Breckenridge Ski Resort Profile

Review: Visitors began flocking to Breckenridge as early as 1859, hoping to lay hands
on the area's recently discovered gold. Nearly a century later, folks streamed into the
town for another treasure: snow skiing. The resort has grown steadily over the past fifty
years and now ranks as the second most popular ski area in the United States. Whether
you're looking for a lively town with both historic and modern attractions, or fantastic
skiing for everyone in your family, Breckenridge holds it all.

Four peaks comprise the official ski area, though they are numbered seven through ten
(ski patrol will not rescue you, should you choose to seek out the first six). While Peaks
Eight and Nine offer the most varied and abundant terrain, Seven and Ten are often
less crowded and more fun. Like many of Breck's runs, the blue cruisers on Peak Seven
are groomed nearly everyday, making the ride less stressful and easier on the knees.
From Peak Seven's Independence Superchair, take an enjoyable long run down
Claimjumper to reach the base of Peak Eight.

While Peak Ten boasts mostly expert terrain and a quick quad lift that never sees long
lines, families can stick together more easily on the middle two peaks. If you're up for
intermediate runs, try to stay a notch above the base, as the lift lines at the Beaver
Run (Peak Nine) and Colorado (Peak Eight) Superchairs can keep you still for a
frustratingly long time. The Ten Mile Station, located at the top of the Quicksilver
Super6, is a perfect spot to meet for lunch if some of your crew prefer the challenging
blacks on Peak Ten and the rest stick to greens and easy blues. Warm up and save a
few dollars there with a bowl of famous buffalo chili, plenty of sustenance for two
hungry skiers.

With a base of nearly 10,000 feet, Breckenridge is one of the country's highest resorts.
If you haven't had a day or two to acclimate, begin your trip by taking it easy on the
slopes. Consider taking advantage of the many shops and attractions in town for your
first day at Breck. Purchase groceries at the City Market and go next door to [ski shop -
can't find the name, but the guys here are super helpful] for ski and snowboard rental.
Peruse the shops on Main Street, and don't leave without picking up t-shirts from Shirt
Off My Back or Mountain Tees.

After a full day on the slopes and a relaxing shower, treat the troops to a satisfying
meal at one of Breckenridge's many wonderful restaurants. Plan a night at the
Quandary Grille, a local favorite with great après ski specials, kids menu, and
spectacular views of the mountain. For ravenous skiers and boarders who crave
flavorful carbs and a casual atmosphere, check out the baked ziti or white lasagna at
Michael's Italian Restaurant. If you're looking for a special meal you won't forget, make
reservations at Relish, a relatively new addition to the town's fine dining. Though the
restaurant's creative menu changes with the seasons, it typically features "Colorado
inspired cuisine" such as Colorado lamb meatloaf with goat cheese mac-n-cheese,
wilted spinach, and BBQ gravy.

When picking a place to stay, keep in mind that Breck has six times as many
condominiums as hotels, making it an ideal market for families. Mainstay lodging
includes the Beaver Run Resort, Grand Timber Lodge, The Village at Breckenridge, and
several others. For hidden deals, check out some of the smaller places along Four
O'Clock Road that may be ski-in/ski-out. Sundowner is one of several cozy
accommodations on Four O'Clock that has easy access to the Snowflake Lift, which
drops you midway down Peak Eight. If you're looking for the ultimate ski-in/ski-out
spot, book early at Ski Watch, a surprisingly affordable condo located a hundred yards
up the mountain from the Colorado Lift on Peak Eight. Stop in there for lunch, or enjoy
watching skiers fly by while you relax in the outdoor hot tub. If you stay downtown, the
slopes are an easy bus ride from most locations.

With its bustling town and world class mountain terrain, Breckenridge is arguably
Colorado's most well-rounded and family-friendly ski resort. Complaints are few and far
between, though visitors tend to cite parking as their main (or only) grievance. Unless
you're willing to pay for a spot, free parking is very limited and often requires a short
bus ride to the base of the gondola. However, chances are slim that the less than
desirable parking situation will spoil all the fun Breckenridge has to offer.

Ski Area / Peak Elevation / Vertical Drop: 2,400 acres / 12,900 feet / 3,400 feet

Non-Skier Activities: Breckenridge is a great destination for a family who includes
non-skiers. The authenticity and walkability of the town offers great shopping, eating,
and spa action. Most basic services in addition to vacation-oriented activities are
offered in the immediate area.

Ski School: Lessons are available for ages 3-14 in the full-service ski and snowboard
school. Prices range from $130 to $140 depending on the season, with discounts
starting on the third day of lessons.

Child Care: Child care is offered for children ages 8 weeks to 5 years.

Getting There: Breckenridge is approximately 2 hours from Denver International
Airport, which is serviced by every major airline.

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