Our very own Breckenridge shredder Andy takes a moment to break down the scene at Breck for all you Spring Break skiers and riders out there:
What to check out: Take a stroll through the rad mountain town of Breckenridge, CO. Located just 80 miles west of Denver, this ski town gives you a great look at what Colorado has to offer – its a fun crowd and a big mountain ski resort! This classic western ski town brings a lively atmosphere and embodies friendly and laid back Rocky Mountain culture. The town of Breckenridge offers plenty of options for dining and everyone’s favorite, the post-shred happy hour après ski bars.
Town of Breck Bucket List:
Dining – Mi Casa Mexican Restaurant and Cantina = $1 Tacos, $2 Tecates, if you’re on a budget and you like Mexican food, this is your spot. If Mexican food isn’t your thing, another great spot is Downstairs at Eric’s – which has a wide variety of food options from pizza and wings to sandwiches and salads, and is also a great place to catch a game on one of their many big screen TVs
Bars– The Motherloaded Tavern – Cool atmosphere, lives tunes, plenty to drink. Looking to sip a drink at the bar with the oldest continuous liquor license west of the Mississippi River? Then head over to the Gold Pan Saloon, which has been in operation since 1879 and has a funky, historic vibe.
Lodging– The Bivouac Hostel = Definition of great lodging, a good time and a fun ski town crowd. Of course you can always scope the availability on Air BnB or VRBO, as well as booking through the resort for a ski-in, ski-out option if the budget allows.
Where to Shred: When it comes to getting on the mountain at Breckenridge Ski Resort, there is a good amount of terrain for everyone. The mountain is huge, with multiple base areas and options for everything from groomers to hike-to chutes. Beginners and intermediates will likely spend most of their time on the lower sections of Peaks 8 & 9, however, if you are looking to push your skiing and make the most of that Spring Break Rocky Mountain snow, head over to Peak 7 and the upper part of Peak 8.
Take on the challenging stuff on Peak 8 (Chair 6, Imperial Express Super Chair, and the T-Bar) – Get after some untouched lines in the trees off of Chair 6. Take on steep lines at nearly 13,000 feet up top in the Imperial Bowl or North Bowl. Or cruise down the ridge line for something a little more extreme and take on the chute descents at the Lake Chutes. Don’t forget to get in a healthy amount of laps at the T-Bar…the traverse to access the alpine terrain on Peak 7 Bowl has a lot to offer.
What to Skip: When it comes to Rocky Mountain resort skiing, the amount of traffic at the lift line can be brutal. Don’t bother wasting your time in line in the afternoon at the Colorado Super Chair. Get up to the top via Rocky Mountain Super Chair and make multiple laps at the T-Bar. Most beginners won’t venture to this part of the mountain this late in the day. You will be able to skip the crowds and make the most of those afternoon pow turns!
Bottom line: If you’re heading to Breck for Spring Break, you’re in for a good time. Explore the mountain, and if you take a day off from shredding, explore the town – you won’t be disappointed.
