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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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An Advanced User’s Guide to Skiing Breckenridge

Written on March 5, 2010 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Lodging, Breckenridge Main Street, Breckenridge Ski Resort, breckenridge, breckenridge dining, breckenridge restaurants

Thrill seekers flock to the snow-packed Rocky Mountains each winter for the challenge that so many ski towns offer on the slopes. If you’re an avid skier, there’s no doubt that you’re likely squeezing in time to get out and play this winter on some of the advanced sections of Breckenridge’s Ten Mile Range. This connection of the mountains of Peaks 7, 8, 9, and 10 have long been known for advanced skiing and technical difficulty that bring star skiers back year after year. If you’re an advanced skier, a quick overview of Breckenridge’s more challenging terrain will help.

The Facts. Colorado offers exhilarating expert skiing throughout the state, so why do advanced skiers prefer Breckenridge? By devoting 55 percent of its total terrain to black diamonds and offering some of the highest in-bound skiing in all of North America, the question is really a no-brainer. The hundreds of acres of steep terrain bring experts flocking to rise to the challenge of the sport in Breck.

Peak Breakdown. Advanced skiers find terrain on each of the four peaks that fits the level and intensity that they are looking for. You’ll enjoy the high Alpine bowls of Peak 7 and 8 and the steep trails that move through the trees on the North Face of Peak 9. Finally, an intense collection of moguls speed down Peak 10 for difficult skiing.

Chairlift Convenience. As an advanced skier, you mean business. You want to find a mountain that will quickly bring you to the top of each run so that you can speed your way down and repeat the process all day long. You’re allergic to long lift lines and fortunately this isn’t a worry in Breckenridge. The Imperial Express chairlift carries skiers up 13,000 feet to the Imperial Bowl, Peak 8’s most defining and highest run. This lift also leads advanced skiers to Snow White, 150 acres of terrain that was previously off limits to skiers. Additionally, 400 acres of double black terrain make the Imperial Express the lift for those who take their skiing seriously! The Imperial Express will also put you close to the foot path to Peak 7 and the T-Bar that curves its way down between Peaks 7 and 8.

Expert Territory. The back of Peak 9’s North Face is home to powdered terrain with tree shelter. Because a 15-minute hike is required to get back to this area, the snow usually stays fresh and crowds are normally low. For more bumpy and technical skiing, head to Peak 10’s Mustang and Dark Rider. Peak 8 is also a good choice for bumpy terrain that’s loaded with powder, and Chair 6 provides the link to less crowded expert areas. The lower portion of Peak 8 also offers great expert skiing nestled between the trails of High Anxiety and Little Johnny. Peak 9’s E Chair also offers access to bumpy terrain with a little less intensity. And, Peak 10 offers a good mix of black and blue terrain and features the long trail of Cimarron, a normally groomed run used for race skiing.

Breckenridge ski in ski out

Powder. If you find yourself on the mountain on a powder day, you’ll want to check out The Burn, a tree-skiing area on skier’s left of Peak 10. And, among Peak 7’s blue terrain, Ore Bucket is a hidden black area that is a favorite of expert skiers on powder days.

The excitement and exhilaration of expert skiing is not hard to catch in Breckenridge. If you’re up to the challenge, you won’t find a shortage of tough terrain that will take you for the runs you’re looking for on an expert ski mountain. And with plenty of Breckenridge Ski in Ski out accommodations, you’ll find yourself spending all day doing what you love best: hitting the slopes!

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Breckenridge Home Rentals: A Christmas Tradition

Written on January 23, 2010 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Accommodations, Breckenridge Activities, Breckenridge Lodging, Breckenridge Main Street, Breckenridge condos, breckenridge

Traveling during the holidays is inevitable for many of us. And, with so many families spread out from one end of the country to the other, it often takes a great deal of planning and preparation to get everyone together in one central location. Why not mix it up this year? Rather than travel home for the holidays, why not have the family all meet together in Breckenridge, the one place that really knows the meaning of Christmas spirit.

Home away from home: It’s hard work fitting the whole family comfortably under one roof in any location. Unfortunately, when the family all comes back to its home base, this often means that some members are left sleeping on the couch or settling for that old futon in the basement. There’s never enough room in the bathroom, and privacy is simply nonexistent. But, traveling with the entire family can often bring just as many drawbacks, as hotel rooms provide even less privacy and almost no comfort. Well, Breckenridge just might have the solution to this problem. Breckenridge home rentals offer all of the comforts of home, but with even more benefits. By renting a home, you can select the number of bedrooms to fit your party. And, since these homes are designed for vacationers, extra bathrooms and large living areas are usually standard in the floor plan. Plus, large, fully equipped kitchens, fireplaces, and mountain views are all standard bonus features that make a Christmas in Breckenridge warm and inviting.

Home away from home

Town charm: There is perhaps no place that is more charming during the holidays than Victorian-inspired Main Street in Breckenridge. The whole town comes together for seasonal events that start off with the lighting of the town Christmas tree. A caroling procession begins on Main Street and travels to the Blue River Plaza, where the tree is lit amongst a backdrop of snowcapped mountains. Of course, Santa joins the procession, which is also complimented with storytelling, holiday crafts workshops, and, of course, hot cocoa and cookies.

Unlimited activities: We all know that the very best way to spend the Christmas holiday is surrounded by family and friends. Sometimes, just staying in to play games, catch up, exchange gifts, or retell stories is the perfect way to spend the holiday. However, if your group is looking for some outdoor activity, Breckenridge offers no shortage of opportunities. Do a little sightseeing by taking the family on a dog sledding tour or a snow mobiling adventure. Or, bundle up and go for a snowshoeing hike or cross-country ski through snowy landscapes. Of course, spending a day or two at the Breckenridge Ski Resort is a must. Regardless of the skill level of the members of your family, Breckenridge offers terrain to match any skier or boarder. And, for beginners or those seeking improvement, the Breckenridge Ski and Ride school offers half- and full-day lessons.

Local flavor: Any holiday trip to Breckenridge must be accompanied by a visit to the Breckenridge Brewery for a pint or two of the seasonal Christmas Ale. Colorado is known for its microbrews, and the Breckenridge Brewery is one of the state’s best. After your stop in the brewery, however, why not continue the feast by bundling up and taking the family on a dinner sleigh ride? You’ll climb aboard a majestic sleigh to be transported by beautiful horses through some of the most beautiful mountain landscape in the world. Finally, the horse-drawn carriage ends at a premier Breckenridge restaurant where you’ll be wined and dined.

You’re guaranteed a holiday season like no other in Breckenridge. And, you just never know…Christmas in Breckenridge just might become a holiday tradition.

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Breckenridge Provides the Best of All Worlds

Written on January 14, 2010 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Activities, Breckenridge Arts, Breckenridge Main Street, Breckenridge condos, Breckenridge spas, breckenridge dining, breckenridge restaurants

Many criteria must be met to truly call a ski town “spectacular.” While the most important factor is certainly the ski resort itself, ski towns also earn a good name through their ability to blend town charm, dining, and entertainment. After all, your winter ski trip isn’t going to be limited entirely to the slopes. You’ll want to be sure to find just the right town that blends entertainment with good food and drink, and variety with friendly, hospitable service. If your travel plans take you to Colorado, consider yourself one of the fortunate. If they take you to Breckenridge, your good fortune is immeasurable. Why? Let’s begin to count the ways.

Breckenridge Tops your Activity List. The 2008 “Best of Summit County” results are in, and the yearly poll put out by The Summit Daily News confirms that Breckenridge has it all. Because votes were cast by locals, you know the results are worth your attention. Since Breckenridge takes the top award in categories such as Best Ski Mountain, Best Place to People Watch, Best Golf Course, and Best Hiking Trail, you can be confident that your trip to Breck will be filled with premium adventure opportunities. Now that’s cause for celebration.

Celebrate with the Best Drinks in Town. All the top-rated activity in the world just wouldn’t complete a ski vacation without a good bar to unwind after a day on the slopes in celebration of après ski. You’re in luck if you’re travelling to Breckenridge. The town favorite, Mi Casa, located just at the base of the ski resort, is this year’s Best of Summit County pick for Best Après Ski. Join locals and visitors for a margarita and great Mexican food that’s sure to make each hour a happy one. If you’re style is a bit more posh, head to Main Street’s Blue River Bistro for Summit County’s Best Martini.

Breckenridge

Dine with only the Best Intentions. Dining out is certainly one of the best parts of a vacation. Not only are you afforded the chance to try some new culinary delights, but you simultaneously sit back, relax, and let someone else do the cooking and cleaning. After all, you are on a vacation, which entitles you to live it up. Still, ski town restaurants can be tricky since you have little knowledge of your options. Once again, take some advice from those who know Summit County cuisine. If you’re in to raw fish, try Mountain Flying Fish, winner of Best Sushi Restaurant. If a carnivore’s appetite is more your style, opt for Steak and Rib, voted to serve the Best Steak in Summit County. And, if you’re just looking for overall good food and service, look no farther than Breckenridge’s own Hearthstone, winner of Best Caterer, Best Restaurant, and Best Restaurant Service (weighing in a close second and third were Café Alpine and South Ridge Seafood).

Stay with the Best. Of course, wonderful food, drink, and long days of world-class skiing are key components to granting you your best vacation yet. But, don’t forget about lodging. Rather than opting for a room at a lodge, consider giving your group a bit more privacy and space with a Breckenridge condo or vacation home. Breckenridge accomodations are available in a variety of locations, floorplans, and sizes, so be sure to find just exactly the right place to complete your dream vacation.

While many ski towns offer the picturesque winter wonderland scene that is synonymous with Colorado winter, you might not find just what you’re looking for once you get inside. You can be confident with your decision when choosing Breckenridge, not only for some of Colorado’s best skiing, but for some of Colorado’s best times as well.

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Winter Events to Complement your Breckenridge Co Lodging

Written on January 8, 2010 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Activities, Breckenridge Main Street, breckenridge, breckenridge events

Sure, skiers and boarders flock to Breckenridge for the Ski Resort’s four peaks, five terrain parks, and two half-pipes. Simply put: Breckenridge offers a lot on the mountain. But, skiers and boarders stay in Breckenridge because of another simple fact: The town of Breckenridge is hopping. While there’s no shortage of fun in the summer, the winter season is a time to celebrate in Breckenridge. It shouldn’t be hard to make sure your Breckenridge Co lodging puts you in close proximity to the action. Here’s what you have to look forward to this winter season.

Lighting of Breckenridge: Breckenridge has perfected holiday cheer. December 5^th marks the start of Breckenridge’s annual holiday tradition: The Lighting of Breckenridge. Locals and visitors alike gather with hot cocoa, cookies, and caroling near the Breckenridge Heritage Alliance cabin to await Santa. Once St. Nick himself arrives in a horse-drawn carriage, he leads the procession of carolers down Main Street to the Blue River Plaza. A countdown begins, and soon enough a large town tree is lit for the holiday season.

Breckenridge Winter Events

The Dew Tour: Back by popular demand, the Dew Tour returns to Breckenridge from December 17-20. Hosting three major, multi-sport events, Breck’s Dew Tour features men and women snowboarding and free skiing competitions. Although the Tour is so popular that it’s broadcast on NBC, you can watch the excitement of the superpipe and slopsetyle competitions slope-side in Breckenridge.

Ullr Fest: By January, it’s normally dumping snow on a daily basis in Breckenridge. And, the town not only notices, but pays respect for the more than 300 inches of powder that grace the town each year. As a yearly tradition, Breckenridge honors Ullr, the mythical Norse God of Snow, with a weeklong celebration of live entertainment, the Ullympics, and an ice-skating party along Main Street. Known as Ullr Fest, this celebration runs from January 10-16. In addition to the traditional yearly events, this year’s Ullr lineup includes a celebratory bonfire, a Breck-style Dating Game, the Ullr Parade, Comedy Night, and a Chili Cook-off.

International Snow Sculpture Championships: Breckenridge wouldn’t be able to move from January to February if it weren’t for the annual Snow Sculpture Championship. Held from January 26 to February 7, competitors from all over the world come to Breckenridge to carve magnificent sculptures out of 20-ton blocks of snow. Transforming ice before spectators’ eyes, artists are allotted just 65 hours, their hands, and a few approved tools to create their masterpieces.

Mardi Gras: Breckenridge kicks the party up a notch in February as it hosts its own Mardi Gras celebration on Main Street between the 13^th and 16^th. If you’ve never experienced a Masquerade Ball at 9,600 feet, this is certainly one event you won’t want to miss. The highlight is the Breckenridge Bacchus Ball, taking place on February 21^st and featuring live music, dancing, New Orleans-style food and beverages, and one very special event: the crowning of the 2009 Breckenridge Rex and Queen.

Spring Massive: April might mark the end of ski season, but it’s certainly not a sorrowful time in Breckenridge. The Spring Massive runs from the 1^st through the 18^th. This interactive event is packed with entertainment, family activity, and competitions. Free outdoor concerns, a Bite of Breckenridge, a Massive Beer Festival, and Comedy Nights are only a few of the many treats that fill Breckenridge’s April calendar.

In comparison to Breckenridge, all other ski towns are just that—a place to ski. Breckenridge, however, is a place to ski and stay. With the range of exciting events lining Breckenridge’s winter calendar, you’d be foolish to go anywhere else.

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Breckenridge Condos One Reason for Town Popularity

Written on November 15, 2009 by Theresa in Breckenridge Accommodations, Breckenridge Lodging, Breckenridge Main Street, Breckenridge Ski Resort, Breckenridge condos, breckenridge, breckenridge events, breckenridge restaurants

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 Condos, Town and Ski Resort

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.

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Pre-Season Shopping: Now is the time

Written on October 25, 2009 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Activities, Breckenridge Main Street, breckenridge

My friends know that it doesn’t take much to get me in the shopping mood. And, as the warm days of summer and early fall are proving to be a thing of the past, I can’t help but think about the new winter clothes I’ll need to compliment my wardrobe. It’s not just that I like to be a stylish skier, it’s that I like to be a functional skier as well. And, the wrong ski clothes aren’t only a fashion faux pas, but they can also be a hazard on the slopes.

But…take fashion advice from the expert: Do your winter shopping now to take advantage of pre-season sales in Breckenridge Colorado. If you wait until mid-season to buy your gear, you are certain to pay top dollar for the latest fashions. Call the local shops on Main Street and ask them about their pre-season sales, and then make a list of places to visit. If you approach your pre-season shopping organized and focused, you’re certain to turn heads on the slopes…and not just for your ski skills.

Main Street shopping in Breckenridge Colorado

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