Breckenridge

A Brief History

Breckenridge’s past is as turbulent as it is colorful, and the town has undergone several cycles of prosperity and decline, only to again rise with the bounty provided by the mountain. For hundreds of years, Ute Native Americans lived in the area drawn to the resources of the Blue River. However, in 1859, during the Colorado Gold Rush, Breckenridge was established as a mining town. This would end the Ute’s habitation and use of the land. The gold rush was followed by a silver boom in the late 19th century and a subsequent gold dredging phase in the early 20th century. Each boom brought rapid growth, infrastructure development, and population influx.

In 1961, the establishment of the Breckenridge Ski Resort transformed the area into a popular year-round tourist destination. This tourism spurred modern development while also fostering an interest in historic preservation. Despite extensive growth, efforts to preserve the town’s historic character remain through zoning codes and organizations dedicated to heritage conservation.

Breckenridge Today

Today, Breckenridge can show a diverse architectural heritage, reflecting its mining history alongside modern amenities. It’s a ski resort town that rivals other renowned ski locations like Aspen and Vail. This has made Breckenridge not only a beautiful and highly desirable location to live in, it also draws huge numbers of visitors throughout the seasons.

Town and Population Size

Breckenridge rises from a base of almost 9,600 feet and its highest point is a dizzying 13,000 feet. The town itself covers an area of almost 4,000 acres and is roughly 7 miles long and 2 miles wide. The residential population of Breckenridge hovers at around the 5,000 mark, however, this number can swell to almost 20,000 during peak times of the year.

Climate

Although Breckenridge gets around 355 inches of snow annually, the weather is never too harsh and can be quite mild. During summer days, you can expect an average temperature of low to mid 70°F, while nights can see this drop to mid 40°F to 50°F. During winter, the weather does become considerably colder but never to the point where it hinders the enjoyment of living in Breckenridge.

Travelling to Breckenridge

Just a couple of hours away from Denver Airport, the town is easily accessible from anywhere in the country or beyond. Once in Denver, it’s a relatively short drive west via I-70. There are, of course, rentals at the airport (including limousines) to take you to Breckenridge.

In Breckenridge, it’s very easy to get around. There’s public transportation in the form of the Breckenridge Free Ride, which as the name implies, is a free shuttle and bus service. This service is part of a wider Summit County Bus Service used by both visitors and residents.

Bear in mind that many Breckenridge homes for sale are ski-in ski-out making it easy to get to ski lifts or the actual trail. It is the equivalent of having the beach right outside your door for a waterfront home.

Life in Breckenridge

First and foremost, Breckenridge is known as a premier ski resort town, and the skiing here is exceptional. However, beyond skiing, there is so much more to see and do with wonderful cultural sites, great dining options, and activities for when you want to take a break from the exhilaration of the slopes.

Skiing and Other Winter Activities

The skiing experience in Breckenridge is characterized by its diverse terrain, extensive lift system, and vibrant atmosphere. This ski town resort features a variety of trails, bowls, and terrain parks spread across five peaks. Each peak offers unique characteristics, such as groomed runs, moguls, glades, and above-tree-line terrain.

With over 187 trails, which are sometimes referred to as “pistes”, there will be suitable runs for skiers and snowboarders of all levels, from beginner to expert. Of the 187 pistes, almost 25 are designed for beginners, around 60 for those of intermediate skill, and over 100 for more advanced skiers.

But there’s more to do in the snow than ski and board:

• Dog Sledding – A perfect combination of exhilaration and relaxation, you can traversen the beautiful terrain in a manner centuries old.
• Cross country – If you prefer, cover long distances under your own power but at speed.
• Snowmobiling – Similar to sledding but with more power and control. It’s a rush!

Resorts

There is a multitude of superb resorts in Breckenridge and the surrounding areas such as Breckenridge Ski Resort, one of the largest ski resorts in all of Colorado, Keystone Resort, Copper Mountain, and many more. The Nordic Center has received numerous awards and is acknowledged as one of the finest locations in the US for cross-country skiing. All of these resorts offer an incredible experience with first-rate amenities set in luxurious surroundings and accommodations.

Beyond the Snow

While the best time for skiing is December to April, there’s a plethora of summer activities too, many of which can be done even during the colder months.

• Hiking and Mountain Biking – Breckenridge is surrounded by scenic trails that cater to all skill levels, from easy strolls to challenging hikes. Popular hiking spots include the Peaks Trail, Mohawk Lakes Trail, and McCullough Gulch Trail. The area also offers an extensive network of mountain biking trails, including lift-accessed downhill trails at the Breckenridge Ski Resort. Riders can explore cross-country trails, technical descents, and scenic rides.
• Whitewater Rafting – Nearby rivers, such as the Blue River offer thrilling whitewater rafting adventures. Guided rafting trips are available for all experience levels, from family-friendly floats to adrenaline-pumping rapids. The Arkansas River which offers world-class rafting is about 1 hour away.
• Fly Fishing – Anglers can try their luck catching trout in waters such as the Blue River and Tenmile Creek.
• Golfing – Breckenridge and the surrounding areas offer several championship golf courses (5) with stunning mountain views. Golf enthusiasts can tee off at courses like the Breckenridge Golf Club, which has 27 holes set amidst picturesque alpine scenery. The courses were designed by legendary golfer and course designer Jack Nicklaus.
• Scenic Chairlift Rides – Visitors can take scenic chairlift rides at the Breckenridge Ski Resort to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Some chairlifts also offer access to hiking and mountain biking trails.
• Horseback Riding – Guided horseback riding tours are available in the Breckenridge area, allowing visitors to explore the Rocky Mountains on horseback. Riders can enjoy scenic trails through forests, meadows, and mountain passes.
• Zip Lining – Thrill-seekers can experience the sensation of flying through the air on a zip line tour. Several companies in the area offer zip line adventures with multiple zip lines and bridges.
• Lake Dillon Reservoir – 15 minutes away from Breckenridge you can enjoy a host of activities such as sailing, power boating, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding.
• Festivals – Festivals in Breckenridge are plentiful and fun. The town loves to celebrate and get together, and all are welcome. During Christmas, the town is decked in decoration and lighting that’s postcard-perfect. The 4th of July Parade and the Firecracker 50 are a huge family hit every year.

• Sightseeing and Photography – Scenic drives, such as the Boreas Pass Road and the byways of the Colorado Rockies offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Photographers will find endless opportunities to capture the beauty of the natural landscape.

Dining

As a premier resort, you can be certain of wonderful places to dine in Breckenridge. Depending on your palate and your desired setting and budget we can recommend a number of restaurants. Please note that there are many more than just the small list below.

• The Blue River Bistro – This upscale bistro offers a diverse menu of American cuisine with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy dishes such as seafood, steaks, pasta, and salads, as well as craft cocktails and an extensive wine list.
• Hearthstone Restaurant – Housed in a historic Victorian building, Hearthstone Restaurant offers an elegant dining experience with a menu featuring seasonal merican cuisine with global influences. The restaurant is known for its creative dishes, extensive wine selection, and cozy atmosphere.
• Briar Rose Chophouse & Saloon – Known for its rustic Western charm and fine steaks, Briar Rose Chophouse & Saloon offers a classic steakhouse experience in the heart of Breckenridge. The restaurant also serves seafood, chops, and other upscale American fare, as well as an extensive wine list and handcrafted cocktails.
• Rootstalk – With a chef who is a recipient of a James Beard award, this establishment offers fine dining and an incredible culinary experience in a chic but casual setting.
• La Cima Mall Restaurant – Situated at the top of Peak 8, La Cima Mall Restaurant offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains along with a menu of elevated mountain cuisine. Guests can enjoy dishes such as gourmet sandwiches, soups, salads, and desserts while taking in the breathtaking scenery.

Education

While Breckenridge itself is relatively small, the Summit School District offers a range of schools catering to different grade levels and educational needs. Breckenridge Elementary has students from Pre-K through to 5. After, many students enroll in Summit Middle and High School, excellent schools that prepare students well for further learning. The public school system throughout Summit County is an International Baccalaureate Program.

There are also private schools including Breckenridge Montessori, and Peak School for those looking for a different learning experience for their children.

Real Estate Options in Breckenridge

There is a wide variety of properties to choose from in the Breckenridge real estate market, and even a relatively modest amount can land you a luxury home in this resort area. There are mid-range luxury properties and also a top-tier market.

Luxury Estates

There are some exquisite estates in Breckenridge. These homes will be in prime locations, have multiple beds and baths, in the region of 5-8, provide excellent finishes and craftsmanship, and cover a large square footage. Prices at the upper end of the spectrum are in the $10M to $20M range, but for that price, you get a truly immaculate home that’s beautiful in the summer and magical in the winter. In this price bracket, the majority of homes for sale in Breckenridge are ski-in ski-out.

Luxury Homes

If you require something less grand but just as lavish there are luxury homes at more affordable price points. In the $5M to $10M range, there are properties that are beautifully finished and have top amenities with many being ski-in ski-out. They will normally have a generous number of rooms, typically 4-6 beds, and will have great views. In the $1M-$4M price bracket, homes are luxurious, charming, and a delight to live in. Expect around 3-4 beds and baths and around 2,000 sq ft.

Renting Out Your Home

Breckenridge is not only a fantastic place to buy a primary home, it’s also a wonderful location to invest in a vacation or secondary home. For those looking to invest, vacation rentals in Breckenridge, CO can offer very lucrative returns.

As mentioned earlier, the population of Breckenridge hovers at around 5,000 full-time residents, but the population can swell to over 20,000 at peak tourist times. The savvy investor will immediately notice that there is an opportunity here to buy a second or vacation home with a view to renting out. Bear in mind that Breckenridge attracts tourists year-round, most drawn to skiing, but as we have seen, there are a great number of summer activities too.

It is more than viable to utilize a property bought here, during certain times of the year and rent out when you are not occupying it. This way, a considerable amount of your investment can be recouped.

Then, when the time is right, you can sell your vacation rental in Breckenridge, CO, having enjoyed it over the years, and made a considerable amount from renting it out. Alternatively, you can make it your permanent home, or you can just keep renting it out indefinitely, and using it when you desire.

A popular type of accommodation that renters in Breckenridge look for are homes that are ski-in ski-out. This feature grants the ultimate ease of access to the lift, or the run itself, meaning you and those who rent your property, don’t need to carry their skis. They can go out and start straight from your home. In Breckenridge, homes for sale with a ski-in ski-out feature are not limited to single-family homes, they can be part of the condo or complex your home is in. It’s well worth asking your local real estate agent about short term rentals and the regulations in place, especially if you’re looking to rent out property.

Rental Considerations

If you are looking for an investment property with the plan of short term renting, you should be aware that there are some regulations. Short-term rentals, defined as any term shorter than 30 days, will require a license and the amount you pay will depend primarily on the number of bedrooms the property has. It’s also important to know that Breckenridge is divided into 4 zones and each zone has a specific number of licenses available. These regulations are primarily set in place to preserve the beauty and sustainability of the area and maintain Breckenridge as a premier resort town.

Your agent will be able to discuss with you the areas that will best serve your investment purposes and guide you not only to the right location but also to the right property.

Discover the Doyle Richmond Experience and Find Your Mountain Home

Owning a property in Breckenridge opens so many options and provides a wealth of benefits. If you’d like to explore your real estate options in Breckenridge and the surrounding areas of Keystone, Dillon, Frisco, Silverthorne, and Copper, get in touch with Doyle Richmond at LIV Sotheby’s International Realty.

With Doyle Richmond, you’ll be in the hands of a distinguished realtor with an impeccable reputation and unparalleled credentials. Doyle has over 30 years of living and selling real estate in Summit County. With a track record that amounts to over $1 billion in real estate transactions, Doyle is in the top 1% of brokers in Summit County. His achievements and accolades have been won through his expertise, determination, and the simple fact that he always puts our clients first.

Contact Doyle at 970.390.9240 or leave a message here and Doyle we’ll get right back to you. Together, we’ll find your place on the mountain.