high country is certainly preparing for a great rafting season! Ullr decided to gift Breckenridge with 35 inches of snow this past week. It is hard to believe that this is the middle of May. Luckily, we are expecting temperatures in the 60’s this weekend, so maybe we’re just going to skip spring altogether and jump right into summer. Some of the restaurants are closed for cleaning or because all of their employees have flocked to enjoy a quick vacation before the busy summer season begins. So, what is there to do? Aside from hiking, biking or enjoying a spa day, you can taste your way through Breckenridge’s wine and spirits tasting rooms. Here are a few ideas:

D’vine Wine, Home of Wild Women Wine:

211 South Main Street, Breckenridge, CO

Located in the heart of downtown Breckenridge, D’vine Wine offers a wide selection of their own custom wines made from imported grapes which are then handcrafted, blended and fermented right in front of you. The staff can even guide you through creating your own custom blend. Let your taste buds do the walking as you journey through a wine tasting. Tastings are offered daily and begin at $5 for three wines of your choice from the tasting menu. For $12, you can select four and your souvenir wine glass is on the house. If you truly want to get a taste of what Wild Women Wines have to offer, you can select any seven wines for $10.

You don’t have to be a wine connoisseur to enjoy your time at D’vine Wine.  If you are looking for a tasting room that is more casual and entertaining without feeling stuffy or intimidating, this is the place to visit. On Fridays and Saturdays, come in for Music, Massage and Merlot from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and enjoy $5 glasses of wine and $1 per minute chair massages. This is also when you can catch Naked Pete (don’t worry, while working, he doesn’t live up to his namesake) taking song requests and jamming on his guitar or keyboard. Although crowd participation is not mandatory, you might find yourself singing along or (depending on how many glasses you’ve had) trying on the infamous grape costume, complete with white gloves and cap. (*Insiders scoop: if you wear the suit outside and are able to coerce people to come into the tasting room, you might find yourself a free glass of wine!)

Open Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. The Breckenridge tasting room is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

For more information, visit www.brecktastingroom.com/

Ridge Street Wine and Cheese, Breckenridge Cheese and Chocolate:

304 South Main Street, Breckenridge, CO

Nestled in a walkway across from the historic Summit Ski Exhibit, Ridge Street Wine and Cheese offers a unique and affordable selection of wines from around the world. Make your way upstairs to begin your journey though a unique and affordable selection of wines from around the world. You’ll find an Enomatic Wine Preservation System, which helps preserve the integrity of the wines after they are opened, a bistro-like setting and friendly staff that will help guide you through the tasting options.

They offer a wonderful selection of meats, cheeses, olives and nuts on their cheese plates. You can even purchase the wines, meats and cheeses downstairs. Take a whirl through the delectable selection of chocolates while you’re down there too. You won’t be sorry.

Breck Wine, Cheese & Chocolate is open daily from 12:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and Friday and Saturday until 9:00 p.m.

WINE & CHEESE WEDNESDAYS- 4-7 p.m. every Wednesday, choose from any three 1/2 glasses from the Enomatic + a 1 Cheese Plate of your choosing...All for $20! Fun, interesting and delicious. Budget friendly way to get out with friends, socialize and try some great new wines & cheeses.

FRIDAY NIGHT FLIGHTS- 5-9 p.m. every Friday. Choose any three 1/2 glasses from the Enomatic for $15!! A great way to try new wines side by side.

For more information, visit http://www.breckwineandcheese.com/

Breckenridge Distillery:

Distillery- 1925 Airport Road, Breckenridge, CO

Tasting Room- 137 South Main Street, Breckenridge, CO

Visiting the world’s highest distillery is definitely something you should include during your next trip to Breckenridge.  With Breckenridge founded on gold, it’s no surprise that it is the home base for the gold-winning bourbon, they often refer to as “Hooch.” Their Midwest sweet corn mash, proofed with snowmelt water-based vodka doesn’t hover in the shadows. Its smooth taste has also worked its way up in the ranks and has won medals at both the International Wine and Spirits and World Spirits Competitions.

Watch how they mash, ferment and distill their products in person by touring the Distillery from Tuesday to Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

If you are just strolling through Breckenridge, stop by their downtown tasting room. Hours are Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday until 9 p.m. and Sunday until 7 p.m.

Sign up for their mailing list to have the opportunity to help bottle their products. Although it is volunteer work, you won’t be disappointed with your prize.

For more information, visit www.breckenridgedistillery.com/

Mud-season shcmud season. With nearly 50 inches of snowfall in the past few weeks, and more expected this week, we won’t be seeing mud quite yet.

Spring Break is over, the Breckenridge Ski Resort is closed, most out-of-towners have returned home and even the locals and shop owners are known to fly the coop for vacation over the next few weeks. Some restaurants and shops close for a short time, but those that stay open offer deeply discounted specials and sales, and you can most certainly find great lodging deals.  Mud season allows people to enjoy Breckenridge on a budget, without skimping on the quality!

Several popular restaurants offer 2-for-1 dining specials when you show a dining passport, which are available at the Welcome Center and participating restaurants for a $10 donation. The passports are valid from April 7^th until June 13th. The weather might be hit or miss, but there are plenty of indoor and outdoor activities that the off-season has to offer in order to keep busy and active.

Here are just a few ideas:

Take Some Turns at Arapahoe Basin Ski Area 

Keep those skis and snowboards out! A-Basin still has 100% of its terrain open. A-Basin is known to stay open into the summer months and is a short away from Breckenridge. Whether you take a few runs on the slopes, try your chance at pond-skimming towards the top or rather enjoy setting up lawn chairs and grills along “the beach,” you’re bound to get a nice goggle tan.  Visit www.arapahoebasin.com for lift ticket and snow condition information.

Biking and Hiking

Generally,”mud season” refers to the state of hiking and biking trails. There are several paved trails that will take you all around the county.

Once the snowmelts, typically in May, the bike paths are primed and ready to be ridden. Cruise from Breckenridge to Frisco, Silverthorne, Copper Mountain or for the young at heart, even Vail, all along a paved bike path. The bike path begins right behind the Breckenridge Rec Center. You can take a right just after the High School on the way to Frisco and climb your way up Swan Mountain Road and continue on towards Keystone. Or, follow the path from Breckenridge straight to Frisco. From there, you can follow the path to the Frisco Marina and follow Lake Dillon and over the Lake Dillon dam to the Dillon Amphitheater.  For more info visit www.summitbiking.org.

There are plenty of hiking trails for all levels and abilities in Breckenridge. However, with the amount of snow we’ve received in the last couple weeks, snowshoes might be a good thing to bring along. The Breckenridge Resort Chamber has put together a list of a few of the local trails: http://www.gobreck.com/what-to-do/hiking-backpacking/

Take a Historic Tour of Breckenridge

The Breckenridge Heritage Alliance is a non-profit organization that was founded to help promote and protect the historical heritage of Breckenridge through guided tours and hikes. They offer several walking tours to choose from, including a haunted tour, saloon tour, twilight tour, gold mine hike and more! Visit www.breckheritage.com for more information.

Breckenridge Recreation Center

The rec center offers a plethora of activities to enjoy. The 1,400 square foot indoor climbing wall offers a wide range of features and different types of climbing opportunities. It is also a great place to enjoy a day of swimming with the family, as it also has two pools, a waterslide and two spas. Other activities include racquetball, tennis, basketball, spinning and aerobics classes and much more. Rates for the spring begin at $7.50 for (children between 3 and 17) and $15 for adults. For more information, visit http://www.townofbreckenridge.com/index.aspx?page=1012

Enjoy a Day at the Spa

Many spas offer special deals during the off season. Here are a couple deals at our favorite spas in town: The Soothe Day Spa, located at the Grand Lodge on Peak Seven, a five-star resort, is offering bonuses on gift certificate purchases and 20 percent off of all retail products for the month of May. They are also offering discounted spa services that give you access to the exclusive adult-only grotto, dry sauna and steam room. Visit www.soothedayspa.com for more information.

The Grand Victorian Day Spa, which is inside the Grand Timber Lodge, is offering 20 percent off of all spa treatments and between 25 to 50 percent off all spa products. For package and other special information, visit http://www.grandtimber.com/gtl_amenities_spa.cfm.

Mud Season is so much more than it used to be. Come stretch your dollars in Breckenridge, beat the crowds and see for yourself how many fun activities there are to do up here.

Save up to 50% off lodging, as low as $40 per night this spring in Breckenridge. For more information about discounted lodging specials, visit www.breckenridgediscountlodging.com and book your stay today!

Spring Fever is the annual Breckenridge celebration of spring. This party starts March 17^th and runs through the close of ski season. Spring Fever is a collection of on mountain and in town events that are put on by the Breckenridge Ski Area and the Town. Some of the highlights include the Bud Light Concert Series, Easter events, on mountain skiing and snowboarding events, on mountain competitions such as the annual Imperial Challenge, in town parties, merchant discounts in April and last but not least the Beer Festival which will be held on Ridge Street this year.

The Bud Light Concert Series is one of cornerstone events of Spring Fever. Breckenridge will bring in national music acts to perform on weekends in April at the base of Peak 8 on a specially constructed stage. Breckenridge has not announced who these acts are yet so click here for the latest info on the event.  The dates of the concerts will be April 6^th and 7^th and April 13^th and 14^th.

Easter Weekend is March 30^th and 31^st. Breckenridge Ski Area and town are hosting Easter egg hunts. The Breckenridge Resort Chamber is hosting the Golden Easter Egg Hunt Saturday March 30^th at 5 p.m. in town. This is an Easter egg hunt geared towards adults with eggs hidden around town with cash, restaurant deals, candy and more. On Sunday there will be a sunrise service on the mountain. Show up at the QuickSilver Lift before 6 a.m. and you will get a free lift ride to the location of the service on mountain. Starting at 8:30 a.m. on the mountain, Breckenridge Ski Area will hide 10,000 eggs filled with candy, goodies and some fantastic prizes all over the resort. Spend the day skiing and looking for hidden Easter eggs. Start early and you will get the best eggs.

The Spring Breckenridge Beer fest presented by KSMT is coming Saturday, April 6^th. The beer fest in now on Ridge Street and features samples from over 30 breweries and 3 live bands. Come to enjoy this street party that will fill Ridge Street.

Spring Fever is packed with all kinds of events, many of which are competitions that take place in Town and at the Breckenridge Ski Area. Mountaineering races, amateur kid’s and adult’s races, scavenger hunts, endurance races, charity hockey and more. Keep your eye out for a schedule of what events are happening when you are coming.

If you are looking to do a little shopping and save then April 5^th – 7^th is the perfect time to be in Breckenridge. The Fever Reliever Main Street Merchant Discounts town wide sale is going on all weekend. Shop Main and Ridge Street shops and ask for the “Fever Reliever” discount at stores with the Spring Fever logo in their window! Each merchant has planned a special “Fever Reliever” ranging from gifts with purchase to grab bag gifts and discounts. A great time to shop for clearance deals in Breck as shops are moving to summer products at this time.

Do you like Chili? If you do then come to the Sevens Patio in the Grand Lodge n Peak 7 on Sunday, March 24^th between 2 and 4 p.m. for the Spring Fever Chili Cook off. Top chefs from Breckenridge Ski Resort will compete against each other to see whose chili recipe is the best. Eat all the chili you can handle and vote for your favorite recipe, all for only $10 per person! Tickets will be available on site at the event.

Spring Fever is the perfect way to celebrate the changing seasons in Breckenridge. With warmer weather and more snow spring is the best time to come up, ski or ride and let loose. No matter when you are thinking of coming to Breckenridge in the spring there will awesome and mostly free events to enjoy.

For the best deals on spring lodging in Breckenridge visit www.breckenridgediscountlodging.com

Midwinter in Breckenridge is here and what a perfect time to enjoy a little R&R. Breckenridge is alive with activities and events in the February/March timeframe. There is so much to do in Breckenridge that it is impossible to fit everything in to just one trip. With events like Mardi Gras and a wide variety of activities you will not find yourself bored in Breckenridge.

Fat Tuesday is February 12^th and the Main Street procession lights up Breckenridge with floats, beads, candy, revelry awesome bar specials and more. The annual kickoff to the carnival season is a Breckenridge tradition. Come enjoy the party on Main Street.

February and March are the best months for skiing and riding. The snow is still dry and fluffy and the temperatures start to warm up a little and winter eases in cold embrace on Breckenridge. The days get a little longer and there is plenty of terrain for everybody to enjoy. On Mountain events and activities include the Breck Ascent Series, the Gold Runner Roller Coaster, Great deals on ski school and more. Take advantage of the best snow and best weather in midwinter.

Outdoor winter activities in Breckenridge include Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, sleigh rides, snowmobiling, snowcat rides, ice skating, dog sledding, tubing and more. These are all pretty high adventure but designed for the whole family. Even an activity as adrenaline packed as snowmobiling offers smaller snowmobiles for kids. Try something that celebrates the outdoors but is not downhill skiing and snowboarding.

Exploring Breckenridge’s history is a year-round activity that all can enjoy. There are many ways to dig into Breckenridge’s rich history that span’s 150 year and is full of stories and characters. The best place to start uncovering the history of Breckenridge is at the Breckenridge Welcome Center. The Breckenridge Welcome Center is a great resource for things to do in Breckenridge but is also a 2 floor museum that highlights the history of Breckenridge. The Breckenridge Welcome Center is also the starting point for the historic walking tours of town that are put on by the Breckenridge Heritage Alliance. A Historic Walking tour is the perfect way to spend an afternoon and to get acquainted with the expansive Breckenridge Historic District which is the largest historic district in Colorado. If you are looking for something a little more interesting try a trip to the Country Boy Mine. This mine operates year-round and is a wonderful example of a working gold mine from the mid 1800’s. The mine shaft plunges a quarter mile into the side of a mountain and the tour is insightful and entertaining.

If you are looking for something a little less adventurous and maybe history is not your thing try the shopping, dining, art, theater, nightlife and more that dots Main Street. There are so many boutiques, restaurants, nightclubs, shops and more to explore on Main and Ridge streets that you could spend a day exploring and still find more. Breckenridge also offers a collection of art galleries displaying mountain based art and more. Try an evening play at the Backstage Theater or take in a discount movie at the Speakeasy movie theater.

Midwinter in Breckenridge is when the spirit and vibrancy of Breckenridge truly shine. Main Street pulses with energy and warmth so come up and see the charm and friendliness that is Breckenridge in midwinter.

For the best deals on Breckenridge lodging visit www.breckenridgediscountlodging.com.

It’s almost here! We can almost taste it. It is the start of another Breckenridge ski season and with 2 winter storms already we are all anticipating a big ski and snowboard season! As always Breckenridge will be amped up and celebrating the opening of the 2012/2013 season with a party on Peak 8.

FIND ULLR

This year Breckenridge is doing something unique and cool with it’s Find Ullr promotion. Front Rangers, keep your eyes out: starting on Saturday, Nov. 3 keep your eyes peeled on the Front Range. Ullr, the Norse God of Snow, and a Breck local, will make appearances daily at signature landmarks in Denver each day of the week until Opening Day. The first fans that are able to find him each day will win prizes, including the chance to ride the first chair of the season with him. Breck will be posting clues to Ullr’s whereabouts daily and we will be sharing them on Best of Breckenridge.

WAKE UP BRECK

Every year on the Thursday before opening day the bigwigs from the Breckenridge Ski Resort give out free coffee and exclusive commemorative Breck coffee mugs throughout the town of Breckenridge at local coffee shops. The giveaway begins at 7:00 a.m. and only continues while supplies last! Find the list of participating coffee shops at www.Breckenridge.com. Do not wait! These cups go fast!!

OPENING DAY FESTIVITIES

This year its Cinnamon rolls. Mmmmm. Guests are invited to head to Peak 8 early on November 9th to celebrate Opening Day with a free sample of Breck’s new signature cinnamon rolls at 8:30 a.m. on the Ski Hill Grill Plaza, as well as a complimentary champagne toast courtesy of Moet & Chandon.

Lifts will open at 9:00 a.m., and Ullr will ride the first chair of the season along with winners from the week-long “Find Ullr” promotion. Additional festivities will include a live broadcast from KSMT, T-Bar drink specials throughout the day, and a special tribute to honor Veterans as part of Veterans Weekend. For the full Opening Day schedule and updates on what terrain will be open visit www.Breckenridge.com.

For the best deals on opening day lodging in Breckenridge visit www.breckenridgediscountlodging.com

It’s official. Ski Season is here! A-Basin is open for the season and with a few snowfalls under our belt the mountains surrounding Breckenridge and Summit County are beginning to turn white. Winter will descend upon Summit County in full force before we know it and once again we will be ripping a shredding down our beloved snow covered slopes.

Breckenridge opens November 9^th and as usual the fine folks of the Breckenridge Ski Area have a party planned! Click here for more info. Usually Breckenridge does a free pancake breakfast. Last year they mixed it up and did cupcakes in honor of their 50^th anniversary. Mum’s the word so far this year but you can expect something great including tunes, bar deals, equipment demos and a generally festive atmosphere as loyal skiers and riders are on hand for the first day of the 2012/2013 season.

Early season in Breckenridge can be snow-filled or maybe a little milder but usually the coverage increases throughout October and November until Breckenridge resembles a winter wonderland. Generally the resort is ready to open most or all of the runs by Thanksgiving. We are all hoping for a big winter this year.

Early season in Breckenridge is a great time to come up for a short ski trip. Everything is less expensive and less crowded in the early season. Before Thanksgiving you will find the best deals on everything from lodging to lift tickets to dining, shopping and more. Better than that, you will not have to fight big crowds that can increase waits in lift lines later in the season. If you come for early season look for the Summit Daily News, the free newspaper found in the blue boxes all over Summit County. 2 for 1 restaurant deals and other discounts are all over in the Summit Daily this time of year.

Although some prices go up after Thanksgiving the period between Thanksgiving and Christmas is one of the best times to ski during the year. Usually the conditions are perfect. The ski areas will have most or all of their terrain open and the snow is dry and powdery. The slopes are still un-crowded as the big crowds wait until holiday period to converge upon Breckenridge. After Thanksgiving prices do go up a little but still remain below peak winter periods like Christmas, President’s Day weekend and Spring Break. Restaurants are still offering discounts to get people in so remember to pick up a Summit Daily to get the most accurate info on what deals there are to be had. Another little “slow” period is right after the holidays. Everybody clears out and there is a break before MLK weekend.

So if you can find a way to get away in the early season do it. The skiing can be spectacular and the deals beat anything else for the whole season. Get out your skis and snowboards, get them waxed up and shake off the cobwebs with a little early season warm-up in Breckenridge

For the best deals on Lodging in Breckenridge visit www.breckenridgediscountlodging.com.

Do you like to hike, bike, fish, ATV, ride horses and generally play in the woods of Summit County? Most everybody who comes to Breckenridge and Summit County in the summer or the winter will spend a good part of their trip in the Dillon Ranger District which comprises all of the National Forest land in Summit County. At 312,000 acres that is pretty much all of the woods, mountains, meadows, rivers, campgrounds and recreation sites in Summit County!

Friends of the Dillon Ranger District (FDRD) is a local nonprofit organization that has been assisting the Dillon Ranger District with Trail Maintenance Projects since 2004. Local organizations, businesses, or groups within the community have stepped up to "adopt" a trail. What does that mean? Adopting a trail means that you commit to recruiting volunteers to help with at least 3 full project days out on your adopted trail!

Back in 2009 the FDRD approached the owners of Breckenridge Grand Vacations (BGV) to see if there was any chance of creating a partnership. It didn’t take long for BGV to see the benefits of partnering with FDRD. The employees of BGV are all here in Breckenridge because of their love of the outdoors and care deeply about the natural beauty of Breckenridge and Summit County. It seemed like the perfect opportunity to add a crucial element in BGV’s efforts to give back to the community that they love so much and what better trail to adopt than the Peaks Trail which runs from Breckenridge to Frisco and starts right next to the Grand Lodge on Peak 7, BGV’s flagship resort.

Breckenridge Grand Vacations has just completed their 3rd official year of adopting the Peaks Trail. According to Sarah Slaton of the FDRD, “BGV is by far one of the most popular projects on our schedule and hosts a large amount of volunteers over their commitment of 4 days. They have done everything from building and maintaining turnpikes to creating drainage for the trail to building and repairing bridges etc. You name it and they have probably done it.”

Every year BGV commits to having several employees trained as crew leaders so that BGV can host these trail days. FDRD could not possibly supervise the large number of volunteers these projects bring in without their incredible Crew Leaders! Breckenridge Grand Vacations was awarded "Adopt of the Year" in 2011 and Michael Jensen was also awarded "Crew Leader of the Year" in 2010! Kaira Adam has been the driving force behind setting up these projects and getting people psyched about giving back. According to Kaira each year the program has grown in popularity with more employees interested in being trained as a supervisor than there are available slots. BGV also throws in with a BBQ for the volunteers at the end of each day. It is great fun for everybody involved.

If you love playing in Breckenridge and Summit County, consider giving back to the FDRD. There are many ways you can help. With over 60 projects a year, FDRD volunteers contribute thousands of hours maintaining and improving trails, planting trees, pulling invasive weeds, educating forest visitors, and much more. One of the best ways to pitch in is to volunteer your time on one of the many projects the FDRD has going. Donations are always accepted and greatly appreciated. Become a member of the FDRC. For more information visit the FDRD Website at www.FDRD.org, send them an email to info@fdrd.org or give them a call at 970-262-3449.

Don’t forget for the best deals on Breckenridge Lodging visit www.breckenridgediscountlodging.com.

This idea is proof that there is still creativity in the world. Who would ever think that they could get together with 10 to 16 of their closest friends and pedal around town on what is effectively a mobile bar. What a thought! We here at Breckenridge Brand Vacations love to exercise, be outdoors, hang out with friends and occasionally party a little! The guys at Breckenridge Bike Bus were thinking about us when they built this little wonder.  We loved it so much we sponsored it!

Basically the idea is simple. The BIKEBUS is a large multi-pedaled vehicle where ten riders provide the pedal power while five other passengers can simply sit back and enjoy the ride. There is also a "standee" spot in the center of the BIKEBUS for a group member who serves as "Biketender."The Breckenridge BIKEBUS will run up and down Main Street and Ridge Street in Breckenridge. A Breckenridge BIKEBUS driver steers and brakes -- the passengers are the engine.

If you have a crew or even a small group this is a great idea. What an interesting way to get around town and not have to worry about driving. Look these guys up on your next trip to Breckenridge and see town in a whole new way. They will do charters so you can set the time and place.

For more information on the Breckenridge BIKEBUS visit http://www.breckenridgebikebus.com/.

For the best deals on Breckenridge Lodging visit www.breckenridgediscountlodging.com

Everybody knows that Breckenridge is outdoor lover’s paradise offering so many summer activities that it would be hard to name them all. There are times though that being outside isn’t possible, rain, darkness or other reasons might get in the way of the pursuit of outdoor activities. It is even possible that maybe a break from the outdoors is needed.

The Breckenridge Recreation Center is one of the crown jewels of the Breckenridge experience. Located just north of the town core on Airport Road the Breckenridge Recreation Center is a 69,000 square foot multimillion dollar facility that offers so many different activities that it would be impossible to enjoy all of them in one trip.

Of course Recreation center acts as the main public fitness center and community pool for the town of Breckenridge offering, exercise equipment, free weights, Nautilus, a running track not to mention many other gizmos and gadgets for exercising.  On top of that there is a full size gymnasium, indoor basketball courts, racquetball courts, indoor tennis, aerobic and dance studios with all kinds of daily classes and a pro shop for all of your recreation needs. The aquatics facility offers a lap pool, kids pool, recreational pool, big waterslide that is too much fun, sauna, steam room, indoor and outdoor hot tubs. There are lifeguards on duty so the little ones are well protected swimming.

One of the coolest features of the Breckenridge Recreation Center is the climbing wall located just inside the front entrance. The whole family can enjoy a variety of routes from beginner to advanced and can try top roping, bouldering and even lead climbing. The staff of expertly trained climbers is there to assist you and your family in your climbing adventure.

Outside there are even more exciting attractions to enjoy. Have you ever wanted to feel what it would be like to compete in the French Open? There are 4 clay tennis courts to try as well as hard courts and they are lighted. There are softball and soccer fields that are lighted and open to the public. There are playgrounds for the kids, public restrooms and a community center that can be reserved for groups and parties. Another awesome attraction outside is the skate park which include tons of features and a 9 foot bowl to try your skating skills. There is also easy access to the Upper Blue River and the trails and gold medal fishing.

If you are looking for a place to have a kid’s birthday party while visiting the Breckenridge recreation offers affordable packages for all ages with private rooms and a huge bouncy castle.

If you are looking for something to do in Breckenridge make a point to look up the Breckenridge Recreation Center as an alternative to all of the outdoor activities that Breckenridge has to offer.

If you are looking for the best deals on Breckenridge lodging visit www.breckenridgediscountlodging.com.

It’s summer in Breckenridge and there are so many activities to choose from. If you are a family looking to have a day of fun activity close to town, check out the Peak 8 Fun Park. The Peak 8 Fun Park is a collection of awesome activities dotting the mountainside above the Peak 8 Base Area. The Peak 8 Fun Park offers activities for all ages. Start with a trip down the Alpine Slide or Gold Runner Coaster. Get lost in the Mineshaft Maze. Take the kids on a pony ride and the bouncy castle. Relax on a scenic chairlift ride and if you are a little adventurous take a mountain bike with you and come back down on the Breckenridge mountain bike trails. Challenge your family and friends to mini golf or reach for the sky in the Super Bungee Trampoline. Even getting there is a ride. Park down in the Gondola Lot and take the Free Breck Connect Gondola up to the Fun Park. Check out these awesome Fun Park attractions and click here for more information on the Peak 8 Fun Park.

Gold Runner Coaster

2,500 feet of track await you as you scream down the Gold Runner Coaster at top speeds. Race through the forest by yourself or with a friend and don’t worry. If it is too fast you get brakes!

Alpine SuperSlide

This is the “old standard” of the Peak 8 Fun Park. Contesting of 3 tracks each 2,600 feet long, cruise down and race your friends as tracks 1 and 2 are side by side and identical.

Breck 4x4 Tours

Take a ride in an open air 4x4 vehicles. Explore Peaks 8 and 7 and take in beautiful views of the Ten Mile Range and the back side of the Front Range.

Pony Rides

Let the kids get a sense of the old west on a pony ride. The special stable is safe environment for young kids. This is the perfect ride for toddlers and small children.

Mountain Biking

It’s not all for the little kids! Get a mountain bike and take a chairlift to the top of Peak 8 for an exhilarating ride down the Breckenridge’s Mountain Bike Trails. From easy to expert there are trails for all ability levels.

SuperPutt Mini Golf

Mini Golf is the perfect family game. Mini Golf! Included in the Fun Park pass., see who has the most skill!

Scenic Chairlift Rides

Take a scenic chairlift ride. The Colorado Super Chair runs up to over 11,000 feet in elevation and offers stunning mountain views. Ride back down or hike through Breckenridge pristine pine forests and aspen glades.

Gemstone Panning

Great for kids, pan for gems and keep what you find!

Mineshaft Maze

Try and beat the clock in Colorado’s largest human maze. Kids win prizes when they are faster than the clock.

Rockpile Climbing Wall

Test you skills on the rock climbing walls at the Peak 8 Fun Park. A great family activity there are walls for all abilities.

SuperBungee Trampoline

Fly high on the SuperBungee Trampoline. Twist and flip as you gain even more altitude bouncing along. This safe and exciting trampoline is great for kids and adults.

Ripperoo's Bounce House

Kids love bouncy castles! Do we need to say anything more!

Spend a day at the Breckenridge Peak 8 Fun Park. You will not be disappointed.

For the best deals on Breckenridge Lodging visit www.breckenridgediscountlodging.com.

Memorial Day weekend is the tradition kickoff to summer. What better way to celebrate the start of the summer season than with a round of golf. Golfing in Breckenridge and Summit County is a summer activity that locals and visitors anticipate eagerly each season.  As soon as the snow starts melting golfers start counting down the days (minutes even!) to the opening of Summit County’s magnificent golf courses.

Golf at high altitude can be a wonderful experience. The ball flies on average 30 to 50 yards further than down at sea levels. The weather is mostly agreeable especially in the morning with temps staying in the 70’s and abundant sunshine. The golf courses in Summit County offer some of the best scenery in Summit County and most interesting fairways and greens from links to water hazards to challenging bunkers to 100 foot vertical drops from the tee box. IF you are a golfer and coming to Breckenridge check out these 4 golf courses all located within a 25 minute drive from Breckenridge or less.

Breckenridge Municipal Golf Course

The Breckenridge Municipal Golf Course is the closest golf course to Breckenridge and is the only Jack Nicklaus designed municipal golf course in the world. Offering 27 challenging holes it is also the only golf course you can choose to walk in Summit County. Of course you can take a golf cart as well. Since the opening of the course, national and regional honors have been bestowed on Breckenridge. Honors awarded by the Colorado Golfer (the State Golf Newspaper) have included; Best Mountain Course, and Toughest Mountain Course. Golf Digest "Places to Play" rates Breckenridge as a 4 1/2 Star Facility, and as one of their top "Upscale Places to Play" in the nation. In May 2011, Golfweek rated Breckenridge as one of the "Top 50 Municipal Courses" in the nation. The course is also Zagat rated.  For more information on the Breckenridge Municipal Golf Course click here.

Keystone Ranch and River Courses

The tiny hamlet and ski village of Keystone is located in snug little valley just to the east of Breckenridge. Only twelve miles away Keystone offers wonderful family skiing featuring the longest groomed ski runs in Summit County but the secret of Keystone is its ideal location and conditions that make it a wonderful place to enjoy some summer fun. Keystone offers two of the most spectacular golf courses that this author has seen. From dizzying drops in elevation to challenging links Keystone offers 36 holes of breathtaking golf. Broken into two distinct courses the Ranch and the River Keystone golf will challenge and amaze.

The Ranch

The Ranch Course is a challenging course tucked into a deep mountain valley. Bordering a national elk preserve the course winds through lodgepole pines, around sage meadows and across a nine-acre lake, this par-72 golf course features slight elevation changes and many bunkers. Designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr., Keystone Ranch Golf Course follows the legendary links-style of a Scottish course on the front nine, while the back nine presents a traditional mountain valley layout. Total yardage is 5,582 - 7,090.

The River

Built in the early 200’s the River Course is a par-71, Hurdzan-Fry course that highlights all of the best elements of a mountain course. The par-35 front nine is oriented around the path of the Snake River and the par-36 back nine winds through a lodgepole pine forest. Impressive elevation changes, variable bunkers, water hazards, combine to challenge golfers of all abilities. The 16th hole features a 194-foot elevation drop from tee to green and the scenic 18th hole offers 12 bunkers and spectacular views of Lake Dillon. Add to that the magnificent views of snow-capped peaks and wildlife and it’s easy to see this is a golfing experience unlike any other. Total yardage is 4,762 - 6,886.

For more information on Keystone Golf, Click here.

The Raven at Three Peaks

It you are looking for a challenge, with a slope rating of 146 you will find it at The Raven Golf Club at Three Peaks. Considered one of the top courses in the country The Raven is located in Silverthorne about 20 miles north of Breckenridge. The challenging and beautifully landscaped Tom Lehman and Hurdzan/Fry golf course features lush rolling fairways and immaculate greens surrounded by towering stands of pine and aspen, snow capped 13,000 foot peaks, crystal clear creeks and trout filled lakes. Click here to visit The Raven’s Website.

If you are a golfer do not miss the opportunity to play the best courses in Colorado’s High Country. Save on Breckenridge lodging and visit Breckenridge Discount Lodging for the best deals on golf and lodging packages. 

Memorial Day is this Weekend! The official kick off to summer weekend is here and if there was ever a Memorial Day Weekend to visit Breckenridge it is this weekend! What is typically a cold and pre-summer weekend this year is going to be a full on summer weather extravaganza. We are looking at temps in the mid to upper 60s and sunny weather. All of our trees are full of leaves; the trails are dry and plenty of  restaurants, shops and activity centers will be open and offering discounts for early season. If you haven’t made plans yet for this weekend consider Breckenridge. Check out our last minute Memorial Day Special.

Here are this week’s 2 for 1’s and food specials from the Summit Daily News which is a free newspaper and you can find it anywhere in Summit County in the blue boxes. Just down the road from Breckenridge, Frisco has the majority of this week’s deals. These specials do change so be sure to grab a Summit Daily when you get up here.

Some of deals require the Breckenridge Dining Passport.  The Dining Passport offers killer deals at local restaurants and all of the proceeds go to charity. Click here for more info.

Blue River Bistro, 305 N. Main Street, 970-453-6974, page 3: ½ price bottles of wine all day every day (dining passport required).

Modis, 131 S. Main Street, 970-453-4330, page 4: 2 for 1 entrees with the purchase of a drink or appetizer (dining passport required).

Hearthstone, 130 Ridge Street, 970-453-1148, page 5: 2 for 1 entrees (dining passport required).

Kemosabe Sushi Bar, 605 Main Street Frisco, 970-668-2100, page 7: 2 for 1 rolls and 25% off sake.

Silverheels, 603 Main Street Frisco, 970-668-0345, page 7: 2 for 1 dinner entrees.

Tuscato, 311 E. Main St Frisco, 970-668-3644, page 27: 2 for 1 entrees.

Fiesta Jalisco, 224 S. Main Street, 970-547-3836, page 27: 2 for 1 margs and beer, buy 1 entrée and get the second one ½ price.

Nozawa, Dillon Ridge Marketplace, Dillon, 970-262-6600, Page 27, 50% off all sushi rolls, 30% off teppanyaki and dinner entrees.

For the best rates on Breckenridge Lodging visit www.breckenridgediscountlodging.com

Spring is the time of year in Breckenridge when locals pause to take a breath. Everything is a little quieter and less crowded during the spring months in Breckenridge. The ski season is over and this time is the calm before the busy summer season that heats up around the 4^th of July. One of the best aspects of the spring shoulder season (this year’s weather has been the best ever!) are the deals one can find out at restaurants, shops and on lodging in Breckenridge as well as around Summit County.  We took a poll here in our office and asked our coworkers what their favorite restaurants are here in Breckenridge so we could offer a few suggestions for those coming to Breckenridge.

1. Hearthstone Restaurant (130 S. Ridge Street, 970-453-1148) is the favorite in our office and has been a local’s choice for years. Located in the historic, 125 year-old Kaiser House, The Hearthstone is known for hand cut steaks, game and fresh seafood using locally farmed seasonal products. This richly decorated Victorian-era home offers beautiful views of town, the Breckenridge Ski Resort and the Ten Mile Range. Our favorite dish is the elk steak and the Colorado lamb. The seating is comfy and they have one of the best happy hours in Breckenridge.
2. Steak and Rib (208 N. Main Street, 970 453-0063) quite possibly has the best steak one can find anywhere in Breckenridge. Following the history theme the building that houses Steak and Rib is known to be a miner’s cabin that dates back to at least 1868. One of the quirky things is the way the floor seems to move with the natural contour of the ground it was built on. Being in such an old structure it not surprising that the dining room is filled with so much character. Although known for it’s steak they also have fantastic ribs, game and seafood. Our favorite dish is the Crab Stuffed Filet Mignon. You can’t beat it!
3. Mi Casa (600 S. Park Ave 970-453-2071) is somewhat less expensive than the first two restaurants MI Casa’s food is no less impressive. Founded in 1981 Mi Casa offers Mexican food and prides itself on using only the freshest ingredients right down to hand cut heated nachos they offer to every guest dining. The mild salsa that goes with the chips is a fresh and flavorful salsa with a hint of sweetness that is perhaps the best mild salsa there is. Mi Casa offers many traditional dishes but the one that everybody here loves is found on the appetizer menu but don’t be afraid to order it for dinner! Duck Quesada’s are one of the signature dishes offered by Mi Casa and is so good it has even won numerous awards. Do not miss the opportunity to enjoy this dish and remember to wash it down with a tasty Marg.
4. Southridge Seafood Company (215 South Ridge Street, 970-547-0063) like its name offers fresh seafood daily as well as other wonderful culinary creations. Opened in 1998 Southridge is the only high end seafood restaurant in Breckenridge. Food choices include fresh seafood, shellfish, pasta, steaks and lamb. Southridge also has the only raw bar in Summit County and has killer happy hour deals. The staff’s favorite dish is the oysters Rockefeller.
5. Kenosha Steakhouse (301 South Main Street, 970-453-7313) is called a steakhouse but is really known for two things. First the most popular menu items are by far the BBQ plates the offer and second any local will tell you that Kenosha has one of the best decks to sit outside on anywhere in Summit County. Perfect sun all day and uninterrupted views of Breckenridge ski resort and the Ten Mile Range make this large deck the local’s favorite. Foodwise Kenosha offers great steaks and burgers not to mention their award winning BBQ. The favorite dish in this office is the Beef Brisket Platter. Mmmmmmm.

If you are planning a spring or early summer trip to Breckenridge consider one of our favorite restaurants and don’t forget to check the Best of Breckenridge Blog (right here!) for the of weekly 2 for 1’s and restaurant deals.

If you are looking for the best deals on Breckenridge Lodging visit www.breckenridgediscountlodging.com

Breckenridge Ski Resort is open this weekend for one last hurrah. If you are visiting Breckenridge this weekend or anytime in the next month or so in the offseason you might be asking yourself what is there to do. The offseason in Breckenridge is a time when many local businesses take a breath and pause activity to spring clean and rest for the upcoming summer season. Other summer business may not be open yet as they are waiting for conditions to be favorable for their offerings.

Don’t fear though! If you are visiting Breckenridge or thinking about coming this offseason there are many benefits as well. For one thing offseason visitors find they don’t’ have to fight crowds like they might in the busy winter and summer seasons. A little quiet and solitude goes a long way. Another benefit is the great off season sales that go on this time of year. Although some restaurants and businesses close most stay open and offer good deals and clearance prices on what they have to offer. Locals even call this time “2 for 1” season doe to the large amount of 2 for 1 dinner offers at local restaurants (look for the weekly 2 for 1 report on this blog!).

This year Breckenridge has seen an early return to spring conditions and while this has made the late season difficult for skiing it has opened up some fun summer activities earlier than usual for Colorado’s High Country. One example of this is the many hiking trails around Breckenridge and Summit County that are now accessible. Here is some information on some great local trailheads in or near Breckenridge’s town core.

Breckenridge offers a guide to local hiking trails that start in town. These trails range from gentle paths to more challenging single track trails. Download the trail map from gobreck.com here. Directions to the trailheads are below

Note: all directions start at the free parking lot located on the corner of Watson Street and Park Avenue (right across from the Breck Connect Gondola and the Breckenridge bus station)

Watson Trailhead

The Watson Trailhead is located on the southwest end (by First Bank) of the large skier parking lot (free in the summer).

Riverwalk Trailhead

From Watson Street go to Park Avenue and then turn left. Stay on Park Avenue through the stop light at First Bank and turn left into the Riverwalk Center parking lot at the intersection with Four O'clock Road. The trailhead is located in the northeast corner of the parking lot accessing the Riverwalk Center

Snowflake Trailhead

From Watson Street turn left on Park Ave. Stay on Park Avenue through the stop light at First Bank and turn right at the intersection onto Four O'clock Road. Continue uphill on Four O'clock Road for .3 miles. At the intersection of Four O'clock Road and King's Crown Road, turn left and the trailhead is located immediately on the right next to the Snowflake Lift parking areas.

Illinois Creek Trailhead

From Watson Street turn right onto Main Street. Go south on Main Street for .8 miles to Boreas Pass Road (last stoplight). Turn left on Boreas Pass Road and travel for 1,400 feet. Take a right into the second entrance of the parking lot next to the Stephen C. West Ice Arena (which can be seen on the right). The trailhead is located in the southeastern corner of the parking lot.

Carter Park Trailhead

From Watson Street turn left on Park Avenue and proceed to the stoplight at Lincoln Avenue (First Bank on left). Turn left onto Lincoln Avenue and cross Main Street through the stoplight where the street turns into Lincoln Avenue. Travel up Lincoln Avenue for 1,000 feet until it intersects with High Street and continue until the road dead ends at Carter Park. The trail is located at the eastern end of the Carter Park parking lot.

Iowa Hill Trailhead

From Watson Street turn right onto Park Avenue. Follow Park Avenue until you reach the first stoplight. Turn left onto Airport Road and follow the road a short way past the intersection with Valley Brook Road (stop sign). After 1500 feet, look for the trailhead sign on your left. From the sign, follow the dirt road to the north (right) to a small parking area at the end.

Valley Brook Trailhead

From Watson Street turn right onto Park Avenue at the stop sign. Follow Park Avenue until you reach the first stoplight. Turn left onto Airport Road and follow the road a short way to the intersection with Valley Brook Road (stop sign). Turn right and stay on Valley Brook Road for 550 feet. You will find the trailhead on your left just past the Breckenridge Police Station.

For the best deals on Breckenridge Lodging visit www.breckenridgediscountlodging.com.

It is still March but if you are into planning ahead and wondering how you can save money on next year’s Breckenridge ski vacation or working to figure out a way to squeeze in two ski trips without spending more than you are willing to pay now is the time to look at next year’s season passes from Vail Resorts. As you probably Vail Resorts owns the Breckenridge Ski Resort. Vail also owns Keystone, Vail, Beaver Creek, Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood in California and Vail also has a pass agreement with Arapaho Basin here in Summit County, Colorado. That’s a lot of ski areas!

The big news of the week is that Vail has announced their season pass prices for the 2012/2013 ski season and you can save a bundle on skiing if you buy them now. The decision to buy a season pass instead of day or multiday passes can be an easy one if you intend to ski more than 5 days at these ski resorts next year.

It does not take many days to beat the best deals for day tickets and shorter term passes when the window price for most of these resorts will be over $100 a day! If you are planning to ski next season look at the different options below and weigh the prices against what you paid for your lift tickets this year. Considering Vail will raise these prices as we closer to next season there is a good chance you will consider a season pass option for next year’s trip to Breckenridge.

Here is the scoop on next year’s season passes.

• The Epic Pass: unlimited, unrestricted skiing at Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Heavenly, Northstar, Kirkwood and Arapahoe Basin is available for $659.
• Epic 7-Day: A total of seven unrestricted days of skiing at Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Heavenly and Northstar, plus Arapahoe Basin anytime during the season for a price of $509.
• The Epic Local Pass: Unlimited and unrestricted at Breckenridge, Keystone and Arapahoe Basin with limited U.S. holiday restrictions at Heavenly and Northstar. This pass also includes a total of 10 days at Vail or Beaver Creek with U.S. holiday restrictions. You do not have to be a “local” to buy this pass! $509.
• Summit Value Pass: Unlimited and unrestricted lift access to Keystone and Arapahoe Basin, as well as access to Breckenridge with limited holiday restrictions. Pass holders can purchase access to Breckenridge on restricted days for $50 per day. $419

If you are even thinking of planning a trip to Breckenridge next year take the time to consider these pass deals you will save money and time avoiding lines at the ticket windows.

Planning a visit? Go to www.breckenridgediscountlodging.com for the best deals on Breckenridge lodging.

Think skiing in Breckenridge is hard now? Try it 100 years ago when folks like Father Dyer the itinerant Methodist Preacher would strap on wooden planks 6 feet long and oversized poles to make the long and dangerous trek over Boreas Pass to bring mail and needed supplies to the miners in the high country. Imaging what it must have been like to pilot the old rotary snowplow (currently located on Boreas Pass Road near Highway 9 on the South end of Breckenridge) through 15 foot high snow drifts in order to reach Breckenridge from the south in the winter. These difficulties make what can still be a difficult trip up I-70 in the winter seem like child’s play in comparison. Long before there was such a thing as the Breckenridge Ski Area, lodging in Breckenridge or the idea of a Breckenridge ski vacation there was just the thought of surviving the long , cold, harsh Colorado winters

The truth is the early residents of Breckenridge faced hardships and toil as well as good times and rewards like so many others chasing their dreams on the American Frontier at the time. Only the residents of Breckenridge had to do it under 350 inches of snow annually. Breckenridge was first settled in 1859 by 29 men and one woman following the discovery of gold in the Blue River, which still runs through the middle of town. By mid-1861, Breckenridge boasted several stores, hotels, saloons, and a post office. On October 11, 1861, the Town secured the Denver, Bradford, and Blue River Road Wagon Company connection, which gave lifeblood to the little gold mining community. Breckenridge's Main Street allowed for ease in turning around freight wagons and became the center of social and athletic activities. During the mining heyday, Breckenridge provided the miners with a variety of attractions. Without diversions, life in the mining camp would have been an endless cycle of routine work.

By 1882, Breckenridge secured a depot site for the Denver, South Park and Pacific Railroad and thereby brought rail service to Town. Breckenridge doomed a half dozen other rival company towns in the process, including Swan City, Preston, and Lincoln City. The population of Breckenridge peaked at approximately 2000. By 1882, Breckenridge added three newspapers and a cemetery. The Town also managed to organize three fire companies to protect the vulnerable wooden structures. A major fire in 1884 destroyed a number of buildings along Main Street and Ridge Street. Despite the fire danger, local carpenters continued to build with wood because of the availability of materials and the reduced time, effort, and cost of construction.

Even with the coming of the railroad the miners and residents of Breckenridge had many hardships to face. The winter of 1898-99 proved particularly challenging when a record heavy snow fell. The railroad was blocked and the residents were trapped for 78 days! Using the rotary snowplow and multiple engines, the track was finally cleared on April 24, and service resumed in town. Residents tunneled through the snow to get from one business to another during that heavy snow year.

Six months of snow each year made it difficult for miners to work and they had to find something to entertain them in the long cold winters of Colorado’s High Country. Saloons and other false-fronted commercial businesses sprang up in the downtown area, and Main Street became a business hub. By July of 1880, Breckenridge’s population peaked to 1657 people, and the town was home to two dancehalls, ten hotels, and eighteen saloons not to mention a rather large red light district.

The Population of Breckenridge peaked at 2,000 residents in the late 1800’s but started to wane as new methods were introduced to gold mining that made it less expensive to mine it in other locations. With the drying up of the mining industry and the run of the last dredge boat in the 1942 people felt no need to stay and endure the harsh winters any longer. The population dwindled to fewer than 300 people by 1950. The future for Breckenridge seemed bleak. But then in 1961, Rounds and Porter, a Wichita, Kansas lumber company, opened the Breckenridge Ski Area, and a new boom era began. Transportation improvements fueled a new Breckenridge recreation “rush.” The Eisenhower Tunnel, on Interstate 70, was completed in 1973 and reduced the drive time from Denver to Breckenridge to an hour and a half. As a result of the relatively easy access from the Denver metro area, the high country’s recreational activities became increasingly popular.

Today Breckenridge is consistently the most popular ski destination in the country beating out rivals such as Vail and Aspen in number of skier visits per year. With over 300 permanent residents who look forward to and embrace the harsh, cold winter each year and new terrain opening every year Breckenridge is looking forward to a bright future.

For more information on the history of Breckenridge visit the Breckenridge Heritage Alliance at www.Breckheritage.com.

Every Year you come out. Every year you get your rental skis, hit the hill and ski Breckenridge. Breckenridge skiing is always fun, always exciting and thrilling. Blasting down the mountain on the latest, best demo skis the shop has to offer is what you dream about. Yet somehow you are not completely fulfilled. You need to try something different. You need a change. This year why not take a day and try a different way down the hill or maybe even a way up the hill. There are other ways (besides snowboarding) to test the Breckenridge snow and these are gaining in popularity. All of these different disciplines are available to anyone and you generally find the gear and lessons or a guide right here in Breckenridge. This year when you are planning your Breckenridge ski vacation and you are thinking about your lodging in Breckenridge think about maybe trying something different. Here are a few ideas.

Snowboarding – Hardly a new phenomenon snowboarding has been around for the better part of a quarter century and is a mainstay in the world of alpine sports even rising to the highest levels of international competition.  It has been said that as many as 40% of snowriders are snowboarding these days. If you have never tried snowboarding, you should. It is an amazing feeling carving down the run on one big blade. Obviously you can find snowboards everywhere. The trick to snowboarding is to make sure it is fun from the first day so TAKE A LESSON! Snowboarding is a little harder to figure out than skiing but once you get the basics of snowboarding down it gets a lot easier. You can really cruise after the first couple of times you do it.

Not interested in Snowboarding? Don’t want to be called a “knuckle dragger” by your friends?  Try Snow Blades. Snow Blades are the name for the “little skis” made by Solomon and are about half the size of full sized skis. Snowblades are usually worn with hard alpine ski-type boots, typically do not have (nor need) safety bindings, and are originally meant to be used without poles. Because they are so short, snowblades can be transported and used very easily and flexibly, and carving with them is nearly automatic. They appeal to individuals of various ages and backgrounds, as was the case with snowboards, when they made their first appearances on ski slopes decades ago but they are still rather obscure. Snow Blades are super easy to learn and easy to get right out on. They are available at most rental shops.

Another option is the snowbike. This is an interesting way of getting down the mountain. Snowbiking is a bit new but if you have been skiing in Colorado before chances are you might have run across a snowbiker. Snowbiking involves cruising down the mountain on a special bike with skies on the front and back. If you are looking for a new way to cruise the runs at Breckenridge snowbiking is really fun and pretty easy to learn for the experienced skier. Breckenridge and Keystone both offer lessons and rentals.

However you choose to get down the mountain doesn’t matter. What matters is that you choose to get outside and spend time celebrating in the joy of winter!

Want to come have some winter fun in Breckenridge? Visit www.breckenridgediscountlodging.com for the best deals on lodging in Breckenridge! 

Looking for something to do after skiing in Breckenridge? How about a movie. Breckenridge has a really cool local movie theater that is worth checking out especially if you are thinking of having a drink as a reward for a hard day of skiing and snowboarding.

Located on 103 South Harris Street and in the heart of the Breckenridge Arts District, The Speakeasy Performing Arts Theater and multi-functional venue offers an intimate movie-viewing experience!

The Speakeasy is proud to announce their new Speakeasy Lounge - now serving beer and wine before, during, and after the show! It’s a great place to meet friends for a pre-show glass of wine, or stay after to discuss your impressions of the film. The theater is open daily with showings at 5pm and 8pm, and also matinee specials on Saturday and Sunday. For details on what movie is currently showing or upcoming movies, visit www.speakeasymovies.com.