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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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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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Early Planning for Breckenridge Lodging Goes Far

Written on January 21, 2010 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Lodging, Breckenridge Ski Resort, Ski, breckenridge

Ski season is fast approaching the mountains of Breckenridge, Colorado, meaning it’s time to begin making plans for your annual winter trip. With snow already falling and town events dotting the calendar, there’s no better time to prepare for your Breckenridge vacation than the present. So, just what should be on your agenda?

Sick Grab!

Confirm Breckenridge lodging: The premier terrain at the Breckenridge Ski Resort is certainly no secret. And, when combined with town attractions and Main Street’s charm, Breckenridge has quickly become the place to take a ski vacation. Therefore, it’s important to make your lodging plans early. From discount lodging options to more upscale vacation home choices, Breckenridge certainly offers variety in accommodations. Still, the early bird does get the worm in Breck, so plan and book early to ensure your vacation accommodations are exactly what you imagine.

Select, and purchase, lift tickets: Let’s face it: lift tickets take a chunk out of your vacation budget. But, with some early planning, there is plenty of savings to be found at the Breckenridge Ski Resort. If you’re planning a longer vacation, you won’t find a better deal than what’s offered with the Epic Pass. With access to six of Colorado’s best ski mountains – Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Heavenly, and Arapahoe Basin – this pass allows skiers to access a variety of terrain (all close to Breckenridge) with no blackout dates or restrictions. The total cost is $599, which gives you your money’s worth if you use this pass at least six times. Now, for those who will only be skiing one or two days, there are still deals to be found if you act early. Shop online, compare prices, and look into bundling your lift tickets with your lodging or equipment rental. By combining costs, you’ll often find savings.

Gear up: Now is a good time to search online for equipment rentals if you don’t own your own gear. By confirming rentals now, you’ll avoid long lines at the rental shop and you can likely find discounted prices. Don’t feel limited to the Ski Resort rental shop for your equipment. Call local shops in Breckenridge and ask about discounts and promotions, or search online for private parties who rent equipment. You might even ask neighbors or friends if they have equipment you can travel with. And, finally, if you’re in the market to buy your own gear, shop now for early savings. Waiting until the height of ski season to make purchases will almost guarantee you’ll pay top dollar for equipment.

Condition your body: Skiing just cannot be compared to any other sport, which is why you plan your yearly trip to Breckenridge, right? But, along with the excitement and exhilaration of the sport comes muscle use that’s likely been out of commission for the spring, summer, and fall. Because skiing relies on lateral movements much more than the “one step in front of the other” pattern used for walking or running, it’s important to get your legs and feet back in condition to make this lateral change. Try short, side-to-side, jumps (perhaps over a stack of books or another prop). You might integrate lunges in between jumps to work your glutes, and work on your balance and posture simultaneously. Speaking of balance, work yoga sessions into your weekly routines. And, incorporate strength-training exercises by adding sit-ups and arm, leg, and shoulder weight routines into the mix.

There is no doubt that you’ve made the right decision by planning your winter ski vacation in Breckenridge. By searching for Breckenridge lodging early and purchasing your lift tickets before you get to town, you’ll have the comfort and assurance that your trip will be stress-free. Add in plans for equipment rental with a routine for ski conditioning, and you’ll be in tip-top shape to attack the slopes.

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Breckenridge Ski In Ski Out for More Reasons than One

Written on January 17, 2010 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Accommodations, Breckenridge Lodging, Breckenridge condos, Ski, breckenridge

Winter sports enthusiasts love Breckenridge, Colorado, and it’s not all that hard to see why. It’s no secret that the Breckenridge Ski Resort and surrounding Ten Mile Range offer world-class skiing, snow mobiling, and snowshoeing. But, it’s the access that Breckenridge provides that puts it miles above other Colorado ski towns. That’s because Breckenridge ski in ski out condos and townhomes position visitors where the action is: right at the base of the Ski Resort. But just what does a Breckenridge ski in ski out accommodation grant you? Much more than just location.

Breckenridge ski in ski out accomodation

Freedom: Have you ever experienced the feeling of being the very first in line to open the mountain for the day? Imagine the freedom of glancing behind you to notice all the skiers and boarders who will be following your trails down the mountain since you’re positioned as leader of the pack. Fresh powder is a guarantee for that first run of the morning, as only the groomers have made it there before you. A Breckenridge ski in ski out condo makes this possible. By using your own skis as your transportation to the lift line, you not only cut out ski traffic, but you start your day concentrating on the sport you love.

Adventure: Visiting Breckenridge should be focused on the goal of seeking out new adventures and exploring new terrain. Because you’re granted so much more time on the mountain in Breck, your options open up quite a bit. Four peaks make the Breckenridge Ski Resort, and you’ll have time to attack each of them since you’re cutting out travel time to and from the mountain. Plus, Breckenridge’s five terrain parks and two half-pipes certainly are nothing to scoff at. Find the adventure there early before the crowds arrive, and you’re sure to have that half-pipe all to yourself.

Enlightenment: It’s apparent that Breckenridge offers a lot on the slopes. But the excitement doesn’t stop there. Head to town and you’ll quickly find that Breckenridge is a town in constant celebration. Town events fill the calendar. For example, January’s International Snow Sculpture Championship brings worldwide talent to town. Groups of competitors craft massive ice sculptures while the town cheers and anxiously awaits the judge’s results. And, while this championship is more of a spectator sport, Breckenridge hosts plenty of competitions throughout the year that calls for participation from visitors and locals. Check Breck’s entertainment calendar for a list of updated activities and events.

Enthusiasm: There’s a reason visitors come back to Breckenridge year after year. It keeps them young and enthusiastic. Simply put, the athlete inside of you will find that a yearly trip to Breckenridge is a must. That’s because there’s always a new way to push yourself in Breckenridge. Whether it entails a one-on-one session with one of the pros at the Ski and Ride School or a backcountry adventure snowshoe, your body will be pushed to new limits each visit to Breckenridge, and it will not let you down. You’ll be surprised what new landscape and new activity can do for your soul.

Anything is possible in Breckenridge, and a ski in ski out condo puts you right where the adventure begins. Simply head out your front door and you’ll find unlimited terrain and a backcountry playground that invites you to explore for days. Why not give yourself the freedom to seek new adventures and enlighten your soul? Breckenridge ski in ski out accommodations certainly position you to do just that.

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Snowshoeing in and around Breckenridge Colorado lodging

Written on January 10, 2010 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Lodging, Ski, breckenridge

If the sport of snowshoeing isn’t one you have tried yet, you have no idea just how much you are missing. And, there’s no better place in all of Colorado to snowshoe than Breckenridge. The town’s 300 plus inches of snow each year provide the perfect white playground for your snowshoeing adventures to begin. So, whether you’re a veteran to the sport or you’re attacking it for the first time, Breckenridge Colorado lodging offers some of the best access to premier snowshoeing terrain.

Why snowshoeing? To begin, snowshoes are quite functional. If you’re visiting Breckenridge and are lucky enough to have accommodations in rental houses off of Main Street, chances are you’ll find plenty of snow right in your back yard. Simply heading out for a walk is much easier with the help of snowshoes, which provide traction as they literally grip the snow. Just strap them onto your waterproof boots and you will get through deep snow in no time. But, snowshoes aren’t just functional items. Just like a pair of skis or a snowboard, snowshoes are sporting equipment. And, the sport of snowshoeing is gaining popularity quickly.

Snowshoeing Near Breckenridge Co Lodging

Snowshoeing in Breckenridge

Who snowshoes? Just about anyone who can walk can snowshoe. This is one reason the sport is becoming so popular. Many non-skiers love that snowboarding is not only an easy sport to catch on to, but that it also gives them a fun way to exercise and explore in the snow. Additionally, many older folks are turning to snowshoeing since it is much more low-impact than skiing. It saves the knees, but still gives those who love snowy sports something to cheer about. Finally, even skiers and boarders find many benefits to snowshoeing as it puts them in their snow-covered element, but does so in a much more peaceful way. Snowshoeing gives individuals the opportunity to connect much closer with nature, and proves a chance to hear the sudden stillness that only a snow-blanketed forest can bring.

Why Breckenridge? Breckenridge is the perfect place to try out snowshoeing for the first, or hundredth, time. First, Breckenridge rental shops rent snowshoes and poles right in town, so it’s easy to get geared up and started. And, snowshoeing is a much more affordable winter sport than skiing or boarding since no lift tickets are required. And, Breckenridge has unlimited terrain for the sport. Whether you prefer to explore in your backyard or travel on a groomed and marked trail, there is no shortage of snowshoeing in Breckenridge. Still, the absolute best reason to snowshoe Breckenridge is the scenery. While the simple image of a snow-covered pine tree is pleasing enough, views of the Ten Mile Range blanketed in snow are absolutely stunning.

Where to start? Getting started snowshoeing is simple. Strap on the shoes, grab your poles, and head outside. It can’t get any easier. But, if you want to head away from home, a good starting point is the Nordic Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoe Center in Breckenridge. There, you’ll find 16 km of scenic snowshoeing nature trails through a spruce forest. Group and private snowshoeing tours are also available at the Nordic Center, as are moonlight walks. Professional guides will take you through stunning vistas and wooded trails, ensuring you’ll fully embrace true winter wonderland Breckenridge style.

Isn’t it time to try something new? If you’re a skier, take some time off the slopes. Or, if you normally stay indoors during the winter, get out for an experience that is truly amazing. You set the skill level and the speed – it’s all up to you when you snowshoe Breckenridge.

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Warming up to ski season

Written on October 9, 2009 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Activities, Breckenridge Ski Resort, Ski, breckenridge

Each year, as we begin to prepare for another ski season, it never fails that an old friend from out-of-state contacts me to talk about learning to ski. ”This is the year,” they always proclaim proudly…and I support them on that. Skiing is such a huge part of my life, and I can only hope that my friends and family will find half as much joy from hitting the slopes as I do. While I always offer encouragement to my caller, it never fails that the next question is, “How can I get ready now?”

It’s a feasible question and one I’m taking into consideration myself this year. Whether you’re new to the sport or not, there are plenty of things we can do now to begin to get our bodies into tip-top ski shape. And, even if you’re active throughout the year, skiing uses all types of different muscles and movements so a month or so of warm up is a good call for all of us.

My first priority is to strengthen my legs back to their ski strength, so I start every morning with quad exercises. Then, three times a week I walk up and down a steep hill near my house for even more quad strengthening. With my earbuds in and my ipod cranked, my goal is usually about 15 minutes of up and down hill walking, followed by about 10 minutes of sidestepping (galloping, if you will) and 5 minutes of jump-roping (yes, you can take breaks in between). Another two days out of the week, I focus on cardio activity that gets my heart rate up, which will be really important when I’m out for a full day of skiing. Running is my favorite way to accomplish this, but any aerobic exercise will work.

I also tell my buddies to book their travel plans early so they can rent a ski in ski out Breckenridge condo. By starting their day right next to the slope, they’ll be sure to focus their trip on the skiing rather than all the other fun Breckenridge has to offer. And, don’t forget that cheap Breckenridge lodging is available for those who take the time to look.

Warming up for ski season

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Cross-Country Snowboarding

Written on October 8, 2009 by Theresa in Breckenridge Activities, Breckenridge Ski Resort, Ski, breckenridge

I ran across this YouTube video and had to put it up here because it made me laugh so hard, I shot a little milk out my nose. I hope you like it, but don’t try drinking milk while watching:

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Gotta Love Spring Skiing!

Written on June 17, 2009 by Theresa in Breckenridge Ski Resort, Ski

I know a lot of people think that peak ski season is December – February. I disagree. Here’s why:

Colorado’s snowiest month is March, followed by April. Betcha didn’t know that, didja?
The runs are packed with tourists over the holidays (Christmas, New Year’s, Martin Luther King Jr, Presidents’ Day, Valentine’s Day). No thank you!
There’s really nothing better than sitting in the sun, wearing a t-shirt and drinking an ice cold beer for apres ski
I actually love the soft, mashed-potato snow. It’s a million times better than skiing on ice and it helps prevent beginners from getting their speeds too high.

So I’ll let everyone else continue planning big ski vacations over the holidays. But I’ll keep loving spring skiing.

If you disagree, I’d love to hear your reasons!

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Snow Falling In Breckenridge

Written on October 23, 2008 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Activities, Ski, breckenridge events

Snow Falling In Breckenridge

In case you didn’t know, the last two days have brought snow to Breckenridge. Not just a little bit of snow, but serious calf high snow. Temperatures are also pretty cold, so the snow might stick around for awhile. In fact, yesterday it was so cold the lock boxes on the Breckenridge museums were completely frozen. Today, it’s a wee bit warmer, which means that the snow will be soft and fluffy. At this point, everyone needs to do a little dance in honor of Ullr, the God of Snow. Please ask him to keep up the good work, so that we might have an incredible opening day on November 1st.

Have you booked your Breckenridge condo yet? No? what are you waiting for?

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