At Breckenridge Ski Resort, you don’t just ski — you ascend. With elevations soaring to 12,998 feet and trails stretching far above the treeline, Breck isn’t just one of Colorado’s favorite resorts — it’s one of the highest ski resorts in the United States. Whether you're chasing heart-thumping alpine bowl skiing or simply want to see what skiing above the clouds feels like, Breckenridge delivers a rare blend of altitude, adventure, and awe.
Skiing at the Top of the World
Let’s start with a little bragging rights: Breck is home to the highest chairlift in North America — the Imperial Express SuperChair. This iconic lift reaches an elevation of 12,840 feet, giving skiers nearly instant access to some of the most breathtaking — and challenging — terrain in the Rockies. It’s not just about the altitude, though. It’s what you can do with it.
Once you hop off the lift, the alpine world opens wide. From here, seasoned skiers and riders can explore over 400 acres of expert and extreme terrain. Think deep chutes, sweeping bowls, and hike-to zones that used to take nearly an hour to reach — now just a 2.7-minute ride away. Legendary runs like Lake Chutes, Whale’s Tail, Art’s Bowl, and Snow White (newly added and deliciously steep) are where thrill-seekers earn their stripes.
What Makes High Alpine Skiing So Special?
There’s a certain magic to skiing above the treeline. The landscape shifts — fewer trees, more open snowfields, and panoramic views that stretch from the Ten Mile Range to Lake Dillon and Quandary Peak. The terrain becomes more exposed, wind-sculpted, and raw. And the feeling? Like you’ve tapped into something primal.
It’s no surprise then that Breckenridge ranks on the Powder.com list of 10 highest alpine ski resorts in the U.S, and with good reason. There aren’t many places where you can ski nearly 3,000 acres of terrain across five towering peaks — each one offering a unique alpine personality.
Above Treeline = Next-Level Adventure
At these elevations, skiing changes — the air is thinner, the snow drier, and the views more expansive. But high altitude also comes with a little fine print. Breck’s base elevation starts at 9,600 feet, and by the time you’ve reached the top of the Imperial SuperChair, you’re brushing nearly 13,000 feet.
Altitude affects everyone differently — even the fittest athlete. You might feel winded, dizzy, or just “off” your game. But don’t let that keep you from the summit. This guide to managing Breckenridge elevation can help you prep like a pro: hydrate, pace yourself, ease into high-elevation skiing, and snack often (yes, this is your excuse for pocket granola).
Not Just a Lift — A Launchpad for Legends
The Imperial Express isn’t just a feat of engineering — it’s a gateway to skiing legends. Before its debut in 2005, accessing these heights meant an intense uphill trek. Today, this 2,714-foot-long lift brings you within 100 vertical feet of Peak 8’s summit. With views of Keystone, Baldy Mountain, and all of Breck laid out below, it’s hard not to pause and just soak it in.
And for skiers who crave a controlled taste of backcountry-style terrain, Breck is a dream. The above-treeline bowls feel remote and rugged, yet remain inbounds and patrolled — perfect for advanced skiers who want challenge without committing to full backcountry protocols.
A Colorado Crown Jewel
Among Colorado’s world-class resorts, Breckenridge stands tall — literally and figuratively. It blends big-mountain skiing with small-town soul. The town itself is charming, the terrain is top-tier, and the elevation? Sky high. Whether you're conquering the Imperial Bowl, floating through fresh powder in Snow White, or just catching your breath at the summit — one thing’s for sure:
At Breckenridge, the sky isn’t the limit — it’s the starting line.
