Breckenridge, Colorado: More Than a Ski Town.
Welcome to Breckenridge, Colorado, a top spot for skiing that’s famous worldwide. But there’s a lot more to this town than just great slopes. Breckenridge has a fascinating history that adds a whole different layer to its charm. Whether you're here to hit the trails or soak up local culture, you’ll find surprises around every corner. But first, let’s start with how Breckenridge came to be.
The History of Breckenridge.
The story of Breckenridge started in the 1850s, sparked by the glimmer of gold found in the Blue River Valley. The discovery quickly turned the area into a hub for those chasing fortune, leading to the town's founding in 1859. What started as clusters of tents and makeshift shacks soon grew into a robust mining town, bustling with prospectors and entrepreneurs eager to stake their claim.
Breckenridge flourished as the gold rush peaked, its population swelling with miners and their families. The town was vibrant, filled with the raucous sounds of saloons, the clatter of equipment, and the dreams of the many who came seeking wealth. However, as with many mining towns, the boom was followed by a quiet decline when the easy-to-reach gold dwindled.
But Breckenridge was far from done. Its resilient and tightly-knit community pivoted towards tourism, finding a new way to sustain itself. The 1960s brought a new kind of rush—this time for powder snow, not gold. The ski industry revived the town, transforming it into the world-renowned ski destination it is today.
Despite its evolution, Breckenridge has preserved its connection to its past. The town is dotted with remnants of the mining era—abandoned mines, preserved Victorian architecture, and old mining trails repurposed for hiking and biking. If you are a history buff like me, it is super cool to see all the old remnants of history.
Main Street, Breckenridge.
Main Street is Breckenridge's central location, known for its beautifully preserved Victorian architecture, shopping, and dining. This historic area is lined with diverse shops, restaurants, and galleries, some of which have been around since mining. The street is directly linked to Breckenridge’s past, with many buildings dating back to the gold rush era, now repurposed into businesses catering to various interests and tastes.
You can experience the town’s history first-hand as you walk the streets.
Our Favorite Spots on Main Street.
Main Street is a long street with lots to see and do. Below is our list of places that we liked.
Crepes A La Cart: This popular street-side kiosk specializes in made-to-order sweet and savory crepes. They are super delicious, and there are many flavors to choose from.
Downstairs at Eric’s: A local favorite, Downstairs at Eric’s offers a casual dining experience with a fantastic menu and an arcade perfect for families. It’s a great place to unwind after a day of exploring. The bar staff was not the nicest, but the rest were wonderful. They were coming off of Spring Break, so…. Also, make a reservation. It is a popular place in town.
Mountain Goat Clothing Co: I loved local. This shop is female-owned.
Mountain Top Hot Chocolate Shop: I had the best hot chocolate here.
Slope Style:
Local Favorite Restaurants for Local Cuisine.
Breckenridge offers a diverse culinary scene, with local favorites serving delicious and unique cuisine that reflects the town's rich heritage and vibrant community. Here are some top picks:
Hearthstone Restaurant: Known for its historic Victorian setting and farm-to-table menu, Hearthstone serves up dishes like Colorado lamb and elk, offering an authentic taste of the region's cuisine.
Ember: This upscale restaurant combines creative cuisine with a cozy atmosphere. Try the Colorado lamb shank or the duck breast for a memorable meal.
Breckenridge Brewery & Pub: This brewery is a local staple. It offers a variety of handcrafted beers and a menu featuring pub favorites. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the local brew scene.
Historical Bars in Breckenridge.
Breckenridge's vibrant history includes some long-standing bars that have been around since the 1800s, offering a glimpse into the town's storied past.
Gold Pan Saloon: Established in 1879, the Gold Pan Saloon is one of the oldest bars in Breckenridge and a beloved local institution. Its historic charm and lively atmosphere truly taste Breckenridge’s mining past. The saloon is famous for its rustic décor, old photographs, and hearty drinks, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the town's history.
Established in 1879, the Gold Pan Saloon is one of the oldest bars in Breckenridge. Photo by Michael Steinman
The Brown Hotel & Restaurant: Originally built in 1868, The Brown has served as a bar, restaurant, and hotel. Today, it maintains its historic character and offers a cozy spot to enjoy a drink while soaking in the rich history of Breckenridge. The Brown’s unique ambiance and stories of ghost sightings make it an intriguing place to visit.
Outdoor Adventures Beyond Skiing.
Breckenridge is an outdoor adventure playground all year round. Whether you’re into skiing, hiking, biking, or just like being in a mountain town surrounded by mountains, there is something to do here all year.
Summer Activities
Hiking Trails: The hiking trails in Breckenridge offer breathtaking views and a chance to immerse yourself in nature. Popular trails include:
Mohawk Lakes Trail: This trail is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. It offers stunning alpine lake views, waterfalls, and remnants of old mining cabins. It's a moderately difficult hike, perfect for those looking to experience the beauty of the Rockies.
Boreas Pass Road: Originally a railway route, this trail is relatively easy and offers panoramic views of the mountains. It's great for families and those seeking a less strenuous outdoor adventure.
McCullough Gulch Trail: This trail offers a mix of waterfalls, alpine lakes, and dramatic mountain scenery. It's a moderately challenging hike that rewards with spectacular views.
Mountain Biking: For biking enthusiasts, Breckenridge offers a variety of trails suitable for different skill levels:
Breckenridge Ski Resort Trails: During the summer, the ski resort transforms its slopes into a mountain biking haven. Trails range from beginner to advanced, with plenty of options for thrilling downhill rides. View the trail map.
Flume Trails: These interconnected trails are perfect for both novice and experienced bikers. They wind through forests and meadows and offer beautiful views of the surrounding peaks—view map of the trail.
Peaks Trail: Connecting Breckenridge to nearby Frisco, this trail is a must-ride for mountain bikers. It offers a mix of challenging climbs and exhilarating descents, all while providing stunning scenery.
Winter Activities
Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing: If you’re not hitting the ski slopes, try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on the well-maintained trails around Breckenridge. Trails like the Sally Barber Mine Trail and the Breckenridge Nordic Center offer fantastic opportunities to explore the winter landscape.
Ice Skating: The Stephen C. West Ice Arena offers indoor and outdoor rinks for a fun family activity.
Conclusion
We came to Breckenridge, Colorado, for the skiing, but the summer activities are desirable. Breckenridge, Colorado, is truly more than just a ski town. Its rich history, Main Street, diverse outdoor activities, and cultural attractions make it a destination worth checking out at any time of year.
