Location: Summit County

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Breckenridge, Colorado

Winter in Summit County

Winter in Summit County, Colorado

Winter in Summit County is a magical time for mountain adventures, seasonal festivities, and honored traditions. Summit County is draped in powdery, sparkling snowflakes and locals and visitors from all walks of life share a winter enthusiasm. Blessed with a central location in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, Summit County encompasses the inviting towns of Keystone, Dillon, Silverthorne, Frisco, Copper Mountain and Breckenridge.

Winter in Summit County – Activities

Summit County has grown from a mining boom base camp to a favorite Rocky Mountain vacation destination.  Boasting the most extended ski season in the Western United States, the landscape evokes exploration. It is the perfect playground for nature lovers and those looking for a relaxing winter getaway.  Breathtaking, snowcapped peaks are a natural backdrop for excursions ranging from:

Winter in Summit County

Celebrate Winter in Summit County, participate in tradition at one of our many winter events, rejuvenate at a bed and breakfast, browse locally owned shops, and indulge in our creative restaurants and breweries.  Take advantage of the county-wide free transportation system while shopping to check out the friendly lakeside towns of Dillon and Frisco, stroll charming Main Street and Breckenridge, or do a little shopping in Silverthorne.  Save time for a day trip to one of our neighboring communities, such as Leadville or Fairplay.

It’s time to get acquainted with Winter in Summit County and make lasting memories in this fantastic winter wonderland.

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Colorado Winter Activities

Winter in Colorado

Winter in Colorado

When you think of winter in Colorado, you probably imagine grand ski slopes, big halfpipes, and fabulous ski towns. Well, that’s all true and something any real connoisseur should experience; however, Colorado has much more going on than just skiing and riding.

Winter in Colorado’s Resort Towns

Colorado’s resort towns are winter wonderlands and add to the winter vacation experience. Join in on the slopeside apres ski scene; it’s a fun social opportunity with your friends and a chance to meet new ones. Base areas also access ski lodges, shopping, dining, transportation, and more. If you’re with a group, event centers are available to host whatever you have in mind. A big day on the slopes will make you tired and sore. Plenty of spas are just around the corner and offer various services.

Vacationing in a Colorado resort town is a fun experience for everyone. Resort towns have become experts at facilitating the tourist crowd. Downtown areas are full of boutique shops, art galleries, restaurants, pubs, cafes, event venues, and more. Wandering around a Colorado resort town is a must-do for any visitor.

Winter in Colorado’s Resort Towns

Winter in Colorado Aspen

Skiing and Riding in Colorado

Some of the Best

Winter in Colorado produces some of the best skiing and riding in the world. In fact, there are 25 world-class ski resorts and many smaller ones. Colorado's ski areas span the state, covering more than 40,000 acres of terrain beginning at the sky-scraping Continental Divide and unfolding north, south, east, and west deep into the Centennial State's majestic mountain ranges. Colorado's ski slopes and terrain parks have been expertly designed to cater to beginners through expert-level skiers and riders. Resorts will have ski and ride schools to help bring along any level of athlete. Clinics and special programs are also available. You will find that handicapped people are catered to, as well as the new and growing uphill crowd. If you have a young family, childcare services and ski/ride programs for kids are available to help make the family experience most enjoyable.

Ski and Ride Gear

Don't worry about the gear if you’re new to the sport. There are so many sports shops that you might even accidentally walk into one. If you’re unsure which shop will best accommodate your group, start by asking the concierge or the booking agent who helped set up your trip. In addition to getting set up with the best gear, you’re looking for services such as convenient ski storage or slopeside access to your gear, transportation to the slopes, and help with your gear if necessary. If you have brought your own gear, find a ski shop or a slopeside locker service so you don’t have to carry all that cumbersome gear around. Shops are great to partner with as they can get your gear tuned and ready to go.

winter in colorado skiing

Nordic Centers, Cross-Country Skiing

Ski Touring Centers (snowshoeing)

If cross-country skiing or snowshoeing is your passion, or there are people in your group who want to check this out, Colorado’s resorts are the place to be. Not far from the alpine resort, you will find a ski touring center. These low-key, friendly centers welcome newbies and offer lessons and gear rental. They usually have a cafe and a ski shop. It’s a nice change of pace, and tickets are a fraction of what you’ll pay at the Alpine resort.

Winter in Colorado Cross Country Skiing

Destination Resorts in the Winter

Guest Ranches - Destination Resorts

Tucked away in more remote locations are Colorado resorts that are commonly referred to as Guest Ranches. Winter in Colorado transitions activities at these ranches, and they take on new reasons to visit. Below are a few standouts.

Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort and Spa is a perfect example of this type of destination. Located in northern Colorado. This destination ranch has 120km of groomed trails, with a complete pro-shop, lessons, gear, snowshoes, and dogs are welcome. The lodge is exquisite, complete with dining facilities and a spa.

Grand Lake Nordic Center is also located in northern Colorado. This destination resort has 35km of groomed Nordic trails, a tubing hill, an on-site restaurant, and a summer golf course, and it is dog-friendly. They don’t provide lodging, but there’s plenty of that nearby.

Vista Verde Guest Ranch, just north of Steamboat Springs in Clark, Colorado, is a luxury destination resort and spa with year-round attractions. During winter in Colorado they offer:

  • 15km of groomed cross-country trails for both classic and skate skiing.
  • Guided snowshoeing.
  • A snowtubing hill.
  • Backcountry ski tours with guides and equipment available.
  • Fat biking or winter mountain biking.
  • Horseback riding goes year-round as they have an incredible indoor facility.
  • Hop on board a sleigh ride before an exquisite dinner.
  • Explore the National Forest via snowmobile tours.

These are just a few examples of resort destinations that truly remove you from the hustle of daily life. There are more throughout Colorado, you will just have to poke around to find the destination resort that meets your needs.

Colorado’s Hot Springs in the Winter

Iron Mountain Hot Springs

Winter at Colorado's Natural Hot Springs

Natural Hot Spring Resorts Open Year-round

Most of Colorado’s natural hot spring resorts are open year-round. The natural spring water is always hot, and experiencing its benefits is often more soothing in the winter than summer. These resorts vary in their accommodations, but many offer onsite lodging, dining, and spa services.

The popular Glenwood Springs Hot Springs and Spa between Aspen and Vail is an icon of relaxation and rejuvenation. The resort is home to the world's largest hot springs pool, a full-service athletic club, a gift shop, a grill, and a 107-room lodge. They offer specials such as the wellness package, ski swim stay, the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park package, and more. The Shoshone Chutes adventure river ride keeps kids of all ages engaged. This is a perfect destination resort for the whole family.

Iron Mountain Hot Springs, also located in Glenwood Springs, overlooks the Colorado River. This resort emphasizes smaller (total of 16) geothermal pools, ranging in temperature, and a single freshwater pool to cool off in. The resort includes a bathhouse and two Cafés. There is no lodging onsite, but there are plenty of choices nearby. The emphasis is on the adult experience at this resort.

Indian Hot Springs, located in Idaho Springs just off of I-70, is the closest natural hot spring to Denver. Consider making an overnight stay at this resort and spa. They have rooms and cabins with kitchens. There is no onsite dining, but there are lots to choose from nearby. They do offer spa services to complement your relaxing stay.

Explore Colorado's natural hot springs via our Hot Springs Guide. There are many to choose from, and each one is unique in what they offer.

Other Popular Winter in Colorado Activities

  • Snowmobile and winter buggy tours. These tours are a popular way to really “get out there” and explore the winterscape.
  • A winter scenic train ride. This is another spectacular way to experience Colorado’s more remote mountain vistas and learn about days gone by.
  • Sleigh rides. Authentic horse-drawn sleigh rides are found throughout Colorado. A dinner experience accompanies most.
  • Ice fishing. Lakes are all over Colorado, and ice fishing is a great way to enjoy them in the winter. Local shops will set you up with all the gear and guides can be hired too.
  • Tubing and sledding hills. Colorado has some exceptional sledding/tubing hills worth a visit for some big fun.
  • Winter Events. Events are ongoing in Colorado, and winter has a whole set of highlights.

winter in Colorado snow tubing

Winter in Colorado Getting Around

With convenient non-stop flights to Denver and some of the regional airports in Colorado, getting to your favorite resort is easy. Once landed, ground transportation will take you to your destination doorstep. Going to Winter Park? Take the “Winter Train” via DIA’s A-Line Train that connects in Union Station, and go straight to Winter Park!

Summit County Transportation

If you’re basing your winter in Colorado vacation from the Summit County area which means you could be staying in any of the following resort towns:

  • Silverthorne
  • Frisco
  • Dillon
  • Breckenridge
  • Copper Mnt

The FREE Summit Stage bus can get you around the entire Summit County area. That means you can easily access four world-class ski and ride resorts (Breck, Keystone, A-Basin, Copper Mnt). Download the app and stay up to date with the time and place of this bus line.

Alpenglo Adventure Tours is another fantastic transportation service in the Summit County area. This company specializes in door-to-door tour service for scenic trains, brews booze and bud tours, and the Zephyr train.

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Alpenglow Adventure Tours

Alpenglow Adventure Train Tours

Alpenglow Adventure Train Tours – door-to-door and more

Alpenglow Adventure Train Tours offers a diverse range of tours and extras. Choose from three railroads:

  • Georgetown Railroad
  • Colorado Zephyr Railroad
  • Royal Gorge Route Railroad

Each offering railroad adventures with 3-, 5-, 8- and 12-hour tours for the best outdoor family and group fun. You’ve never seen Colorado like this before!

Tour packages include extras not available with standard railroad fare.

  • Complete van transportation packages include lunch on many of our tours.
  • Free digital photos and videos of your smiling faces.

The Zephyr Railroad

A 110-mile rail odyssey that travels through deep granite canyons while hugging the banks of the Colorado River. This tour is the epitome of modern rail luxury and towering canyon scenery.

The Zephyr stops at Glenwood Springs for “trails, caves, or waves.” In Glenwood, you will have your choice of:

  • Experiencing the Adventure Park which offers guided cave tours, a mile-long alpine slide, and a 4,300′ aerial tram ride.
  • Stop at Glenwood Hot Springs for a soak in the largest outdoor, thermally heated pool. Plus various other water features.
  • Opt to hike to the most photographed lake in the Rockies, Hanging Lake!

Next, a van will pick up your party and take you back home, but only after a 90-minute stop at the Vail community. Choose an exquisite dinner at any of Vail’s four-star resorts or shop in the pedestrian-only center of town. Then the van will sweep you away over Vail Pass (10,662′ ) back to Summit County.

The Georgetown Loop Railroad

The most popular railroad tour is hte historic Georgetown loop, which operates daily with multiple departures and personalized door-to-door service.

  • Daily trips to the “Silver Queen of the Rockies.”
  • All aboard at Devil’s Gate Train Station.
  • Spectacular views of Clear Creek and cross the high tressel bridge!
  • Explore the 1880’s-era Lebanon silver mine via tour guides.
  • Entertainment and picnic with a would-class playground.
  • Or, Scooter’s Smokehouse BBQ
  • A magic show and a tour of historic downtown Georgetown.

The Royal Gorge Tour

An action packed day that starts with a luxury van ride over Hoosier Pass (11,541′) with unbelivable views of three fourteeners and ample wildlife.

  • Upon arrival, a picnic lunch on the  riverbanks of the Arkansas River.
  • Enjoy air-conditioned coaches as well as “open” cars that offer amazing photo opportunities.
  • The train journey is through the “Grand Canyon of the Arkansas” with a vista of the famous Hanging Bridge and canyon view of the Royal Gorge Bridge.
  • Upon return to Cañon City, your tour guide will transport you to the Winery at the Holy Cross Abbey. Kids are entertained with a magic show.
  • Next a visit to the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park. You can walk across the bridge or ride the free park trolley. Your Alpenglo fare includes all of the attractions at the Royal Gorge Bridge Park.

The Royal Gorge Tour offers options for shortend versions, just inquire.

More to Explore

Additional activities include cave tours, silver mine tours, gondola rides, and scenic drives to the Top of the World. Our daily excursions feature 25% group discounts for as few as two folks. All Aboard!

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Ski & Snowboard Rentals in Breckenridge

Blue River Sports & Mountain Wave

Blue River Sports

Breckenridge’s oldest locally owned & operated ski and bike shop, Blue River Sports is celebrating its 43rd season! Mountain Wave, our snowboard and retail shop, will be embarking on its 32nd year!

Our Motto is Simple: Better Equipment • Better Rates • Better Service

Our Commitment to You:

  • The newest and largest selection of equipment in Breckenridge
  • Skis and Snowboards tuned for each rental
  • Fittings that take 20 minutes, usually less
  • Boots that are fitted, not just handed to you
  • Rates include FREE Breakage Insurance
  • Kids 5 and under FREE with Adult Rental
  • Every 5th day FREE
  • Pants and Jacket rental
  • 20% RESERVATION DISCOUNT at www.BlueRiverSports.com
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Colorado Summer

Colorado Summer Vacation Plan

Colorado Summer Vacation Plan, the best season

This is the perfect starting point for planning your Colorado summer vacation. Visiting during the summer is arguably the best time to experience everything this glorious state has to offer.

As the most geographically diverse region in the United States, the Mountain West provides endless natural wonders to explore. Your road trip adventure begins with choosing destinations that match your expectations, mapping out scenic mountain routes, and finding family-friendly activities along the way.

Be sure to use our FREE itinerary tool to organize your entire vacation.

  • Sporting

    Engage in your favorite mountain sports. Such as Golf, Bicycling, Rock Climbing, Horseback Riding, Adventure Parks, Fishing.

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  • Get Out There

    Learn about Colorado's State and National Parks, RV Travel, Hiking, Backpacking, Wildlife & Birdwatching, Wildflowers.

    Learn More

  • Family Fun

    Check out these family-fun activities: Things to do with Kids, Aerial & Adventure Parks, Hot Springs, Educational Tours.

    Learn More

  • On the Water

    Check out how to get your toes wet. Whitewater Rafting, Lakes & Marinas, Sailing, Paddle Crafts, Fishing.

    Learn More

  • Sightseeing & History

    Ways to get an eyeful and learn about the past. Historical Scenic Train Rides, Gondola Rides, Off-Road Tours, Ghost Towns, Dinosaurs, Museums.

    Learn More

  • Culture

    Experience these native activities. Check the Events Calendar, Wine Tasting Rooms, Breweries, Find a Rodeo, stop at a Farmers Market.

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  • Shopping

    Colorado has everything from immersive Malls, Antique Shops, Art Galleries & Art Walks, Artsian Markets, many made-in-Colorado wares.

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  • Scenic Drives

    Colorado's vistas are a journey not to miss. Find exceptional scenic drives, byways, and leaf peeping.

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  • Top Spots

    Colorado has some very attractive destinations. State standouts: Estes Park, Royal Gorge Region, State & National Parks, Resort Towns.

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  • Big Kids
    Some things are just for adults. Wine Tasting Rooms, Casinos, Brews & Bud Tours, Romantic Getaways.

    Learn More

Eagles Nest Wilderness

Nature & Public Lands: The Great Colorado Outdoors

Colorado’s landscape is a masterclass in diversity, featuring everything from 14,000-foot "Fourteeners" to rolling sand dunes and deep river canyons. With nearly half the state designated as public land, your options for exploration are practically infinite. Whether you are looking for the amenities of a state park or the rugged solitude of a national forest, the "Centennial State" is your playground.

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Adventure Parks

Family & Adventure Parks: High-Altitude Thrills

When the snow melts, Colorado’s ski resorts transform into summer "Discovery" centers. From alpine slides and mountain coasters to world-class aerial parks, these destinations offer a "Disney World of the Mountains" experience. It’s the perfect way to keep the kids engaged while enjoying the crisp mountain air.

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Water & Recreation: Rafting, Lakes, and Rivers

Water in Colorado is a precious summer resource. Between the adrenaline-pumping whitewater of the Arkansas River and the glass-like serenity of Grand Lake, there is a "liquid" adventure for every pace. Whether you’re piloting a motorboat, paddling a SUP, or bracing for a Class IV rapid, the high country water is calling.

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Colorado Summer Vacation plan Royal Gorge Dinosaur Experience

Sightseeing & History: Echoes of the Old West

Touch the living history of the American West. Colorado’s past is etched into its landscape—from the dinosaur tracks of the Royal Gorge to the silver-mining ghost towns of the high country. Sightseeing here is an immersive journey through time, easily accessible via historic trains and guided jeep tours.

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Colorado Summer Vacation plan georgetown loop train

Events, Wine & Culture: The Spirit of Summer

Summer in Colorado is one long celebration. From the legendary Red Rocks Amphitheater to the sun-soaked peach orchards of the Western Slope, the state's cultural calendar is packed. Experience the unique "high-altitude" profiles of our wineries or dive into the world-renowned craft brewery scene.

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Artisan shopping in Colorado

Shopping & Local Treasures: Malls to Mountains

Shopping in Colorado is an exercise in variety. You can spend your morning browsing luxury flagships in Denver and your afternoon hunting for 19th-century antiques in a small mountain town. Colorado is also a haven for artisan entrepreneurs, offering custom gear and boutique clothing you won't find anywhere else.

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San Juan Skyway

Scenic Drives & Byways: Views from the Top

In Colorado, the road to your destination is often a highlight of the trip. Our 26 Scenic and Historic Byways offer front-row seats to spectacular panoramas, lush forests, and glimpses of elk and bighorn sheep. From the towering heights of Trail Ridge Road to the winding beauty of the Million Dollar Highway, these drives are a "must" for any road trip.

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Horseback Riding in Colorado

Sporting & Recreation: Active Adventures

For those who prefer their vacation with a side of cardio, Colorado offers world-class facilities and natural terrain. Whether you're chasing a "birdie" at 8,000 feet, grinding gravel on a mountain bike, or exploring the backcountry on horseback, the high-altitude air provides a new element of challenge.

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Beaver-Creek-Resort

Top Destinations: Exploring Colorado's Regions

Every corner of Colorado has a unique heartbeat. To plan the perfect vacation, you first have to find your region. From the bustling energy of the Front Range to the secluded beauty of the Western Slope and the world-famous resort towns of the Central Mountains, your base camp awaits.

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Best for Big Kids

Discover sophisticated activities and leisure tailored for the mature traveler. Whether you're planning a full weekend getaway or just taking a little time off, these experiences offer the perfect blend of relaxation and discovery.

A Colorado Summer Vacation Plan and more

There are many more amazing places and things to do on your Colorado Summer Vacation, and hopefully, you will make discoveries along your journey.

Your summer vacation plan starts with finding destinations and activities that interest you, then crafting your summer road trip route to accommodate these visits.

If finding kids' activities is a primary focus, please check out this article about kids' activities in Colorado. Please use the free itinerary tool, as it is indispensable for organizing your trip. Have a nice summer vacation in Colorado!

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Summer in Summit County

Summer in Summit County, Colorado

Welcome to Summer in Summit County and one of  ‘Colorado’s Favorite Playgrounds!’ Blessed with a central location in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, Summit County encompasses the inviting towns of Keystone, Dillon, Frisco, Silverthorne, Copper Mountain, Heeney, and Breckenridge. The high altitude of Summit County makes for an ideal place to cool of in the hot summer months.

While Summit County is known for its winter activities it is also the county in the United States with the longest average life expectancy according to the U.S. census. The healthy and active lifestyle that reigns in both summer and winter surely has something to do with that.

Summit County Summertime

Our historic towns have much to offer for all ages during the summer months. Celebrate the history of these National Historic Districts and stroll down our Main Streets while enjoying the one-of-a-kind architecture, unique shopping, and dining options.

Summer in Summit County Standouts

Summit County has a thriving arts and cultural scene for both locals and visitors. Check out the annual festivals as well as weekly and monthly events across a variety of disciplines from glassblowing to bluegrass.

Enjoy a guided tour of Summit County’s many breweries with transportation provided. The Summit County Brewery Tour is a six-hour party on wheels for people 21 years old and older. Consider the addition of a few marijuana dispensaries to your tours and go on a Brews, Booze and Bud Tour for a very good time.

Summit County also has a free bus service. The Summit Stage provides year round transportation in and around Summit County.

Find many unique lodging opportunities for romantic getaways, family vacations, and weekend adventures with friends. Summit County has many options to suit any family, group, couple, or individual.

 

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Breckenridge Beer Festival

Breckenridge Beer Festival

The Breckenridge Summer Beer Festival is one of the premiere summer events in Breckenridge each year bringing breweries for tastings, live music, a VIP area and wonderful food and retail vendors.  All taking place outside at Beaver Run Resort & Conference Center in Breckenridge with amazing views of the mountains!  Enjoy a weekend of playing outdoors and a Saturday afternoon of beer tastings from some of Colorado’s finest breweries & other breweries from around the world!  The Breckenridge Summer Beer Festival draws a wide range of people from beer aficionados to families.  The Breckenridge Summer Beer Festival celebrates Brews, Views & Great Live Music!

Breckenridge International Festival of Arts

Breckenridge International Festival of Arts, or BIFA for short, is a 10-day celebration of Adventure + Creativity + Play. Local, national and international artist talent and organizations, both traditional and unconventional, mingle together to create an eclectic mix of music, dance, film, visual arts and family entertainment. Throughout the festival, Breck Create produces dozens of events throughout the cultural venues, public parks, trails and open spaces of Breckenridge.

Breck Epic

The Breck Epic is a 6-day mountain bike race held in and around the backcountry surrounding Breckenridge. Each stage begins and ends in town, allowing racers to stay in one place for the entire event. The race is 220-240 miles long and features roughly 40,000 feet of vertical gain (and loss). The Epic is composed of 6 BIG backcountry loops (3 loops for the 3-day Epic-curious events), each between 35 and 50 miles long. The race has been described as a rad vibe with a mid-90s mayhem feel.

Independence Day Celebration

Every Independence Day, Breckenridge comes alive with patriotism, parties and the annual Main Street Parade.  It’s a day of celebration that includes athletic competitions, live music, art festivals, family activities and a few of our favorite small-town traditions.

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