Breckenridge Beckons Skiers

Not quite ready to pack your ski and ride gear away until next season? Are you sadly low on your total of snow days this year? Fret not, because Breckenridge Mountain in Colorado has more snow than you can imagine. And to celebrate (and give us easterners a last chance to get out there and savor it), the resort has extended its season through April 24.

Skiing there last week felt like January with over a foot of fresh snow (over 70 inches had fallen in the month of March alone) and with temps cold enough to keep the powder light but not so cold as to chill you to the bone.

Skiing was 100 percent open and 100 percent epic. Having chosen to use a guide one day, we were able to find fresh tracks almost every single run all day. (When you hire a guide, ask for Jason. Not only does he know every nook and cranny of the mountain, he’s a wealth of really cool historical information and more. Oh, and he gave us all technique tweaks that just made our day better).

Late spring is a great time for a last minute trip to Breckenridge. The town is still very much alive, but the huge spring break crowds are no longer there, meaning you can get a seat eaiser at even the most popular of spots.

For après, we loved the aptly named Apres, where drinks are what it is all about (that’s all they do, and the bartenders are truly artists). We loved dinner at the Blue Stag Saloon (try the dip; it takes artichoke to a new level), and a long, upscale meal at Relish. The many stores throughout town have sales going on, too, so you can find some great end-of-season deals.

Already packed your gear away? No worries, because Ski Butlers not only can rent you what you need, they bring it to you at your lodging and pick it up when you are done. Their team knows how to study the current conditions and pick the skis that are right for you. And if you don’t quite gel with them, they’ll meet you out on the snow and bring another pair. www​.skibut​lers​.com

There are plenty of options for lodging, from slopeside to off site as we chose at the Lodge at Breckenridge. There, the entire mountain stretched out below us like a living trail map, and the twinkle of the town’s lights charmed us. Their shuttle system zips you up and down to where ever you need to go. There are, of course, deals at this time of year worth going for as well.

But most of all, the skiing and riding is what you should go for. This season, while not so kind to the east, has been a blessing out west. You’ll find amazing conditions and yet short lift lines.