Why Breckenridge Is So Much More Than a Ski Town

Whether you’re drawn to the winter wonderland charm, the summer’s sun-kissed adventures, the tranquility of spring, or the autumnal splendor, experience firsthand why Breckenridge is a cherished destination, each and every season.

Navigating High Altitude Travel

Welcome to Breckenridge, where the air is thin, the views are spectacular, and adventure awaits at every turn. Perched at 9600’ high in the Rockies, Breckenridge offers a literal breathtaking travel experience. However, with great altitude comes great responsibility. In this blog, we’ll chat about traveling to altitude and its effects on the body, how to prepare for your trip, and what to do if you find yourself feeling the effects of altitude sickness. Plus, we’ll introduce you to some local businesses in Breckenridge, that can help you acclimate and make the most of your mountain vacation. Before we jump into more about traveling at altitude, we here at the Best Of Breckenridge are not medical professionals and these are just our personal tips below, please check out the CDC’s website on Altitude Sickness and adhere to their guidelines. 

Understanding Altitude and Its Effects:

Breckenridge sits at an elevation of 9,600 feet above sea level, and many of the surrounding peaks exceed 14,000 feet. As you ascend to these lofty heights, the air pressure decreases, resulting in lower levels of oxygen. This drop in oxygen can lead to altitude-related challenges for some individuals. Altitude sickness symptoms include:

  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Loss of appetite
  • Fatigue
  • Lightheadedness
  • Trouble sleeping

And none of those sound fun when you’re trying to enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding mountain tops.

How to prepare for high-altitude travel:

Before embarking on your adventure to Breckenridge, it’s essential to take precautions to help your body adjust to the altitude. Staying well-hydrated is key, as dehydration can exacerbate altitude symptoms. Upon arriving in Colorado or Breckenridge we recommend drinking some electrolytes in conjunction with plenty of H20. Get plenty of rest so your body is ready for the changes in altitude and temperature it will be adjusting to.  If you are concerned about altitude sickness, you can also purchase small portable oxygen canisters which can provide temporary relief and alleviate some symptoms. Another thing to note, you may not want to have too many celebratory drinks when arriving in Breckenridge as it is well noted that altitude increases the effects of alcohol on your body.

 

How to recognize altitude sickness:

Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of their age, gender, or fitness level. Common symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. If you experience severe symptoms like difficulty breathing or confusion, seek medical attention immediately. It’s important to listen to your body and not push yourself too hard, especially during the initial days at high altitude.

Seeking Relief in Breckenridge:

Should you find yourself feeling the effects of altitude, fear not—in Breckenridge, you’re covered. The O2 Lounge is a haven for those seeking supplemental oxygen therapy. Located in the heart of town, this establishment offers a rejuvenating boost of oxygen to help alleviate symptoms and get you back to enjoying your vacation.

 

For those in need of a more comprehensive approach to recovery, the elite IV Lounge provides intravenous hydration therapy. Their skilled staff can customize IV infusions to address specific needs, ensuring you’re back on your feet and ready to explore the mountain.

If either of these remedies do not work, there is one that will surely help: head to a lower altitude. It may be a disappointing choice but is sure to help alleviate the symptoms.

Coming to Breckenridge promises awe-inspiring views and lifetime memories. By understanding the effects of altitude on your body and taking proactive steps to acclimate, you can make the most of your mountain getaway. Should you find yourself in need of assistance, businesses like the O2 Lounge and the Elite IV Lounge in Breckenridge are here to help you breathe easy and get back to enjoying the stunning Rocky Mountain experience. So, pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready for an unforgettable journey in the heart of Colorado.

 

If you are planning a trip to Breckenridge, consider staying at the Grand Lodge on Peak 7, they’ve partnered with Bluebird Oxygen and offer doorside drop-off of oxygen to help you acclimate. 

Breckenridge and Pop Culture

There’s no denying it – Breckenridge has made its mark on Popular culture. Starting in the 20th Century, the little Rocky Mountain town began to make appearances in film, sports, and other prevalent activities. Breckenridge continues to leave a mark as a charming place that encompasses mountain culture and draws in visitors from across the world.

Dog-Friendly Guide to Breckenridge

We love our dogs here in Breckenridge, and we know you do, too! As a valued member of the family, bringing Fido on your vacation is a no-brainer. Lucky for you, Breckenridge is a dog’s paradise with miles of hiking trails, outdoor patios and even Fido-friendly accommodations. We’ve gathered everything you need to know so you and your pooch can have a howling good time.  

Dog Hiking on Black Powder Pass

Dog Hiking in Breckenridge

Dog-Friendly Outdoors  

Breckenridge is a stunning mountain destination—home to hundreds of miles of trail systems that are virtually all dog friendly, meaning you and Fido can have your pick. While the paws-ibilities are endless, these are some of our favorite hikes around Breckenridge:  

Easy: Sawmill Trail, Burro Trail, Sallie Barber Mine Trail 

Moderate: Peaks Trail, Baker’s Tank, Francie’s Cabin via Spruce Creek Trail 

Hard: McCullough Gulch Trail, Wheeler Trail 

Dog on the BreckConnect Gondola

Riding on the BreckConnect Gondola

Dog-Friendly Activities  

Ride the Gondola 

The BreckConnect Gondola is a great FREE activity not only for the family but also your pooch! During the summer and winter seasons, the gondola runs from town up to the base areas of Peak 7 and Peak 8. Take your pup for a gondola ride and hop off at the base of Peak 8 to enjoy a cocktail from Ullr Café on the outdoor patio.  

Head to the Dog Park  

If your pup loves playing with other dogs, head over to the Carter Park Dog Park to let them run off leash in an acre of fenced space. There is even a separate, fenced-in small dog area for our tiny four-legged friends. You’ll meet all the local dogs here—this is a favorite spot! 

Enjoy Outdoor Patios 

No need to skip Main Street—you can bring your doggo along with you for après cocktails around town! Restaurants like Kenosha and the Canteen Taphouse have large outdoor patios that welcome dogs. Broken Compass Brewing offers two dog-friendly locations; or, if you’d rather head inside, Rocky Mountain Underground allows your well-behaved pup indoors. The list doesn’t stop here, there are more dog-friendly patios to explore! 

Dogs at the dog park in Breckenridge

Dogs Playing at the Carter Park Dog Park

Dog-Friendly Lodging 

Comfy accommodations for you and your four-legged friend await at the Breck Inn. Located just a mile north of Main Street, the Breck Inn offers cozy, standard hotel rooms along with complimentary breakfast options. Make sure to call ahead as pet rooms are limited! As a bonus, 10% of all dog fees are donated to the Summit County Animal Control and Shelter.  

Pet Supplies/Boarding 

The Dog House 

If your pup needs a place to stay or you just need a little doggie daycare, check out the Dog House. The Dog House offers overnight boarding, doggie daycare and large indoor play areas so dogs can spend the majority of their days in play groups according to their size and temperament.  

Animal Lovers Pet Supply 

Even your dog deserves to go home with some souvenirs! Located next to the Dog House, Animal Lovers Pet Supply has a diverse selection of toys and treats. They also offer grooming and self-service dog wash stations so you can give your pup a good clean after a day of adventuring.  

For Pets’ Sake  

This is not necessarily for your dog, but more for you! This thrift shop on Main Street funds the Animal Rescue of the Rockies. Stop in with your pooch and explore the selection of gently used clothing, jewelry, housewares and more.  

Dogs on Main Street Breckenridge

Good Pups on Main Street

Dog Etiquette  

Leash Laws 

If you are within the town limits of Breckenridge, dogs are required to be on a leash. Outside of the town limits, you can have your dog off leash under voice command. For the full rundown of dog regulations, you can head to the Town of Breckenridge website. 

Where Not to Go 

The Riverwalk Center lawn, the fields of Kingdom Park, Cucumber Gulch, and the Breckenridge Golf Course are the only places off-limits to dogs. 

Clean Up After Your Dog 

Wherever you bring your pup around Breckenridge, please be sure to clean up after them. There are plenty of dog-waste bag stations and trash cans around town so you can help us keep Breckenridge clean. 

 

Top 5 Breckenridge Winter Vacation Photo Spots

Capture that perfect holiday card-worthy photo from your time in Breckenridge. These are the top 5 winter photo opp spots.

Alternative Transportation in Breckenridge

Free and Paid Public Transportation in Breckenridge

Getting around is free and easy!

There are free public transportation, taxi services, and rental car agencies in the community.

Hotel Shuttles: Check with your hotel! Most lodging hotels and condominiums in Breckenridge have complimentary shuttles.

Breckenridge ‘Free Ride’: The Breckenridge ‘Free Ride’ is free bus transportation that takes you all around town. Operating seven days a week, the Breckenridge ‘Free Ride’ is the best choice for getting around town, especially after hours. Click here for more information.

Summit Stage: The Summit Stage is the free county-wide bus transportation that travels to Copper Mountain, Keystone, Dillon, Silverthorne, and Frisco. Summit Stage bus service is available year round and departs from various locations, including the Breckenridge Transit Center located right next to the BreckConnect Gondola. Visit www.summitstage.com for more information.

Paid Transportation

Uber: From your cell phone, download the app, tap a button and get a ride. Uber is an easy way to get around without any hassle. One tap and a car will come directly to you. Your driver knows exactly where to go and when you get there, just step out. Payment is completely seamless.

Here is a local’s guide to parking in Breckenridge!