Letter to the editor: Let’s not complain about tourists in Summit County
I recently came across a post one of your writers published on the local Facebook group “One Man’s Junk” about traffic and crowds in Breckenridge. Well, it is important to remember that this community depends on tourism as a vital economic driver.
While tourism can lead to overcrowding, it’s a natural consequence of living in a desirable destination that attracts visitors. Many of those who bitch and whine about tourists also probably directly benefit from them. Tourists come here because it is a wonderful place, and those complaining probably also enjoy being tourists in other popular locations around the world. A more constructive approach would be to foster a spirit of hospitality and welcoming in Breckenridge, recognizing the value that tourism brings to the local economy and community.
While it’s true that traffic and large crowds can be frustrating, this is nothing new. People have been visiting here for years, and for good reason — it’s a beautiful and fun place. Frankly, if people stopped coming, it would hurt the community far more than the inconvenience of busy roads.
Rather than another piece lamenting the crowds. Why dont you to publish something constructive. Try addressing how people can stay safe in these crowded conditions, specifically on the mountain. I’ve been appalled by the behavior I’ve witnessed on the mountain — skiers recklessly venturing into areas they shouldn’t, collisions that could have been avoided, and even incidents like people falling off chairlifts or dying.
Just the other day, someone on Peak 10 aggressively refused to let me lower the safety bar, despite it being a basic precaution. These actions put lives at risk and highlight the need for better education and awareness about mountain safety.
Why not publish an article about how to navigate the crowds responsibly? Include statistics on injuries, discuss common causes of accidents, and offer tips to prevent them. Spread some awareness! People need to be reminded about proper etiquette on the slopes, the importance of staying within their skill level, and the necessity of using safety features like chairlift bars.
We all love this community and the experiences it offers. Let’s focus on solutions to make it safer and more enjoyable for everyone instead of triggering people to complain on Facebook.

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