Frequently Asked Questions

I’ve never Cross Country Skied before. Will I be able to do it?

If you haven’t downhill or cross country skied before you’ll probably find it easier than you imagined with an of hour of instruction. However, to really understand it and have the most fun, take a Group or Private Lessons that will bring you quickly up to speed and experiencing the joy of gliding across snow. We have lessons for both Classic and Skate Skiing and for all ages and abilities.

Should we reserve rental equipment for skiing or snowshoeing in advance or just show up?

Parking – What to Expect

Parking at the Breckenridge Nordic Center is limited on busy holidays and weekends. On days when it is filling up, remaining spots are reserved for those with lessons, tours, and reservations only.  Busiest times and days are weekends, holidays and Holiday Travel periods around Christmas and New Years (Approximately December 16th-January 2nd).  During these days, On site Parking is limited to 3 hrs. If more time is needed, please request at the front desk.  There is absolutely no downhill skier parking at The Breckenridge Nordic Center!  $100 fine and towing strictly enforced.  Parking is not permitted in the lot on snowy mornings before 8am.  Additional parking is available at the Airport Lot at 1730 Airport Road.  Free buses are available from Airport Road to the Gondola and then the Gondola to the Breckenridge Nordic Center (Gold Route).  See www.breckfreeride.com for additional details.

Can Children Nordic Ski or Snowshoe?

If they can walk, they can learn to glide and ski! Children often pick it up very quickly.  Snowshoeing will be a simple new task for them as well.  Just remember, young children can tire quickly when trying something new.  Start with a short easy trail and know you can always turn around if the trail is too long.  If they aren’t old enough to walk or simply want to ride along, we have specially designed ski sleds called pulk sleds that provide a comfortable warm environment for kids to ride along with mom and dad. The pulk sleds can be rented at the front desk upon arrival. We have plenty and do not run out.

What to wear?

Most people tend to overheat while Cross country skiing and snowshoeing so light layers are better than one heavy insulated layer.  That way you can shed layers if you get too warm.  Always avoid cotton as it holds moisture.  If you are used to downhill skiing, dress a little lighter since you wont be sitting on a windy lift. Remember to bring a water bottle, handi-warmers, glove liners and gloves, a headband or hat, shell jacket with vest, neck gator, thermal undershirt and pants. Sunscreen and sunglasses are very important for protecting against the high UV we have at high-altitude.  We do carry these supplies at the Nordic Center for purchase.

How long will it take to cross country ski or snowshoe?

You can come and experience our trails and Lodge for an hour, part of the day, or all day. It’s up to you. We have a series of trails and destination huts which allow you to tailor your time for you what feel like doing.

Does the gear rental come with poles?

Yes, boots, skis, bindings and pole are included in your rental package.  Should you wish to try both sports you can switch between skis and snowshoes any time.  There is a $10 charge to switch sports but we will happily waive this fee on weekdays outside of our busiest Christmas and Spring break periods.

Do the gear rental prices include everything, or is there a charge to go on the trails?

Trail Passes are $27 per day for ages 13-64 and $22 for Seniors 65+.  Kids 12 and under ski free and will only need to pay for rentals.  We also have disounted multi-day trail punch passes which are good for a year and also offer Nordic Season passes for unlimited skiing all season long from mid-November to mid to late-April.  Season passes are available here. Day tickets can be purchased here or at the front desk.

Do I pay when I get there?

You may pay upon arrival or you may use out online booking system and save by booking in advance. Our online system allows you to pay in advance for all ski lessons, snowshoe tours, trail passes, rentals and Snowcat adventure rides. You will only need to pay for any items you add to your reservation. To reserve any of these items, click the book now tab at the top of this page.  We are always happy to serve walk-ins but some products such as lessons and tours will likely be unailable if not booked in advance.

Once I have the gear, I can come and go into the lodge as often as I like, correct?

Yes, However, during our busiest seasons (Holidays, weekends and holiday travel periods), indoor space is extremely limited. We ask that groups limit their time inside the lodge to 30 minutes.  Please do not store anything in the lodge while you ski.  Personal items should be kept with you or in your vehicle.

Are lockers available?

We do not have locker rooms.  Whenever possible, we ask that personal belongings be taken with you or stored in your vehicle.  Our space is limited so please do not leave personal items in the lounge or retail area.

Does the shuttle bus drop off at the Nordic Center?

Yes, it stops right at our front door. You can either come up Ski Hill Road and we’re 1/2 mile from downtown Breckenridge on the right, off of Grandview Drive.  Or, if you’re coming down from Peaks 7&8, the Gold Route Free Ski & Ride shuttle bus will drop you off, but you’ll have to ask the driver for the Breck Nordic stop.  You can view the free bus schedule here.  Stops 219 and 213 stop right in front of our parking lot.

Are pets allowed at the Breckenridge Nordic Center?

Pleasde respect that pets are not allowed at the Lodge, but we do have some Dog Friendly trails on Peak 7. We are on the edge of the Town of Breckenridge’s “Cucumber Gulch Wildlife Preserve” with a Protective Management and town codes for No Dogs. Our USDA, Forest Service permit does allow dogs on trails for Skiing and Snowshoeing in the New Nordic World, Upper Peak 7 groomed area.  You can get a trail pass at the lodge and our staff can show you how to access our dog friendly trails which are just a 10 minute drive from the lodge.  Please be aware that all of our dog friendly ski trails are blues and blacks only.  We do not have any beginner terrain that allows dogs.

It’s a great place to get outdoors and enjoy time with family and friends. Whatever your ability or athletic levels are, you can tailor your time to create what you feel like doing in the moment. Whether it’s cross country skiing, or snowshoeing, you can spend as little as an hour out on the trails or all day by choosing the distance and terrain you’d like to explore.