Dog Sledding
A few years ago my husband and I went dog sledding with Good Times Adventures in Breckenridge. What a fun experience! Not only do you learn about and interact with the sled dogs – you also get to mush a team!
Skiing
Nestled between 5 world class ski resorts – skiing is the main attraction here in winter! With so many trails to choose from – there is skiing for every skill level. When I used to downhill ski more often – Copper Mountain was my first choice.
Lake Dillon
Since our lake freezes over for a few months each year – it’s also a winter playground. My favorite activity on Lake Dillon during the cold months is cross country skiing! There is easy access to the lake from Dillon Dam Road, the middle school or Dillon Marina where they also have groomed trails.
Racing Santas
To kick off the holiday season in early December; Breck hosts it’s annual Race of the Santas along with the Lighting of Breckenridge. I’ve never seen so many runners dressed in Santa suits racing up and down main street. Full disclosure – I have only been a spectator at this event. 😉
Shopping
Summit County has an abundance of terrific local shops! For the Colorado casual outdoor style – stop at Rivers in Frisco and The Goat in Breck. Frisco is also fortunate to still have a locally owned bookstore – The Next Page Books & Nosh.
Eating & Drinking
What’s a vacation without lots of food and drink?! In Breckenridge; Aurum has a terrific happy hour, Mimo’s Fancy Tapas makes tasty cocktails and go for a taco at Rita’s! If you’re a beer drinker – grab a pint at Outer Range… their beers deserve all the hype they receive! When in Frisco – I suggest wings at The Uptown, 5th Ave. burger at 5th Ave. Bar & Grill or anything on the menu at Silverheels. 🙂
Holiday Lights
Being such a popular vacation spot – the holiday lights are kept up for a few months each winter. Visit Breckenridge and Frisco in the evening to experience their magical and cozy winter settings.
Sunsets
No special equipment needed (except some warm clothes!) and it happens every day! 🙂 Summit County often has colorful sunsets – don’t miss them while you’re visiting!
Snow Sculptures
If you happen to visit during January you can attend the International Snow Sculpture Championships. It’s a super fun event with sculptors from all the world! They create impressive sculptures with hand tools and you can also vote for your favorite.
Hiking
One of my favorite winter hikes is to Mayflower Gulch. As this hike starts around 10,000 feet I don’t recommend this on your first day here. It’s a gradual climb, a great workout and you’re rewarded with stunning views of the Rocky Mountains! For a much easier hike – park at the ice arena in Breck for a short walk to the Isak Heartstone troll. Sculpted by Danish artist Thomas Dambo; the troll is made entirely out of recycled lumber and scrap wood.
Tubing
Yet another outdoor activity in Summit County! When my daughter was younger we took a break from skiing for an afternoon of tubing at Keystone. You’ll also find tubing hills at most of the other ski resorts and the Frisco Adventure Park.
Summit County, Colorado is truly a winter wonderland playground! This is sampling of activities you can experience on your trip here – all Travel by Kris tested. 🙂
Until the next adventure – bon voyage!
Kris
