Of particular merit in Breckenridge are its six specialist parks and Superpipe. For skiers there is a decent range of pistes across 4 tree-lined peaks, but Breckenridge is small by US standards. Advanced ski holiday makers will find some good but short runs in Breckenridge, while the expanded top bowls offer some worthwhile off-piste skiing (Lake Chutes). Intermediates have enjoyable but limited cruising on Breckenridge skiing holidays, while beginners benefit most, with an excellent ski school at which to learn. Better skiers will want to use the shared lift pass, with access to Keystone, Arapahoe Basin and Vail for more variety. Snow reliability is exceptional, as is the lift system, which almost entirely removes queuing from your ski holiday in Breckenridge.
The resort has a 19th century feel to it, as it was a gold-mining town. There's a full range of ski holiday accommodation, from self-catering to top hotels, but some are removed from the lifts and require a free shuttle bus ride to reach the skiing. Compared to other North American ski resorts, Breckenridge is pretty lively, with over 75 restaurants and a varied selection of bars. There are also the usual alternative Alpine pursuits (sleigh rides, ice skating, etc), as well as the traditional off-snow activities of a medium-sized town (cinema, swimming, art gallery, shopping). As it is one of the nearest ski holiday resorts to Denver (80 miles), pistes and the town can be overcrowded. The usual high standard of childcare is offered and the largely non-smoking town makes for great family ski holidays.
Overall, Breckenridge is a solid ski holiday base from which to explore the Summit County resorts. Lastly, though, please be aware of altitude sickness that, when combined with jetlag, can make for a few uncomfortable days.
- Great parks and superpipe
- Lively apres ski
- Plenty of off-snow activities
- Very friendly and welcoming
- Excellent for families