The expansion is the latest involving Epic Discovery at a Vail Resorts area. VR launched the Epic Discovery concept following passage of the 2011 Ski Area Recreational Opportunity Enhancement Act. The grand opening drew a range of dignitaries, including Colorado Lt. Gov. Donna Lynne; Carlos Fernandez, Colorado State Director of The Nature Conservancy; and Scott Fitzwilliams, Forest Supervisor of The White River National Forest.

“Epic Discovery at Breckenridge will provide a unique, on-mountain summer experience, immersing guests in activities which provide big-time thrills, allowing them to challenge themselves physically, and guiding them to explore and better understand their natural surroundings,” said John Buhler, vice president and chief operating officer of Breckenridge.

The 35-foot-tall Gold Summit Climbing Wall offers 13 distinct routes, suited for beginners to advanced climbers. Epic Discovery’s three-quarter-mile interpretive trail, dotted with “animal abilities” stations and story stakes, tours Breck’s high-alpine environment. The story stakes provide photos and descriptions of the flora and fauna, mountain wetlands, impacts of the 1800’s gold rush, and additional history of the area. Alpine Camp’s observation tower offers a panoramic view of the Ten Mile Range and Summit County.

A key element of Epic Discovery is Breck’s “One Percent for the Forest” program. The Nature Conservancy will invest one percent of Breck’s donated summer lift ticket and activity revenue into forest restoration projects on national forest lands. “There are 24 million acres of forest in the State of Colorado. Six million of them really need our help,” said Fernandez.

Epic Discovery’s new activities complement a variety of other popular attractions already open at the resort, from the Expedition Zip Line Tour and Gold Runner Alpine Coaster to gemstone panning and the Little Flyer Zipline for guests 30-100 pounds.