Breckenridge Gondola – What You Need to Know


Located at the Breckenridge Resort in Colorado, the Breckenridge Gondola (aka BreckConnect) plays an essential role in transporting summer and winter visitors up the mountain.

In this article, we answer some of the most common questions you might have about the Breckenridge Gondola, so keep reading to find out more!

Table of Contents

Picture of the Breckenridge Gondola (BreckConnect) at the Breckenridge Resort in Colorado in the fall.
Breckenridge Gondola (Credit: Breckenridge Resort)

Breckenridge Gondola – BreckConnect

The Breckenridge Gondola, also known as BreckConnect, is an 8-person gondola that operates in both summer and winter transporting visitors from Watson Avenue to the base of Peak 8.

Constructed in 2006, the gondola replaced a slow bus system that was used to transport visitors up Ski Hill Road.

The Breckenridge Gondola (BreckConnect) takes 13 minutes from its starting point on Watson Avenue to its final stop at the base of Peak 8 – transporting up to 2,800 passengers per hour.

The gondola rises 396 vertical feet and passes over Cucumber Gulch, a rare fen wetland complex and wildlife preserve.

Moose, deer, elk, foxes, Boreal Toad (which is state-endangered) and beavers call this area home and if you’re lucky you might be able to spot one on your way up or down the gondola.

The gondola has three stopping points:

The first stop is Shockhill Station – one of the most luxurious and unique areas in Breckenridge. This stop is exclusive to Shockhill residents.

The second stop is at Peak 7. At this stop, you’ll be able to access accommodations such as Crystal Peak Lodge and the Grand Lodge on Peak 7.

In winter, Peak 7 provides you with access to the Independence Chairlift.

From here you can enjoy many of the intermediate slopes on the north side of Breckenridge.

The final stop on the BreckConnect, and most popular, is Peak 8. This is the main hub of the Breckenridge resort.

Here you’ll find accommodation, restaurants and the many activities on offer at the Breckenridge Resort.

https://youtu.be/VinAntuFWX4

A few important things to note about the BreakConnect:

The gondola is enclosed so you are protected from the elements should the weather be unfavorable in summer or winter. It also makes it safe for pets and children of all ages.

The gondola has been designed for convenience. The use of skis-in walk-in level cabins makes for a user-friendly experience.

People in wheelchairs can ride directly into the cabin and manoeuvre within the cabin. The level walk-in cabins make it easy for strollers to enter and exit.

Activities at the Top of the Breckenridge Gondola

Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter you’ll want to access all the activities that Breckenridge has on offer.

The easiest way to access these activities is via the Breckenridge Gondola (BreckConnect) with its final stop at Peak 8.

We’ve listed some of the main activities you’ll find at the Breckenridge Resort that require gondola access below:

1. Gold Runner Alpine Coaster

One of the most popular activities in summer and a great non-ski family activity in winter is the Gold Runner Alpine Coaster.

The Gold Runner Alpine Coaster covers a distance of 2,500 feet (762m) on elevated tracks, has two full 360-degree loops and reaches a top speed of 27 mph (43 km/h). 

2. Breckenridge Alpine Slides

Another summer favorite (it doesn’t open in winter) is the Breckenridge Alpine Slides.

You can choose between three thrilling 2,600-foot alpine slides.

3. Scenic Chair Lift

You can ride the Colorado SuperChair from Peak 8 up to Alpine Camp.

From here you can enjoy the incredible views of the surrounding mountains, hike and mountain bike.

Children under 4 ride for free.

4. Mountain Biking

Breckenridge has a number of awesome mountain bike trails that you can explore during the summer season.

You can choose from a selection of green (beginner), blue (intermediate) and black (advanced) trails.

Rather than riding up the mountain, you can also load your bike onto and catch the Colorado SuperChair from the base of Peak 8.

Unfortunately, e-bikes are not permitted on the trails at Breckenridge.

5. Epic Discovery

Breckenridge’s Epic Discovery is the main attraction in summer with a range of family-friendly activities to choose from.

Below is a list of activities on offer:

6. Skiing and Snowboarding

It goes without saying that the most popular activity in winter is skiing and snowboarding.

The BreckConnect Gondola provides you with easy access to both Peak 7 and Peak 8.

From here you can catch chairlifts, like the Colorado SuperChair, further up the mountain to start your day.

Tip: If you’re done skiing for the day, rather than waiting in long lines for the gondola, ski back to your car or town via the Lower 4 O’Clock trail.

How Much Does the Breckenridge Gondola Cost?

The Breckenridge Gondola (BreckConnect) is completely free for all visitors to ride during summer and winter.

However, if you’re heading further up the mountain you’ll need to buy a ski pass/lift ticket (winter) or a scenic chair lift ticket (summer).

Breckenridge Gondola Operating Hours

The Breckenridge Gondola is open in both summer and winter.

Winter Operating Hours

In winter, the gondola is open from the end of November to mid-April.

It operates from 8:00 am to 5:30 pm.

More information about the winter operating hours can be found on the official website here.

Summer Operating Hours

In Summer, the gondola is open from the end of mid-June to mid-September.

It operates from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm. The last ride up is at 5:00 pm and the last ride down is 5:30 pm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Breckenridge have a free gondola?

Yes – Breckenridge does have a free gondola known as the BreckConnect.

Can non-skiers ride the Breckenridge Gondola?

Non-skiers can ride the Breckenridge Gondola (BreckConnect).

You do not need a ski-lift ticket to access this gondola – it’s free to all resort visitors.

What time does the gondola start at Breckenridge?

The gondola in Breckenridge opens at 09:00 am in summer and 8:00 am in winter.

Extended hours are offered in winter to give skiers and snowboarders a chance to get to Peak 7 and Peak 8 before the ski slopes open.

Where does the Breckenridge Gondola take you?

The Breckenridge Gondola takes you from Watson Avenue in town to its final destination at Peak 8.

There are two mid-stations on the way up – Shockhill station and Peak 7.

Can you ride the Breckenridge gondola in the summer?

Yes – the Breckenridge gondola is open in both summer and winter.

In summer, you can use the gondola to gain access to Peak 8 where you’ll be able to enjoy the many activities on offer such as the Gold Runner Alpine Coaster, Breckenridge Alpine Slides and the Scenic Gondola Ride on the Colorado SuperChair.

How many gondolas are at Breckenridge?

Breckenridge has a total of 35 lifts and only one gondola known as the BreckConnect.

Does Breckenridge have a free gondola?

Yes – the Breckenridge Gondola (BreckConnect) is completely free for all visitors in summer and winter.

Can you take a dog on the Breckenridge Gondola?

Yes – the Breckenridge Gondola is pet-friendly and free!

Dogs are welcome to wander around the base of Peak 7 and Peak 8, as well as the trails on offer up the mountain.

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