Breckenridge is one of the most popular ski resorts in North America, and it is not hard to see why. Five peaks of skiing rise above a genuine 1850s gold-rush town, whose main street of brightly painted Victorian buildings is lined with independent shops, restaurants, breweries and bars. It is lively, easy to get around and suits just about every kind of skier, which is why so many British visitors pick it for their first trip to Colorado.
Breckenridge at a glance
- Location: Summit County, about 80 miles from Denver
- Terrain: Five peaks and around 2,900 acres
- Best for: All abilities, lively town, first-timers to Colorado
- Lift passes: Epic Pass
- 2026/27 season: Due to open 6 November 2026
- Nearest airport: Denver International, around two hours
What’s New for 2026/27
This is Breckenridge’s first winter as the Kingdom of Breck, a new identity celebrating the town’s mix of big-mountain skiing and characterful, lively culture. The Rockstar Energy Open, one of the top-ranked snowboard competitions in the world, also returns. The resort is aiming to open on 6 November 2026, conditions permitting, which makes it one of the first big Colorado resorts to start the season.
The Skiing
Breckenridge spreads across Peaks 6 to 10, with around 2,900 acres of terrain. The lower slopes are ideal for beginners and families, while Peaks 7 and 8 have long, rolling blue runs that intermediates will love. Above the trees, the high bowls on Peaks 6, 7 and 8 give strong skiers a real taste of high-alpine terrain. The Imperial Express, reaching close to 13,000ft, is one of the highest chairlifts in North America, and the view from the top is worth the thin air.
A word of warning: the town sits at around 9,600ft, so take the first day or two easy, drink plenty of water and go gently on the après.
Off the Slopes
Main Street is the heart of Breckenridge, with more than enough bars and restaurants for a week. The free BreckConnect Gondola links the town with the Peak 7 and Peak 8 bases, and free buses run around town, so you rarely need a car once you have arrived.
Lift Passes
Breckenridge is owned by Vail Resorts and is on the Epic Pass, which also covers Vail, Beaver Creek, Keystone and Crested Butte, plus major resorts in the Alps. Buy early for the best price, and consider an Epic Day Pass if you are only skiing a few days.
Getting There
Breckenridge is around 80 miles from Denver International Airport, usually a two-hour drive via I-70, although weekend traffic can add to that. Shared shuttles run from the airport. Copper Mountain, Keystone and Arapahoe Basin are all within a short drive.
For more information visit breckenridge.com.
Breckenridge: Your Questions Answered
When does Breckenridge open for 2026/27?
Breckenridge is aiming to open on 6 November 2026, subject to conditions, making it one of the first major Colorado resorts to open.
Is Breckenridge good for beginners?
Yes. Breckenridge has plenty of gentle terrain on the lower slopes, a large ski school and long, easy blue runs to progress to.
Is Breckenridge on the Epic or Ikon Pass?
Breckenridge is owned by Vail Resorts and is on the Epic Pass.
How high is Breckenridge?
The town sits at around 9,600ft, and the Imperial Express lift reaches close to 13,000ft, so it is worth taking the first day or two gently to acclimatise.