Get Lost in the Flavor at Broken Compass Brewing
When you’re shredding the powdery slopes of Breckenridge, there’s nothing quite like capping off a day on the mountain with a cold, craft beer in hand. Nestled in the heart of Summit County, Broken Compass Brewing is the perfect spot to unwind, connect, and discover some of the best brews in Colorado. Whether you’re a local who knows every secret stash on Peak 8 or a visitor chasing that Rocky Mountain high, Broken Compass is where lost beer souls are found—and trust us, you’ll want to get a little lost here.
A Brewery Built on Community and Adventure
Since opening its doors in 2014, Broken Compass has become a Breckenridge staple, embodying the spirit of exploration that defines this mountain town. Founders Jason and Jolene Ford built the brewery on a simple philosophy: getting lost leads to the best discoveries. Whether it’s stumbling upon a hidden powder stash or finding your new favorite beer, Broken Compass celebrates those unexpected moments that make life unforgettable. Their taprooms—at the original location on Continental Court and the newer spot on South Main Street—are all about community, where strangers become friends over a pint and a game of cards.
What sets Broken Compass apart? It’s their hyper-local focus. They don’t distribute widely, choosing instead to pour their heart into crafting beers for the Breckenridge community. From supporting local organizations to striving for sustainability, Broken Compass is as committed to more than just brewing exceptional beer.
Beers That Pack a Punch
With 12 taps flowing at both locations, Broken Compass offers a lineup that’s as diverse as the Tenmile Range. From the Coconut Porter to the spicy yet smooth Chili Pepper Pale Ale, there’s a brew for everyone. Feeling something light? Try the Hefeweizen, a German-inspired classic that’s crisp and refreshing after a day on the slopes. Or go bold with the Zamba Juice Hazy IPA, bursting with juicy Mosaic hops and a touch of roasted coffee.
Seasonal offerings keep things fresh, like the Chocolate Pumpkin Pie Stout or the C.R.A.C. Stout (loaded with cranberries, raspberries, apricots, and cherries). Pro tip: Check their website for the latest tap list, as they’re always experimenting with new flavors.
The Vibe: Where Dogs, Games, and Good Times Collide
Broken Compass isn’t just about the beer—it’s about the experience. Both taprooms (the OG spot at 68 Continental Court and the downtown location at 520 S. Main St.) are dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry trail buddy along. No kitchen? No problem. You can bring food from nearby Breck restaurants or grab something from the Gyros Delish food truck parked at the original location Thursdays through Sundays. If you’re just peckish, they’ve got chips and pretzels to tide you over.
The communal tables and shelves stocked with board games invite you to linger, laugh, and maybe challenge a stranger to a round of Connect Four. And if you’re at the original brewery, don’t miss the Monday Night Potlucks, a Breckenridge tradition where locals and visitors bring dishes to share, vote for their favorites, and compete for growler fills and bragging rights. It’s a delicious way to feel like part of the community, whether you’re wielding a spatula or just a fork.
Events to Sip and Savor
Broken Compass knows how to throw a party. From their legendary Monday Night Potlucks to special events like the Broken Compass Beer Pairing Dinner at Spencer’s in Beaver Run Resort (mark your calendar for July 12th during Beerfest!), they’re always finding ways to bring people together. Past events have included Music Video Bingo and epic New Year’s Eve bashes with live music from bands like Liver Down the River. Keep an eye on their blog or Instagram for upcoming shindigs.
Why Broken Compass is a Must-Visit
As one Reddit user put it, “Nothing matches the vibe of Broken Compass.” Whether you’re sipping a Strawberry Blonde on the heated outdoor deck at Main Street or counting dogs with your kids at the original taproom (a fun tradition for some visitors!), this brewery feels like home. Bartenders like John, Ross, Tommy, and Clare bring the warmth, and the beers bring the flavor.
So, next time you’re in Breckenridge, trade your ski boots for a pint glass and head to Broken Compass Brewing. Whether you’re chasing the perfect après-ski vibe or just looking for a place to connect over great beer, you’ll find it here. As they say, “Get a little lost. You never know what you might find.”
Visit them at:
- Original Location: 68 Continental Ct B12, Breckenridge, CO
- Main Street Location: 520 S. Main St, Breckenridge, CO
- Website: brokencompassbrewing.com
Cheers to epic days on the mountain and even better nights at Broken Compass!
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