Where to stay Aspen or Breckenridge – Location?
Breckenridge is one of the closest ski resorts to Denver. However, it is easy to get there both from Denver Airport and from Eagle-Vail Airport. Aspen is located more to the West of Denver, and it is closer to Eagle Vail Airport. Aspen has its own small airport too.
Check how to get to Aspen or Breckenridge with a car service.
Winter – Aspen vs Breckenridge
First, you need to know if you want to enjoy the mountains during winter or summer. The Colorado mountain area is famous for its winter attractions, so that we will start with it. Both – Aspen and Breckenridge offer a wide variety of winter activities.
Breckenridge Ski Resort is spread across 5 peaks. It is one of the biggest ski resorts in Colorado, with 187 runs and 34 lifts. Besides, Breckenridge offers many other winter attractions such as dog sledding, fly fishing, or snowmobiling.
On the other hand, Aspen offers not one ski resort but 3: Aspen Highlands, Aspen Mountain, and Buttermilk. A lot of tourists also visit Snowmass while in Aspen, as it is very close. All 3 ski resorts together have 237 runs and 21 lifts. What to do if you don’t ski? There is a lot to choose from: ice-skating or fat biking is the most popular choice in winter. Aspen is considered more expensive and has more posh places, but it is also the most popular place for skiing.
Does it have to be winter?
Of course not! Both resorts offer a lot of indoor and outdoor activities accessible not only in winter. Breckenridge is wonderful in summer. You will feel the history of the gold rush from the 1860s there. In the summer, you can visit a fun park at Peak 8 base, where you can try mini-golf, jeep tours, or GoldRunner coaster. It is a trendy area for mountain and road biking. After an active day, you can relax in a hot tub, sauna, or in the pool. Breckenridge Distillery is also worth visiting.
Aspen, on the other hand, offers some thrilling experiences such as paragliding or air balloon riding. You can admire the bird’s eye views. It is also a trendy destination for bikers and hikers. We also encourage you to visit some great restaurants in Aspen, many of which are awarded in prestigious rankings.
Aspen or Breckenridge – short comparison
Aspen | Breckenridge | |
Population | 7401 | 4945 |
Elevation | 8000 ft | 9600 ft |
No. of lifts | 21 | 34 |
No. of ski runs | 237 | 187 |
Aspen is the most popular and biggest resort with well-developed tourist facilities and many attractions. It also reflects in a bit higher prices, but surely everyone will find something in their budget. Breckenridge is a bit smaller city with higher elevation (it means it snows more there) and has many tourist attractions waiting for you.