Breckenridge is well known in the realms of skiing as a world class resort in the heart of the Colorado Rockies. Popular with Americans it also became a favourite for British skiers 10-15 years ago, when the word escaped about the town full of character and the superb skiing.
Skiing is a very popular sport in the UK, despite their decided lack of mountains and although there is some skiing to be had in Scotland, many Brits make the short trip to Europe to get their skiing fix. US skiing has however become increasingly attractive with the guaranteed snowfall and new direct flights from London with United adding to the number of seats already available on the British Airways from London to Denver.
Breckenridge in particular has become well known and loved by the Brits with
Vail & Aspen following not far behind. Chalets USA which caters mainly to UK skiers now has new
chalets in Breckenridge to cope with the ever growing demand.
Chalet Chloe,
Boulder Chalet and
Eagle Lodge are just a few hundred yards from Peak 8 and offer skiing virtually on the doorstep with no hassle catered accommodation.
In addition Chalets USA now have introduced new
self-catered skiing holidays for the 2009/10 ski season for those who want a little more independence and the choice of cooking for themselves or trying one of the many restaurants Breckenridge has to offer.
Breckenridge the town is perfect for meandering along the historic streets and browsing the many boutiques. Non-skiers & skiers alike can drop into the many bars & restaurants to celebrate & mull over the days skiing achievements. With lively nightlife, Breckenridge is one of the few ski resorts in Colorado that really caters to the pubbing & clubbing crowd, leading to superb skiing holidays all day & all night.
Breckenridge has the highest chairlift in North America & a great variety of terrain:
Beginner 14%:
Most beginner trails are located off Chair 7 on Peak 8, including a portion of the 3.5 mile Four O' Clock run, which is the longest run in Breckenridge.
Intermediate 31%:
An intermediate's paradise, Peak 7 has added 7 new gently rolling more difficult runs, accessed by a six-passenger SuperChair. Popular with the locals, Claimjumper is located on Peak 8 in addition to Northstar and Crescendo. Two high-speed SuperChairs on Peak 9 access more than 10 intermediate trails for cruisy skiing & riding.
Advanced 19%:
Duke's Run on Peak 8 offers both bumps & groomed terrain, so take your pick. Or take the T-Bar up to Pika, Ptarmigan, White Crown & Forget-Me-Not for wide-open bowls & stunning views. Peak 9's Peerless is a great place to try your hand in the bumps, while bump experts will appreciate 6-Chair, especially on a powder day. A quick ride up the Falcon SuperChair on Peak 10 wisks skiers and riders to three advanced intermediate groomers, steep & deep bump runs, & the legendary glades of The Burn.
Expert 36%:
Peak 7 offers vast steep treeless terrain at a 45-degree pitch. On Peak 8, experienced skiers & riders can enjoy amazing alpine vistas from the top of Horseshoe Bowl or Imperial Bowl at 12,998 ft via the new highest lift in North America. Hike to Lake Chutes for a 55 degree pitch, definitely extreme terrain, between 10 & 80 feet of cornice, rocks to jump & of course, fresh tracks. Peak 9 offers fantastic tree skiing: The Windows is an easyish hike (10 to 20 minutes) from the Patrol Hut at Peak 9. On the South Side of Peak 10 you'll find big fat bumps, hidden kickers and glades, but you won't see many other people.
Breckenridge celebrates its 150th Anniversary this year and has grown in stature tremendously since the early days as a Victorian mining town. Investment in the town continues at a strong pace with developments this year at the base of Peak 7 providing high end lodging and new restaurants. However the locals say the town has retained its character over the years and Breckenridge is still called "The Perfect Mountain Town" by locals and visitors alike.
