Family Activities for a Snowy Day

For many, there’s only one thing to do on a snowy day in Breckenridge: Ride the lifts and shred until the powder’s gone. But there’s even more to do in Breck as a family.  Here are additional activities the entire family will love to do together:

Glide

Ice skating at the Stephen C. West Arena is easy and inexpensive. Skate rentals start at $4 per person, entrance is $8 for adults and $6 for children, and visitors can choose from an indoor or outdoor arena.

Splash and Climb (and more)

One visit to the Breckenridge Recreation Center, and you’ll never want to leave. The aquatic area has two spas and two pools; the leisure pool has a two-story, winding slide, a lazy river, and more. The lap pool has a mini rock climbing wall and rope swing. More ambitious climbers will appreciate the climbing wall with 1,400 square feet of climbing (you can rent harnesses on-site). Options include bouldering, top-climbing or lead climbing.

 

Nordic

The Breckenridge Nordic Center is among the state’s best, with 30 km of groomed classic and skate cross-country ski trails, 13 km of snowshoe trails, fat biking, ice skating, sleigh rides, and lessons. The welcoming clubhouse lets you set up a base for the duration of your stay (bring a brown bag lunch or buy food there). Day passes are $20 for adults and $15 for kids (children six and under are free). Better yet, these passes also work at the nearby Frisco and Gold Run Nordic centers.

Arts

The Breckenridge Arts District has events, classes, workshops, galleries, and more scheduled throughout the winter. With a variety of programs for people of all ages and experience, chances are you’ll find something that appeals. Looking for a sure thing? Ready Paint Fire is a definite crowd pleaser. Choose pottery, canvas, mosaic or glass fusing, and prepare to create a display-worthy masterpiece.

 

Dog Sledding

There are few things that compare to being pulled by a team of joyful pups while sitting in a sled. Good Times Adventure Tours runs a six-mile loop guaranteed to exhilarate and inspire. The dogs are all strong, healthy, and eager, and the guides share their knowledge of the valley while keeping everything on track.

Indulge

When you’re on vacation, there’s no such thing as counting calories, right? Especially on a snowy day. Take the kids to one of the myriad of bakeries in town (don’t miss Mom’s Baking Company on Main Street for a savory strudel, traditional Czech pastries, cheesecake, and more).

Time Travel

With a range of museums and historic tours, Breckenridge’s history will captivate everyone from history buffs to the merely curious. For a full range of options, click here. The snowshoe tour through gold mining history brings to life the area’s past booms and busts. All the tours are led by knowledgable experts whose passion for their topic ensures a fun, educational experience.

Coast

The Gold Runner Alpine Coaster at the Breckenridge travels 2,500 feet from its top to the base. Riders (go alone or with the little ones) control their speed as the coaster car twists and turns above Breckenridge’s slopes and through the forest. The coaster is now open seven days a week from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., weather permitting.

 

 

 

Rachel Walker is a freelance writer, mom, and skier (not necessarily in that order). She lives with her two sons and husband in Boulder, Colorado, and beelines for the mountains whenever possible. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter: @racheljowalker.

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