16 Snowy Things to Do if You Don’t Ski in Breckenridge

What can you do in Breckenridge if you don’t ski?

Not into the downhill scene, but still want to get out and soak up winter’s glory? Lots of visitors who come to Breckenridge don’t ski. Winter in the mountains brings about undeniable excitement and a special energy that’s contagious—on and off the ski resort slopes. So bundle up, get outside with your favorite adventurers and pray for snow! From dog-sledding, snowmobiling, sleigh rides, ice skating and more, here’s your quintessential snow-loving Breckenridge to-do list.

1. Sledding

Sledding is ther perfect activity for kids and kids at heart.

This family favorite never goes out of style. Whiz down the hill at Carter Park, race each other and set up a hot cocoa station at the picnic tables below. Toboggans, saucers and huge tubes are welcome and the hill is free to the public. Find Carter Park next to the dog park on High Street.

2. Ice Skating

Visit the state-of-the-art Stephen C. West Ice Arena for open skate and hockey drop-in games on indoor and outdoor rinks. Skate rentals and concessions are available onsite, along with handy red walkers in case you need a little balance assist.

3. Sleigh Rides

say hello to these gentle giants on a Breckenridge Sleigh Ride through the forest.

Winter magic unfolds on nostalgic wooden sleighs under wool blankets and a star-painted sky. Choose from one-hour scenic mountain tours with cocoa and cookies, private sleigh rides (perfect for popping the big question!), or full on dinner and theater mining camp experiences. Here’s a quick guide to all things sleigh-drawn.

4. Arts District Hopping

The BreckCreate Arts District is an inspiring collection of historic buildings turned workshops and venues. Walk the creative hub near South Ridge Street and Washington Avenue and pop in and out of spaces, watching artists in action. Try your hand at a pottery, ceramics or metalsmithing class.

5. Dog Sledding

Furry kisses? Yes please!

An exhilarating way to get out into the backcountry and slide on snow, dog sledding calls on a friendly team (they love cuddles and pets) of huskies to lead your sled through the quiet winter forest. Good Times Adventures is the local dog sledding expert. They’ll set you up with sled and mushing know-how before your thrilling tour.

6. Hot Tubbing

Soak and soothe tired muscles after a long day playing in the snow with a rejuvenating hot tub session. It’s a top Breckenridge après activity and a must-do on a snowy winter day. Most lodges, hotels and private rentals come equipped with jetted tubs. Here are 8 of our favorite hot tub scenes in Breckenridge.

7. Scenic Snowcat Tours

Enjoy views of the backcountry from the comfort of a heated snow cat.

Jump into a luxurious heated Italian-designed Prinoth Snowcat at the Breckenridge Nordic Center for a scenic snowcat excursion. These machines are outfitted with all-glass cabins for the best sightseeing as you cruise through the forest and along the Ten Mile range, spotting wildlife and snapping spectacular photos.

8. Fly Fishing

Breckenridge is blessed with year-round trout fishing. Call on local outfitters to guide you to nearby rivers teeming with hungry trout. Full- and half-day wade and walk trips are available for all ages.

9. Snowshoeing

You can still explore Breckenridge’s trails in the winter!

Snowshoeing is just walking in the snow; preferably inside a quiet, forested jaw-dropping scene that’s almost surreal. That’s the magic of this activity. You go at your own pace and take it all in. Seek mellow trails and wooded solace on these 3 easy snowshoe trails in Breckenridge.

10. Backcountry Tours

Ok, technically you’re buckling into ski boots, but backcountry ski touring is an entirely different experience from resort skiing. Get away from the crowds and break fresh powdery tracks with Colorado Adventure Guides. Try backcountry skiing, splitboarding, Nordic skiing and snowshoeing customized to your skill level.

11. Fat Biking

Fat biking is one of the best ways to explore town in the winter.

Drift over snow-packed trails and log a fun low-impact cardio workout on a fat bike. Wide-treaded “fat” tires make winter pedaling a breeze. Layer up and bike the groomed rec path between Breckenridge and Frisco or tap Ridden for fat bike tours to breweries and the Breckenridge Distillery.

12. Guided Walking Tours

The Breckenridge Heritage Alliance is stocked with guided mining, history and ghost tours capturing the most intriguing and profound local lore. Costumed guides take you to some of the oldest homes in town, share haunted tales and point out wild west landmarks.

13. Snowmobiling

Rip it up and explore Breckenridge’s backcountry by snowmobile.

Head out on scenic well-groomed trails along the Swan River Valley and up to Georgia Pass with Good Times Adventures. Learn basic skills and get comfortable on your sled before traveling with a guided group to the top of the Continental Divide at 11,585 feet for stunning mountain views.

14. Window Shopping

Take in Breckenridge’s carefully preserved Victorian architecture and western ski town charm on a Main Street stroll. Browse more than 200 distinct boutiques and shops, many of which are locally owned and stacked with specially curated gifts and goods. Grab a cup of hot cocoa and take in the holiday lights while you’re out and about.

15. Gondola Rides

The Breckenridge gondola is one of the best ways to take in the views.

A must for any skier or non-skier, ride the Free BreckConnect Gondola from town to the ski area’s Peak 8 base. Look for moose and other wildlife as you cross over Cucumber Gulch, a high-alpine wetland preserve, and enjoy a snack and a hot drink at the ski resort base or take some spins around the mountaintop ice rink.

16. Roller Coaster Fun

Yes, Breckenridge has a winter roller coaster. And it’s a blast! The Gold Runner Alpine Coaster winds through the trees at the base of Peak 8 on more than 2,500 feet of elevated track. Control your own speed and zip around hairpin curves and across the gorgeous frozen landscape.