Three short blocks from the shops and dining scene along historic Main Street, and across the street from Snowflake Chairlift and the Four O’Clock Run, ski-in/ski-out Wedgewood Lodge has the location angle covered. You’ll pick up on the family-owned-and-operated vibe from the moment you step inside the cozy lobby and check in. And your first tracks fans will appreciate the practically instant access to the lift – have them set their alarms accordingly, since you may not be up quite that early. Keep a stash of hand-warmers, mini trail maps and energy bars handy for stuffing into pockets on the way out the door – and plan a mid-morning meeting spot in advance. When everyone finally makes that last run down, they’ll be out of their snowsuits and into swimsuits faster than you can say, “Anyone up for the hot tub?” It’s conveniently indoors, so you don’t have to worry about making a mad dash through snow on the way to and from.

Vacation residences are available in a variety of configurations, from studios to two-bedrooms (all with loft options), to a three-bedroom suite. Choose one that suits the size of your crew, so everyone gets to sleep in an actual bed and no one gets relegated to sleeping bags on the floor. Amenities vary unit to unit, some with fireplaces, full kitchens and a washer/dryer, while others stick to the essentials (beds, living space and kitchenette). If you’re not planning to do much cooking in, downtown dining options are an easy walk – ask the front desk for local favorites.

Rich with groomed blues, Breckenridge is ideal for skiers/snowboarders of all levels. Want to hit the bowls? Take the T-bar to the area south of Peak 9 and 10. Or visit nearby Keystone – it’s got a top-ranked terrain park, and the double-black Imperial Bowl is a favorite among the more adventuresome – you’ll earn your après ski drinks and then some. Downtown Breck has a 250-building historic district and nearly as many newly-built shops and restaurants. Spend a few afternoons or evenings rounding up souvenir t-shirts, sampling microbrews or checking out some of the galleries. Once the warmer months arrive, the Breck Summer Fun Park opens its rides, like the Gold Runner Coaster, Alpine SuperSlide, TenMile Flyer Zipline and Bungee Trampoline. Golfers will want to book a tee time at the 27-hole Breckenridge Golf Club, the only municipal course ever designed by Jack Nicklaus.