Are you a chill-out-on-a-patio mom or a let’s-race-down-the-alpine-slide kind of mom? No judgment either way! Moms of all energy levels love the scenic mountain gem of Peak 8 in Breckenridge, called Epic Discovery. It has the high-adrenaline attractions kids love with the peaceful trails and convenient stops parents appreciate. Make it a priority destination for this summer’s bucket list!
Non-Stop Fun at Epic Discovery on Peak 8 in Breckenridge
Located at the base of Peak 8, Epic Discovery is a must experience, summer adventure. It has all of the warm weather mountain draws all in one location. Highlights include: an alpine coaster, bungee trampolines, climbing wall, ropes course, mini golf, gemstone panning, alpine slide and challenger course. It’s safe to say the kids will be exhausted at day’s end, and will have no problem being entertained from arrival until closing time.
Know Before You Go
- Summer entrance runs from June 13 to September 1.
- Buy the full day activity pass in advance, online, to save time (and money).
- The Adventure Pass provides unlimited access to all activities, and is the best bang for your buck.
- Start with the most popular attractions early in the day (alpine slide and coaster), as lines can get long by mid-afternoon.
- It’s open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., but lines start to form at ticket counters by 9:30.
- Even if you purchased passes online, you’ll still need to head to the ticket counter for wristbands. The online sales lines, however, are much quicker than others.
- Fully enclosed shoes are required on most rides. That means no Crocs, so plan accordingly!
- Prepare for those afternoon thunderstorms, another reason to arrive early.
How to Get to Epic Discovery
Since there’s no parking at the base of Peak 8, take advantage of the free gondola that picks up right in the middle of town. The scenic journey up the mountain is half the fun! The BreckConnect Gondola holds up to 8 people and strollers are welcome. We love to arrive around 9 a.m., find a free or metered parking spot downtown, grab a coffee and pastry and slowly make our way to the stop. There’s also plenty of public parking near the gondola as long as you arrive in the morning. The gondola is in operation from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. everyday.
Hiking and Scenic Trails
If your crew needs a break from the adrenaline rush, there are mellow hiking trails that are great for little legs. Try the Sawmill Reservoir via Snowflake Trail for an easy, shady loop with a picturesque reservoir at the top. It’s also ideal for a quick picnic. The Breckenridge Peak 8 Trail is also an easy one that has scenic overlooks and quick access to the park.
High Altitude Relaxation (Yes, Really)
You may not be at a spa, but Peak 8 knows how to treat moms right. Kick back on the base area’s patio with a cold drink, live music on weekends, and panoramic views while your kids burn off energy in the nearby play zone. You earned this.
Fuel Up with Family Friendly Eats
No one goes hungry on this mountain. Three casual lunch spots are always ready to serve families and small groups.
Ski Hill Grill is right at the base of Peak 8. Sit inside at their coffee bar or enjoy the sunshine on their patio. It’s specialty is food kids love like pizza, hot dogs and chicken tenders.
Vista Haus serves international options that are still approachable and family centered.
TBar is THE place to hang if you want to let little ones play within sight while the adults relax with a shareable appetizer and beer.
If these three options aren’t your style, it’s always acceptable to bring a picnic to enjoy on the trails or head back to town (as long as your have your wristband, you can re-enter the park), and grab something from the popular Fatty’s Pizzeria or Crepes a la Cart.
Tips for a Smooth Visit
- Bring refillable water bottles. Breckenridge is at over 9,000 feet elevation, and staying hydrated helps everyone avoid altitude crankiness.
- Sunscreen is another must!
- Pack rain gear, just in case.
- Arrive early.
- Plan to visit the Breckenridge Troll on your way out of town for a fun photo opportunity.
If you’re craving a summer getaway that mixes mountain magic with kid-friendly fun, Peak 8 in Breckenridge is your place. It’s the kind of destination where you can zipline in the morning, hike after lunch and toast marshmallows by sunset. Your kids will sleep like rocks, and you’ll go home with a camera full of smiles (and maybe a few hilarious coaster faces).
