If you’re dreaming of a winter escape with perfectly groomed ski slopes (or deep powder days depending on your preference) and charming mountain town vibes, Summit County should be on your winter vacation list! This part of Colorado is known for its legendary skiing, vibrant communities and an endless list of outdoor activities. It’s no wonder visitors return to this area every winter for their ski vacations. Here’s your guide to planning an unforgettable ski getaway to Summit County.
Peak Ski Season
The best time to ski in Summit County is typically from late December to early April. Peak ski season aligns with holiday breaks (Christmas through New Year’s, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents’ Day, and Spring Break), meaning you’ll encounter more crowds and higher prices during these times. For lighter crowds, consider visiting in early December or non-holiday weekends or weekdays, when the lift lines are typically shorter.
Ski Areas
Summit County is home to several world-class Colorado ski areas, which each offer a different experience.
- Breckenridge: Known as a picturesque mountain town, Breckenridge is a great choice for families and groups. The resort features varied terrain for all skill levels, and the lively town offers plenty of après-ski options.
- Keystone: This is the go-to spot for night skiing, as it’s one of the few resorts in Colorado that keeps the slopes open after sunset. Keystone is family-friendly, with lots of terrain options, snow tubing and a massive snow fort play area.
- Copper Mountain: This local favorite resort is known for its naturally divided terrain, giving skiers lots of options for runs suited to their ability. Copper has one of the best ski and snowboard terrain parks in the state. It’s also home to Woodward, an indoor action-sports facility where you can work on jumps and new skills with professional staff.
- Arapahoe Basin: This resort is famous for its extended season (it’s typically one of the first ski areas to open for the season and the last to close) and challenging terrain. It’s more of a skier’s mountain, with a focus on advanced trails and an energetic après-ski scene at the rustic base area.
- Loveland Ski Area: While technically just outside Summit County, it’s worth mentioning for its proximity and excellent snow conditions.
Tips for Your Summit County Ski Vacation
- Rent ski gear. This may be more convenient than bringing it from home, especially if you are flying in. Many ski rental shops offer packages and discounts if booked in advance.
- Book lessons. If you’re new to skiing, lessons can be a great way to start your journey. Book early to ensure availability during peak season.
- Buy lift tickets in advance. Many resorts offer discounts or multi-day packages if you book ahead of time. Save yourself money and time by skipping the long ticket lines and taking care of this before you get to Summit County!
- Don’t miss après-ski. After a day on the slopes, unwind with après-ski at one of Summit County’s many restaurants or breweries.
- Explore beyond the slopes. Summit County has fantastic restaurants, unique shopping, and beautiful scenic drives. The towns of Frisco and Dillon have a more laid-back atmosphere, while Breckenridge can be more lively. Outside of skiing, you can enjoy ice skating, snowshoeing, sleigh rides, shopping, and much more.
- Book your vacation rental. Having a warm and cozy place to rest at the end of the day of skiing is essential. A vacation rental offers more privacy and space than a typical hotel room, making it much more comfortable for a ski trip. Plus, having a fully equipped kitchen is a great money-saving amenity, allowing you to have a healthy breakfast before you hit the slopes, or to make a memorable dinner with friends or family. After a long day on the slopes, sometimes it’s just really nice to put up your feet by the fire and enjoy a meal at home versus venturing out in the snow.
What to Pack
- Ski gear (if not renting)
- Warm, waterproof ski jacket and pants
- Base layers and mid-layers (moisture-wicking materials)
- Warm socks
- Gloves or mittens
- Helmet
- Goggles or sunglasses
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Hand and foot warmers
- Backpack for carrying essentials on the slopes
- Casual wear for après-ski in town
Weather and Altitude
Summit County’s ski resorts sit at elevations of 9,000 feet or higher. Be prepared for the thinner air and the potential impact of altitude sickness. Plan to hydrate and take it easy on the first few days, to help your body adjust. Avoiding alcohol is often suggested, at least on the first couple of nights of your visit. There are also a variety of homeopathic altitude rememedies as well as prescription medications that can help those that are susceptible to altitude sickness.
Colorado’s weather can change in a flash, so checking daily forecasts is essential for safe and enjoyable skiing as well as travel from the airport. Make sure to bring a variety of winter layers so that you’re prepared for anything.
Winter Driving Tips for Summit County
Mountain roads can be icy, steep and difficult to navigate in winter, so use extra caution to stay safe on the roads. If you’re renting a car, you may want to consider 4-wheel-drive, as the drive from Denver International Airport travels over some high mountain passes and the roads can get quite slick. If you’re driving to Summit County, make sure to prep your car for winter travel with snow tires or chains, a shovel, blanket, and hat and gloves in case you get stranded.
- Check weather and road conditions beforehand.
- Take it slow and maintain a safe following distance.
- Ensure your vehicle has snow tires or chains (many Colorado rental car companies also offer AWD or 4WD options).
- Keep an emergency kit in your car.
- Beware of icy patches, especially black ice on bridges or shaded areas.
- Consider using the free Summit Stage bus system for transportation within Summit County.
Plan Your Summit County Visit
Whether you’re carving down black diamond runs or enjoying your time on the bunny slopes, a ski vacation in Summit County is sure to be an exciting experience. Colorado truly offers some of the best ski conditions and terrain in North America, and Summit County offers so much variety for a ski vacation. Make your dream ski vacation a reality and book a Summit County vacation rental with all the comforts of home and easy access to the slopes. The mountains are calling!
