Why We Love Summit County

There are so many reasons we love Summit County I’m not sure where to start. Within county lines there are four ski areas, two reservoirs, rivers for fly fishing waters, miles of hiking trails, mountain biking trails and downhills, five golf courses, nordic centers, tennis courts, rec centers, parks, wildlife, camping and backpacking, and more I’m sure I am forgetting.  It’s an outdoor lovers’ paradise!

Abundant Indoor Activities

On top of the outdoor activities there are several great theater companies, multiple concert venues, art galleries and a variety of festivals and town events. We have a couple of big chain restaurants around but most of our dining options are local establishments that you won’t find elsewhere. The shops are more nationally known with the Outlet Stores in Silverthorne and some big box stores and grocery stores. You can still find great local shops, especially in the quaint, downtown areas.

Year Round Fun in Summit County

The old adage is true in Summit County; people come for the winters but stay for the summers.  The ski mountains are the most well known attraction and bring the crowds but there is so much more than just skiing and riding. Are you interested in a full moon snowshoe hike? Maybe you prefer a ride on a fat tire bike across snow packed trails. A glass of wine and a good book in front of the fire is another appealing way to spend a winter evening. Summertime brings sailing, kayaking and paddleboarding on Lake Dillon. Or bacon, bourbon and live music at a summer festival. Art fairs will take over main streets with artists selling their creations.

No matter how you enjoy spending your time, odds are you can find something that appeals to you in Summit County.  Winter sunshine keeps most days from feeling too cold. The excitement about the fresh snow is contagious. In the summer temperatures rarely hit 85 degrees. All year long, the happy hour talk is about our recent or upcoming adventures. Speaking of happy hour, aprés ski happens at nearly every restaurant across the county all year long.

Family and Friends

Summit County is also a great place for families and friends to get together. There’s something for the old, the young and everyone in between. If you are having trouble getting your twenty something children to come for a visit, coming to Summit County may make it easier. Holiday gatherings will be even more memorable here. Take on a 5k run before Thanksgiving dinner, or a Santa race for Christmas. Visit an ice castle or a check out a chocolate village. No matter what you decide to do while you are here, take a lot of pictures and have a great time.

Read our Summit County overview