With 155 trails that span four conveniently connected mountains, Breckenridge is a resort that appeals to all levels of skiers and riders. Unlike other resorts, where every trail provides a uniform "McSki" experience, each of the peaks of Breckenridge has its distinct personality. A base elevation of 9,600 feet and summit elevation of 12,998 feet encourages an average annual snowfall of 305 inches. On the rare occasion that Mother Nature fails to cooperate, the resort obliges with 25 percent snow making. The highly efficient lift system (despite being wildly plotted) at Breckenridge consists of:

• 4 Surface Lifts
  
• 8 Carpet Lifts
  
• 6 Double Chairs
  
• 1 Triple Chair
  
• 7 High-Speed Quads
  
• 2 High-Speed Six Packs
• 1 Gondola

The BreckConnect Gondola is a new addition to the Breckenridge family of lifts. It begins at the Breckenridge Station bus stop and travels to Peak 8, with stops at Peak 7 and Shock Hill. The gondola is provides welcome relief from the notorious winds in Breckenridge, which make average temperatures of 28F feel like 28 below. Here's a popular local joke:

Q: Why is Breckenridge so windy?

A: Because Keystone blows and Copper sucks!

While comfort-oriented skiers love the BreckConnect gondola, expert snow sliders are pleased with the Imperial Express Super Chair. As the highest chairlift in North America, the Imperial Express is unique in that it offers lift service to backcountry terrain. In the past, this terrain was only accessible by a 45-minute hike.

Lest you believe that Breckenridge only serves those seeking bragging rights, rest assured that the resort is also famous for its meticulous grooming. These corduroy slopes are prevalent on Peaks 7 and 9. Peak 9 is home to the flat as a pancake Silverthorne Trail, which is perfect for new skiers. Take the Quicksilver Lift at Maggie Pond. Confident intermediates will enjoy Bonanza, which is served by the Beaver Run Lift. Bonanza is a designated slow zone, and the friendly slope watchers strictly enforce the speed limits.

The Eldorado Terrain Park is also on Peak 9. Here, aspiring park skiers and riders can learn the basics on small jumps, boxes, rails and a mini-pipe. Once you graduate from this "bunny park," try your skills at the enormous Freeway Superpark, which is a popular venue for freestyle competitions.

Those who prefer amusement parks to terrain parks should check out Peak 7, where you can find rolling hills that provide an experience akin to a roller coaster ride. However, if you like the steep, deep and bumpy, you'll love Peak 10. If the Peak 10 experience forces you to eat humble pie, consider engaging the services of the acclaimed Breckenridge & Ride Ski School, which features a variety of special programs. These include park and pipe classes, women's programs, adaptive skiing and classes for baby boomers.

If this Breckenridge information is enticing, consider joining the Peak Rewards program, which offers a variety of great discounts. In some cases, you multi-day ticket can be used at Keystone, Arapahoe Basin, Vail or Beaver Creek. Remember, only suckers buy their tickets at the ticket window. Don't be a Luddite! (don't know what it means? google it!) Book ahead and book online!

This snapshot of skiiing at Breckenridge was provided by local Colorado ski guru, Lisa Marie Mercer. 

 Planning a ski vacation in Breckenridge? Secure your slopeside lodging now, and get hooked up with a ski-in/ski out condo, village townhome or mountainside luxury rental home.