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Summit County, Colorado: Where Fun Never Gets Slope-y – Best Things To Do & Places To Visit

Welcome to Summit County, Colorado, where adventure awaits you at every turn. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, Summit County has something for everyone. From skiing and snowboarding to hiking and biking, this picturesque mountain destination is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Summit County: An Overview Summit County is located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains and is home to some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the world. With four world-class ski resorts, including Breckenridge, Keystone, Copper Mountain, and Arapahoe Basin, Summit County is a skier’s paradise. But it’s not just winter sports that make Summit County a must-visit destination. In the summer, the mountains come alive with hiking, biking, fishing, and water sports, making it an ideal destination for families and adventure seekers alike.

Key Takeaways

• Summit County, Colorado is an adventure seeker’s paradise with something for everyone.
• With four world-class ski resorts, Summit County is a must-visit destination for skiers and snowboarders.
• In the summer, Summit County comes alive with hiking, biking, fishing, and water sports, making it an ideal destination for families and adventure seekers alike.

Summit County: An Overview

Welcome to Summit County, where the snow is always fresh, and the beer is always cold. Located in the heart of the Rockies, Summit County is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, foodies, and beer lovers alike.

With four world-class ski resorts, including Breckenridge, Keystone, Arapahoe Basin, and Copper Mountain, Summit County is a winter wonderland that attracts skiers and snowboarders from all over the world. But skiing is just the tip of the iceberg. In the summer, Summit County transforms into a playground for hikers, bikers, and water lovers.

Summit County is also home to some of the best breweries in Colorado. With over ten breweries in the area, you’re sure to find a beer that suits your taste buds. And if you’re a foodie, Summit County has got you covered. From fine dining to food trucks, you’ll find a variety of delicious options to satisfy your hunger.

But Summit County isn’t just about skiing, beer, and food. The area is rich in history and culture, with museums, art galleries, and festivals throughout the year. And if you’re looking for a more relaxing experience, you can soak in the hot springs or take a scenic drive through the mountains.

In summary, Summit County is a year-round destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a foodie, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, Summit County has got you covered. So pack your bags, grab your skis or hiking boots, and get ready for an adventure you’ll never forget.

The Skiing Paradise

If you’re a skiing enthusiast, Summit County is your paradise. With four incredible ski resorts, it’s no wonder that Summit County is one of the best Colorado destinations for a winter holiday. Here are a few ski resorts that you must visit:

Breckenridge Ski Resort

Breckenridge Ski Resort is a world-renowned ski resort that offers something for everyone. With 5 peaks, 2,908 acres of ski terrain, and 187 trails, there’s no shortage of skiing options. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’ll find trails that suit your skill level.

But skiing isn’t the only thing that Breckenridge has to offer. The town itself is a charming Victorian-style town that’s perfect for strolling and shopping. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try out the famous Breckenridge Escape Room.

Copper Mountain

Copper Mountain is another fantastic ski resort that’s perfect for families. With 2,465 acres of terrain, 140 trails, and 23 lifts, there’s plenty of skiing to be done. But what sets Copper Mountain apart is its family-friendly atmosphere. The resort offers free snowcat rides, tubing, and a massive indoor playground called Critterland.

And if you’re looking for a challenge, try out the Woodward Copper Barn. It’s a year-round training facility that offers skiing, snowboarding, skateboarding, and more.

Arapahoe Basin

Arapahoe Basin, also known as A-Basin, is a ski resort that’s perfect for the more adventurous skiers. With over 1,400 acres of terrain, A-Basin offers some of the most challenging skiing in Colorado. But don’t worry if you’re a beginner, there are plenty of beginner and intermediate runs as well.

But what really sets A-Basin apart is its spring skiing. The resort is open until June, and the spring skiing is some of the best in the country. And if you’re feeling brave, try out the infamous Pallavicini run.

Summit County truly is a skiing paradise. With so many options, you’ll never get bored. So grab your skis, hit the slopes, and enjoy the winter wonderland that is Summit County.

Water Filled Fun

Summit County is home to some of the most stunning water bodies in Colorado. From kayaking in Lake Dillon to sailing in Frisco Bay Marina, there’s no shortage of fun water activities to enjoy. So let’s dive in and explore the best water-filled fun Summit County has to offer.

Dillon Reservoir

Dillon Reservoir is a beautiful alpine oasis and one of the most popular summertime destinations in Summit County. With its 26-mile shoreline, this reservoir offers breathtaking mountain views from every inch of its shoreline. You can rent a pontoon boat, paddleboard, or kayak to explore the reservoir’s cool waters.

Frisco Bay Marina

If you’re looking for a full day of water adventure, head to Frisco Bay Marina. You can rent sailboats, powerboats, and jet skis to explore the waters of Lake Dillon. The marina also offers sailing lessons, so you can learn how to navigate the waters like a pro.

Kayaking in Lake Dillon

If you’re looking for a more laid-back water activity, kayaking in Lake Dillon is perfect for you. You can rent kayaks and explore the lake’s calm waters at your own pace. Lake Dillon is surrounded by beautiful mountains, making it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Whether you’re looking for a thrilling adventure or a relaxing day on the water, Summit County has something for everyone. So grab your paddle and get ready for some fun in the sun!

Mountain Towns of Summit County

Summit County is home to some of the most beautiful mountain towns in Colorado. Each town has its own unique charm and personality, making it a fun and exciting destination to explore. Here are some of the top mountain towns to visit in Summit County:

Breckenridge

Breckenridge is a charming mountain town that is known for its world-class ski resort, historic downtown, and vibrant food and drink scene. You can spend your days skiing or snowboarding on the mountain, and then head into town for some après-ski drinks and dinner. The town has over 70 independently owned restaurants, so you’re sure to find something that suits your taste buds.

Frisco

Frisco is a small mountain town that is often overlooked by visitors, but it’s definitely worth a visit. The town has a charming downtown area with plenty of shops and restaurants to explore. It’s also home to the Frisco Adventure Park, which has tubing, sledding, and Nordic skiing in the winter, and hiking and biking trails in the summer.

Dillon

Dillon is a small town that is situated on the shores of Lake Dillon. It’s a popular summertime destination, with plenty of opportunities for water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. The town also has a vibrant music scene, with free concerts in the park during the summer months.

Silverthorne

Silverthorne is a small town that is situated at the base of the mountains. It’s a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking and biking trails in the surrounding area. The town also has a large outlet mall, which is a popular destination for shoppers.

Keystone

Keystone is a popular ski resort town that is situated at the base of Keystone Mountain. The town has a vibrant food and drink scene, with plenty of restaurants and bars to explore. It’s also home to the Keystone Resort, which has skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities in the winter, and hiking, mountain biking, and golf in the summer.

No matter which mountain town you choose to visit in Summit County, you’re sure to have a great time. Each town has its own unique charm and personality, making it a fun and exciting destination to explore.

Outdoor Activities

If you’re looking for some fun outdoor activities in Summit County, you’re in luck! There are plenty of options to keep you busy and active during your visit. Here are some of our favorite outdoor activities in the area:

Biking in Frisco

Frisco is a great place to go biking, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider. There are plenty of trails to choose from, including paved paths and mountain biking trails. Some of our favorites include the Frisco Peninsula Recreation Area, which has over 20 miles of trails, and the Summit County Recreational Pathway, which connects Frisco to other nearby towns.

Hiking the Rockies

The Rocky Mountains are an iconic part of Summit County, and hiking is a great way to experience them up close. There are plenty of hiking trails to choose from, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. Some of our favorites include the Rainbow Lake Trail, which is a short and easy hike with beautiful views, and the Quandary Peak Trail, which is a more challenging hike that rewards you with stunning views from the summit.

Fishing in Blue River

If you’re an angler, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to fish in Blue River. The river is home to a variety of fish, including rainbow trout, brown trout, and cutthroat trout. There are plenty of spots along the river to cast your line, and you can even hire a guide to take you to the best fishing spots.

Mountain Biking

If you’re looking for a more adrenaline-fueled activity, mountain biking is a great option. Summit County has plenty of trails for mountain bikers, ranging from easy rides to more challenging ones. Some of our favorites include the Keystone Bike Park, which has over 50 miles of trails, and the Breckenridge Ski Resort, which has trails for all skill levels.

No matter what outdoor activity you choose, make sure to take in the beautiful scenery and enjoy your time in Summit County!

Food and Drink

Are you a foodie looking for some delicious cuisine to satisfy your taste buds? Or are you a beer enthusiast looking for some amazing brews to quench your thirst? Summit County has got you covered with its wide range of dining options, breweries, and distilleries.

Dining in Summit County

Summit County is home to some of the best restaurants in Colorado. From casual dining to fine dining, you can find it all here. Whether you are craving some authentic Mexican cuisine or some mouth-watering Italian pasta, you will find it all here. Some of the must-visit restaurants in Summit County are:

Restaurant Name	Cuisine	Location
Blue River Bistro	Italian	Breckenridge
The Lost Cajun	Cajun	Frisco
Mi Casa Mexican Restaurant & Cantina	Mexican	Breckenridge
Sauce on the Blue	American	Silverthorne

Brewery Tour

Summit County is a beer lover’s paradise. With a plethora of breweries, you can take a brewery tour and taste some of the best brews in the state. The Outer Range Brewing Co. is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts. Their Belgian-inspired brews are sure to leave you wanting more. Breckenridge Brewery is another popular brewery in Summit County. Their Avalanche Ale is a crowd favorite.

Distillery Visit

Looking for something stronger than beer? Summit County has some amazing distilleries that you can visit. The Breckenridge Distillery is a must-visit. They offer tours of their distillery where you can learn about the distillation process and taste their award-winning whiskey. Their bourbon is a personal favorite.

So, whether you are a foodie or a beer enthusiast, Summit County has got you covered with its wide range of dining options, breweries, and distilleries. Come and indulge in the flavors of Summit County.

Cultural Experiences

Summit County is not just about outdoor adventures, it also offers a variety of cultural experiences that you shouldn’t miss. Here are some of the best cultural experiences that you can enjoy in Summit County.

Live Music at Dillon Amphitheater

If you are a music lover, then you should definitely check out the Dillon Amphitheater. This outdoor venue hosts a variety of concerts throughout the year, featuring local and national artists. The best part is that most of the concerts are free, so you can enjoy live music without breaking the bank. Grab a blanket, some snacks, and head down to the amphitheater for a night of great music under the stars.

Schoolhouse and Jail Tour

Take a step back in time and visit the historic Schoolhouse and Jail in Breckenridge. This tour will give you a glimpse of what life was like in the late 1800s. You’ll get to see the old schoolhouse, which was built in 1880, and the jail, which was built in 1890. The tour guides are knowledgeable and will share interesting facts and stories about the history of the town.

Isak Heartstone Visit

If you want to see something unique and whimsical, then you should visit the Isak Heartstone sculpture in Breckenridge. This giant wooden troll was created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo and is a must-see attraction in Summit County. The sculpture is located on a hiking trail, so you can enjoy a scenic walk while you admire this impressive piece of art.

Summit County has a rich cultural scene that is just waiting to be explored. Whether you’re into live music, history, or art, there’s something for everyone. So, go out and experience the best cultural experiences that Summit County has to offer.

Shopping in Summit County

Looking for some retail therapy during your visit to Summit County? You’re in luck! This mountainous region is home to a variety of shopping options, from charming boutiques to outlet malls. Here are a few shopping hotspots you won’t want to miss:

Boutiques in Breckenridge

Breckenridge is known for its quaint downtown area, and the shopping scene is no exception. Stroll down Main Street and pop into the many boutiques and specialty shops that line the street. Looking for unique gifts or souvenirs? Check out Marigold Mercantile, a boutique that specializes in handmade goods from local artisans. Or, if you’re in the market for some stylish mountain wear, head to Ruby Jane Boutique, which offers a curated selection of clothing and accessories.

Keystone Shopping

While Keystone may be best known for its world-class skiing, it’s also home to some great shopping options. If you’re staying in the River Run Village area, be sure to check out the many shops and boutiques located just steps from your lodging. Looking for outdoor gear? Head to Keystone Sports, which offers a wide selection of ski and snowboard equipment, as well as clothing and accessories. And if you’re in need of some pampering, be sure to stop by Serenity Spa and Salon, which offers a range of services from massages to facials.

No matter what your shopping style, Summit County has something for everyone. So go ahead, treat yourself to a little retail therapy during your visit to this beautiful mountain region!

Festivals and Events

Summit County is known for its exciting festivals and events that take place throughout the year. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s always something fun and unique to do. Here are some of the best festivals and events to check out:

• Breckenridge Oktoberfest: If you love beer, brats, and lederhosen, then you don’t want to miss Breckenridge Oktoberfest. This three-day festival is held in September and features live music, delicious food, and of course, plenty of beer. Prost!

• Ullr Fest: Every January, Breckenridge celebrates the Norse god of snow, Ullr, with a week-long festival. The event includes a parade, bonfire, ice skating party, and more. Dress up in your best Viking attire and join the fun.

• Frisco BBQ Challenge: Get your grill on at the Frisco BBQ Challenge, held in June. This two-day event features over 70 BBQ teams competing for the title of best BBQ. There’s also live music, a pig race, and a beer garden. Don’t forget the wet wipes!

• Dillon Amphitheater Concert Series: Throughout the summer, the Dillon Amphitheater hosts a free concert series featuring a variety of musical acts. Bring a blanket, some snacks, and your dancing shoes for a fun night under the stars.

• Copper Country: This Labor Day weekend festival at Copper Mountain Resort is perfect for music lovers. The event features free live music, arts and crafts vendors, and a kids’ zone. Plus, you can enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery while you’re there.

No matter what time of year you visit Summit County, there’s always a festival or event to attend. So grab your friends and family and get ready to have some fun!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some quirky activities to try in Summit County?

Summit County is full of unique and quirky activities that you won’t find anywhere else. Have you ever tried snowkiting? It’s like kiteboarding but on snow instead of water. Or how about dog sledding? You can experience the thrill of being pulled by a team of adorable huskies through the snowy mountains. If you’re feeling brave, you can even try ice climbing on one of the frozen waterfalls in the area.

What are some underrated places to visit in Summit County?

While Breckenridge and Keystone are popular destinations in Summit County, there are plenty of hidden gems that are worth checking out. For example, the town of Frisco has a charming Main Street with unique shops and restaurants. The Frisco Adventure Park is also a great spot for tubing, skiing, and snowboarding. Another underrated spot is the Dillon Reservoir, where you can go boating, fishing, or just enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

What’s the best way to explore Summit County on a budget?

Exploring Summit County doesn’t have to break the bank. One of the best ways to save money is by taking advantage of the many hiking trails in the area. You can also rent a bike and explore the scenic bike paths that connect the different towns. If you’re visiting in the winter, look for deals on lift tickets and equipment rentals. And don’t forget to check out the local breweries and happy hour specials for some affordable après-ski fun.

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