breckenridge

Location: 81 miles west of Denver off I-70
Elevation: 9603,Population: 2408

The word quaint might have been invented in Breckenridge. Its main street could be a painting of what a mountain resort town ought to look like.

The oldest and largest town in Colorado's famous Summit County started out, like many, as a mining town. And locals aren't about to forget it. The 250-plus buildings on the National Historic Register attest to that. Take one of the 12-block downtown walking tours or check out the 1875 Carter Museum and Barn, thought to be the oldest museum in the state, and the Country Boy mine, where you can pan for gold just like the '59-ers. Also take time to stop by the church built by "Father" Dyer, an itinerant Methodist minister who visited town frequently, often using snowshoes to get around.

Four mountains flank the town, providing 2,000 acres of the best skiing anywhere and enough variety to suit even the most seasoned skier. Nordic centers cater to cross-country skiers and snowshoers, as well. In summer, you can ride the ski lift up to hiking trails with unparalleled views. Four outdoor pleasure, there's also cycling, golf and Jeep tours of area ghost towns. Summit County even has a paved bike trail system connecting Breckenridge with other nearby towns. It's a challenging ride, to say the least.

Breckenridge diners can will find a mix of cuisine, from seafood to Mexican fare, Italian and continental cuisine. Lodgings range from romantic bed-and-breakfast inns to ski resort hotels, and there are many budget-friendly options for families.

Festivals punctuate the annual calendar, from the Ullr Fest (celebrating the Nordic god of winter) and International Ice Carving Championships in winter to the annual summer music festival in the riverside tent.

But whether you go for the masses of wildflowers in summer or the snow sports of winter, be sure to walk down the quaint main street and do some window-shopping and admire the well-preserved architecture. And be sure to bring a camera.

Source: Colorado.com

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