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Breckenridge History: Edwin Carter Museum

Discover Breckenridge's past through the eyes of a naturalist at the Edwin Carter Museum, a preserved 1875 log cabin.

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Step back in time at the Edwin Carter Museum, housed in Carter's original 1875 log cabin. Discover the story of Edwin Carter, a gold prospector turned naturalist, and his impressive collection of Rocky Mountain wildlife, which later formed the foundation of the Denver Museum of Nature and Science.

A brief summary to Breckenridge History: Edwin Carter Museum

  • Tuesday 11 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 11 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 11 am-4 pm
  • Friday 11 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the week to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.
  • Check the museum's schedule for special events or guided tours.
  • Allow 30-90 minutes to fully experience the museum.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Main Street in downtown Breckenridge, head north on Ridge Street. The museum is located at 111 N Ridge St, approximately a 10-minute walk from the center of town. Look for the log cabin with the 'Edwin Carter Museum' sign.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Breckenridge Free Ride bus system, which offers free service around town. Check the local bus schedule and take the Yellow Route towards the Breckenridge Transit Center. Get off at the stop for Main Street and walk north on North Ridge Street for about 5 minutes. The museum will be on your left at 111 N Ridge St. The Free Ride app makes navigating the bus system easier.

  • Car

    From Park Avenue, turn onto North Ridge Street. The Edwin Carter Museum is located at 111 N Ridge St. There are a few designated parking spaces at the museum. Otherwise, there is street and town lot parking. Parking is prohibited in all Town of Breckenridge operated parking lots between 2 AM and 6 AM. Check signs before parking. Parking at the East Sawmill Lot is free after 5 PM.

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Discover more about Breckenridge History: Edwin Carter Museum

The Edwin Carter Museum, nestled in a humble log cabin on North Ridge Street in Breckenridge, Colorado, offers a glimpse into the life of Edwin Carter, a man who traded gold prospecting for naturalism. Arriving in Breckenridge during the 1860s gold rush, Carter became concerned about the environmental impact of mining. He began collecting and preserving specimens of local wildlife, eventually amassing over 3,000 items. Housed in Carter's original cabin, the museum showcases exhibits about Carter's life, his taxidermy work, and the local environment. Visitors can explore interactive displays and view original artifacts from Carter's collection. The museum also highlights the ecological changes in the region caused by mining. Carter's collection became the catalyst for the creation of the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. In 2025, the museum celebrates its 150th anniversary. A visit to the Edwin Carter Museum provides a unique perspective on Breckenridge's history and the importance of environmental conservation.

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