Last March, an article was published in the New York Times travel section that praised Breckenridge, not only for its unmatched Ski Resort, but also for its mountain town charm. While these points aren’t breaking news to many of us who have lived in Breckenridge for some time now, it’s important to understand just why so many travelers (about 1.5 million annually) continue to make Breckenridge their vacation destination. Here’s a look at the reasons out-of-towners like to visit Breckenridge:
Mountain Terrain Stats: More than 2,300 acres make up the Breckenridge Ski Resort. Within that massive space, 155 trails are available for beginners, intermediates, and advanced skiers and boarders to choose from. Additionally, Breckenridge’s four terrain parks and three half pipes offer that extra excitement for thrill seekers. This means that there is something for all of Breckenridge’s many visitors, but that doesn’t equate to long lift lines. The relatively new Breck-Connect brings skiers and riders from the transportation center to the slopes in an 8-person gondola to keep the flow of visitors moving. And, 29 additional lifts spread throughout Breckenridge’s four peaks keeps the stream of traffic moving all day. Among these lifts, visitors will find the Imperial Express SuperChair, North America’s highest chairlift, which transports riders to an elevation of 12,840 feet.
Breckenridge Ski Resort
Main Street Charm: The real backbone of Breckenridge is Victorian-inspired Main Street, a walkable historic district that offers no shortage of bars, restaurants, museums, theatres, and shops. Unmatched in any other Colorado ski town, Main Street of Breckenridge offers so much entertainment that non-skiers find plenty to keep them entertained. And, a free town shuttle transports locals and visitors up and down Main Street. Or, for those who would rather spare some of the travel budget, horse-drawn carriages also offer rides up and down Main Street.
Breckenridge Condos, Restaurants and Bars Along Main St.
Town Events: Those who visit Breckenridge only for the skiing are certainly missing out. Because Breckenridge has more than 3,000 year-round residents, the town is always buzzing with excitement. The laid-back, friendly, and active vibe of Breck’s locals spills into town events, such as the International Snow Sculpture Contest, various sporting competitions, and Mardi Gras or St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. Year round events and activities line the calendar and show visitors that there’s just as much fun to be had off the slopes.
Location and Hospitality: Breckenridge is also a popular destination because of its close proximity to Colorado’s Front Range and the Denver International Airport. Still, even though the town is just about ten minutes off of the interstate, it is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of traffic and any signs of I-70. Additionally, a variety of accommodation choices are available in Breckenridge. From Breckenridge condos to homes in Hocks Nest, visitors appreciate the affordability and value they find in Breck.
Breckenridge Condos
Focus on Improvements: Unfortunately, many Colorado ski towns do all they can to attract visitors and then make few changes in response to an increase in traffic. Not Breckenridge. In order to keep its small-town charm mixed with big mountain experience, Breckenridge is constantly making changes and additions as tourists continue to flock to town. Recently, the Breckenridge Ski Resort added an entire Peak 7 base village, adding additional lodging and dining options. The Ski Resort has also opened previously inaccessible terrain recently, expanding skiable area to account for new visitors.
With so many visitors choosing Breckenridge year after year as their vacation destination, the numbers speak for themselves. Get to Breckenridge, and see what all the fuss is about.
