Staggering mountain peaks, rushing rivers, and crystal-clear reservoirs — this is only a glimpse of what you’ll experience on a trip to Summit County. The all-season adventure base resides high in the Rocky Mountain peaks, where travelers can enjoy Colorado’s 300 days of sun and rich mountain town culture. With access to world-class ski resorts, famed mountain biking trails, and the scenic Blue River right at your fingertips, your itinerary will be packed full of high-altitude excursions, no matter the time of year.
Booking a Summit County vacation rental is the first step to planning your vacation. We’ve taken care of the second step (doing the research) so you can skip right ahead to step three: having an unforgettable stay. Read on for a list of our favorite Rocky Mountain sights and all the must-see stops we suggest along the way.
Pick Your Perfect Summit County Ski Resort
Whether you’re crushing black diamonds or signing up for your first lesson, you’ll find a mountain that matches your style here in Summit County. This ski and snowboard haven is home to a high density of top-rated mountain resorts, all offering a unique experience for riders at any level.
Copper Mountain is Summit County’s largest ski resort, and it’s the perfect place to spend powder days with the whole family. Reach new heights with Breckenridge Ski Resort’s above-the-treetop slopes that are sure to challenge even the strongest skiers. First-time riders will feel right at home at Keystone Mountain Resort, where long green runs and expert instructors will have you cruising in no time. If you’re seeking more of a local experience, Arapahoe Basin is your spot to shred.
With so many world-class resorts to choose from, it can be tough to pick just one. Go the local’s route and purchase an Epic Pass for unlimited access to Breckenridge and Keystone, or sign up for the Ikon Pass and take your pick between Copper and A-Basin.
Soak up the Sun on Lake Dillon
Dillon Reservoir is one of Summit County’s most popular summertime destinations and a scenic place to spend a day on the water. Bask in breathtaking mountain views from every inch of the lake’s 26-mile shoreline, thanks to the towering high peaks that surround this alpine oasis.
Choose your fun by renting a watercraft of your choice from the Frisco Bay Marina or Dillon Marina. From solo kayak trips or paddleboard ventures, to sailboat and pontoon excursions with friends, you can enjoy it all with a stunning Rocky Mountain backdrop. Take your boat day one step further by renting some gear and fishing for trout.
This recreation area also provides plenty of space for family-friendly fun on land. Bike or hike the paved path along the lakeshore, pack a picnic to enjoy at the scenic Sapphire Point overlook, or try your hand at the disc golf course — one of many in the area.
Hike or Bike Rocky Mountain Trails
The area is bordered by two beautiful national forests — White River and Arapahoe & Roosevelt — so there’s never a shortage of trails to explore. You’ll find hikes that range from idyllic strolls through the woods to uphill climbs to mountain peaks, including six 14ers. These famed trails, each reaching over 14,000 feet in elevation, are a Coloradan rite of passage fit for the most experienced adventurers.
If you’re a thrill-seeker, Colorado has got you covered. Summit County is a mountain bike mecca filled with biking trails and adventure parks that are sure to match your speed. The Frisco Bike Park has courses to suit every skill level, while the Keystone Bike Park features award-winning trails that are often boasted as being the best in the state.
For the perfect combination of all-seasons and all-ages fun, check out the Frisco Adventure Park. Here you can hone your skills at the bike and skate park, perfect your toss on the disc golf course, or spend an afternoon tubing and Nordic skiing with the kids.
Tour Summit County’s Charming Mountain Towns
If outdoor recreation is what brings folks to Summit County, then the charming mountain towns are what make them stay. This Rocky Mountain region is made up of several small towns — Breckenridge, Keystone, Frisco, Silverthorne, and Dillon — and each brings something unique to the scene.
Some must-see sites include Main Street Breckenridge’s quaint shops and restaurants, fine dining at the historic Keystone Ranch, and Silverthorne’s top-rated rafting trips on the Blue River. For local events and seasonal specials (like the incredible Dillon Ice Castles), be sure to check out what’s happening in the Summit Daily.
If you’re looking for the best way to get around, or simply need a lift after taste testing spirits at the Breckenridge Distillery, the Summit Stage is your go-to ride. This free shuttle operates year-round and provides a hassle-free way to get the most out of your stay.
Get Your Summit County Visitors Guide
From mountain-town culture to thrilling outdoor activities, Summit County is a destination for everyone in the family, regardless of interest or skill level. For more information regarding Summit County sites and attractions — and to stay up-to-date on all the upcoming local events — download your free Summit County travel guide here: Get your free Summit County Visitors Guide
Rest Easy with an Evolve Vacation Rental
The moment you book your vacation, you should start looking forward to your trip — not worrying about the little details. When you choose Evolve for your Summit County vacation rental, you can feel confident that the home you book will live up to our standards.
Every Evolve vacation rental you book comes with a team of hospitality experts, and we’re here to help make your stay more comfortable 24/7. To help you feel even more confident, we created The Rest Easy Promise: if a stay doesn’t match our standards, we’ll make it right.