Driving to Breckenridge, Colorado
If you’re considering driving to Breckenridge, Colorado, you may be weighing your options for getting here. At Blue Sky Limo, we’ve completed countless trips to and from Breckenridge, and our experienced drivers have an intimate knowledge of all the various routes and local roads. In this guide, we’ll explore the different available driving routes. We’ll provide detailed directions and highlight notable landmarks and points of interest. We’ll also share valuable tips on preparing for your drive, including weather considerations and safety precautions. Whether you’re driving from Denver, Colorado Springs, or other nearby cities, or even embarking on a longer road trip from out of state, our goal is to provide you with the knowledge and resources to make your drive to Breckenridge as convenient, safe, and memorable as possible. With our expertise and insider insights, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Rocky Mountains as you make your way to Breck.
Why Drive to Breckenridge?
Driving to Breckenridge allows you to experience the stunning beauty of the Colorado Rockies on your own schedule and in your own vehicle, giving you the ultimate flexibility to explore the mountain passes and along scenic byways. You’ll be treated to breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, verdant valleys, and rushing rivers. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to stop at charming mountain towns, explore hidden trails and viewpoints, and immerse yourself in the rugged wilderness of the American West.
Having your own vehicle also gives you the freedom and flexibility to explore Breckenridge and the surrounding areas at your own pace. Whether you want to hit the slopes early in the morning, linger over a gourmet meal in town, or take a spontaneous detour to a local hot spring, driving to Breckenridge puts you in control of your adventure.
Best Times to Drive
The best time to drive to Breckenridge depends on your preferences and priorities. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect in each season:
- Summer (June-August): The summer months offer warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. However, this is also the busiest time of year, with higher prices and more crowded roads.
- Fall (September-November): Fall is a stunning time to drive to Breckenridge as the aspen trees turn to a brilliant gold color and the crowds begin to thin out. The weather can be unpredictable, with the possibility of early snowfall, but the crisp air and quieter atmosphere make it a great time for a peaceful getaway.
- Winter (December-March): Winter is peak season in Breckenridge, with skiers and snowboarders flocking to the town’s world-class resorts. Driving conditions can be challenging, with snow and ice on the roads, but the town is at its most festive and vibrant during this time of year.
- Spring (April-May): Spring is a transitional season in Breckenridge, with ski resorts often staying open until mid-April and the town slowly coming back to life after the winter rush. The weather can be unpredictable, with a mix of sunny days and late-season snowstorms, but the crowds are smaller and the prices are lower than during peak season.
Getting to Breckenridge by Car
Most visitors to Breckenridge arrive by flying into one of the nearby airports and then driving the rest of the way. Some, however, will be driving in from out of state. Here are the most common driving routes to Breckenridge with their respective distances and estimated drive times:
| Route | Distance (miles) | Estimated Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| Denver International Airport (DEN) | 104 miles | 2 hours |
| Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) | 63 miles | 1 hour 18 minutes |
| Colorado Springs Airport (COS) | 110 miles | 2 hours 30 minutes |
| Cheyenne, Wyoming | 179 miles | 3 hours 3 minutes |
| Grand Junction, Colorado | 184 miles | 2 hours 55 minutes |
Driving from Denver International Airport (DEN)
Denver International Airport is the largest and most popular airport for visitors to Breckenridge. The drive from DEN to Breckenridge is approximately 104 miles and takes around 2 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
Route Description:
- Exit the airport and follow signs for I-70 West towards Grand Junction.
- Continue on I-70 West for approximately 60 miles, passing through the Denver metropolitan area and into the foothills of the Rocky Mountains.
- Take Exit 203 for CO-9 South toward Breckenridge/Frisco.
- Follow CO-9 South for about 10 miles until you reach Breckenridge.
Along the way, you’ll pass through the historic mining town of Idaho Springs, known for its hot springs and the Argo Gold Mine and Mill tour. As you climb higher into the mountains, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Continental Divide and surrounding peaks, including the famous Loveland Pass.
Top Tip: When driving from DEN to Breckenridge during winter, be prepared for potentially challenging road conditions. Ensure your vehicle is equipped with appropriate tires or chains, and check the weather and road conditions before departing. If you are uncomfortable driving in winter, consider using a Denver to Breckenridge shuttle or public transportation.
Driving from Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE)
Eagle County Regional Airport is the closest airport to Breckenridge, located just 63 miles away. The drive from EGE to Breckenridge takes approximately 1 hour and 18 minutes, making it a convenient option for those looking to get on the slopes as quickly as possible.
Route Description:
- Exit the airport and follow signs for I-70 East towards Denver.
- Continue on I-70 East for approximately 45 miles, passing through the towns of Gypsum and Eagle before reaching the Vail Valley.
- Take Exit 203 for CO-9 South toward Breckenridge/Frisco.
- Follow CO-9 South for about 10 miles until you reach Breckenridge.
The drive from EGE to Breckenridge is scenic, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, including the famous Vail Ski Resort. Along the way, you’ll pass through the charming town of Frisco, located on the shores of Dillon Reservoir and offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and outdoor activities.
Top Tip: While the drive from EGE to Breckenridge is shorter than the route from DEN, it still involves mountain driving. Check weather and road conditions before departing, especially during the winter months. If you rent a car, consider upgrading to a vehicle with all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive for added safety and peace of mind.
Driving from Colorado Springs Airport (COS)
Colorado Springs Airport is located approximately 110 miles southeast of Breckenridge, with an estimated drive time of around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Route Description:
- Exit the airport and follow signs for US-24 West towards Manitou Springs.
- Continue on US-24 West for approximately 85 miles until you reach Hartsel.
- In Hartsel, turn left onto US-9 North.
- Follow US-9 North for about 25 miles until you reach Breckenridge.
The drive from COS to Breckenridge takes you through the heart of the Front Range, offering stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and several points of interest along the way, including the historic mining town of Fairplay and the Antero Reservoir.
Top Tip: Break up your drive with a visit to the South Park City Museum in Fairplay. This open-air collection of over 40 restored buildings from the 1800s offers a glimpse into life during the Colorado Gold Rush.
Driving from Cheyenne, Wyoming
If you’re coming from the north, Cheyenne, Wyoming, is approximately 179 miles from Breckenridge, and the estimated drive time is around 3 hours.
Route Description:
- From Cheyenne, take I-25 South towards Denver.
- Continue on I-25 South for approximately 100 miles until you reach Denver.
- In Denver, take I-70 West towards Grand Junction.
- Continue on I-70 West for about 80 miles.
- Take Exit 203 for CO-9 South toward Breckenridge/Frisco.
- Follow CO-9 South for about 10 miles until you reach Breckenridge.
This drive passes through the high plains of Wyoming and into the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. Along the way, you can stop at several points of interest, such as the Terry Bison Ranch in Cheyenne, where visitors can take a train ride through a bison herd, or the Colorado State Capitol in Denver, with its stunning architecture and gold-plated dome.
Top Tip: The drive from Cheyenne to Breckenridge is long; plan rest stops and fuel breaks. Consider breaking the drive into two days for a relaxed journey. Before continuing to Breckenridge, you can check out the Denver Botanic Gardens, where you can enjoy plants from around the world and some wonderful art installations in this world-class conservatory.
Driving from Grand Junction, Colorado
Grand Junction, located on the Western Slope of Colorado, is approximately 184 miles from Breckenridge, with an estimated drive time of around 2 hours and 55 minutes.
Route Description:
- From Grand Junction, take I-70 East towards Denver.
- Continue on I-70 East for approximately 150 miles.
- Take Exit 203 for CO-9 South toward Breckenridge/Frisco.
- Follow CO-9 South for about 10 miles until you reach Breckenridge.
The drive from Grand Junction to Breckenridge offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Along the way, you’ll pass through Glenwood Canyon, which is an awesome 12.5-mile stretch of I-70 that winds through the canyon walls and along the Colorado River.
Top Tip: Don’t miss the opportunity to take in the breathtaking views of Glenwood Canyon from one of the many scenic overlooks or rest areas along the way.
Staying Informed about Road Conditions
No matter which route you choose, it’s important to stay informed about road conditions and weather forecasts before and during your drive to Breckenridge. The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) offers a variety of resources to help you stay up-to-date, including:
- COtrip.org: A website that offers real-time traffic information, road conditions, and live camera feeds from across the state.
- CDOT Mobile App: A free app that provides access to real-time traffic information, road conditions, and alerts on your mobile device.
- CDOT Twitter: Follow @ColoradoDOT for updates on road conditions, closures, and incidents.
In addition to these official resources, you can also stay informed by following local news outlets and websites, such as 9News in Denver, the Vail Daily, and the Summit Daily.
Don’t Feel Like Driving to Breckenridge?
If the idea of driving to Breckenridge along mountain roads and through unpredictable weather conditions seems daunting, or if you simply want to sit back and relax on your journey, Blue Sky Limo offers a variety of airport shuttle and private car services from Denver and Eagle Airport. Our experienced drivers know the roads like the back of their hand and are committed to getting you to your destination safely and comfortably without having to worry about finding parking in Breckenridge.
Whether traveling solo or with a group, Blue Sky Limo has a vehicle and service to meet your needs. From luxury sedans and SUVs to spacious vans and coaches, we offer a range of options to suit every budget and preference. Our flexible scheduling and customizable itineraries allow you to sit back and enjoy the scenic drive without worrying about traffic, parking, or navigation.
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