March 2010 | Summit Vacations

Monthly Archives: March 2010

Alcohol Awareness in the High Country

Written on March 25, 2010 by Ski Bum in breckenridge dining

It seems only fitting that a day of skiing at Breckenridge should be complimented by a cocktail at the lodge or a bottle of wine with a relaxing dinner. Similarly, in the summer months, local pubs line the streets, calling to pedestrians to stop in and drink a cool brew in the sun. Sound tempting? Not only is alcohol consumption enticing in mountain towns, but it seems to be part of the culture. In fact, the term après ski translates to “after ski” and is an entire way of entertaining skiers after a day on the slopes with food and drink in ski towns, such as Breckenridge, Colorado. Still, alcohol consumption can become quite dangerous at high altitude and visitors should be aware that they may have to lower their limits to make the most out of their mountain adventures.

Breckenridge Vacation Home

Acclimate to the altitude. It’s not the rare visitor of Breckenridge who develops altitude sickness. In fact, 20 to 30 percent of visitors traveling from low altitudes develop adverse reactions to the gain in altitude. Symptoms can range from shortness or breath, nausea, tiredness, increased heart rate, headaches, and even difficulty sleeping. When alcohol and sport are added into the mix, acknowledging the altitude must become an important factor in your day. The first step is simply realizing that your body is adjusting to high altitude and that it requires different treatment.
Take it easy. While you’ll certainly feel called to attack Breckenridge right away upon arrival, taking a day or two off in the beginning of your trip will leave your body screaming thanks. If possible, plan in an extra day to just relax in your Breckenridge vacation home, take in some shopping or sightseeing, or even participate in low-impact recreational activities. This way your body will begin to adjust to the higher altitude more quickly. Avoid all alcohol on your first day or two in town. While it might be hard, you’ll certainly reap the benefits.
Hydrate. While you should drink two to three times water as normal during your entire trip to Breckenridge, it’s helpful to get a head start by increasing your water intake in the days before your trip begins. While you’re avoiding alcohol in the first day or two of your trip, also avoid caffeine, which naturally dehydrates your body. As you slowly build alcohol and caffeine in, drink an extra glass of water in between each drink. Additionally, limit salty foods and add in extra carbohydrates.
Listen to your body, and give it time to talk. Alcohol affects each traveler differently. The most important factor in determining what you can handle is your body’s reactions. It’s very likely that you’ll feel the effects of alcohol much quicker at high elevations. Pay attention to your alertness, mood, and judgments, and limit your consumption based on your response to drinking. If you normally drink three cocktails during an evening out, don’t try to match yourself at high elevations. Give your body the time to digest each drink and assess the impact it has on your body. Not only will it benefit your health and prevent altitude sickness, but you’ll reap the benefits by avoiding a hangover. After all, you don’t want to spend your vacation sleeping in and nursing a headache when there’s so much outdoor exploring to be had!

Keep in mind, the famous Rocky Mountain high is best experienced naturally, on a pair of skis, snowshoes, or hiking boots. While you’re certainly entitled to sit back and sip on a few tasty beverages during your trip to Breckenridge, just take it slow, listen to your body, and give it the attention it deserves.

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Avalanche Awareness and Prevention

Written on March 23, 2010 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Accommodations, Breckenridge Activities, Breckenridge Ski Resort, Breckenridge condos, Ski, breckenridge

Snow packed trails are what we live for in Breckenridge, Colorado. When the entire town is blanketed in a glistening white fresh layer of snow, locals and visitors alike grow anxious to get out and leave their prints in the powder. Like any managed ski resort, precautions are taken at Breckenridge to ensure the trails are safe for skiers and boarders. You can hear the loud booming of avalanche blasting, which causes potential avalanche sites to slide under controlled conditions, thus ensuring skiers and riders who stay in bounds are not exposed to areas that are likely to slide.

Backcountry Skiing in Breckenridge

Still, any time you are in the backcountry and out of bounds of the ski resort’s property, avalanches can become a concern. While the weather and wind patterns can cause snow to collapse, the most common type of avalanches are caused by skiers themselves. So, while Breckenridge is certainly the place to come to let your adventuresome side have some fun on the trails, keep safety as your first priority and you’ll be on your way to a fun day in a winter wonderland!

Tune in Early: Check the local information on weather and avalanche danger on the television, radio, by phone, or through the web. Chances are you can get most of the pertinent information you need regarding areas to avoid before you even set out. Obviously, trails in Breckenridge that are labeled with severe avalanche danger will be closed, but take extra precaution on those that are even of little risk. And remember, weather conditions can always change throughout the day, so be sure to keep your eyes and ears out for avalanche information as it becomes available.

Look for Signs: It’s not uncommon for avalanches to occur in the same place twice. If you know that an area was affected by an avalanche, it’s probably a good indication to avoid this spot. Additionally, avoid any areas underneath an avalanche. The condition of the snow is also an important factor. If the snow feels hollow, makes loud or creaking noises, or is thawing at an extreme rate (if you can squeeze water from a snowball), you’re in a potentially dangerous area. Finally, avalanches are more common after a major snowfall. While more snow often makes for better skiing, it also makes for higher risks of avalanches. Pay attention to these signs, get information from employees and other skiers, and plan your day accordingly.

Steer Clear of Slopes Between 30 and 45 degrees: While this is the grade of steepness in which avalanches are most common, they can still occur on more gentle slopes or unstable areas. While skiers should be sure to steer clear of these steep slopes, other precautions should certainly be taken into consideration. Avalanches occur most often on east-facing slopes that are heavily loaded with snow from the wind. Also keep your eyes out for cornices, which are overhanging wave-like formations of snow that could potentially give way and cause snow to pile up.

Equip Yourself: If you plan on traveling out of bounds and in avalanche terrain, it’s a good idea to carry an avalanche beacon. In the event that someone in your party would end up in a potentially dangerous situation, this device will allow others to set their beacons to locate the buried victim’s direction and distance (older models will beep as a rescuer gets closer to the victim). Additionally, for those traveling in extreme conditions in the backcountry, a stout shovel is a good component to pack in the event of retrieving a buried victim in the critical moments just after an avalanche occurs.

If you’re planning to hit the slopes in Breckenridge, avalanche danger certainly isn’t your focus. Experienced crew members are consistently checking conditions of all slopes as they relate to wind, snow fall, and avalanche danger. Still, if you find yourself out of bounds of the resort’s property lines and in the backcountry or feel uneasy with your surroundings, look for signs, stay calm, and avoid potentially dangerous situations.

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Breckenridge Microbrews Make the Trip Complete

Written on March 21, 2010 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Activities, Breckenridge Lodging, Breckenridge Main Street, Breckenridge Ski Resort, Breckenridge condos, Ski, breckenridge, breckenridge dining

Beer drinkers beware! If you’re planning a trip to Colorado, you’re going to have to make time to sample the local brews that are handcrafted in Breckenridge and its surrounding areas. In fact, Summit County, home to Breckenridge and many other popular mountain towns, is proud to brew one of the highest amounts of beer per capita in the U.S. Colorado’s handcrafted ales are such a part of the culture that you’re sure to find a wide selection of microbrews on any tap at any local restaurant. So, be prepared, because you won’t get far without one of the many local beers staring your taste buds right in the mouth!

Breckenridge Brewery was founded by a local Breckenridge ski bum whose dream was to ski all day and drink beer all night (sound familiar?). Colorado hasn’t always had the beer selection that it boasts today, so the founder began brewing his own. Needless to say, his handcrafted flavors were such a hit that the home-based brewery expanded into the original Breckenridge Brewery & Pub, which has now expanded from the mountains of Breckenridge, Colorado all the way to the city streets of Denver and even farther west in Grand Junction. The original brewery is still serving up pints in the historic mountain town of Breckenridge, where locals and visitors alike relax and throw back a few beers amidst the spectacular mountain views.

Breckenridge Condo

The Breckenridge Brewery’s fine-crafted flavors include Agave Wheat, Oatmeal Stout, Avalanche Ale, Trademark Porter, and Vanilla Porter. Additionally, seasonal brews add variety to the lineup with Pandora’s Bock, Summerbright, Autumn Ale, and Christmas Ale. As if this isn’t enough of a selection, the Breckenridge Brewery also serves up the 471 small batch series including the 471 Small Batch IPA and 471-ESB – Extra Special Bitter.

Just down the road in Frisco, Colorado, the Backcountry Brewery is a proud neighbor of the Breckenridge Brewery, sharing its tradition of serving handcrafted ales to locals and visitors who need a reward for the hard work or playtime spent in the mountains. A visit to the Backcountry Brewery is a must if you’re spending time in Summit County as its beer has not only been awarded medals from the Great American Beer Festival, but it’s so select that you can only find this brand in Summit County and a few select liquor stores in Denver and Vail Valley. From thirty years of brewing experience, Backcountry Brewery offers its Telemark IPA (2000 Gold Medal Winner), Peak One Porter, Switchback Amber, Ptarmigan Pilsner (2004 Silver Medal Winner), Wheeler Wheat, in addition to two seasonal brews, Extra Special Bitter, and “Broken Spoke” Saison.

Yet another brewery that you don’t want to miss on your Colorado beer tour is the Dillon Dam Brewery. Another award-winning brewery, the Dillon Dam is also one of the largest brewpubs in the nation (31^st out of 1,000, to be exact). Brewing about 2,000 barrels of beer a year, you are going to be in the company of good beer drinkers when stopping in at the Dam. Dam beers include Dam Lyte, Wildernest Wheat (2002 Bronze Medal, Great American Beer Festival), Hefe Weizen, Paradise Pilsner, Dam Straight Lager (2001 Silver Medal Winner), Extra Pale Ale (2004 Bronze Medal Winner), Sweet George’s Brown (2002 Gold Medal, World Beer Cup), McLuhr’s Irish Stout (2004 Gold Medal, North America Beer Awards), and Yo Han Bock. Named due to its location by the Lake Dillon Dam, visitors can also tour the brewery and even catch live music on specified nights.

Any trip is only complete once you’ve taken advantage of the local specialties. For Breckenridge and its surrounding Summit County mountain towns, the specialty is not only the mountains, but the microbreweries that help you celebrate along the way. So, be sure to fit some time in to relax and enjoy the view with a cold beer in hand. Be warned, however, that the high altitude causes alcohol to take effect much faster than at sea level. So take it easy the first couple to days and leave your car at your Breckenridge condo. There are plenty of bars, restaurants and shops within walking distance.

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A New Way of Sledding in Breckenridge

Written on March 20, 2010 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Activities, Breckenridge Lodging, Breckenridge Main Street, Breckenridge Ski Resort, breckenridge

If you’re up for a new adventure, here’s a scene worth exploring: Imagine you’re bundled up in a warm snowsuit with a hat, gloves, and all the winter accessories you can pull from your closet. Now, rather than treading over the ice and snow in your car or on a pair of skis, picture yourself climbing on the back of a sled pulled by a pack of dogs. If this sounds exciting, you are not alone. Each winter, travelers flock to snow-filled destinations to take part in the exhilaration of dog sledding, a sport historically used for both hunting and travel for hundreds of years. If you’re planning a trip to Breckenridge this winter, you’re in luck; Breckenridge is home to some of the best dog sledding in the country. Here’s just a glimpse into the thrill of this winter ride:

The Team: Although getting a hold of a pack of Huskies might seem like the easy way to build a dog sled team, there’s a bit more work involved. Dogs are divided into positions that include the leader dogs, point dogs, swing dogs, and wheel dogs. The trained lead dog is the heart of the team and is a position that is extremely cherished by the musher (the person pulled by the sled). As implied, this dog serves as the front leader of the sled. Still, each other dog has an important role to maintain in the team, from the wheel dog’s role of pulling the sled from the snow to the sheer endurance, strength, and speed of the other dogs.

Breckenridge Lodging

The Sport: Dog sledding has gained popularity as a winter activity due to its excitement and relative ease. Breckenridge tours accommodate single individuals, couples, families, and large groups. The beauty of dog sledding as a winter sport is that it allows anyone to participate, regardless of age and skill level. Still, that doesn’t mean that you can simply climb atop a sled to just sit back and enjoy the ride. Breckenridge tour companies will expect you to be the musher, but they’ll also make sure you’re prepared by offering in-depth instruction before your journey begins. From an explanation of operating the sled to handling the Huskies, you’ll feel confident when you set off on your sled.

The Mountain: Most often, dog sledders will rotate positions. In teams of up to six members, participants will cruise several miles through beautiful mountain areas, including the Middle Fork of the Swan River. Guests will take turns and switch off from riding in the sled, running the dogs, and riding alongside in a small passenger sled with the guide. While the adventure is in the tour itself, you won’t be disappointed by the view along the way. Large pine trees, blanketed in snow, will surround you and your sled for unforgettable moments. Your camera is certain to get a workout!

Sure, many mountain and snow towns offer dog sledding tours in the winter. So, why is Breckenridge the best choice? Not only do the landscape and the experience of the tour companies make dog sledding a premium in Breckenridge, but the town itself offers so much more. After a dog sled tour, reward your hard work with a relaxing dinner on Main Street, followed by a horse-drawn carriage ride through town. Of course, Breckenridge lodging also makes it easy for you to find exactly what you’re looking for in a vacation rental by offering a variety of condos, townhomes, and other Breckenridge rentals. Whether you’re traveling in a small or large group, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for in Breckenridge.

Hop on a dog sled and try something new this winter. You’re certain to remember it as one of the rides of your life.

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A Guide to Breckenridge Out of the Snow

Written on March 19, 2010 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Accommodations, Breckenridge Lodging, Breckenridge Main Street, Breckenridge condos, Breckenridge spas, breckenridge dining, breckenridge restaurants

You’ve likely heard that Breckenridge is a town that’s serious about its snow. While this certainly is no rumor, one of the greatest things about Breckenridge is that it’s not just a ski or snowboard town. Not only do you not have to be a skier or boarder, but you don’t even have to like the outdoors to enjoy Breckenridge. In fact, if you’re planning a trip to Breckenridge, you can fill countless days without either setting foot on the mountain or breaking a sweat. So, if boarding or skiing isn’t quite your cup of tea, consider some of the more relaxing ways you can spend your time.

Relax Indoors! While some of your travel companions might want to spend their days buried in Breckenridge’s deep powder, there’s certainly no shame in opting to stay indoors. In fact, Breckenridge is a great town to plan a relaxing getaway. Plenty of lodging options offer Breckenridge condos or other vacation homes that simply entice you to stay indoors. Sleep in, curl up with a book by the fire, or relax in the hot tub. Your options are as endless as they are relaxing.
Hit the Spa. If you do feel the need for a change of scenery from your Breckenridge rental but are still in relaxation mode, you might visit one of the many premier spas in Breckenridge. Choose from specialty facials, massages, body treatments, manicures, pedicures, and alternative forms of therapy. You’ll be in good hands with the spa professionals in Breckenridge who take your need to relax seriously.

Shop ‘till you Drop. Breckenridge’s Main Street is lined with unique boutiques and art galleries. Plus, quaint coffee shops, bakeries, delis, and restaurants make it easy to take a break from shopping for a quick (or extended) break. So, whether you’re shopping for Rocky Mountain souvenirs, art, jewelry, or designer clothes, you won’t have a problem finding what you’re looking for in Breckenridge. And, remember, a free shuttle transports locals and visitors around Breckenridge free of charge. So, let the snow pile on your car and leave the driving to someone else.
Sample the Cuisine. All that shopping and sightseeing is bound to work up your appetite, so delight your tastebuds with some of the best restaurants in Summit County. If you time it right, you can find great happy hour prices at South Ridge Seafood Grille, Bubba Gump’s, Rita’s, or a number of other popular eateries.

Breckenridge Condos and Restaurants

Capture History. If endless days of relaxing sound like they could get old, you might plan a day of exploring Breckenridge’s historic roots. Just off Main Street, the Edwin Carter Museum is located in a historic 1875 building. A Breckenridge pioneer known as a “famous log cabin naturalist,” Carter was concerned about Breckenridge’s mining town influence on the local wildlife. He devoted his life to collecting and documenting this wildlife, which can now be seen at his workshop and home, recently restored for tours. Another museum, the Barney Ford House, will give you a deeper look at the home of a black civil rights pioneer and entrepreneur. An escaped slave, Ford was the first black businessman in Breckenridge when he opened Ford’s Restaurant and Chop House in 1880. His home, like many others in Breckenridge, showcases the amazing architecture that has been rooted in the town’s character and charm since the 1800s.

Depending on the time of year that you plan your visit to Breckenridge, you’ll likely have plenty of other options to choose from. Summertime fills with music festivals and farmers’ markets. The fall brings Breckenridge’s famous Oktoberfest celebration. Look out for concerts and movie premiers in the winter. Spring makes for the perfect time to hunt for wildflowers around town. And, if you’re serious about relaxing, be sure to check into Breckenridge accommodations that will allow you the comfort of a vacation home that maximizes your down time. So, put your feet up, slow down, and maximize your time to unwind in Breckenridge.

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Cutting Vacation Expenses with Creative Planning

Written on March 17, 2010 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Accommodations, Breckenridge Activities, Breckenridge Lodging, Breckenridge Main Street, Breckenridge condos, breckenridge

Let’s face it. Vacations can be hard. Even though the whole point of getting away and seeing new sights is to take a break, relax, and have fun, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed just at the thought of planning a vacation. And, perhaps the factor that is more concerning than all others is the cost. Vacations are expensive. So, do we have no choice? Must we either give in blindly, throwing our savings account and hard-earned income to the wind, or do we ask our credit cards to take the hit, only to come back to us down the road as interest and never-ending monthly statements? Or, do we give up entirely and cancel this year’s vacation, crossing our fingers that next year will bring more likelihood that vacation will be possible?

Rather than automatically assuming you can’t afford a vacation, why not just approach it with a different outlook? A trip to Breckenridge, Colorado, can become much more feasible if you just get a little creative.

Eat in. While some people may equate vacations with a chance to eat every meal out, this is not only an expensive choice, but also one that is as boring as it is unhealthy. Vacation actually gives you more time to try that new recipe or get the whole family involved in preparing a five-course meal. Rather than renting a hotel room for a week, choosing a Breckenridge condo or other lodging option will allow your family access to a full kitchen, meaning you can save the money you’d normally spend eating out by staying in and sharing in the fun of creating a culinary masterpiece together. Here’s a site of reviews of Colorado resorts.
Invite friends. Staying in a hotel during your vacation doesn’t give you much space. In fact, hotels can begin to feel so cramped that your family will need to take a vacation from the vacation. A condo, townhome, or vacation home, on the other hand, gives your family the space to enjoy vacation together or at a distance, and even offers extra space for others. If you normally choose hotels because they are cheaper, consider inviting other friends or families to come along and share a condo or townhome. When two families share the bills, your vacation costs will suddenly seem much more feasible.

Breckenridge Condo

Keep the car parked. Breckenridge caters to visitors by providing free transportation to, from, and around the ski area. Rather than spending an entire paycheck fueling up the car for trips through town, rely on Breckenridge’s public transportation to get you where you need to go.
Plan activities ahead. One of the reasons that Breckenridge is such a popular vacation spot is that it offers so many activities for all ages to enjoy. Before you get to town, figure out the costs of those activities and make your choices accordingly. It’s easy to fill the day with activities that don’t cost a cent, regardless of the season. Wildflower hikes are popular spring and summer activities. Similarly, aspen hikes are free and fun in the fall. If skiing is too expensive for a winter activity, try snowshoeing instead as a way to play in the snow without the hefty rental fee and lift ticket price. And, rather than including a lunch out in your daily plans, bring a picnic and enjoy it as a rewarding break from your day’s outing.

Vacations are hard-earned and well-deserved. Don’t slight yourself by canceling plans once you start to crunch numbers. Instead, reconsider your priorities and plan differently. Breckenridge offers a refreshing break that doesn’t have to take a toll on your wallet.

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Understanding and Preventing Hypothermia

Written on March 16, 2010 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Activities, Uncategorized, breckenridge

If you’re in to the excitement of mountain sports, it’s likely that cold weather doesn’t bother you much. In fact, spending a winter day in Breckenridge, Colorado, during a snow storm just might be your ideal definition of fun. Whether you’re in to skiing, snow boarding, snow shoeing, or even ice climbing, the mountains are your place in the winter, and no town celebrates the cold quite like Breckenridge. Sadly, there are drawbacks to cold weather, some of which could become quite dangerous if you’re unprepared or inexperienced. When exposed to cold temperatures for too long of a period of time, your body needs to replenish its internal body heat. If it’s unable to do this, serious conditions such as hypothermia result. By spending a bit of time understanding ways to avoid hyperthermia and protecting yourself against this cold weather enemy, you’ll spend your days in the mountains filled with excitement from sport rather than from its dangers.

Breckenridge Lodging Keeps You Warm

Understanding Hypothermia. Hypothermia results when your body loses heat at a faster pace than it can replace it. While the body’s normal temperature is 98.6 degrees, hypothermia is defined as the condition the body reaches when its temperature falls to 95 degrees. Any time you are exposed to cold temperatures for an extended amount of time, you are at risk of hypothermia.
Protecting Yourself Before Hitting the Cold. The key in Breckenridge is to stay warm. Gear up before hitting the slopes by dressing in layers and paying special attention to your extremities. This means donning a hat, scarf, gloves, and thick wool socks as part of your wardrobe. Non-cotton or wicking material is also an important safety measure because it will keep you dry, and therefore keep you warm. Dehydration and low energy can also lead to hypothermia, so be sure to keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of water and staying away from alcohol and caffeine (both of which are dehydrates). Additionally, keep yourself fueled with high-protein, high-energy foods; remember, carbohydrates and protein are your friends. Finally, always travel in good company. Friends are the ones who will notice warning signs that something is wrong before you will.
Signs of Hypothermia. While symptoms of hypothermia can certainly vary, watch out for confusion, sleepiness, slowed speech, shallow breathes, weak pulse or low blood pressure, behavioral changes, excessive shivering, slow reaction time, and poor control over body movements. These are all signs that something is wrong and medical attention is needed.
Treating Hypothermia. If symptoms of hypothermia exist, get the victim into dry, warm conditions immediately. Cold, wet clothes should be removed immediately, and the victim should be wrapped in warm blankets. You can also use your own body heat to warm someone with signs of hypothermia by lying close to the victim and rubbing him or her gently. All of these treatments, however, should be given while waiting for a doctor’s help. Hypothermic individuals need medical attention in order to have their body temperature measures and monitored.

Cold weather is certainly something to play in, but not something to play with. Fortunately, the town’s array of shops, dining, and Breckenridge lodging make it hard to stay outside too long without wanting to escape for a break indoors. By keeping your body temperature regulated and taking early precaution against hypothermia, you should have little to worry about. So, stay dry and warm in Breckenridge and show the cold weather who is really boss.

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Mountain Driving: Making the Most of your Trip

Written on March 14, 2010 by Ski Bum in Uncategorized, breckenridge

Road trips are part of our culture. Whether you’re getting out for a day of exploring or if you have a specific destination planned, driving is a fast and convenient way to get there. This is especially true in Breckenridge, Colorado, where the mountain roads may be narrow and rocky but usually lead to new adventures around each turn. Still, traveling on mountain roads can be stressful for both new and experienced drivers as steep grades and sharp curves give a whole new meaning to the driving experience. However, if you plan ahead of time and follow a few safety tips, you’re sure to find yourself enjoying the scenery and getting to your Breckenridge Lodging safely.

Mountain driving

Go easy on your brakes. For your own safety and for the maintenance of your car, give it a brake. Mountain roads are known to require a great deal of uphill and downhill driving, but that doesn’t mean your brakes have to pay the price. Never travel down a mountain faster than you can go up. If you accelerate much of the way down, you’ll have to compensate by using your brakes to hold your speed. Instead, downshift to S or L, and only brake when absolutely necessary or when slowing to change gears.
Give the center line some room. Drivers tend to find comfort gripping onto the center lines of the road in order to be sure to stay in the lane. Mountain roads, however, are quite narrow and hugging the center lane can prove hazardous on a two-lane road with other drivers who might be hugging the center lane as well. Give yourself some room and try to stay in the center of your individual lane.
Slow down, but be aware. Often, when traveling through new areas, drivers tend to pay more attention to the scenery than the road ahead of them. When driving on the mountain roads around Breckenridge, you’re likely to be amazed at the scenery and wildlife that is part of the landscape. It’s fine to slow down to look, but be careful and courteous. If you notice that there are more than three cars chugging along closely behind you, find the nearest designated pull-out area and let the other cars pass.
Keep water handy. Whenever you are visiting Breckenridge or any mountain town, hydration is extremely important. Due to the higher elevation, it’s easy to develop altitude sickness if you don’t drink enough water, which can lead to altered alertness and nausea.
Be prepared for adverse weather conditions. The weather in Breckenridge can change suddenly and may become extreme. If you’re planning a day on the road, be sure to check the weather forecast and plan ahead. If snow is in the forecast, you’ll be likely to use your windshield wipers quite a bit. You might want to add a special solvent to your washer reservoir to prevent deicing. Chains, an ice scraper, a small broom and shovel, and a flashlight may all come in handy. Additionally, it’s never a bad idea to have warm clothes, an extra hat, and a pair of gloves stored in your trunk.
Keep yourself gassed. Breckenridge is just one of many popular mountain destinations in Summit County. If you find yourself in traffic, you’ll likely be spending some time on the road waiting while your engine is on. Be sure to start any day of driving with a full tank, or fill up as needed throughout the day, to ensure you aren’t stranded on the side of the road with an empty gas tank.

Get out and enjoy the mountain roads that twist and turn their way through Breckenridge. Whether your journey takes you to a nearby Colorado town or a hiking trail, you’re sure to enjoy your trip, especially by starting off prepared.

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Alpine Skiing at its Peak in Breckenridge, Colorado

Written on March 13, 2010 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Activities, Breckenridge Ski Resort, Breckenridge condos, Ski, breckenridge

There are certainly many approaches to take when planning a Colorado ski vacation. The obvious place to start is by choosing among the many ski resorts, which can be an overwhelming task to anyone unfamiliar with Colorado. While options are plentiful, however, the choice is clear: Breckenridge is the place to visit for alpine skiers wanting to make the most of their time on, and off, the mountain.

Alpine Skiing

Breckenridge IS Alpine Skiing:

The facts speak for themselves. The four massive and interconnected peaks that are the Breckenridge Ski Resort translate into 2,350 acres of skiable terrain. Not only is this good news for expert alpine skiers, but it’s also good news for skiers of all levels. While Peak 7’s high alpine bowl might be the place to show off your technical edge, there’s ample terrain for beginners as well. And, let’s face it, we were all beginners at one point, so giving the new guys a little space is no sweat, especially in Breckenridge when there’s plenty of terrain to go around. Within Breck’s four peaks, the variety extends to five terrain parks, four half pipes, and 150 acres of expert terrain above the tree line. And, with credit to the Imperial Express Superchair that lifts skiers as high as 12,840 feet, 400 acres that were previously only accessed by hiking are now easily skiable right from the lift.

Making Time for an Improvement Plan:

Even the most expert among us can learn a thing or two with each new ski season. Breckenridge’s Ski School operates under this pretense by offering so much more than just beginner lessons. Whether expert alpine skiers sign up for personal lessons to improve technical skills or beginners enroll in a beginner group class, the Ski and Ride School makes each lesson educational, insightful, and fun. Additionally, specific seminars are offered throughout the season that work directly with individual groups such as women skiers, seniors, and pipe enthusiasts.

Life Off the Mountain:

While the Breckenridge Ski Resort has other Colorado ski resorts beat by a number of obvious factors, the town itself is yet another reason to choose Breck as the premier vacation destination. Averaging 300 inches of snow a year, combined with more than 300 days of annual sunshine, Breckenridge is the place for happy and laid-back thrill seekers. Unlike other Colorado ski towns that offer little in terms of entertainment, Breckenridge takes the cake for showing its visitors a good time. Planned events and festivals are marked on each month of the year’s calendar, ranging from the International Snow Sculpture Competition to a mountain Mardi Gras party. Plus, Breckenridge is a part of Colorado’s historic roots, evident in attractions from the Country Boy Mine to the Gold Pan Saloon. Speaking of saloons, Breckenridge’s Main Street is amply supplied with a variety of bars, restaurants, and shopping as well.

Staying Over Brings Options:

Affluent Colorado towns such as Vail and Aspen hit visitors with a hefty sticker price when it comes to lodging. Breckenridge likes to take a different approach. Breckenridge discount lodging is just as prevalent as its high-end options. With a range of ski-in, ski-out condos, large vacation homes, or other townhomes right off Main Street, there’s something for everyone in Breckenridge.

The bottom line is that if you are an alpine skier and you have yet to speed down any of the 2,340 pristine acres of the Breckenridge Ski Resort, then you’ve certainly been missing out. Don’t let this sad fact go another season. As you plan your next Colorado ski vacation, do yourself a favor and put Breckenridge on the top of your list.

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Breckenridge off the Beaten Path

Written on March 11, 2010 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Accommodations, Breckenridge Activities, Breckenridge Arts, Breckenridge condos, breckenridge, breckenridge dining, breckenridge events

It’s a well-known fact that Breckenridge is a town for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The world-class skiing, biking, and hiking provide reason enough to plan a vacation to this Victorian wonderland, nestled right in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. However, there’s a side to Breckenridge that you might not know. On your next trip, you might consider hanging up the skis for a day and checking out some of the opportunities that lie under the radar in Breckenridge.

Let your Artistic Side Show. The Arts District of Breckenridge hosts several workshops throughout the year that are specifically designed to get your creative juices flowing. While it might seem that your busy schedule keeps you from experimenting in creative projects throughout the year, a vacation leaves no better time to let your artistic talents loose. If you’re planning a trip in the winter, you’ll enjoy the holiday-themed workshops that let you create your own Christmas cards or ornaments. Or, you might prefer a lesson that’s relevant any time of the year, such as printmaking, Batik, or Tie-Dying. Workshops are open to all skill level and ages. Similarly, Breckenridge’s “Ready, Paint, Fire” is a local paint-it-yourself pottery shop that is also popular with both locals and visitors. Here you’ll have the chance to paint your own bowls, plates, and mugs, guaranteeing that you’ll take a one-of-a-kind souvenir home as a reminder of your visit.

Power up with a Yoga Class. The Breckenridge Recreation Center, in addition to several spas around town, offers public yoga classes for locals and visitors. Not only can yoga help you unwind those tense muscles, but it will help your mind relax as well. And, since unwinding and relaxing are key components to any vacation, you’re more than covered in Breckenridge. Check Carter Park for class types and times. Drop in students are always welcome.

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Take an Adventure Far Below. Founded in 1887, the Country Boy Mine is known for the gold and silver it produced during World War I and II. As a way of preserving the past and keeping Breckenridge’s deep mining history alive, the County Boy Mine leads tours that travel more than 1,000 feet into an authentic gold mine. Additionally, you might try your luck panning for gold at the Mine once your tour is over.

Go Backstage. Don’t neglect your cultural side on your next trip to Breckenridge. Instead, reserve an evening for a stop at the Backstage Theatre, where the tradition of award-winning, live theater has been going strong for thirty-five years. The Backstage Theatre hosts a variety of performances, ranging in genres for all ages, but you should reserve seats early as this popular attraction sells out quickly. And, if you prefer to be the center of attention, check out the workshops that the Backstage Theatre hosts.

Appeal to your Culinary Powers. A vacation is never quite complete without a taste of the local cuisine. A wide variety of restaurants line Main Street, allowing you to choose the culinary treat that will delight your taste buds. Better yet, why not take over the role of chef on your own? If you’re visiting Breckenridge in the warmer months, be sure to plan a trip to the Farmers’ Market. Pick up some local food and create your own masterpiece from the comfort of your Breckenridge vacation home.

Breckenridge really is a town for everyone. And, even if hitting the slopes is your first priority, it’s never a bad idea to take a day off. Let your body relax and treat your creative side to a day of fun. Breckenridge is just the place to do it all.

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