Located in the Rocky Mountains, Breckenridge, Colorado, is known for its numerous resorts and activities. The town estimates a permanent resident population as of 2009 of about 3,500. However, with the many attractions in this town, tourists cause the population to increase 11 times its normal amount to over 38,000. If you're visiting this mountain town during the winter months, there are many indoor and outdoor activities to keep you busy.
Though the stables are open year-round, this resort offers a unique sleigh ride through the Rocky Mountains during the winter months only. The sleigh is equipped with seats and pulled by two horses through the mountains for a scenic ride. The traditional sleigh ride includes blankets and hot chocolate, with sleigh bells jingling on the sides. Riders also have the option to go on a sleigh ride that stops midway at a heated yurt providing dinner, music and entertainment. The sleigh rides are operational during Breckenridge's peak winter season of November through April. Prices vary depending on the amount of people in the group and the type of sleigh ride chosen.
Breckenridge Stables
Corner of Washington and Main Street
Breckenridge, CO 80424
970-453-4438
breckstables.com
Located near downtown Breckenridge, Good Times offers snowmobiling and dog sledding tours. There are one-, two- and three-hour options for snowmobiling. The two- and three-hour tours take riders up the Georgia Pass on top of the Continental Divide, 11585 feet above sea level. Drivers can be as young as 15 accompanied by a tour guide, but must be at least 18 to have passengers. Pricing varies depending on the length of the tour, and reservations are required at least 24 hours in advance. The dog sled rides at Good Times are 6 miles in length and last approximately an hour. The sled can hold up to six people and guests take turns riding in the sled and running the dogs. The tour guide explains the procedures on guiding the dogs and describes landmarks along the scenic tour. As of 2009 adults 9 years and up are $70 and children 8 and under are $35 per ride.
Good Times Adventures
6061 Tiger Road
Breckenridge, CO 80424
970-453-7604
800-477-0144
snowmobilecolorado.com
Located in the White River National Forest, Breckenridge Nordic Center offers cross country skiing, ski lessons and snowshoe tours. About 32 km of scenic trails have been set aside for cross country skiing as well as 16 km for snowshoeing. The Nordic Center in Breckenridge features "Kathy's Viewpoint," a small hut with snacks and heaters to warm up by. Season passes are available as well as equipment rentals and upgrades. Prices vary according to the resort package chosen, and as of 2009 hours are from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day.
Breckenridge Nordic Center
1200 Ski Hill Road
Breckenridge, CO 80424
970-453-6855
breckenridgenordic.com
