Get Ready for Ski Season

Get Ready for Ski Season

  • Nest Seekers Colorado
  • 01/12/24

In Summit County, Colorado, when the air turns crisp, the clocks turn back, and the first hint of snow begins dusting below the treeline of Breckenridge and Keystone resorts, it can only mean that everyone's favorite season is finally upon us:

Ski season.

And while the most avid downhillers dust off the boots and wax the skis in August or September, most begin their annual preparations right about now. So whether you're a Summit County local, a new resident, or a luxury home buyer considering an alpine investment, there's no better time to get ready for ski season and catch up with Summit County's twin-gem ski resorts of Breckenridge and Keystone.

About Breckenridge Ski Resort

Breckenridge is more than a ski destination; it's the confluence of history, adventure, and unparalleled luxury living. Founded during the peak of the 1800s Gold Rush, Breckenridge boasts a distinctive Western vibe. But that rustic edge is contoured by a rich heritage and culture that includes Victorian architecture, a sprawling historic district, a thriving arts scene in the middle of downtown, and well over 200 restaurants, stores, and fun things to do across the town. The town is a treasure, with a vibrant community and a stellar luxury real estate scene.

Then, there is the Breckenridge Resort, one of the country's premier ski destinations, encompassing almost 3,000 acres of stunning mountain slopes and runs spread over five awe-inspiring peaks. Featuring incredibly diverse terrain that is both challenging and fun for all levels of skiers and snowboarders, the resort is perfect for families, couples, and large groups.

Breckenridge by the numbers:

Season opens: November 10, 2023

  • Base elevation: 9,600 ft
  • Highest elevation: Peak 8 at 12,998 ft
  • Average snowfall: more than 350 inches annually
  • Terrain: 2,908 acres of skiable terrain
  • Trails: 187
  • Lifts: 35, including the Imperial SuperChair, at 12,840 feet, the highest lift in North America

About Keystone Ski Resort

Approximately 20 minutes from Breckenridge sits the Keystone Resort, arguably one of Colorado's most family-friendly destinations. Keystone is a laid-back luxury adventure designed for all skill sets of any age — kids, in particular, since they ski here for free. From the perfectly groomed runs to the state-of-the-art lift systems to unique offerings such as The World's Largest Mountain Top Snow Fort, this resort prioritizes your experience both on and off the slopes.

Keystone also offers night skiing for the adventurer who isn't ready to let the day end, and its A51 Terrain Park is recognized as one of America's best. Beyond skiing, the acclaimed resort draws rave reviews for its attention to detail, comfort, and world-class amenities that cater to those who appreciate the finer things in life, including shopping in River Run Village and pampering at Alpenglow Spa.

Keystone by the numbers:

Season opens: December 15, 2023

  • Base elevation: 9,280 ft
  • Highest elevation: 12,408 ft
  • Average snowfall: more than 225 inches annually
  • Terrain: 3,149 acres of skiable terrain, the most in Summit County
  • Trails: 139
  • Lifts: 20

Ski pass options

The Epic Pass is your golden ticket to the mountains. Offering unrestricted access to Breckenridge, Keystone, and many other Vail Resorts destinations, it's an indispensable asset for those who demand the utmost flexibility and variety for the duration of their ski season. The Epic Pass is available for $969 with no exclusion dates.

For those wanting to keep their skiing hyper-local, the Summit Value Pass affords purchasers unlimited resort access to Breckenridge (excluding peak dates) and Keystone (no exclusion dates) for $584 for adults, $474 for teens, and $326 for children. Prices are due to increase on November 19.

Benefits for both passes include 20% off food, lodging, group lessons, and rentals. For those seeking a more bespoke ski experience, exclusive club memberships at both resorts provide additional privileges and refined comfort.

Parking for Breckenridge and Keystone

Breckenridge offers convenient parking options with paid lots close to the base areas, including those downtown at the South Gondola parking garage. Additional parking includes the North Gondola Lot (for access to Peaks 7 and 8) and the Gold Rush Lot and Beaver Run Lot for Peak 9.

In Keystone, the thoughtfully designed parking setup is highly convenient – from the River Run Lot to the Mountain House Base Area, you'll find free and paid parking suited to your preferences. Shuttle services at both resorts provide a hassle-free transition from your vehicle to the lifts.

Of course, if you're in the neighborhood, please stop by the NestSeekers office in the heart of downtown Breckenridge or call us, and we can direct you to our private parking lot to avoid crowds.

Dining and apres ski

A day on the slopes is as much about food as it's fun, and both Breckenridge and Keystone boast vast selections of restaurants, cafes, and markets, enough to quell any appetite before or after your time on the mountain.

In Breckenridge, refined dining is prevalent, and the nightlife always promises a great time during the peak of ski season. Your best opportunities for lively apres-ski are in Breckenridge, specifically at Sevens at the base of Peak 7 or the ski-up convenience of The Maggie on Peak 9.

Keystone takes a more laid-back approach to slopeside cuisine with River Run Village, featuring fine dining, casual eats, and wonderfully relaxed bars. When dining on the mountain, you can't go wrong with the trifecta of LaBonte's Smokehouse, Timber Ridge Lodge, or Summit House.

Ready to own in Breckenridge or Keystone?

From secondary vacation homes (or even permanent places to live full-time) to seasonal income opportunities, owning a home in the Summit County locales of Breckenridge and Keystone represents the pinnacle of luxury home investment.

If you're ready to explore Breckenridge Ski In Ski Out Homes or the outstanding options that await in Keystone, visit our office located in the heart of Breckenridge or call the Team at NestSeekers Colorado today and allow our team's extensive experience and expertise to help you navigate luxury Summit County Homes for Sale.



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