Reviews
Our family has invested in sharing the Sports of Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoeing here in Breckenridge for 49 years and we love what we do! We’ve striven to create a one of a kind Nordic Experience which starts at our beautiful lodge with 50 kilometers of Cross Country and Snowshoeing trails beginning right out the back door.
We’re enjoy being of service whether it’s grooming the trails, giving lessons or Adventure tours, providing the latest and providing state-of-the-art equipment gear or serving delicious food and beverages in our Black Forest Tavern and family style lounge with cedar Farm Tables and Magnificent Fireplace.
Please enjoy what others have said about the Breckenridge Nordic Center and Event Venue and we’d like to hear what you have to say after your visit by emailing us at BestNordicSki@gmail.com. Thank You!
“Friendly Staff, Great Fun”
Had never been snowshoeing before and decided to give it a try. Showed up on a Friday morning and found a great staff who were most helpful to a couple of newbies. They explained everything, made sure our gear was the right size and on correctly. They went over maps, trails, rules, and advice on what to look for once we got out there. The trails (and the scenery) were great: clearly marked, easy to follow (in person and on the map). The route they had recommended was great, plenty of scenery and just challenging enough to get in a good workout. The facilities, equipment and staff are all top notch. They have a wine bar with food to relax afterwards. Highly recommend on your next visit to Breck. Plenty of parking and bus stop right in front of the
–Gator, Tamarac, Florida
Highly Recommend for Snowshoeing or Cross Country Skiing”
This is one of the best Nordic parks anywhere. They have a beautiful new lodge to get your gear (if you need it) with a huge fireplace and comfortable seating for drinks and light snacks after your exercise.
We rented excellent snowshoes and the 2 mile trail we took was beautiful with wonderful views of Breckenridge’s mountains and the town and lake/pastureland/forest.
–Clark, Alexandria, VA
“Awesome!!! Highly recommend!!!”
I had the BEST Christmas Eve (day) here! I took my 20-year-old daughter here to X-country ski for her first time. She loved it! It had just snowed the previous 3 days straight, so we had 30″ of fresh powder, on newly groomed tracks and it couldn’t have been more perfect. We skied, visited Josie’s cabin (highly recommend to anyone who likes pioneer stuff), and then had vegetarian soup for lunch at the lodge (and since we’re vegetarians, how perfect was that?). Then we traded in the skis for snowshoes (included once you pay the rental fees) and that was my daughter’s first time for that too. We were there from 11am till closing at 4pm. It was the best. The people who work there are really nice and helpful. I don’t think you could go wrong going here! By the way, it’s convenient if you’re taking the local free bus, there’s a bus stop right at the entrance to the Center).
–Margaret J, Bluff Utah
“Fun First Time Adventure!!”
On a Girl’s Spring Break Vacation, we decided to try skiing. We were all 1st timers! We booked with Therese, who was super nice and accommodating. The center was easily accessible by the free black route bus from the center of Breckenridge. The bus dropped us off at the front door. We were checked in, outfitted and on our way in less than 30 minutes. Jim was our instructor. He was awesome!! He was very patient, knowledgeable and encouraging. There were all levels within our group. From a resistant learner, willing to learn newbies and one unsuspecting natural. Jim worked with us all. He was always ready to delivered a hearty ‘Bravo’ for the smallest accomplishments. After 2 hours, which was longer than advertised, we ended our session at the lodge where there was hot chocolate available, hot soups and light lunch. An overall great time was had by all!!!
–KDS, Houston TX
Yesterday was a great day on the hill. It was extra special because I was able to introduce my daughter to cross country skiing with my favorite outfitting team in one of the most picturesque places in Breck. We arrived 20 minutes prior to our lesson to account for renting and fitting but still had 10 minutes time to spare enjoying the atmosphere of the lodge; Sam is just that good! Jim, our instructor, got us started right on time and emphasized the basics without being condescending or impatient. His philosophy is safety, fun, technique: if you’re being safe, you’re having fun and then you can focus on technique. I’ve been skiing on and off for the past 20 years but learned more in an hour than I ever have when left to my own devices. He got my kiddo started on the fundamentals fast while simultaneously helping me focus on my technique and introducing me to new skills. I highly recommend you get a pass ’cause even if trying it for the first time you will want to go back!
–Doc H. Frisco TX
“Amazing Family Time and GREAT Staff”
We did cross country skiing and snow shoeing here. It was so much fun, our 3 and 6 year old were able to ski. The 2 year old and I did the snow shoes. Not expensive, great staff!
–Caitlan, Colorado Springs
“Great Adventure”
My family went snowshoeing at the Nordic Center. Our guide was awesome. He lead us through the trees and explained every tree and animal track. We walked to Josie’s cabin and our guide explained the history of the gold mining days. I would recommend it to all families.
–Victoria, Philadelphia
“Great Place for Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoeing”
Wanted to snowshoe and try cross-country skiing while in Breckenridge last week and stopped in at the Breckenridge Nordic Center up just off Ski Hill Rd. What a fabulous find! Met the owner Gene Dayton and signed up for lessons. Didn’t know that our lessons would end up being with his son, Olympic Nordic Combined Anchor Man for 2002 Matt Dayton! Wow! And not only is he a great athlete, he’s a wonderful instructor. He took a middle-aged couple that had never cross-country skied before and had us up and truly enjoying the sport in an hour! Now THAT is really an accomplishment!
They were having a 2 for 1 so got to cross-country after our lesson and then rent snowshoes at no additional cost. The trails are groomed and well marked so it makes for a delightful experience! There are lots of opportunities for wildlife viewing along the way. There are trails for all ages and levels of experience!
The lodge is beautiful and they have home-made goodies for breakfast, lunch and snacks. There is also a great shop for picking up items that you need or want to enhance your cross country experience.
I can’t recommend the Nordic Center enough! Take a break from downhill and go try this out. You’ll love it and start saving a day or two just for cross-country and snowshoeing!
–R H Nashville TN
“Pleasant afternoon with Nature”
We took the day off from downhill skiing to slow down the pace & get closer to nature. The trails are clearly marked & offered beautiful views. If you wanted to snow shoe & then switch to cross country skiing – no problem. When we returned from snowshoeing, we were entertained by a friendly man dressed in a traditional Bavarian outfit with an accordion! We stayed for a lite lunch!
–T C Cherry Hill, New Jersey
“Great Recreation Area”
We needed a break from skiing for a day and decided to go here for snowshoeing. Neither my wife nor I had been snowshoeing before, but everyone was incredibly helpful (especially Sarah) and helped us in getting the right gear, planning the route, and showing us how to snowshoe. It was a great experience and we would highly recommend to anyone looking for something besides downhill skiing in Breckenridge.
–Dean N, Atlanta GA
“Awesome Experience”
Fantastic time on our private snowshoeing tour with Sarah. Highly recommended. Sarah was extremely knowledgeable and courteous. We will certainly do this again on our next trip to Breck.
–Ken B
“Best Nordic Center, Best Trails, and Best Food”
This is one of the best nordic centers ever. First, the miles and miles of trails through the woods, right by the base of the Breck ski area, and the trails like Glutes Minimum says it all. The downhills are equal to any greens at the ski area. Then there is the Hallelujah Hut. The owners restored this old cabin and it serves as a warming hut. It’s beautiful ski to it thru the woods with spectacular views of the mountains. The Nordic center is beautiful inside and very welcoming, with great soups and drinks.
–Suzie, Fort Collins
“Happy, Helpful Staff; Well-Marked Trails”
We had never been cross-country skiing or snowshoeing before and Breckenridge Nordic Center was a great first experience! The staff was super friendly and helpful. The trails were well marked and beautiful. The Nordic Center itself offered some great homemade soup for lunch and a charming room with fireplaces, couches, tables, etc. to eat and relax before going out for more snow adventures!
–Shelly G, New York, NY
“Impressed!”
We were beyond impressed by our time at the Breckenridge Nordic Center. I’ve Nordic skied in CA and UT in the past and never had such a positive experience. The ambiance of the center is incredible. High beamed ceilings with natural wood, ceiling high windows, antique furniture and a hot crackling fire greet you. The people working here are incredibly knowledgeable, genuine and ensure that you have a positive experience. In addition to this, the trails are fabulous. The terrain is diverse and offers a variety of runs for skiers of all different skill levels in addition to breathtaking mountain views. My daughter had a lesson for skate skiing with Adde, one of the instructors, and her experience was wonderful. She learned a lot and has decided to take up the sport while she studies at CU Boulder. After a long morning or afternoon of skiing, you come back to the lodge for homemade hot soup and a rest by the fire (it was gluten free too, another plus!). They also offer wine, beer, cocktails and a happy hour from 3-6. We enjoyed a glass of wine by the floor length windows after a long ski during a blizzard.
In addition to all of the above, the prices are very affordable. You can rent gear and get a day pass for under $50 – something nearly impossible in Breckenridge. We can’t rave enough and will certainly be back in the future. Thank you Breckenridge Nordic Center for such a fantastic trip!
–Tanya K. Perric, CA
“Amazing!!!”
The Nordic Center can only be described in one way…. “Amazing!!!” The facility is fantastic, the views are breathtaking, the trails are well marked and maintained, and the staff and owners were Superb!!!! We came to downhill for our vacation but once we experienced the Nordic Center we spent most of our time in Nordic. Next time we won’t even be bringing our downhill equipment to Breck!!!
–Jeff and Shelley, Virginia Beach, VA
Guys. This place is the best. Let’s start at the front desk. Mary. Off the hook. Knew everything about everything. I told her we wanted to try to cross country skiing for the first time and she was very knowledgeable. Then we went over to get fitted. I didn’t catch the guys name but he has to be the best in the business. He is so patient. He is so kind and so friendly. He let us try on several sizes before we figured out he was right the first time. Then we went out. We’re hot messes. We came back in and immediately decided to get lessons. The lessons are like 20 bucks cheaper if you get the pass. The food: they only have like 3 things but they are all terrific and I promise its the best value meal in Breckenridge. 10 bucks for a brat and a bowl of soup. Bob the trainer was awesome. Friendly great so helpful. Our cross country skills are on point. This place is a must!!! Also the bartender/waitress? All around Renaissance woman. She is awesome. She told us where to find moose by her house. And she makes the best drinks. And her dog is also adorable. Ask to see it. Adorable. All around 5 stars!
–Anna W.
Very, very, very good deals. Well maintained trails, nice rental equipment. You can snowshoe for hours without seeing another person. This place is paradise. Beth
–K, Stoneham, MA
“Just love this Nordic center”
The view is so awesome and the center has a nice place to eat lunch and take a break. Full service rental service available for ski and snowshoe rentals. Parking is great and staff is friendly and helpful. Ski lessons available also. I suggest you check it out. This is a real high for me and it is high up too!
–Ha Erica R, Golden CO
Friendly and helpful staff. Great environment for first timers. Took cross country skiing lesson (2 adults) first day and went back for snow shoeing guided tour (with 9-year old boy) the next day. The snow shoe excursion went longer than expected (:45 over) and our guide never batted an eye or rushed us at any point. Would definitely return if we’re in the area again.
–Carol R. Leander TX
This is a gorgeous lodge. The staff is friendly and down to earth. I loved my experience on the snow shoe tour with Valerie. She’s knowledgeable and patient. After the tour, I enjoyed delicious homemade soup and relaxing by the fireplace. I loved the option of trading snow shoes for cross country skis in the afternoon. Kayla’s lesson was extremely helpful. This was one of my best outdoor experiences ever. Take my advice Don’t let inexperience stop you from trying both these sports.
–Anne Hicks Weller, St. Petersburg, FL
Amazing place. Not only beautiful but everyone is so friendly! Gary was the person who helped us with our ski equipment, such a nice and friendly guy. The bar offers a variety of drinks but make sure to have their holiday signature drink, it is amazing. Priscila is suuuuper friendly and makes the best drinks ever.
–Edith R
Easy check in process. Snowshoe trails were clearly marked. Staff was super friendly. Had a great first time experience there. We are sure to be back!
–Mark R.
Great snowshoeing trails for a leisurely hike! Friendly staff and some excellent food and drinks at the lodge (I’d recommend trying their Moscow mules).
–Joe R.
This was an absolutely wonderful experience! The staff was so nice and the trails were gorgeous. My 8 and 9-year-old children had a terrific time and the trails were the perfect length.
–Amber D.
Great day of family fun Nordic skiing and snowshoeing. We even saw three moose on the trail today. Awesome!
–Elizabeth S.
Great experience! Opportunity to try both Cross Country and Snowshoe in the same day for the same money The ability to do both was reassuring our 6 yr old would not get bored and it be a waste of a day/money We cross-country skied, then grabbed snow shoes for an off trail adventure where we hopped on the gondola at Shock Hill station for food before returning to the Center Staff was very helpful Nice “off the mountain day”
–Brian S.
Very easy to use. Quick to get out on the trail. Nice equipment and very friendly staff. Great soups for lunch at 1/4 price of the slopes.
–Elizabeth S.
Absolutely beautiful snowshoe trails. Employees are super friendly and helpful. Loved this experience!
–April E.