Hidden Gem Ski Runs in Breckenridge

February 12, 2025 / Bec Metras

Breckenridge is packed with legendary terrain, but some of the best runs fly under the radar. While most skiers and riders stick to the popular trails, there are plenty of hidden gems waiting to be explored. Whether you’re looking for perfectly spaced glades, rolling groomers, or untouched powder stashes, these secret spots offer a fresh take on the mountain. Ready to venture off the beaten path? Here are some of the best ski runs that you won’t want to miss.

The Windows

Location: Peak 9

Difficulty: Expert

Do you like gullies? What about flowy tree runs? Choose your own adventure? The Windows might be the perfect run for you. This thrilling descent starts with a subtle gate entrance at the top of E-Chair, leading into a tree-covered traverse through dense forest. Once you pick which “window” you’re dropping into, get ready for an exhilarating ride through tight trees, natural features, and playful terrain. The runout might be the most technical part, demanding precise turns and solid control as you navigate around a somewhat covered mountain stream. This is not for beginner or intermediate skiers—but for those seeking a fun, technical challenge, The Windows delivers every time.

Delirium

Location: Peak 6

Difficulty: Intermediate

Delirium is a dynamic trail that can be accessed from the top of Peak 6, lying between Peak 6 and 7. To get there, traverse to the skier’s right to be rewarded with a classic Peak 6 above-treeline experience—expansive, open slopes with breathtaking alpine views. As the run descends, it naturally funnels into scattered glades, offering playful tree skiing before narrowing into a thrilling single track. The final stretch features a series of fun, flowy rollers, leading toward the Peak 7 base area, don’t miss out on the side hits along the skier’s right in the first half of the run!

Cucumber Bowl

Location: Peak 8

Difficulty: Expert

A tough traverse atop Horseshoe Bowl gains you access to this mellow-sloping bowl that many see but never ski. Cucumber Bowl sits directly under the T-Bar’s return path and offers tree’d bowl skiing with plenty of room for smooth, flowing turns. This hidden gem is a great place to find afternoon freshies after lapping Horseshoe Bowl a few times.

Ripperoo’s Forest

Location: Peak 9

Difficulty: Beginner

Ripperoo’s Forest is a fun, flowy green trail on Peak 9 that’s perfect for all ability levels. Find this little forest run just off Frontier Run after unloading Quicksilver SuperChair. The scenic cruise winds through the trees with wide, banked turns, making for a smooth and enjoyable ride. For an extra bit of fun, take the optional bridge feature. Not only is this a great spot for the kids, but parents will love this little trail too! Whether you’re a beginner looking to explore some easygoing tree skiing or an advanced skier taking a relaxed lap, this trail is always a good time.

Forget-Me-Not

Location: Peak 8

Difficulty: Advanced

Forget-Me-Not is a high-alpine gem on Peak 8, offering a mix of wide-open turns and playful natural features. Accessed from the skier’s left off the T-Bar or via Whale’s Tale from the top of Imperial SuperChair—the highest chairlift in North America, this run delivers a thrilling descent with breathtaking views. The terrain flows from steep pitches to rolling sections, with scattered glades and powder stashes waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re carving big turns up top or weaving through the trees at the bottom, Forget-Me-Not is an unforgettable run for advanced skiers looking to explore Breck’s legendary above-treeline terrain.

Bliss

Location: Peak 6

Difficulty: Intermediate

Bliss is a moderately difficult bowl that offers the thrill of high-alpine terrain and stunning views without the intensity of a double black. Sitting just below the top of Peak 6 off of Kensho SuperChair, this wide-open bowl provides a smooth, rolling descent with plenty of space to carve big turns. A portion of the bowl is groomed for an easier ride, but venture off the corduroy, and you might find powder stashes tucked along the sides. Whether you’re looking to cruise through soft snow or challenge yourself on steeper sections, Bliss is the perfect run for intermediate and advanced skiers wanting a true alpine experience.

Needle’s Eye

Location: Peak 9

Difficulty: Expert

Needle’s Eye is a tight, steep tree run that delivers an East Coast-style tree skiing experience in the heart of Breck. Tucked just off the skier’s left of Volunteer, the entrance is subtle, but once you drop in, you’re met with a technical descent through dense trees that demand quick turns and precise line choices. The terrain is steep and unforgiving, making it a thrilling challenge for those who love navigating tight spaces and chasing hidden powder stashes deep in the woods. If you’re an expert skier looking for a test of skill and agility, Needle’s Eye won’t disappoint.

Angel’s Rest

Location: Peak 7

Difficulty: Intermediate

Angel’s Rest is a flowy groomer on Peak 7, featuring rolling terrain that keeps every turn exciting. Accessed via Freedom Chair or Independence SuperChair, this run is great for most ability levels, offering a smooth, flowing descent with perfectly spaced rollers that let you catch a little air—or big hangtime if you’re up for it! Whether you’re carving fast, linking playful turns, or just cruising and enjoying the ride, Angel’s Rest is an absolute blast from top to bottom.

Ore Bucket

Location: 7

Difficulty: Advanced

Ore Bucket has an unassuming entrance right at the top of Freedom and Independence SuperChairs, making it easy to miss as most skiers cruise past. But for those in the know, this hidden gem delivers a fun, natural terrain experience on Peak 7. The run kicks off with a short but steep pitch, quickly transitioning into rolling, ungroomed terrain where you can choose between gladed tree skiing or a weaving gully that flows smoothly before rejoining one of Peak 7’s more well-known groomers. Since Ore Bucket isn’t groomed, it’s an ideal spot to start your day on a powder morning, offering soft turns and fresh tracks before the T-Bar and upper mountain terrain open for the day. Plus, it’s easy to lap, making it a go-to for those chasing early-morning freshies!

Briar Rose

Location: 9

Difficulty: Intermediate

Briar Rose, off the Mercury Chair on Peak 9, is a great choice for intermediate skiers and riders looking for a mix of trees, moguls, and groomed terrain. The run starts with a moderate pitch, leading into well-spaced trees that provide plenty of room to pick your line. On a powder day, it’s especially fun, offering soft, playful turns before flattening out at the bottom. As you cruise along, slide past tree islands and gentle rollers, and keep an eye out for CJ’s Cabin, an old mining cabin from Breckenridge’s early days—the entrance will be on your right. Whether you’re refining your tree skiing skills or mixing up your Peak 9 laps, Briar Rose is a fun and versatile run.

What else makes Breckenridge so special? Beyond the incredible terrain, you can find great deals on slopeside lodging, making it easier than ever to stay right by the lifts. Both Grand Colorado on Peak 8 and Grand Lodge on Peak 7 offer stunning views, top-tier amenities, and unbeatable access to the mountain. Check out some of these offers here.

Whether you’re exploring hidden tree runs, lapping high-alpine bowls, or cruising playful groomers, Breck has a run for everyone. Now it’s time to plan your trip, find your favorite line, and make the most of everything Breck has to offer!