When snow blankets Colorado’s mountain towns, families have an awesome opportunity to enjoy the winter wonderland together. Everyone thinks skiing when they think of the mountains but there are so many more options if you are looking for something else. Explore scenic snow-covered landscapes, or relax with loved ones, the charming towns of Breckenridge, Keystone, Frisco, Dillon, and Vail offer something for everyone. Here’s your guide to making the most of a snow day in these iconic destinations.
Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing in Frisco
For families looking for a more peaceful way to enjoy the snow, Frisco offers fantastic snowshoeing and cross-country skiing opportunities. The Frisco Nordic Center provides groomed trails, ideal for beginners and those who want to experience the mountain landscape at a more relaxed pace. The center also offers rentals and lessons, making it easy for everyone in the family to get started. After your adventure, head into the quaint town of Frisco for a warm meal or to explore the local shops.
Ice Fishing in Dillon
Dillon is a fantastic destination for families looking to try something unique and exciting on their snow day: ice fishing. Dillon Reservoir, also known as Lake Dillon, is a popular spot for this winter activity. During the colder months, the reservoir freezes over, and families can try their hand at catching trout, perch, and other fish species. Local outfitters like Big Ed’s Fishing Ventures offer guided ice fishing tours with all the necessary gear and equipment, making it easy to get started. It’s a peaceful yet thrilling way to spend time outdoors, and with stunning mountain views all around, it’s sure to be a memorable experience.
Dog Sledding
For a truly magical experience, try dog sledding in Vail. This unique winter adventure allows families to glide across snow-covered landscapes while being pulled by a team of strong and enthusiastic sled dogs. There are several companies in Vail that offer guided dog sledding tours, where you can either ride as a passenger or take a turn guiding the sled, you can check out Mountain Mushers or Alpine Adventures Dogsledding. It’s an unforgettable experience for kids and adults alike, combining adventure, nature, and the thrill of sledding with a team of friendly dogs. Plus, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, it’s a fantastic way to create lasting memories on your snow day.
Fat-Tire Biking
Fat-tire biking offers an exhilarating way to explore the snowy landscapes during winter. With miles of groomed trails winding through stunning forests and scenic vistas, riders can enjoy a unique adventure on specialized bikes designed to handle the snow and ice. You can fat-tire bike in Breckenridge, Vail, and Frisco, and the wide, low-pressure tires provide excellent traction, making it easier to navigate winter terrain while soaking in the beauty of the mountains. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, fat-tire biking is a thrilling way to embrace the winter outdoors and experience these iconic Colorado destinations in a whole new way.
Tubing in Frisco, Keystone, and Copper
Tubing in Frisco is a fantastic way to spend a snowy day with the family, offering hours of fun for all ages. The gentle slopes are perfect for both kids and adults to race down, while the convenient magic carpets make it easy to keep the thrills going without the need for skis or snowboards. For those looking to explore more tubing options, nearby Keystone and Copper also offer great hills, providing plenty of opportunities to enjoy the winter wonderland and create unforgettable memories with loved ones. Whether you’re a local or visiting the area, tubing is a must-try activity on a snow day!
Sledding
Sledding is a classic winter activity, and there are plenty of great hills around the area to enjoy with friends and family. Maryland Creek Park, near Summit Sky Ranch, offers a spacious and scenic spot for sledding, while Rainbow Park, just by the Rec Center, is a local favorite for all ages. The Frisco Sledding Hill, located just around the corner from the Frisco Adventure Park, is a free and fun option for a quick thrill. For more variety, head to Dillon Nature Preserve Hill or explore the lively Carter Park in Breckenridge. Runaway Sledding Hill in Breck also offers an exciting slope for sledders of all levels, ensuring plenty of opportunities to enjoy the winter fun! There are some awesome sledding options in Vail as well including Eagle Vail sledding hill, or West Park in Eagle Vail! Don’t miss out on some amazing sledding days!
Ice Skating
Ice skating in Summit County offers a variety of fun options for all ages. In Breckenridge, the Stephen C. West Ice Arena provides a great indoor rink for year-round skating. If you prefer outdoor ice, North Pond Park in Frisco and Lake Dillon Ice Rink are both scenic spots where you can skate with beautiful mountain views. Keystone also has a charming outdoor rink, perfect for skating in a picturesque setting. For a more serene experience, Meadow Creek Pond in the Wildernest area is a peaceful spot to enjoy ice skating surrounded by nature. Dobson Arena is an excellent option for ice skating in Vail!
When it’s too cold to enjoy the outdoors, here are some options to stay warm and get the most out of your visit!
Cozy Up in a Local Café or Lodge
If the weather outside is too intense or you just want a relaxing day, each of these towns boasts cozy cafes, restaurants, and lodges that provide the perfect retreat from the snow. Whether you’re sitting enjoying the snow fall at The Crown in Breckenridge, sipping cocoa in Frisco at Rocky Mountain Coffee Roasters, or enjoying local delicacies in Vail like Yeti’s Grind! These venues offer warmth, comfort, and scenic views to make your snow day extra special.
Woodward Barn
Woodward Barn is an excellent choice for those seeking indoor fun when the mountain temperatures drop. Located at the base of Copper Mountain, this state-of-the-art facility offers a variety of activities, including indoor skateboarding, trampolining, and a massive foam pit for practicing tricks. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just looking to stay active in the warmth, Woodward Barn provides a vibrant, welcoming space for people of all skill levels to enjoy when the weather outside is too cold to hit the slopes. With its unique mix of action sports, it’s a perfect way to stay entertained and hone your skills during the winter chill.
Mountain Top Explorium & Playgarten
When the weather’s chilly, the Mountain Top Explorium in Breckenridge and Playgarten in Silverthorne are perfect indoor escapes for kids.
The Mountain Top Explorium offers interactive exhibits that spark curiosity and creativity, with hands-on activities that engage children in learning about nature, science, and the local mountain environment.
Just a short distance away, the Playgarten provides a cozy, fun-filled space where little ones can climb, play, and explore in a safe, warm environment. Both spots are excellent choices for keeping the kids entertained and active, making them ideal destinations for a cold day when outdoor adventures are best saved for another time.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are in Summit or Eagle county, Snow days in the high country create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re skiing, snowshoeing, tubing, or just enjoying the local charm, these mountain towns provide a winter wonderland for the whole family to explore and enjoy together.