While many travel destinations fall quiet during the winter months, Breckenridge shines merry and bright. This idyllic mountain town is immersed in the mighty Tenmile Range, which offers some of the best powder stashes and ski terrain around. Perhaps Ullr, the Norse god of snow, is to thank.
Since 1963, locals and visitors have praised the deity with Ullr Fest, which is set to take place Dec. 12-14. Don your Viking helmet, catch the parade, watch Christmas trees burn in the massive bonfire and participate in the world’s largest shot-ski event—complete with candy cane vodka.
But this spirited celebration is just one of many reasons to plan a trip. New slopeside lodging, unique outdoor activities and award-winning restaurants await you this winter.
Where to Stay in Breckenridge
Having opened on November 21, Hotel Alpenrock Breckenridge is the newest accommodation in town. Book one of its 205 spacious rooms to be just steps from Main Street and the Quicksilver Superchair at the base of Peak 9. This slopeside getaway is part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, a distinction that also applies to the award-winning Art Hotel Denver. While both share a curated and contemporary design, Hotel Alpenrock distinguishes itself through mountain charm, gear valet services and après experiences, including two new dining concepts.
Gravity Haus Breckenridge also sits right below Peak 9 and, this year, Condé Nast Traveler readers named it one of the best hotels in the world. This ski-in, ski-out lodge offers 60 comfortable guest rooms and incredible amenities. Start your day at its craft coffee shop, pull your skis from a private gear locker, spend the afternoon on groomed trails, then rest and recover—hot tubs, a cold plunge pool and a sauna are on-site. Gravity Haus also has a generous pet policy, making it one of the best stays for dog-friendly adventures in Colorado.
If you prefer to earn your turns, spend the night in a backcountry hut. Several in Summit County feature saunas and wood stoves, including the sites nearest Breckenridge. Francie’s Cabin is 2.2 miles from the Spruce Creek Trailhead, while Sisters Cabin is a 3.7-mile journey. Though these distances may seem manageable, note that ski touring requires more than courage. Proper gear, route-finding skills and avalanche awareness are crucial. To learn these concepts and ensure greater safety, book an overnight excursion with Colorado Adventure Guides.
Where to Eat in Breckenridge
Breckenridge debuted several eateries this past year, including those within Hotel Alpenrock. Signature restaurant Edwin will reimagine dishes from various regions of the Alps, while speakeasy-style bar Canary aims to be the town’s latest après-ski hotspot. Other newcomers include Danielle’s Delights, a great breakfast stop for skiers parked at the free Airport Road lot, and Three Daughters Pizza, which offers New York-style slices and house-baked cookies from its walk-up window.
While Breckenridge has long been known for its impressive dining scene, it made national headlines this year when local restauranteur Matt Vawter earned the James Beard Award for best chef in the mountain region. Vawter owns two establishments on Main Street: Italian-inspired eatery Radicato and modern American restaurant Rootstalk, which recently debuted a seasonal seven-course tasting menu served from its chef’s counter. Complete the experience with its globally sourced wine pairings.
If you’re seeking something a bit boozier, head to Breckenridge Distillery’s downtown tasting room to sample bourbon whiskeys, its new candy cane vodka and other award-winning spirits. The same is offered at its Airport Road location, which also features a New American restaurant. Pair craft cocktails with happy hour small plates or order a full dinner. Smoked pork belly buns, Tomahawk steak with a rum cask reduction and crispy Brussels sprouts dressed with yuzu vinaigrette are a few menu highlights.
What to Do in Breckenridge
Though there are plenty of winter activities beyond the slopes, Breckenridge Ski Resort is the highlight of many travelers’ itineraries. In recent years, three lift upgrades have significantly reduced lift lines while the installation of 100 low-energy snowguns has expanded terrain earlier in the season. Skiers and riders came together to celebrate opening day on Nov. 8 and, soon, they’ll have access to all five iconic peaks, plus three world-class terrain parks.
Apart from the resort, there are many other ways to get outside during the scenic winter months. Glide across groomed trails or strap on snowshoes at the Breckenridge Nordic Center, dash through the frosty forest on one of Breckenridge Stables’ horse-drawn sleighs or snowmobile in the backcountry with Good Times Adventures. When you need a break from the cold, historic Main Street welcomes you with more than 200 shops including charming bookstores, fashionable boutiques, art galleries and more.
Finally, in addition to Ullr Fest, Breckenridge will host several winter events including the International Snow Sculpture Championships. From Jan. 20-24, watch talented teams from around the world carve 25-ton blocks of snow entirely by hand. The finished sculptures will be on view at downtown’s Riverwalk Center through Jan. 29.
