This Gorgeous Colorado Mountain Town Offers Scenic Skiing In The Rockies

Snow, skiing, and the mountains of Colorado go hand-in-hand. The Rocky Mountain peaks offer plenty of opportunities to hit the slopes. But sitting at 9,600 feet above sea level, Breckenridge Ski Resort offers a completely immersive skiing experience that's backed by beautiful vistas of the Colorado Rockies in every direction. And Breckenridge Resort is large. Really large. The resort offers 187 trails for skiers and snowboarders to enjoy across five different mountain peaks. Many of the trails extend above the mountain range's tree line, which means those enjoying the peaks get a clear, unobstructed view of the mountains.

While it's not home to the most Winter Olympic athletes, Breckenridge is an ideal location for outdoor winter enthusiasts of all kinds. In all, Breckenridge Ski Resort covers more than 2,900 acres and trail options for all ages and all skill levels. Instructors are even available for more timid skiers taking to the slopes for the first time. The ski season opens here in early November and peaks during the holiday season. Those looking for shorter lift lines and thinner crowds may want to consider booking a trip near the season's opening (in November), or in the new year.

This mountain town has nearly countless options for fun in the snow and a variety of passes granting access to the trails. But that doesn't mean it's always easy to access. Peak season in Breckenridge runs from mid-December through February. The holidays of Christmas and New Years are especially packed with revelers planning to incorporate some time on the slopes into their celebrations. With the crowds come longer lines to access the ski lifts and peak pricing at hotels and restaurants.

Waiting until after the holidays tends to thin the crowd somewhat, even though it's still considered peak season. Interestingly, March is often the snowiest season in Colorado and is a great time to visit Breckenridge. The spring skiing season also brings more sunshine and more powdered snow on the trails. Late season skiers will learn that Breckenridge Ski Resort is one of only a few in the state that remain accessible into the month of May. This is the most affordable time to visit, but usually during this time there are limited trails.

Snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and downhill skiing are the stars of the winter season in Breckenridge. However, the destination is also attractive for those who may not be interested in tackling the snowy powder on the trails. Breckenridge is home to one of America's best winter destinations to see stunning ice sculptures. The International Snow Sculpture Championships are held here over 11 days beginning in late January.

The town of Breckenridge is also home to a thriving arts scene. Breck Create is an organization that brings the arts alive in this mountain town throughout the year. In the winter, the group offers multiple experiences, from ceramics and painting classes to embroidery and the performing arts. So while fellow travelers are exploring the mountain trails of the ski resort, the more artsy among the group can still enjoy an immersive, art-filled getaway.

Breckenridge is a pedestrian-friendly town and is quite walkable, so acquiring a rental car is not always necessary. Travelers visiting this ski haven most often fly into Denver International Airport (DEN), which is 100 miles away. The airport offers multiple shuttle options and car services for those looking to access Breckenridge Ski Resort without renting a vehicle. Numerous types of accommodations are available as well in Breckenridge, ranging from small bed and breakfasts to large resorts and private home rentals.

The state of Colorado is big, as are the Rocky Mountains, so there are plenty of options for skiing getaways throughout the entire state. Steamboat Springs, for example, is Northwest Colorado's largest city and is a bustling ski destination that also offers a chance to enjoy hot springs.