Modern day snowshoeing is a snow activity partaken by those who still want to hike trails or explore the backcountry without a snowmobile, splitboard, or alpine touring set-up. Snowshoeing is a great way to get in shape by providing a cardio workout that builds up your strength, endurance, balance, and agility. What better way to train your body for skiing and snowboarding while you still spend time in the beautiful outdoors! Although Breckenridge is better known as a hub for everything skiing and snowboarding, the ski town also boasts a strong trail system for snowshoeing with two Nordic centers and a well-established trail system.
The Gold Run Nordic Center, run by the Town of Breckenridge, sells and rents snowshoes for their clearly marked trails. Call (970)-547-7889 to make a reservation on one of their guided daytime or full moon snowshoe tours filled with history, wildlife, and nature information from knowledgeable, experienced guides. The Breckenridge Nordic Center, run by the Dayton family who also run the Frisco Nordic Center, has nearly 10 miles of trails dedicated to snowshoeing. The Breckenridge Nordic Center also offers daytime and moon light snowshoe tours chock-full of information about the history and wildlife in the area, and can be reserved by calling (970) 453-6855. When you return from your snowshoeing adventure, sit by their cozy fireplace, sip on a hot specialty drink, and enjoy a cup of their homemade soup.
If you’re feeling extra adventurous, contact the Breckenridge visitor’s center for information on snow and avalanche conditions. Rangers can guide you to the best trails based on your experience and skills with snowshoeing. Grab your snowshoes and head over to frequented Breckenridge trails: the Carter Park trailhead which is located at the east end of the Carter Park parking lot, the Illinois Creek trailhead found on the southeastern corner of the parking lot off of Boreas Pass Road next to the Stephen C. West Ice Arena, or the Iowa Hill trailhead found on the left of Airport Rd (when you’re heading opposite the town) and down a short dirt road to a parking area. Explore everything Breckenridge has to offer as you hike through fluffy Colorado powder and appreciate the ski town in a whole other way!