Breckenridge, Colorado is one of the most popular destinations in the country for winter sports enthusiasts, especially skiers. One of the things that makes the mountains of Breckenridge so ideal is that the terrain is varied. Whether visitors are planning to hit the slopes for the very first time or are seasoned veterans, there’s something out there for everyone.
As with any vacation, planning is the key to the perfect ski trip. Deciding which trails will be a good fit is a great place to start. Read on to find out about the best ski trails in Breckenridge for every experience and ability level.
Best Slopes for Beginners
True beginners typically begin their journeys toward becoming avid winter sports enthusiasts with some lessons so they can learn the basics. Once they’ve gotten down essentials like snowplow stops, wedge turns, and getting on and off the chairlift, though, they’re ready to hit the slope.
The best place to start is with the green trails, sometimes called “bunny trails.” These gentle slopes are perfect for novice skiers. They include:
1. Trygves’s
Named after Trygve Berge, the Breckenridge Ski Resort’s first ski school director, Trygve’s trail is located next to the learning area on Peak 8. Gentle and short, it’s perfect for building confidence as a novice skier and getting tips as needed from the staff hanging around the learning area.
2. Four O’Clock
Also located on Peak 8, Four O’Clock is another short, gentle run. As with Trygve’s trail, Four O’Clock is close enough to the learning area that newcomers to skiing can get the help they need with refining their skills.
3. Frontier
The Frontier ski trail is a little farther afield. Located on Peak 9, it’s more of a hidden gem. Take the Quicksilver Super Chair up and go past Ten Mile Restaurant to find the beginning of the Frontier trail.
Best Slopes for Intermediate Skiers
Already have enough experience to hit the slopes without added encouragement but not quite ready to tackle expert trails? Breckenridge has plenty of options for intermediate-level skiers. Marked by blue squares on the maps and signs, these trails are found primarily on Peak 6, 7, and 8.
1. Bliss
The Bills trail, found on Peak 6, is a perfect run for intermediate-level skiers. The ride up on the Kensho Super Chair allows skiers to take in the serene, beautiful views of the nearby peaks before hitting the trail. The Bliss trail is a perfect place to get started with bowl skiing.
2. Peak 7 Blue Trails
Peak 7 is packed with trails that incorporate natural terrain features that aren’t too steep or scary but offer a challenge to intermediate skiers. Visitors can access them via the Independence Super Chair.
3. Crescendo
Found on Peak 8, the appropriately named Crescendo ski trail gives experienced intermediate-level skiers who want to test their mettle before moving on to more advanced options. The bifurcated trail features moguls along the left side with a groomed run to the right, so skiers who aren’t quite sure about their abilities don’t have to commit to taking on more than they can handle.
Best Slopes for Advanced Skiers
Experienced, technically proficient skiers who are used to hitting the trails in different conditions may be ready to try the black diamond trails. Visitors should only try these formidable ski trails once they’re confident that they can tackle anything the mountains have to throw at them. Some feature steeps, while others take skiers through the trees or incorporate natural gullies to present some extra challenges. All are best reserved for seasoned veterans.
1. Shock
Located on Peak 9, the Shock trail gives advanced skiers the chance to find out whether they’re interested in steep slopes. The trail is easy to access. Take the Volunteer Super Lift and stay to the left. Be prepared for a trail that’s short and sweet but incredibly steep.
2. Ore Bucket
Not all expert skiers enjoy hitting the steepest slopes. That doesn’t mean they’re not up for a challenge. Instead, they can try Ore Bucket on Peak 7. This forest trail takes visitors through the woods for some backcountry tree skiing.
3. Pika
Found on Peak 8 at the top of the T-Bar, Pika is a groomed trail that gets skiers high up on the mountain to check out the views. Though groomed, Pika still offers challenges most appropriate for expert-level skiers.
4. Little Johnny’s
Little Johnny’s is also found on Peak 8. The trail’s primary defining feature is that it incorporates a natural gully to create a gentle half-pipe. Add in moguls and the result is a two-for-one trail for advanced riders.
Double-Black Trails Best Left to the Pros
Even seasoned experts typically stick to black diamond trails. Double black diamonds offer extreme challenges for professional skiers and those in training for competitions. Remember that personal safety is one of the most essential elements of any successful ski trip and try these heart-pounding trails only if it’s appropriate:
- The Windows (Peak 9)
- Beyond Bowl (Peak 6)
- The Lake Chutes (Peak 8)
- Horseshoe Bowl (Peak 8)
Visitors who aren’t sure if they’re ready for an extreme challenge should remember that Breckenridge offers plenty of other options that don’t hold the serious possibility of personal harm for inexperienced skiers. Plus, few people visit Breckenridge, Colorado just once. When in doubt, save that serious challenge as something to look forward to for the next trip.
Where to Stay in Breckenridge
Trip planners usually focus primarily on which slopes they want to hit while they’re visiting Breckenridge. However, it’s just as important to find the perfect place to relax and unwind at the end of the day. There’s no reason to settle for an expensive but faceless hotel.
Vacation home rentals offer more value for the money, whether visitors opt for basic cottage rentals or upscale townhomes. The Breckenridge Ski Lodge is a fantastic option for families and groups of friends since this luxurious accommodation features four bedrooms with private bath suites, a high-end kitchen, an eight-person hot tub