Thinking about a Colorado trip to Breckenridge and Colorado Springs in 2022? If you’re keen to visit Breckenridge, there are things you can do to ensure a fabulous winter trip exploring Colorado’s Rocky Mountains base.
This post is focused on visiting Breckenridge in winter, or “Breck” as more commonly referred to, coupled with a visit to Colorado Springs. In addition to the fun things to do in Breckenridge, I share experiences about Breck mask requirements, altitude sickness, and even what to expect for dining at restaurants. This information is based on a ski trip in March 2021 so be sure to check the Breckenridge website for the latest Colorado travel guidelines.
Also, if you’re hedging whether or not to drive to Breckenridge from Denver or Colorado Springs, I share the pros and cons of that too.
And lastly…the apres-ski. If this is your first time skiing in America, you might want to know about this first.
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Altitude Sickness in Breckenridge Can Happen
While I had personally heard of Denver altitude sickness, I didn’t think much of it until my Colorado-based brother-in-law told us to load up on magnesium the week prior to arriving. That’s when I started researching.
Altitude sickness, or AMS which stands for altitude mountain sickness, can occur at 8000 feet or above when you go (climb, walk, even sleep) higher than what your body is typically used to. You’ll feel dizzy, shortness of breath, tired, develop a headache, or possibly worse symptoms. Discover more and what to do if you develop AMS symptoms from WebMD.
I hadn’t taken it overly serious for my family since we haven’t had altitude issues skiing Austria, France, or even Italy, but when I learned that Breckenridge is the highest peak in the USA (I admittedly didn’t know that until this trip), I started to do my homework.
Breckenridge Main Street in March
Breckenridge Peak Elevation
The town of Breckenridge sits at 9600 ft, where the summit elevation stops at a tall 12,998 feet. Four O’Clock is the longest ski run at 3.5 miles if that helps paint a picture of ski potential.
Breckenridge compared to the European Alps peak elevation:
- Seefeld Tyrol Austria – 3870 ft
- La Clusaz France – 8583 ft
- Cortina Italy – 9610 ft
- Matterhorn Switzerland – 14,692 ft
With the Matterhorn being the highest ski resort in the Alps, it puts Breckenridge’s altitude power in clear perspective.
Skiing Wirepatch in Breckenridge Peak 7
How To Prep To Minimize AMS
While I’d like to say that what we did worked, the truth is, it didn’t. I read clinical trials on how to prevent AMS and despite thinking magnesium will work, the fact is there is no evidence or medical proof it will. The best course of action recommended by the experts is:
- Acetaminophen or ibuprofen – Start taking days leading up to your departure and while you are there.
- Hydrate
- Stay away from alcohol
- Acetazolamide, also referred to as Diamox – This is a prescription drug for preventing AMS and also treating it.
- Acclimate to the altitude differences over time. Stay overnight at a lower peak evaluation compared to what you might hike, climb or ski during the day. Give yourself a day or 2 of rest before soaring to bigger heights upon arriving.
- Sleep..but beware that it’s unlikely you’ll sleep through the night the first couple of nights. The symptoms seem to appear at their worse during bedtime and upon waking up.
Simply put…don’t overdo it the first couple of days.
Despite loading up on Tylenol, Ibuprofen, children’s vitamins, and magnesium (because the BIL told us to), it took our family of 4 3 days to sort of adjust. Symptoms included headaches, migraine, shortness of breath, and all-over-fatigue doing pretty much anything.
Although we paid for skiing in advance of our Breckenridge trip, we did not force ourselves into winter activities we simply weren’t ready for. The thing is, you’ll know and your kids will be the first to tell you or show the signs that they are feeling altitude sickness.
In a few days, you should feel better. And if you don’t, be sure to see a local doctor.
How To Get To Breckenridge
With AMS out of the way, let’s plan the fun stuff. And it all starts with how to get there.
The one thing most wonder when considering a trip to the Vail Resorts area: how far is Breckenridge from Denver vs. Colorado Springs?
Although Denver is technically closer to Breck, the drive from CS to Breck can take roughly the same amount of time due to traffic. It’s 2 hours from Denver to Breckenridge and can take 2 hours from Breckenridge to Colorado Springs on a good weather day. Denver offers a straight highway shot, where Colorado Springs offers the scenic route through small towns (including the home of South Park), panoramic views, and if you’re lucky you might even spot a mountain lion (I did).
If the weather forecast calls for snow, Denver is the best option. The Colorado Springs drive from or to Breck is quite curvy, hilly and there are minimal service stations or areas to pull off for weather to pass. If the weather is a concern, Denver is the safe choice. Otherwise, Colorado Springs is the pretty one.
We originally booked round trip flights into and out of Colorado Springs, but as the trip neared and the weather forecast called for 3-6’ of snow, we immediately changed our destination to fly into Denver but flew out of Colorado Springs, offering the best of both scenarios.
Renting A Car For Breck & Colorado Springs Is A Must
Although there are free shuttles through Breckenridge, you really need a vehicle in order to get around.
For winter, don’t consider anything less than a 4×4. Breckenridge gets 300 inches of snowfall every year – 100 of which I’m certain fell while we were visiting in March. 😂
I was originally hesitant about spending the money on an SUV, but it was the best decision.
Avis offered the best car rental deals but early booking and whether or not you return the car to the same airport you originally rent from will weigh heavily into the overall cost. Definitely get an estimate on the car rental prior to booking airline tickets, and compare between Denver vs Colorado Springs.
Where To Stay In Breck
If you love to park the car and walk everywhere for dining, shopping, and hitting the slopes, staying on or nearby Main Street is key.
There are big-name hotels like the Marriott that anchor the south end of Main Street, but it’s the cute rental homes along French Street that might make your trip extra special if you’re interested in a charming place off the main path.
Carmel House on French Street in Breckenridge
The big lodges and resorts like Beaver Run and Grand Lodge on Peak 7 offer direct access to the slopes, but getting into historic main Breck will require busing it. While the shuttles are free and totally convenient, it’s something to think about if you’re carrying more than your own gear, or simply exhausted from all the activity of the day.
Bottom line is that nearly everything is accessible in Breck by the free shuttle bus. But if you want the freedom to go anywhere on your own time, staying closer to Main Street is a good bet.
We stayed in a cozy 2-bedroom timeshare at Alpenrose Condominiums. While I wouldn’t call it 5-star accommodations, the location to Breckenridge ski village and slopes is perfect.
6 Top Things To Do In Breckenridge In Winter
Whether you plan to ski the entire time or just a little, there are many things to do in Breckenridge that will take your breath away – and not just the altitude! 🤣
Ski The Breckenridge Peaks
Obviously, the most wanted thing to do in Breckenridge: ski.
There’s a different peak to try for nearly every day of your visit: Peak 6 (most southernly) to Peak 10 (most northernly). Ski peak 8 to claim bragging rights that you skied the highest summit in the USA. And if you’re not quite there in skill, that’s ok. There are plenty of green and blue runs that are amazingly good if black isn’t your thing.
Breckenridge peak 9 and 10
I personally found the color ranks of the different ski runs in Breck to be easier than the same color rankings in Europe. I hit blacks, but mostly blues, and definitely not double blacks. My family on the other hand. 😳
Just be sure to dress extra warm and pack plenty of hand-warmers (they sell locally for $3 each). It’s 20 ℉ at best during peak ski months which can make for very cold days. Peak 6 is known for a blistering wind off the northern side of the mountain, so it can feel colder than other peaks on breezy days. These extra-large hand warmers are the best for ski pockets and ski mittens.
Explore Breck’s Main Street
In addition to shopping, there are many museums highlighting Breckenridge’s mining heritage, gold rush, and even its contributions to art.
See the mining influences along Breck’s Main Street
A few favorite shops for Breckenridge vintage and one-of-a-kind gifts:
- Marigold’s Farmhouse Funk & Junk
- Vintage. Boho. Indie. Love
- OHANA
- Valleygirl Boutique. This is a women’s boutique that’s less about unique Breck items but more about super cute clothes on-trend.
Find The Breckenridge Troll
Walking to see the Breckenridge Troll is the 3rd most popular thing to do in Breckenridge.
This is a 15-minute walk from the center of Breckenridge Main Street. Although my tween kids weren’t keen on walking to see the Breckenridge Troll, it ended up being a highlight. The short walk itself along Illinois Gulch Trail is quite magical. With snow falling off the trees like glitter, it’s a serene walk through the woods to find the massive artistic Isak Heartstone, the Breckenridge Troll.
The walk to see the Breckenridge Troll itself is more than worth it
There are opportunities for longer walks or hikes past the troll, but it requires proper footwear and gear to prevent slipping in icy conditions. During the summer, this might be the perfect short walk adventure with kids.
Snowmobiling The Continental Divide
Learn how to drive your own snowmobile through epic parts of the Continental Divide. Even the kids can learn to drive and have a chance at the wheel on their own kid-sized snowmobile.
You’re taken to special locations, like Lake Turquoise for panoramic views and family photos. Truly a highlight of a Breckenridge winter trip!
Lake Turquoise, the highest man-made lake in the USA
White Mountain Tours offers snowmobiling in the winter and white water rafting in the summer. Breckenridge Summit Tours can assist you with booking.
Ice Castle In Breckenridge In Winter
The Ice Castle is only open during peak winter months and operates in 4 US states Colorado, New Hampshire, Utah, and Wisconsin.
Sadly, we missed the frozen attraction by 2 weeks before it closed for the season. But for anyone planning a winter 2022 visit, this is the perfect thing to do in Breckenridge for any Disney fan or traveler seeking a unique Instagram photo spot.
Tubing at Frisco Adventure Park
Within a short 15-minute drive from Breckenridge Main Street is the town of Frisco. There is a super cute concentrated town with shops, breweries, restaurants, and an idyllic location for snow tubing.
Tubing in Frisco is an activity I discovered once we arrived, so unfortunately it was sold out due to capacity constraints. Definitely add this Breckenridge thing to do to your list for the whole family.
8 Favorite Places To Eat In Breckenridge
The hardest part about visiting Breckenridge in 2021 was finding a restaurant with availability. But in 2022, Summit County protection measures against Covid-19 removed the 25% indoor dining capacity rule.
If you plan to visit Breckenridge during a peak time, such as spring or winter breaks, it’s super important to make reservations several weeks in advance. Here’s where you’ll definitely want to eat in Breckenridge:
- Hearthstone Restaurant – If you want to try local Breck food like elk, Hearthstone offers the most eclectic menu. For dessert, get my favorite British dessert: sticky toffee pudding.
- Blue River Bistro – Delicious food in a trendy environment.
- Mountain Flying Fish – Excellent service and amazingly fresh sushi. All the way from Japan! My Maine friend who relocated to Breckenridge shared this local Breck gem with us.
- Michael’s Italian – Get the orecchiette with sausage and fennel. That’s all I need to say about this red and white checked linen Breckenridge eatery.
- Downstairs at Eric’s – This is the local pizza favorite. Due to popularity, consider ordering for take-away as reservations cannot be made in advance.
- Blue Moose Restaurant – Blue Moose is THE place for breakfast in Breckenridge. You can sit inside or out and offers a diner-style experience. The menu is extensive, food is fabulous and service is top-notch. It’s the perfect breakfast spot before skiing Breckenridge or going for a hike – you might even skip lunch.
- Daylight Donuts – Kava Cafe used to be a hot spot for homemade donuts but sadly shut down. Thankfully Daylight Donuts is still in full swing but be sure to get there early before they are sold out for the day.
- Bold – For brunch or lunch order chicken and waffles inside one of their heated outdoor domes. Makes for a memorable Breckenridge dining experience!
Michael’s Italian in Breck off Main
Late bookings may result in late dining experiences which can be problematic when traveling with kids. If you find yourself in that situation, there are a couple of options:
- Most Breckenridge restaurants offer a take-out option
- Call the restaurant on the day-of your reservation and ask if you’re booking can be adjusted for an earlier time. This method worked for every 8:30p reservation we had which allowed us to dine earlier between 7-7:30p.
- Several Breckenridge restaurants require a credit card to make the reservation and will charge it if you don’t cancel 24-48 hours in advance. Be sure to set calendar reminders if you’re unsure you can make it to give you proper time to cancel.
From Breckenridge To Colorado Springs
Once your Breckenridge visit is complete, don’t consider your Colorado trip over. You have to add the following to your list of things to do in Breckenridge even though it’s on the way there or on your way out.
Even if you are flying out the same day as you depart Breckenridge (many check-outs are at 10am), you can still squeeze in some pretty cool sights. Colorado Springs is approximately 2 hours from Breck on a sunny clear day.
See Wilkerson Pass from Breckenridge to Colorado Springs
6 Things To See On Your Way To Colorado Springs Via CO-9 & Hwy 24
- Hoosier Pass – This appears quickly as you exit Breck on CO-9. Be prepared to pull off for breathtaking views and your claim to standing on the Continental Divide.
- Alma – Highest Incorporated City In The USA
- Fairplay – If you’re a fan of South Park, you will want to slow down and even stop at a few locations highlighting this Colorado claim to comedy fame.
- Wilkerson Pass – View the full range of mountains over the wide-open range. This pass is visible upon approach and even offers a Forest Service Visitor Center.
- Field upon field of animals – both pasture and wild. If there is ever a time to play “eye spy” with kids, this drive from Breckenridge to Colorado Springs is it. A few animals you might see that we saw:
- Buffalo
- Mountain lion
- Elk
- Deer
- Horses
- Cattle
- Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs – Accessible and viewable from Hwy 24, the Garden Of The Gods is a must-do. This national natural landmark is free to explore. There is a new visitor center that offers paid exhibits and a theatre, but the best way to spend your time is walking around the park to experience these massive red and orange rock formations.
Garden of the Gods on the way from Breck to CS
You can drive to the different parking lots to visit the most famous rock formations such as Kissing Camels and Balanced Rock. The walking paths are easy to navigate and it’s your choice if you choose to climb, although only certified climbers are allowed to truly summit.
Exploring the Garden of the Gods after a Breck ski trip
Be sure to stop in at the visitor center to talk to a Colorado park ranger for current information on the park, where to park based upon visitor capacity for the day, and for the best rocks to climb based upon your child’s ability. The park map is free and super helpful for navigating your way around the Garden of the Gods.
Final Tips For Things To Do In Breckenridge In Winter
I would be amiss if I didn’t share apres-ski notes. For all my Europeans reading this, there really isn’t anything comparable to apres-ski in Europe. There are many casual bars along Main Street but no ski-off apres-ski destinations with sunny lounge chairs, and cocktails waiting for you. Your best bet is RMU on Breckenridge Main Street but beware of the wait.
RMU offers a cute back garden/patio area with heated lamps outside and a quaint trendy bar experience inside. It’s super popular so with current capacity constraints, it might be just as easy to pop a bottle of bubbly wherever you are staying.
As a recap of this Breckenridge travel guide, to ensure a fabulous trip to Breckenridge: get current on Covid-19 public health orders published by Summit County, start taking health precautions for altitude changes before the day of your flight, make dining reservations weeks ahead, and book all the fun things to do in Breckenridge to secure your spot.
Then instead of driving direct to the airport for departure, complete your Colorado vacation with a visit to the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. Your Breckenridge winter trip will be complete!
Looking for more spring break travel ideas? Try these.
- Travel Tips For Cortina d’Ampezzo With Kids
- Best Family Ski Village In Austria: Seefeld in Tyrol
- Things To Do In La Clusaz & Why It’s Great For Families
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