Summit County, Colorado is a year-round mountain playground, known for its stunning scenery, world-class ski resorts and charming mountain towns. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip to this Rocky Mountain paradise!
Where is Summit County
Summit County is nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies. Located only 70 miles west of Denver along I-70, it’s an easily accessible destination for outdoor fun. Surrounded by peaks ranging from 7,500 to 14,000+ feet in elevation, Summit County offers a true taste of high-altitude Colorado living.
How to Get to Summit County
Getting to Summit County is easy, thanks to close proximity to major airports and highways.
- By car: From Denver, it’s a straight shot westbound on Interstate 70, with breathtaking mountain vistas as you climb into the Rockies. Depending on traffic, the drive can take 1-2 hours, and winter driving conditions should always be considered (even in the late spring and fall!).
- By plane: Denver International Airport (DIA) is the closest major airport. Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) in Vail is another option west of Summit County. Airport shuttle services are available to get to Summit County towns and ski resorts.
- By bus: Colorado’s inter-regional bus service Bustang offers affordable and reliable transportation between Denver and the towns of Summit County. Round-trip fares are $25 for adults and the ride typically takes around 2 hours.
- Local transportation: It’s easy to get around Summit County without a car. The Summit Stage bus service offers free transportation throughout Summit County, there are free shuttles to get to the ski resorts, and you can get around Breckenridge using the Free Ride service.
What Summit County is Known For
Summit County, Colorado is renowned for its natural beauty, vibrant ski towns and an incredible variety of outdoor recreation activities. This beautiful area is tucked among alpine peaks, with lush forests and sparkling lakes offering endless opportunities to enjoy nature year-round. It is a skiing and snowboarding mecca, home to iconic Colorado ski resorts Breckenridge, Keystone, Copper Mountain and Arapahoe Basin. Warmer months transform the county into a destination for hikers, bikers, anglers and water sports lovers.
Beyond outdoor activities, Summit County has a lively arts and culture scene, shopping, numerous craft breweries, local farmer’s markets and festivals happening throughout the year. It feels like there’s always something going on in Summit County! The county’s charming towns feature historic architecture and a warm community atmosphere to make visitors feel right at home.
When to Visit Summit County
Summit County is a destination for year-round fun, with something special in every season.
Summer (June to August): Warm daytime temperatures in the mid-70s and sunny skies make this an ideal season for hiking, mountain biking and water activities on Dillon Reservoir. This is a busy tourist season in Summit County.
Fall (September to November): Stunning foliage and cooler temperatures make the quieter fall season a great time to visit for scenic drives, hiking and photography. Temperatures start in the mid-60s and drop into the 30s by November, with snow possible as early as October.
Winter (December to March): Cold weather and significant snowfall make winter a prime season for skiing and snowboarding in Summit County. Average highs in the 20s, sunny skies and over 150 inches of snow on average create excellent snowsports conditions.
Spring (April to May): As the snow begins to melt, Summit County experiences a quiet spring season marked by warming temperatures and early blooming wildflowers. Temperatures into the upper 30s and low 40s, as well as late spring snow conditions can be fantastic for skiing.
Cities to Visit in Summit County
Silverthorne
Silverthorne is the largest town in Summit County, and is known as the gateway to the area, offering a great mix of outdoor activities and urban amenities just off I-70. The Blue River running through town is a favorite spot for scenic walks and fly fishing, while The Outlets shopping center has everything you need. Silverthorne has a ton of restaurants to choose from, including a variety of chain restaurants and many locally owned places too. The surrounding trail system is excellent for hiking and biking.
Dillon
Dillon sits on the shores of Dillon Reservoir, a beautiful reservoir framed by mountains, perfect for water activities like kayaking, fishing and paddle boarding. Along the lake, there are walking paths and an amphitheater with live music and events, while local breweries and restaurants offer great food and amazing views.
Keystone
Keystone is a family-friendly resort town with a laid-back atmosphere, featuring 2 championship golf courses, miles of trails and the expansive Keystone Resort. This area offers activities like mountain biking and skiing, as well as family events throughout the year.
Breckenridge
Breckenridge is the largest town in Summit County, famous for its historic Victorian-era downtown and the renowned Breckenridge Ski Resort. The charming downtown features restaurants, shops and numerous festivals, while the surrounding area has an extensive network of hiking and biking trails.
Frisco
Frisco is known as the Main Street to the Rockies, with a welcoming, small-town feel and a walkable main street lined with local shops and restaurants. The Frisco Bay Marina offers easy access to Dillon Reservoir for boating and fishing, while the town’s central location is a great base for exploring Summit County.
Plan Your Visit
Summit County is an easily accessible gateway to the incredible nature of the Rocky Mountains. With stunning scenery, quaint towns and endless outdoor activities, there’s no better place to enjoy everything Colorado’s mountains have to offer. Get started planning your dream mountain getaway and book a Summit County vacation rental for a truly unforgettable experience.
