You can’t beat the fresh powder on the Rocky Mountain slopes of Breckenridge, one of Colorado’s most famous ski resort towns. However, this vacation hub offers a lot more for families than just chair lifts, ski runs, and rustic Breckenridge vacation rentals. Do you want to make sure your little ones have a mountain experience to remember? From hikes to dog-sledding tours and old mine tours, here are 10 kid-friendly winter and summer activities to help you plan the ultimate Breckenridge vacation.
1. Go Sledding at Carter Park
Grab your sleds and snow tubes from your vacation rental and head to Carter Park for the best downhill sledding in town. If you don’t have your own sleds, you can find some at the hill that are free to use, or rent a few at one of the rental shops. Families with kids of all ages can enjoy hours of free entertainment at this popular spot for winter fun, and if you’re traveling during the summer, you can take advantage of the tennis and volleyball courts instead.
2. Hit the Slopes
While the black diamond slopes may not be too kid-friendly, the slopes at Breckenridge offer plenty of options for kids young and old, including a bunny hill and plenty of gradual green runs. You can also find ski and snowboard lessons for all ages in Breckenridge, as well as ski rentals for kids and adults alike. For kids ages three to 12, consider the Ski & Ride school in which kids get to hit the slopes with the mascot Ripperoo while learning all about mountain safety and ecology.
3. Set Off on a Family Snowshoeing Excursion
Stop by one of the Nordic Centers in Breckenridge to pick up your snowshoe rentals, and step out onto the fresh powder of the meadows, valleys, and groomed trails for an unforgettable mountain experience that’s perfect for the whole family. Breckenridge offers more than 30 miles of groomed trails for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, including easy, kid-friendly options such as the Burro Trail, the Sallie Barber Mine Trail, and the French Gulch.
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4. Have a Blast at Epic Discovery
If the snow is melted, take the scenic gondola ride up to the top of Peak 8 to Alpine Camp, a base from which families can embark on interpretive trails, try out the adventure course, get their adrenaline rush on a zip line, or cruise down the hillside on an alpine slide. Be sure to ride the Colorado Scenic Chair to spot wildlife and enjoy unbeatable views of the mountains and resort.
5. See the Mountains From a Sleigh Ride or Dog Sled
Kids of all ages are sure to enjoy a tour of the Rockies from a horse-drawn sled. You can also ride a horse-drawn carriage from Breckenridge Stables during the summer months. For even more adventure, book a dog-sledding tour from Good Times Adventures. Most tours offer blankets to keep you warm as you traverse the mountainside, but be sure to bundle up the little ones either way.
6. Hike the Mohawk Lake Trail
Known by locals as one of the best hikes in the entire Breckenridge area, this trail takes you through evergreen woods, past beautiful mountain lakes and several roaring waterfalls. Due to some challenging areas, this hike may be best for families with older kids. Leave your vacation rental early to beat the crowds, and be sure to keep an eye out for moose and other wildlife.
7. Have Fun at the High Line Railroad Park and Playground
Little locomotive fans are sure to enjoy exploring this museum and playground where you can check out the old Engine No. 9 still parked on the Highline Track. Year-round exhibits include as a boxcar, a rare narrow-gauge rotary snowplow, and a flatcar. Be sure to check out the playground, where younger kids can have a blast climbing the train-themed structures.
8. Fly High on a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Get a bird’s eye view of Breckenridge and the surrounding Rockies by taking a relaxing, family-friendly hot air balloon ride. An experienced pilot ensures a safe lift-off and smooth flying. Be sure to bring a few cameras so the whole family can capture some shots of the incredibly beautiful panoramic views.
9. Check Out the Mountain Top Children’s Museum
Take a break from the outdoors with a trip to this small but fun museum that’s designed specifically for children. Wonder Lab and Kidstruction Zone area are fun exhibits for toddlers, and older kids can step inside a bear cave and play with animal puppets at the Rocky Mountain Wildlife exhibit. The museum also offers special events, day camps, and excursions for a fun day out.
10. Explore Country Boy Mine
Kids of all ages love traveling 1,000 feet underground for a fun-filled tour of this historic mine, but this family favorite offers a lot more than just mine adventures. Pan for real gold, slide down an ore chute, and pet the roaming burros who love to pose for cute photos while you’re waiting for your tour to start. When you’re above ground, you can also explore the mine site to see old mining equipment or pick up some old-fashioned toys or souvenir minerals at the general store.
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