1. Skiing and Snowboarding at Summit County’s Four Resorts
Summit County is home to four fantastic ski resorts that each offer unique experiences:
- Breckenridge: Known for its historic charm and diverse terrain.
- Keystone: Family-friendly with night skiing and excellent terrain parks.
- Copper Mountain: Naturally divided terrain for all skill levels, just 10 minutes from Frisco.
- Arapahoe Basin: Known for its long season and adventurous slopes.
Pro Tip for Your Ski Trip
Stay close to the mountain for easy access, or check out nearby towns like Frisco, Dillon, and Silverthorne, where you’ll find more lodging options, dining, and activities. Many resorts offer equipment rentals, but there are also local shops in each town that provide rentals and equipment tuning.
Summit County’s diverse resort options ensure there’s something for every type of skier and snowboarder. Whether you’re here to ride the expert bowls or enjoy scenic blue and green runs, Summit County is the ultimate winter playground!
2. Tubing, Cross-Country Skiing, and Beginner Skiing at Frisco Adventure Park
For family-friendly fun, Frisco Adventure Park is the go-to destination. You can enjoy tubing on multiple lanes, cross-country skiing, and even beginner skiing. It’s a perfect spot for those new to winter sports or anyone looking to enjoy a relaxed day in the snow.
3. Sleigh Rides and Scenic Dinner Experiences
Take a scenic sleigh ride through snow-covered landscapes with Two Below Zero in Frisco. They offer cozy sleigh rides that come with a hot cocoa stop, or you can opt for a dinner sleigh ride with a hearty meal and live music—an unforgettable winter experience.
4. Ice Skating at Keystone Lake or Breckenridge’s Stephen C. West Ice Arena
Enjoy a winter classic at Keystone Lake or Breckenridge’s Stephen C. West Ice Arena, which offer charming skating rinks surrounded by beautiful mountain views. Both locations rent skates, and Keystone Lake’s outdoor rink is the largest Zamboni-maintained rink in North America.
5. Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing offers a peaceful way to enjoy Summit County’s winter scenery. There are many trails suitable for all skill levels, including paths around Lake Dillon and in the White River National Forest. For those seeking a guided experience, consider a tour through Good Times Adventures.
6. Ullr Fest in Breckenridge
The Ullr Fest in Breckenridge is a winter highlight, celebrating the Norse god of snow with parades, bonfires, and parties. The festival, typically held in early December, is a lively tradition that brings locals and visitors together to welcome the snow season.
7. Spontaneous Combustion Bonfire in Frisco
Every January, Frisco hosts the Spontaneous Combustion Bonfire—a unique way to celebrate winter with live music, hot cocoa, and a large bonfire fueled by discarded Christmas trees. It’s a community favorite that warms both the body and the spirit.
8. Wassail Days in Frisco
Celebrate the holiday season with Wassail Days in Frisco. This December event includes wassail sampling (a traditional hot cider drink), holiday crafts, and a chance to stroll through Frisco’s festively decorated Main Street. Enjoy the cozy small-town charm and support local businesses.
9. Finding and Cutting Your Own Christmas Tree
Summit County allows you to cut your own Christmas tree with a permit from the U.S. Forest Service. This activity is perfect for families looking to create a memorable holiday experience in the beautiful Colorado wilderness.
10. Fat Tire Biking
For a unique way to explore snow-covered trails, try fat tire biking. Summit County has dedicated trails, and you can rent fat bikes from shops like Carvers in Breckenridge and Rebel Sports in Frisco. This winter-friendly biking experience is exhilarating and accessible to all skill levels.
11. Colorado Pond Hockey Tournament
Held annually on Lake Dillon, the Colorado Pond Hockey Tournament attracts teams from all over the country. Even if you’re not playing, it’s a fun event for spectators, with a festive atmosphere and fast-paced action.
12. Ice Fishing with Big Ed’s Fishing Ventures
Experience a true winter sport with Big Ed’s Fishing Ventures. Guided ice fishing tours on Lake Dillon are available, complete with a warm shelter, fishing equipment, and tips for catching trout. Ice fishing is an adventurous way to enjoy the lake’s winter beauty.
13. Sledding at Rainbow Park
Head to Rainbow Park in Silverthorne for a day of sledding. This family-friendly hill is perfect for all ages. Many vacation rentals provide sleds, so check before purchasing. And please remember to dispose of sleds responsibly to help protect our beautiful environment.
14. Shopping on Main Street in Frisco and Breckenridge
Main Street in Frisco and Breckenridge are lined with unique shops, galleries, and boutiques, making them ideal for holiday shopping or finding the perfect Colorado souvenir. You’ll find everything from local art to outdoor gear.
15. Dining and Distillery Experiences
Warm up with a delicious meal or drink after a day on the mountain. Don’t miss the Pullman Distillery in Frisco, where you can sip craft spirits in a historic late 1890s train car. Summit County also has a variety of breweries to explore, including Outer Range Brewing Co. in Frisco and Broken Compass Brewing in Breckenridge. Each offers a cozy atmosphere to relax and try some local brews.
16. Lake Dillon Multi-Use Winter Track
Explore Lake Dillon’s Winter Multi-Use Track for a peaceful day of cross-country skiing, walking, or snowshoeing. This trail winds around the lake and offers stunning views, making it a must for winter adventurers.
Summit County’s Winter Events Calendar
For more seasonal events, view the full Summit County Winter Events Calendar. It’s a great way to see what’s happening during your stay and plan your trip around these local festivities.
Make Summit County Your Home
Summit County’s winter season offers endless possibilities for fun and adventure. Whether you're here to ski, explore the backcountry, or relax and enjoy the mountain views, this is the perfect place to experience Colorado's winter magic. If you’re considering making Summit County your home, take a moment to browse our real estate listings for your ideal mountain property. And if you’d like custom recommendations for your trip or have any real estate questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here as your go-to resource for everything Summit County, from finding the perfect property to helping you make the most of your time in our beautiful mountains.