Breckenridge Ski Vacation
Oh man, it's happening again. I get this unrelenting Breckenridge ski vacation itch that doesn't let up until I plant my skies on Colorado's white vertical expanse. In my dreams, I'm there already. Ah, how I can almost feel her crystalline yield cascading off my skis, her brisk cold air beating my face. Almost see the universal sun beaming through azure skies above, reflected off the distant snow-capped peaks beyond—my worries somehow melted in the winter chill.
Breckenridge
Ski Resort promises some of the finest Rocky Mountain skiing anywhere.
With its 3,398-foot vertical drop, 146 trails, 2,208 acres, two high-speed six passenger Super 6, six high-speed quad chairlifts, one triple, six doubles, five surface lifts, and 25 acres devoted to snowboard parks.
Did you know that Breckenridge, Colorado has been ranked the second-most visited ski haven in the U.S. by the 2004-5 Ski Guide, with its 146 trails, and its diverse and plenteous trails that suit every ability level; 15% of them being for the beginner, 33% for the intermediate, 20% for the advanced, 32% for the expert, for a total of 2,208 ski-able acreage, and 3,398 vertical feet of mountain. From November to April, skiers of all ages and abilities will appreciate what a Breckenridge ski vacation is all about.
While all this may seem pretty impressive, the cons are that it may be tough to find lodging in mid to late season as lodging hot spots fill up quickly, and the sheer volume of visitors make for some congested local driving. Breckenridge ski vacation is hot! The Summit Stage, a free bus line, is not only practical, its economical. For more information about the Summit Stage, visit: www.co.summit.co.us/summitstage
But if you're still sold on making your ice-cold dream come true this 2004-5 ski year (I don't blame you) you came to the right place for information. Let me tell you, if you're looking for a great place to challenge your full range of talents and abilities, there are plenty of choices. So plan the ideal Breckenridge ski vacation today, and you just might become a ski bum too!
For starters, here are a few of the more affordable favorites, and some other tips that helped me plan many of my treks to Breckenridge.
When I first planned my spring ski vacation in the Rockies which now seems like eons ago, I contacted the local chamber information center. The toll-free number to the Breckenridge Chamber Resort is: 1-888-251-2417 (within the U.S.) and 00-800-2720-0000 (outside the U.S.). Or more simply log on to: www.gobreck.com for general facts and stats, links to booking agents, and more. These friendly people are there to help.
Now, here are some things I've learned from my own experience that may help you sift through the myriad info that had my head swimming well before my legs were skiing.
Lodging. Whether you're in the market for top-notch luxury, or just a humble place to hang your hat (and skis) in town, there is something for everyone, from posh, high-end condos to simple, clean, affordable lodging. Sure, no matter what, you're going to have to save up a little for even the cheapest of beds. But when you crave the winter wave it's worth it in Breckenridge.
Some links to some of the more popular “cheaper” lodging:
Honeymooners, families, singles guys, gals, whatever, how about convenience and great views? This may be it. Village at Breckenridge, 535 South Park Ave., is located in downtown at the base of Breckenridge Ski Resort and just steps away from historic Main Street (an excellent location for your Breckenridge ski vacation though). Winter rates start at around $89 a day. To find out more about their winter specials call toll free at: (800) 379-6517, or visit their Web site at: www.breckresort.com.
If you're game for a more scenic wildlife experience try a one or two-bedroom fully equipped condo at the Wildwood Suites set among the pines yet convenient, as it's just steps away from a ski run and only two blocks from Breckenridge's historic Main Street. Rates are upwards of $75 a day. Call for details toll free at: 800-866-0300, or check their Web site at: www.wildwood-suites.com.
If those are already booked, which they most likely are for the Dec/January season, how about the River Mountain Lodge, a three-story, 125-room lodge located at 100 South Park Avenue in Breckenridge, with rates starting at around $89 a day. For details on availability call toll free at: 800-695-8284.
For a complete listing of available lodging, package deals and most importantly to book your stay log on to: www.ski.com or call the kind and helpful folks at: 1-800-778-8589 and a friendly rep will assist you.
Tips on saving money
While you might think you can get a break on lift tickets at an area sporting good store that's not the case anymore. New policy has it that their prices have to be comparable to the ones at the resort ticket office. However, you can pick up tickets outside Breckenridge at King Soopers grocery store in Denver and other places (Denver is only 85 miles east of Breckenridge) and get a great price break on daily passes.
If you buy your tickets online two weeks to a month in advance with a booking agency or from the Breckenridge resort you generally you get a better deal, especially if you book multiple days as opposed to single days. You can also usually get a 3-10 percent savings on equipment rental if you rent from an online booking agent.
Also, when booking a stay with a resort, ask about the Ski 3 Pass, a lodging/ski lift package that is back by popular demand.
And of course the best way to save money, if you frequent Breckenridge and its three other interconnected resorts consider buying a season pass for yourself or the whole family. But if you're traveling across the country to get to Breckenridge that of course would not be practical.
Planning to make skiing a regular family outing this season? While it's good common sense to rent equipment for starters to see how your kids take to the sport, you might consider investing in some new or used equipment that will save you time and money in the long run. Imagine being able to just park your car, throw your boots and skis on and hit those pristine feather powder slopes without the hassles of getting you or your family outfitted first, and each time having to adjust to different equipment.
If that's not a viable option there is also what is called “Perfect 10 Ticket Ski” ride Breckenridge and other neighboring resorts for $37 per day throughout the 2004-05 winter season. According the 2004-5 Ski Guide, these tickets are priced at $379 for adults and $159 for children (ages 5-12). The Perfect 10 ticket can be used all season except for Dec. 17, 2004 through Jan. 1, 2005. At least one day of the 10-day ticket must be used before Jan. 31, 2005, or the ticket can be redeemed towards another type of ticket or pass for the remainder of the season. Tickets are on sale at www.lynxvacations.com, or contact one of the five major area ski resorts' ticket offices for further information.
For more useful tips and information about how you can save big on your Breckenridge ski vacation, log on to www.ski.com and ask about their specials.
Here is a link back to my Breckenridge ski vacation
homepage for ya okay!
