Why Spring Break in Breck

When you think of spring break, you might picture a tropical beach and not the snowy slopes of the Rockies. It may come as a surprise, but spring in Breckenridge brings an extended ski season, longer days and warmer weather. With an average of 300 days of sunshine annually you won’t want to miss spring break in Breckenridge! Our Breck spring break vacation planning guide has everything you need plus locals’ tips so you can plan the ultimate sun-filled vacation.  

Spring Skiing 

Have no fear, the snow is here! Breckenridge Ski Resort offers an extended ski season through Memorial Day (weather permitting), so there is plenty of opportunity to earn your turns if you are coming in March or beyond. With highs in the upper thirties in March, you can enjoy days of warm skiing and soft snow.  

Don’t forget to pack your sunscreen and layers! Warmer days mean you’ll work up a sweat on the slopes, so be sure to wear moisture-wicking base layers under your gear. And while we love working on our goggle tan, fresh snow can reflect up to 90% of UV radiation, which makes sunscreen an essential for your packing list. 

Activities for Families 

In addition to skiing, there is an abundance of off-mountain activities for the whole family to enjoy. If you’re seeking adventure, try a snowshoe hike or a cross-country ski jaunt. Between the Gold Run Nodic Center and Breckenridge Nordic Center, there are over 30 miles of trails to explore. Grab a sled and hit one of the free sledding hills in Breckenridge or enjoy ice skating right at the base area of Peak 8. 

If you’d like to spend some time inside, opt for an escape room or even axe throwing right on Main Street. For even more ideas to fill your day, head to our picks for the top winter activities in Breckenridge. 

Après Ski Patios 

After a day well spent, there is nothing better than an après ski cocktail on a sun-soaked patio. Ski right down to Robbie’s Tavern at the base of Peak 8 and sip slopeside at an outdoor fire pit. If you’re on Main Street, check out the dog-friendly outdoor patios at the Canteen Taphouse and Kenosha.  

Après options abound in Breckenridge but lucky for you, we’ve tried them all! Pick one of the best après ski cocktails in town and beat the crowds by grabbing a drink before all the skiers come down from the mountain. 

Local Tips from the Best of Breck Team 

Laurel: Get the most relaxation out of your trip by avoiding unnecessary traffic. 

Spring break can be a busy time in Breck! Avoid the traffic and take advantage of the free transportation options around town. The Breck Free Ride bus system runs throughout town day, the Breck Connect Gondola is also a free and quick way to get to the base of the mountain or many of the resorts around town typically have a free shuttle! 

Tianna: Savor the views and get the most out of a night on the town. 

Find outdoor seating with great views such as the base of Peak 8, since the weather is warm enough to sit outside now. If you’re planning a night on the town, bar hop to these spots: Gold Pan Saloon, Broken Compass Brewing, Napper Tandy’s Irish Pub, Brooklyn’s Tavern and Billiards, and Breckenridge Ale House.

Sammy: Explore downtown Breckenridge during the day. 

Make sure you take time to explore all the gems that downtown Breckenridge has to offer. There are over 200 stores on Main Street so you can find everything from clothing boutiques to children’s toy stores. Don’t forget to caffeinate for your shopping spree by stopping by one of the best coffee shops in Breck! 

Cody: Catch some extra Z’s and take advantage of Breckenridge Ski Resort’s high elevation.  

The ski resort, which can’t be missed upon your drive into town or any glance west from nearly anywhere in Breck, is situated around 10,000′ feet above sea level. You can visit in March for a chance at spring powder or later in April and May for less crowds and warm, slushy laps. My tip for spring break? Sleep in! Head to the mountain a little later than usual and allow the snow to soften up, and as an added bonus, you won’t have to wear as many layers as temperatures reach comfortable levels. If you’re one for late nights at the Gold Pan Saloon or Motherloaded Tavern, spring break might be for you because even at the crack of noon, the snow will still be there and it’ll still be great!