Town of Breckenridge, Colorado
About
The Town of Breckenridge sits at 9,603 feet above sea level in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, just west of the Continental Divide and approximately 80 miles from Denver. Surrounded by National Forest lands and the Tenmile Range, Breckenridge offers awe-inspiring views, year-round access to nature, and some of the clearest alpine skies in the region. Its high-elevation environment supports a rich array of wildlife — including bears, moose, foxes, hummingbirds, and owls — and provides opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and stargazing directly from trails and open space preserves. Breckenridge’s proximity to the White River National Forest and extensive trail systems makes it an ideal launching point for exploring Colorado’s alpine nightscapes.
The Town of Breckenridge has long focused on sustainability and environmental stewardship. The Town’s night sky conservation efforts began in 2007 with the adoption of their exterior lighting ordinance. The ordinance establishes lighting zones, requires fully shielded fixtures, and sets limitations on color temperature and brightness. The Town underwent a review of lighting regulations, conducted a comprehensive lighting inventory, and prioritized community education as the foundation for its designation as an International Dark Sky Community.
In 2023-2024, the Town surveyed properties to determine current lighting compliance. As part of the Town-wide compliance effort, an extensive lighting informational website was created, and staff held a diverse offering of public outreach events which are ongoing along compliance efforts.
Visitors can enjoy unimpeded views of the night sky throughout Breckenridge thanks to its walkable, bike-friendly layout and free public transit system. Some of the best locations for stargazing include the Sawmill Museum, Gold Run Nordic Center, and the summit of Discovery Hill. Guests are encouraged to explore nearby trails and open spaces, many of which provide quiet, natural settings ideal for nighttime reflection and skywatching. The Town also regularly hosts community events that promote environmental stewardship and celebrate its natural heritage. As part of its on-going commitment to certification, Breckenridge will continually monitor sky brightness and expand its Dark Sky education and tourism initiatives in partnership with regional organizations.
Designated
2025
Category
International Dark Sky Community
Address
150 Ski Hill Rd
Breckenridge, CO 80424
Google Maps
Contact
Ellie Muncy, Planner I
(970) 453-3176
[email protected]
Julia Puester, AICP, Assistant Town Manager
(970) 547-3174
[email protected]
DarkSky International
Michael Rymer, Communities Program Manager
+1 (520) 347-6365
[email protected]
Land area
15.66 km²
Documents
Application
Announcement
Annual Reports
Website
Weather
Click here to find ideal environmental conditions for enjoying dark skies in Breckenridge, Colorado (39.48, -106.05)
