Experience Breckenridge, Colorado

Breckenridge is a top Colorado spot for too many reasons to list. But we may as well start the list! Historic charm, friendly locals, outdoor central, local business focused and is also anchored by majestic mountains and a Victorian Main Street. Plus, for the traveler on a budget, you can find summer time hotel deals for less than $100. And entertainment isn’t too costly if you play your cards right. Here are some ways to ensure you have an incredible trip without overspending.

Ski Way Lodge

Ski Way Lodge

Ski Way Lodge

For direct access to the Breck Connect Gondola for winter skiing and summer mountain activities, check into the Ski Way Lodge in Breckenridge, Colorado. Plus, you are just 2 1/2 blocks from the main street where eclectic shops, bars and restaurants line the streets. The Bavarian style boutique hotel offers two common areas for guests to eat, play board games, or watch TV. The dining area is complete with utensils, glass ware and plates. In addition to private balconies from every room (with the exception of Suite 9) guests can also relax on the larger balcony in front of the fire pit. Each of the ten suites is uniquely decorated with modern mountain rustiness to show a sense of warmth and escape.

Other amenities include hot tubs, free wireless internet, a business center, and private phones with free local and lost distance calling. Inside rooms you will find robes and slippers to take the hot tub as well as mini refrigerators, microwaves and coffee makers.

275 Ski Hill Rd Breckenridge, CO 80424

(970) 453-7573

Fresh Soap Company

Carri Wilbanks with Kim Nieuwoudt, owner of Fresh Soap Company

Carri Wilbanks with Kim Nieuwoudt, owner of Fresh Soap Company

Walk inside the Fresh Soap Company off the Main Street in Breckenridge, CO for some of the most delicious smells in town. Store owner, Kim Nieuwoudt, never imagined herself in the business. But after a just for fun soap making trial turned to experimenting. By mixing in her own techniques, Kim discovered a knack. Inside you will find creatively made soaps in the shape of pina colada’s, cake and even beer. Scents include: Mango Madness, Sage & Lemongrass and Almond and Vanilla Bean. Kim makes all the soap in the store where it is stamped with the words “FRESH” and put on shelves after curing for six weeks.

Towne Square Mall, 100 N Main Street

Breckenridge, CO 80424

970 423 7194

Amazing Grace

Beautiful Patio at Amazing Grace Cafe in Breckenridge

Beautiful Patio at Amazing Grace Cafe in Breckenridge

 Head to Amazing Grace (about a five minute walk from the Ski Way Lodge) for some of the healthiest food in town! Offering a casual atmosphere in a historic home, you will find most meal options are locally sourced and organic. A go-to on the breakfast menu is the breakfast burrito- made scrambled eggs, cheese, black beans, spicy sweet potatoes, spinach and salsa. Sandwiches and salads are topped with turkey, tuna; hummus and tofu are available for lunch. Top it off with a vegan chocolate chip cookie!

213 Lincoln Avenue

Breckenridge, CO 80424 

Hiking: Carter Park

Backcountry Trails in Breckenridge, Colorado

Backcountry Trails in Breckenridge, Colorado

For one the closest hikes to the main street in Breckenridge Colorado check out Carter Park. The short trail opens up to sweeping views of the Breckenridge Ski Resort and the city in a short amount of time. You can either take the stairs or winding switchbacks to the top. After the Carter Park Trail ends, there are miles more of backcountry trails to choose from. For a scenic loop take Moonstone to connect with the Barney Ford Trail, which meets up with the Juniata Trail taking you back to your starting point.

Looking for a steeper route? Bypass the Carter Lake Trail for Jack’s Cruel Joke which also meets up with the Moonstone Trail.

Getting there: The Trailhead can be picked up from Carter Park (300 S. High St.)

 

Illinois Creek Trailhead

Wildflower Views Near the Illinois Creek Trailhead

Wildflower Views Near the Illinois Creek Trailhead

For a quick hike or trail run, also close to town, check out the Illinois Creek Trailhead. For a loop, check out the Southside Trail. Still haven’t had enough? The Southside loop meets up with the Blue River Trail which will keep you moving along the trails.

Getting There: The Illinois Creek Trailhead starts in the southeast parking lot of the Stephen C West Ice Arena (189 Boreas Pass Rd.)

Sally Barber Mine

Atop the abandoned Sally Barber Mine

Atop the abandoned Sally Barber Mine

Trek to the abandoned Sally Barber Mine in Breckenridge, CO to explore history.  After following the trail for a speedy 1.5 miles you will discover the ruins of a wooden mine that dates back to the 1800’s. Put yourself in the boots of a brave miner getting ready to be lowered hundreds of feet into the mountainside in search of zinc. The mine shut down in the early 1900’s but the wooden structures and tin cans surrounding the property leave the book open for imaginative stories.

At the top take in striking views of French Gulch, one of Summit County riches mining districts.

Getting there: Head South on CO-9, turn left on Boreas Pass Road. Continue 2.1 miles and turn left on Badly Road. Continue to Sally Barer Road and turn left to the trail dead.

For ways to Experience Mountain Adventure (Summer Dog Sledding, Bike Riding, Alpine Slide) and a look at Breckenridge Distillery and Modi’s Visit: https://catchcarri.com/mountain-adventure-comes-to-life-breckenridge-colorado/