Now that you have planned your dream ski trip to Breckenridge, you are probably wondering which ski runs in Breckenridge are the best for you?!
Have no fear, we have narrowed it down to the best runs from each distinct ski class. This guide will help you choose the right ski run in Breckenridge for your ability OR allow you to set some big goals to try a more challenging run.
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Ski Run Classification (Colors) Key
Before you visit Breckenridge Mountain to tackle the slopes, it’s important that you understand the colors. Here’s a quick summary for ya!
Green Circle (Beginner):
The Green Circle ski run is the perfect choice for beginners who are just starting their skiing journey. These runs are characterized by gentle slopes, wide trails, and minimal obstacles, making them ideal for those new to the sport.
Blue Square (Intermediate):
Intermediate skiers seeking a bit more challenge and excitement will appreciate the Blue Square ski runs. These trails typically feature steeper slopes and a variety of terrain, allowing skiers to hone their skills
Black Diamond (Expert):
For the advanced skiers looking for a thrilling challenge, the Black Diamond ski runs are the go-to choice. These runs are known for their steep inclines, moguls, and occasional tree skiing, providing an exhilarating experience.
Double Black Diamond (Expert Only):
Double Black Diamond runs are reserved for experts only and are the pinnacle of skiing difficulty. These runs feature extreme terrain, steep pitches, and demanding conditions. Only truly experienced skiers should attempt these runs as the over confident recreation skier can find themselves in trouble real quick on these runs.
Double Black Diamond (Extreme):
At the top of the skiing hierarchy are the Double Black Diamond (Extreme) runs, which are not for the faint of heart. These runs push the boundaries of what is possible in skiing, with almost vertical descents, tight chutes, and extreme conditions. Unless you have been skiing for several years and are an expert skier in peak physical condition, you should not attempt any extreme terrain, even if you are an expert skier the hazards and dangers are very real when skiing this terrain.
Best Ski Runs in Breckenridge
I’ve organized this list of favorite ski runs from beginner to expert. Get ready for some epic adventures!
1. Best Beginner Ski Run in Breckenridge: Green Circle Run – Silverthorne – Peak 9
Silverthorne offers a perfect run for beginners who are just starting out skiing or snowboarding for the first time. The run offers mellow slopes that assists beginners working on their fundamentals.
Breckenridge Resort also designates this run as one of many “slow zones”. These slow zones are specifically meant for beginners to learn, while all skill levels are welcome these areas are patrolled by yellow jackets (or Mountain Staff). They ensure no reckless skiers or snowboarders come speeding down the run while beginners are trying to learn how to ski.
Silverthorne also has a fun kid zone called the Haunted Forest. The Haunted Forest is a fun area built up with structures and weaving trails through the woods. I recommend beginners have the ability to stop and have enough control to make turns before going into the Haunted Forest.
Lift Access to Silverthorne Run
You will want to use the Quicksilver Superchair to access Silverthorne. The run basically follows the lift from top to bottom.
Looking for more winter fun in Breckenridge? Try ice-skating!
2. Best Intermediate Ski Run in Breckenridge: Blue Square Run – Claimjumper – Sits Between Peak 7 and Peak 8
Claimjumper is the definition of a classic blue run. This run is groomed daily and will not have moguls present due to the extensive grooming.
Claimjumper has a moderate flowing slope that allows skiers and snowboarders to perfect their big arcing turns with speed.
The run is fairly wide giving plenty of room to dodge the crowds. Check out this run early in the day to ensure you get fresh corduroy, before it gets skied off as this run is quite a popular one.
Lift Access to Claimjumper
You can access this run easily from either Peak 8 via Rocky Mountain Superchair. However be warned there is a slight traverse on Columbine required that brings you past the T-Bar and then leads you to Claimjumper.
The other option to access Claimjumper is to take Independence Superchair located on Peak 7, from here you will have to take either Lower Forget-Me-Not or Pioneer to lead you to Claimjumper. The benefit to accessing Claimjumper from Peak 7 is no traversing is required.
Best Hard Ski Run in Breckenridge: Black Diamond Run – Centennial – Peak 10
Centennial is an amazing black diamond run that is groomed regularly, providing a steep and flowing run from top to bottom.
Generally Peak 10 and this run are not as crowded as other areas on the mountain. There’s been several times our group will be the only ones skiing down Centennial! This allows us to open up and make beautiful turns using the full width of the run.
There are a few sections with rollers that will produce a lightness in the boot followed by a compression rolling out of the base that are fun to hit with a little more speed.
Lift Access to Centennial
You will access Centennial via Falcon Superchair. To get to Falcon Superchair you will most likely take Quicksilver Superchair on Peak 9 and take the feeder run to Ten Mile Station.
Don’t worry, there are signs located at the top of Quicksilver Superchair to guide you in the right direction.
If you are higher up on Peak 9 you will take Mercury Superchair and we recommend Upper Lehman down to Ten Mile Station to connect on Falcon Superchair.
Best Expert Ski Run in Breckenridge: Double Black Diamond Run – Eagle’s Nest in Horseshoe Bowl – Peak 10
Horseshoe Bowl is a Breckenridge Iconic Ski Bowl featuring several Double Black Diamond runs. Our pick for the best run in the Bowl would be Eagle’s Nest.
Eagles Nest features sections of exposed rock when snowpack is low, but generally stays filled in throughout the ski season.
Eagle’s nest is a consistent steep slope that skis extremely well after a fresh snowfall and is definitely a run you want to race to on a powder day.
As a reminder this run is above treeline and can produce whiteout conditions quickly. If you have never skied this run before make sure you go on a day when there is high visibility so you can spot hazards.
Lift Access to Eagle’s Nest Ski Run
The most common lift access to Horseshoe Bowl is the T-Bar.
To get to T-Bar use Rocky Mountain Superchair and follow Columbine if you are on Peak 8. If you are on Peak 7 use Independence Superchair and follow Lower Forget-Me-Not.
As a reminder T-Bar only has access to Expert terrain, there is no easy way down once you get on the T-Bar. If you have never used the T-Bar before, I would recommend going on an off-peak day to practice without the crowds as it can be challenging to get the hang of.
Most Extreme Ski Run in Breckenridge: Double Black Diamond Run – Behold in Six Senses – Peak 6
If you have made it this far you are a seasoned and Expert skier/boarder. You have been skiing and snowboarding since you were born and at one point you considered a professional career in skiing or snowboarding.
If this is not you then do not attempt any extreme run. Extreme runs are very dangerous and have real hazards that can and will result in death or serious injury if your skill is not truly that of an expert level.
With the heavy disclaimer out of the way let’s get to what I believe is the juiciest and best skiing extreme run Breckenridge Resort has to offer. The Behold in Six Sense Bowl, in my opinion, is the best extreme Double Black Diamond terrain on Breckenridge mountain.
Generally the run starts with a large cornice that must be navigated while you drop in. Now this isn’t the most cliffy run Breck has to offer, but when the big storm comes through this run holds the snow the best.
This run does require you to hike to the top of Peak 6. If you are in shape the hike is pretty quick and takes about 10-15 minutes. Locals and ski patrol basically run up it but don’t try to be a hero and waste all your energy hiking too fast.
Lift Access to Behold Six Sense Bowl
Since you are an expert skier/snowboarder I’ll give you the local’s way to Peak 6 that avoids the worst chair on the mountain “Zendo Chair”.
You’ll ride Independence Superchair from Peak 7 to Pioneer Crossing, passing directly in front of pioneer crossing.
Do not go downhill quite yet.
Once you make your way across the front of the building you will see a narrow single track trail that leads into the woods called Wanderlust. Follow this trail through the woods and it will spit you out just above Zendo Chair and Kensho Superchair.
Take Kensho to the top of Peak Six, when you get off the lift you will see the Ski Patrol shack and the hike to trail will be just to the left.
When you get to the very top, catch your breath, drink some water then traverse across the peak down to Behold. Behold is basically the last section before you will have to start walking back uphill to get to Whiff, Savor, Contact, ESP, and others.
Best Ski Runs in Breckenridge Recap
In summary, these ski run classifications cater to skiers of all skill levels, from beginners to extreme enthusiasts. Each class offers a unique skiing experience, and selecting a favorite run from each class allows for a diverse and thrilling skiing adventure. I have no doubt that you will have the best time hitting the slopes during your winter vacation Breckenridge!
