COVID-19 is still in full-swing, but so is the lively mountain landscape! Make the most of your visit to Summit County during this historic event by maximizing your outdoor recreation, now including changing leaves and unlimited fresh air!
Discover Lake Dillon
The center of the county, Lake Dillon, is the perfect outdoor recreating spot for kayakers, paddle boarders, sailors, and even the casual booze cruiser! Bring your own, or rent a kayak or paddle board at either the Dillon Marina or Frisco Marina. Want to bring the entire crew aboard? Rent a pontoon boat to explore the whole lake in a single afternoon. Don’t forget your mandatory life vest if you are under 13!
Dangle in the Keystone Gondola
Skiers and snowboarders have experienced the Keystone Gondola through powder days, relentless winds, and whiteout conditions, but have you ever seen Dercum Mountain up close in the summer? Take a Scenic Gondola Ride to see the topography of Keystone in a whole new light when you ride above the summer springs trickling down, Mule Deer grazing the runs, and native wildflowers dotting the hillside. After 12 minutes of passing scenery, you’ll have the opportunity to get out of the Gondola and explore on foot. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the amazing views of Lake Dillon, Breckenridge and the Continental Divide!
Align in the Pines
Take an hour of your week to get back in touch with your body at Warren Station’s Align in the Pines Yoga Series every Thursday in September. These weekly one-hour flow classes help quiet the mind and focus on connecting breath to movement while also getting in a low-impact, full-body workout. Each week also features a fun playlist that is sure to get you in the groove! This event is sold out, but check the Eventbrite page to see if any guests have cancelled leaving available tickets. This event series is for guests 16 and older.
Pedal the Bike Path
Did you know Summit County has more than 40 miles of paved rec paths? Start in Keystone and take a tour of Lakeside Village, the Keystone Stables, and the golf course, all while following the scenic Snake River down towards Dillon. Pick a direction to start meandering around the lake until you get to Frisco, and then choose if you want to split towards Breckenridge, Copper, or back home! Want to add in a stop for lunch or drinks? Check out Pug Ryan’s Tiki Bar, located right on Lake Dillon!
Peep the Fall Foliage
Perhaps the outdoor recreation that requires the least planning, there’s nothing like a Summit County hike! No matter your time limit or athleticism, Colorado has a hike for everyone to breathe some fresh Rocky Mountain air.
Easy Hike – If you have kids in tow, aren’t used to the elevation, or are just looking for a pretty stroll, check out Rainbow Lake in Frisco. At 1.5 miles and 150 feet of elevation gain, you’ll be breathing easy and can focus on taking in all of the scenery.
Intermediate Hike – If you have a little more time on your hands, explore Lily Pad Lake in Eagles Nest Wilderness. When accessed from Silverthorne, this trail is 3.3 miles and has 400 feet of elevation gain, but if you want a little more of a challenge, start from the Frisco side for a 3.4 mile-trail and almost 800 feet of elevation gain.
Hard Hike – Want to bag a Colorado peak but missed prime 14er season? Ptarmigan Peak is calling your name! Lace up your boots and bring a sandwich because this trail is 11.7 miles and has 3,800 feet of elevation gain. Don’t be intimidated by this 12,500 ft. mountain, the panoramic views from the top are absolutely worth it!
Handicap Accessible – Breathtaking views of Colorado are for everyone! Sapphire Point Overlook is wheelchair friendly and has incredible views of the Ten Mile Range, the Gore Range, and Lake Dillon. At .6 miles and 32 feet of elevation gain, this is also a nice pit stop if you find yourself driving over Swan Mountain Road.
No matter which activity tickles your fancy, don’t forget to bring your sunscreen, water, and mask along for the day!
