Travel Tips

Your first time visiting Breckenridge should be an experience you will always remember. We’ve put together a list of hints and advice to help make your trip unforgettable.

1. High Altitude information
Breckenridge welcomes you to the Colorado Rockies. To ensure you have the best experience possible, we have put together a list of valuable information about preparing for your trip.

Proper Clothing:
Dress for cooler temperatures but be prepared for sudden weather changes. It's colder at higher altitudes and layers of clothing are a good idea. It may feel colder or warmer depending on whether it's windy or cloudy on one hand, or sunny with still air on the other. It's best to dress in layers and wear breathable clothing, such as smart wool that keeps moisture away from the skin.

Sunburn:
Because of the thinner atmosphere and reflection from snow or water, you can sunburn much more easily than most people think. Ultraviolet light is more intense at higher altitudes. Be sure to protect your face and lips with appropriate sunscreen (at least 15 SPF), and protect your eyes with sunglasses or goggles.

Altitude Sickness:
Perhaps as many as half the visitors from lower elevations experience some form of altitude illness. The vast majority of cases are self-limited and spontaneously resolve as the body acclimatizes. Symptoms include fatigue, decreased appetite, shortness of breath with minimal exertion, nausea, headache and sleep disturbances. These symptoms are often worse the second day at altitude (but resolve in four to five days). Rest is the key to treating mild forms of altitude sickness.

Avoiding Altitude Sickness:

• Stay Properly Hydrated: Acclimatization is often accompanied by fluid loss, so you need to drink lots of fluids to remain properly hydrated (at least 3-4 quarts per day).
• Avoid tobacco and alcohol and other depressant drugs during acclimation, which can also lead to dehydration.
• Light Activity during the day is better than sleeping because respiration decreases during sleep, exacerbating Altitude Sickness symptoms.

Frostbite & Hypothermia: Frostbite results from cooling of body tissues and subsequent destruction of these tissues. This occurs when skin is exposed to cold and windy conditions. Fingers, ears and noses are especially susceptible. The best cure is prevention. Keep the skin covered and warm up frequently. If blisters, occur or if fingers or toes are involved, seek medical attention immediately. Over exposure to cold, wetness or wind can cause a very low internal body temperature known as hypothermia. Warning signs include shivering, fatigue, slowed pulse and bluish lip color. Hypothermia is life threatening. Victims of hypothermia should get to warmth and shelter, remove wet clothes, warm up in blankets, and drink warm, non-alcoholic beverages. Emergency medical attention should be sought immediately.

2. Lessons
We highly recommend that first-time skiers and snowboarders take a lesson with our top-notch Ski & Ride School. It is imperative to learn proper technique in order to prevent injury and make the sport more enjoyable. Whether you want to learn a new sport, improve your skills or just want to find the powder stashes that only the locals know, our Ski & Ride School has the program for you. Book a Lesson Online.

3. Purchase your lift tickets in advance
Pre-Purchase lift tickets online 7 days in advance and save up to $100 on a 6-day ticket. Plus, you'll get to skip the ticket window and go straight to the lifts. Purchase Lift Tickets Online

4. How to carry your equipment
Walking in ski boots while carrying your skis and poles is challenging. It is best to keep your boots unbuckled until you have arrived at the base of the chairlift. The best way to carry your equipment is to put your skis over your shoulder and carry both poles in your other hand.

5. Parking/Transportation
While a number of properties are within walking distance of historic Main Street or the slopes, Breckenridge is served by the Free Ride Transportation System. The Free Ride travels routes through Breckenridge connecting the resort's base areas and free parking lots, runs the perimeter of downtown, stops at the Ice Rink, City Market, Recreation Center, Village and Four O'clock Roads, Columbine and Broken Lance Drive and Peak 9. Check out the Free Ride map. Free day skier parking is available at the Miners Lot, Tailings Lot, and Gold Rush Lot. These lots are located on Park Avenue and provide a free shuttle to each base area. Pay parking lots can be found at the Base of Peak 8 and Beaver Run. Parking fee is approximately $10 a day. View the Parking Map.

6. Sun
At 9600 feet, the sun is 40% stronger than at sea level. Apply sunscreen several times a day and always wear eye protection. Sunglasses or goggles with UV protection are a must. Lip balm/chapstick is also a necessity.

7. Atmosphere
Breckenridge prides itself in being a laid back, casual mountain town. No need to bring your high-heels or dress clothes. Jeans and a sweater/fleece are the norm around here.

8. Ski apparel
Appropriate dress can make or break your day on the slopes. It is worth investing in a pair of waterproof ski pants as jeans get wet and do not allow enough movement. It is best to dress in layers as temperatures can vary from day to day. A waterproof shell is your best bet for a jacket, with a fleece and under layers for additional warmth. Contrary to popular belief, the thinnest pair of cotton socks is essential in boot comfort, allowing for optimal circulation and boot fit. Additional comfort can be achieved by wearing highly breathable clothing specifically made for winter outdoor activities. Neck gators, hats and face masks are also highly recommended.

Your Breckenridge vacation is booked, lift tickets purchased, rental equipment reserved…the only thing left to do is pack. No need to worry though, we’re here to help with that too. We’ve created a list below detailing a few of the essentials so you’ll arrive in Breckenridge with everything you need to make memories that will last a lifetime.

What to bring:

• Ski / snowboard equipment
• Shoes / boots with good traction
• Snowshoes
• Goggles / sunglasses
• Camel back / water bottle
• Scarf / hat / gloves
• Walkie-talkies
• Discman / mp3 player / walkman
• Warm layers (sweatshirts / long sleeve t-shirts / long underwear)
• Lip balm
• Moisturizer
• Sunscreen
• Pain relievers
• Camera / Video Camera
• Proof of insurance
• Waterproof coat / waterproof ski pants
• Day pack
• Swimsuit
• Exercise clothes 

Helpful Phone Numbers:
Resort Information Center: (800) 789-SNOW
Vacation Reservations: (888) 284-9477
Colorado Road Conditions: 1-877-315-ROAD (7623)
Current Snow conditions: (800) 842-8062

Where can I buy discount lift tickets?
Plan ahead and purchase a multi-day lift ticket at least 14 days in advance and you'll receive exclusive online savings by joining PEAKS. If your arrival date is within 14 days, you can still get special lift ticket savings at the ticket window on tickets of three-days-or-more when you sign up for PEAKS at the resort. Purchase Lift Tickets Online.

How many people are required to be eligible for a group discount?
Twenty or more people are considered a group. Please visit our group section for additional information, call (800) 784-7669 or email breckgroup@vailresorts.com.

How much is a single day lift ticket?
The price of a single day lift ticket varies during the season. For current pricing please call (800) 789-SNOW or view lift ticket pricing online.

Are discounts available for PSIA or National Ski Patrol members?
Yes. Proper identification and a PSIA card should be presented at any ticket window to receive a discount.

Are discounts available for ski/snowboard industry employees?
No.

Where is my lift ticket valid?
When you purchase a Breckenridge 1- or 2-day lift ticket, your ticket is also valid at Keystone and Arapahoe Basin. If you buy a 3 or more day lift ticket, one of your days is valid at Vail or Beaver Creek.

What time do lift ticket windows open and close?
Lift tickets can be purchased during the ski season between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4:00 PM. Save money when you purchase lift tickets online in advance.

How much does it cost to rent equipment?
Breckenridge has 5 rental shops conveniently located at the base of Peaks 8 and 9. View products and rates

Are helmets required at Breckenridge?
Sometimes. When skiing on your own or with friends helmets are not required, but highly recommended. Children participating is Ski & Ride School lessons are required to wear a helmet. Learn more about mountain safety

Does Breckenridge have lessons available for skiing and snowboarding?
Yes. Not only do we offer lessons for skiing and snowboarding, we also teach telemark skiing and hold park and pipe classes regularly. Please click here for times and rates.

How do I get from Denver to Breckenridge?
Take Interstate 70 west to exit 203. Continue south on HWY 9 to Breckenridge. From metro Denver, the trip is approx. 90 miles. If you do not have access to a car, Colorado Mountain Express provides door-to-door shuttle service to and from Denver International Airport.

Do I need a car in Breckenridge?
Probably not. While a number of accommodations are within walking distance of historic Main Street or the slopes, Breckenridge is served by the Free Ride Transportation System. The Free Ride travels routes through Breckenridge connecting the resort's base areas and free parking lots, runs the perimeter of downtown, stops at the Ice Rink, City Market, Recreation Center, Village and Four O'clock Roads, Columbine and Broken Lance Drive and Peak 9. Click here to check out the Free Ride map.

Is there free skier parking in Breckenridge?
Yes. Free parking is available at the Gold Rush Lots. These lots are located on Park Avenue and provide a free shuttle to each base area. Pay parking lots can be found at the base of Peak 8 and Beaver Run at Peak 9. Pay parking is approximately $15 per vehicle per day. Fees subject to change.

How do I get from Breckenridge to other nearby resorts?
Transportation is available from Breckenridge to Vail, Beaver Creek, Keystone, Arapahoe Basin, and Copper Mountain. Options include the Summit Stage, Ski KAB Express and the Vail Resorts express.

Do the lifts ever close?
The lifts open everyday at 8:30 AM and close at 4:00 PM. On rare occasions, lifts may temporarily close during the day due to high winds or lightening.

Is there night skiing at Breckenridge?
No. Breckenridge does not offer night skiing, but our sister resort Keystone does. Your Breckenridge lift ticket is also valid at Keystone so you can ski or ride Breckenridge during the day and Keystone at night, all with the same lift ticket!

Is there tubing at Breckenridge?
No. Breckenridge does not offer tubing, but our sister resort Keystone does. Visit www.keystoneresort.com for details.

Where do I store my skis/snowboard?
Ski and snowboard storage is available at the base of Peaks 8 and 9. Day storage is $1, overnight storage is $4 per day. One child per adult may be stored together, ski size restrictions do apply.

Are there any lodging accommodations in Breckenridge that allow pets?
Yes. A select number of rooms at the Great Divide Lodge are designated 'canine-friendly,' with deposit. Please call (888) 462-5380 for availability.

What should I bring?
Click here for what to bring, located in our Planning Tips section.

Is there a daily grooming report available online?
Yes. Check out our daily grooming map.

How do I familiarize myself with the mountain?
Free mountain tours are available at the base of Peaks 8 and 9. Tours start promptly at 10:00 AM and usually last 1.5 to 2 hours. Mountain tours are open to intermediate and above skiers and snowboarders only, just look for the Mountain Tours sign. On your own? Large versions of the trail map are located at various points on our mountain, with uniformed guest services staff usually found nearby.

What is altitude sickness and how can it be prevented?
Altitude is defined on the following scale High (8,000 - 12,000 feet [2,438 - 3,658 meters]), Very High (12,000 - 18,000 feet [3,658 - 5,487 meters]), and Extremely High (18,000+ feet [5,500+ meters]). Since few people have been to such altitudes, it is hard to know who may be affected. There are no specific factors such as age, sex, or physical condition that correlate with susceptibility to altitude sickness. Some people get it and some people don't, and some people are more susceptible than others. Below are a few tips to help prevent altitude sickness.

1. Stay properly hydrated. Acclimatization is often accompanied by fluid loss, so you need to drink lots of fluids to remain properly hydrated (at least 3-4 quarts per day).
2. Take it easy; don't over-exert yourself when you first get up to altitude. Light activity during the day is better than sleeping because respiration decreases during sleep, exacerbating the symptoms.
3. Avoid tobacco and alcohol and other depressant drugs including, barbiturates, tranquilizers, and sleeping pills. These depressants further decrease the respiratory drive during sleep resulting in a worsening of the symptoms.
4. Eat a high carbohydrate diet (more than 70% of your calories from carbohydrates) while at altitude.
5. The acclimatization process is inhibited by dehydration, over-exertion, and alcohol and other depressant drugs.

What is the weather like?
If you've not spent time in the mountains before, be aware that weather conditions will be a bit different than in the valleys, and at higher altitudes your body may behave differently. Dress for cooler temperatures and be prepared for sudden weather changes. Importantly, prevent sunburn ... you'll tan or burn much more quickly and deeply in the mountains than at sea level. It's colder at higher altitudes and layers of clothing are a good idea. It may feel colder or warmer depending on whether it's windy or cloudy on the one hand, or sunny with still air. Even at an air temperature of freezing you may be quite warm at 10,000 feet at noon if the air is still and the sky cloudless. You may feel like you're freezing at 50°F with thick cloud cover and a stiff wind. It's best to dress in layers and wear breathable clothing. Visit our custom weather forecast here for an up-to-date custom forecast.

TEMPERATURE AVERAGES  

	High	Low
January	32º F	0º F
Febuary	35º F	2º F
March	39º F	8º F
April	48º F	17º F
May	59º F	25º F
June	69º F	31º F
July	75º F	37º F
August	73º F	36º F
September	67º F	29º F
October	56º F	20º F
November	41º F	10º F
December	34º F	3º F

Does Breckenridge offer daycare?
Yes. Breckenridge offers daycare for children ages 8 weeks to 5 years old on Peak 8, at The Villiage and at Beaver
Run. Reserve Child Care

What does Breckenridge offer for kids during the winter?
Please visit our Just for Kids Section here or Four Perfect Days for Families here.