Breckenridge

The biggest ski mountain in the state is Vail Ski Resort, but Breckenridge Ski Resort is the most well-known in Colorado and one of the busiest in the Western Hemisphere. Although everyone who visits Breckenridge probably comes for the skiing, this town's roots are in mining. And the log and clapboard fronted buildings strewn about town, dating all the way back to the late 19th century, reflect the leftovers of that prospector-born wealth. Additionally, the area is ideal for hiking; in the summer, visit Blue River for wildflowers along the picturesque trails.

Breckenridge's winter season offers many chances to spend time with your favorite people. Whether it's sharing a round at après after spending the day tearing through powder on the legendary slopes of the ski town (Fun fact: Breckenridge has the highest chairlift in North America), or strolling arm in arm in a puffy jacket down the sidewalk under a soft snowfall as you make your way from one neighborhood pub to another. Breckenridge may only be 7 miles long and 2 miles wide, but it is home to more than 100 restaurants and bars where visitors are welcomed with open arms and bar tabs. Therefore, there is plenty of ground to cover.

Whether you start early on the river casting dries at a particularly alluring eddy, splashing through rapids on a Class V run down the Arkansas, or you take to the singletrack on two wheels or four legs, cool mountain breezes and long, sun-drenched afternoons make it easy to seek out the excitement in every day. Of course, the journey is the best part of any excursion here, and it frequently includes seeing the friendliest locals, such as moose, elk, deer, and other native wildlife who enjoy interacting with visitors to Breckenridge as much as the locals do.