Summit County, Colorado Vacation Rentals
Explore 3400+ rental homes and villas in Summit County, Colorado for your next vacation or business travel. With private vacation home rentals, enjoy a more personalized stay and a wide range of amenities such as Best Affordable Homes, Great for Groups and Homes with hot tub. With a wide range of homes to offer, pricing can start as low as $58 per night with homes containing as many as 10 bedrooms and 16 bathrooms. However you're looking to experience your stay, Homes and Villas by Marriott has your next vacation home waiting.
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Summit County Overview
Summit County, Colorado, is an idyllic retreat that promises an unparalleled blend of adventure, serenity, and comfort. Imagine waking up in your own private home, nestled in the majestic Rocky Mountains, with the freedom to plan each day exactly as you wish. Here, you can find a selection of exquisite private residences, many of which are pet-friendly, ensuring that your entire family, including your four-legged members, can enjoy the splendor of the mountains together.
In the heart of Summit County, you'll discover a collection of world-famous ski resorts such as Breckenridge, Keystone, Copper Mountain, and Arapahoe Basin. These destinations are not just winter wonderlands but also offer a wealth of summer activities. Picture yourself gliding down powdery slopes or traversing the backcountry terrain, and then returning to your private home to relax by the fireplace or soak in a hot tub under the stars. While swimming pools are not as common due to the cooler mountain climate, some luxury rentals do offer this amenity for those who desire a refreshing dip after a day of mountain exploration.
As the snow melts, the region reveals a lush summer playground. Hiking and mountain biking trails wind through the Tenmile Range and along the Continental Divide, offering awe-inspiring vistas that are best enjoyed without the crowds of a hotel. The Blue River and Dillon Reservoir beckon water enthusiasts for a day of fishing, boating, or stand-up paddleboarding, with the convenience of returning to your private sanctuary at day's end.
The towns of Frisco, Dillon, and Silverthorne are charming hubs of culture and cuisine, where historic buildings and local boutiques stand alongside gourmet restaurants. The Dillon Amphitheater, with its waterfront setting, hosts unforgettable summer concerts against a backdrop of panoramic mountain views—a perfect outing from your nearby private home.
Cultural experiences abound, from the Breckenridge Arts District, where creativity flourishes, to the Frisco Historic Park & Museum, which offers a window into the region's rich past. The Breckenridge Heritage Alliance provides immersive tours that bring history to life, adding depth to your stay in Summit County.
For those in search of tranquility, the area's spas and wellness centers offer treatments infused with local natural elements, allowing you to rejuvenate after your outdoor adventures. Athletes and fitness enthusiasts will find the high-altitude environment both challenging and rewarding, with events and training opportunities that draw global participants.
Summit County is more than just a destination; it's a personal retreat where every traveler can find their own slice of mountain paradise. Whether you're seeking the thrill of alpine sports or the peace of a mountain getaway, a private home in Summit County is the key to a truly bespoke and memorable experience. Here, each visit is unique, and each memory is yours to cherish, beckoning you to return to these peaks time and time again.
Cultural Attractions in Summit County
Summit County, Colorado, may be renowned for its majestic mountains and world-class skiing, but it also offers a wealth of cultural activities that cater to arts, history, and local customs enthusiasts. Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, this picturesque area provides a unique blend of outdoor adventure and cultural exploration.
Begin your cultural journey at the Breckenridge Arts District, a vibrant hub for artists and art lovers alike. This creative enclave features live workshops, studios, galleries, and performance spaces. Participate in a ceramics class, watch a glassblowing demonstration, or attend a live theater performance at the Breckenridge Backstage Theatre, which showcases local and national talent.
History buffs will appreciate the rich mining heritage of Summit County. The Breckenridge Heritage Alliance offers guided tours of historic sites, including the Barney Ford House Museum, dedicated to a former slave who became a prominent entrepreneur and civil rights leader. The Edwin Carter Museum celebrates a local naturalist whose collection of Rocky Mountain fauna contributed to the founding of the Denver Museum of Nature and Science.
In Frisco, the Frisco Historic Park & Museum provides a glimpse into the life of early settlers with preserved buildings and artifacts. The town also hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, such as the Frisco BBQ Challenge, where you can savor local flavors and enjoy live music.
For live music, the Dillon Amphitheater hosts a summer concert series with breathtaking views of the Tenmile and Gore mountain ranges as a backdrop. From local bands to nationally recognized acts, the open-air venue offers a memorable experience for music lovers.
Art galleries in Summit County showcase the work of local and regional artists. In Silverthorne, the Silverthorne Performing Arts Center is home to the Lake Dillon Theatre Company, which presents a range of productions from musicals to contemporary plays. The town's art scene is also celebrated during the monthly Silverthorne First Friday events, featuring art, music, and community gatherings.
Local customs and traditions are best experienced during Summit County's community events. The Ullr Fest in Breckenridge pays homage to the Norse god of snow with a week of festivities, including a parade and town-wide bonfire. The International Snow Sculpture Championships, also in Breckenridge, attract artists from around the world to transform blocks of snow into stunning works of art.
Summit County's cultural offerings are as diverse as its landscape, providing visitors with a rich tapestry of experiences that extend far beyond the ski slopes. Whether you're exploring historic mining towns, enjoying live performances, or engaging with the local arts community, Summit County is a destination that will enrich your love for culture amidst the splendor of the Colorado Rockies.
Family friendly activities in Summit County
Summit County, Colorado, is a treasure trove of family-friendly activities that will delight children and parents alike. Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, this area is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and its wide range of outdoor and indoor attractions suitable for kids.
In the winter months, Summit County transforms into a snowy playground, with world-class ski resorts like Breckenridge, Keystone, and Copper Mountain offering ski and snowboard lessons for children. The magic carpet lifts and gentle slopes are perfect for beginners, while tubing hills provide a thrilling ride for the whole family.
Beyond the slopes, the Frisco Adventure Park features a tubing hill with a convenient lift service, and the Kidtopia headquarters at Keystone Resort hosts daily kid-centric activities, including fort building and scavenger hunts. The Ice Castles in Dillon are a must-see, where children can wander through a real-life winter wonderland of towering ice formations, tunnels, and slides.
When the snow melts, Summit County's natural beauty is on full display. The region boasts numerous family-friendly hiking trails, such as those around Sapphire Point Overlook, where kids can spot chipmunks and enjoy panoramic views of the Dillon Reservoir. The Breckenridge Fun Park offers a mountain coaster, alpine slides, and mini-golf, ensuring that the excitement continues throughout the summer.
For a more relaxed experience, take a scenic boat tour on Lake Dillon, where families can learn about local history and possibly catch a glimpse of the resident bald eagles. The Breckenridge Recreation Center is another great spot for families, with indoor rock climbing, swimming pools, and tennis courts.
Interactive learning experiences are also plentiful. The Mountain Top Children's Museum in Breckenridge encourages kids to engage with science and nature through hands-on exhibits and workshops. The National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum in nearby Leadville takes families back in time to the days of Colorado's mining boom with engaging exhibits.
No matter the season, Summit County's charming towns offer family-friendly dining, with many restaurants featuring menus tailored to young palates. Sweet treats like homemade ice cream and candy are readily available, ensuring that every family member's taste buds are satisfied.
In Summit County, the combination of outdoor adventures, educational experiences, and child-friendly amenities make it an ideal destination for families seeking both excitement and relaxation in the great outdoors.
Outdoor activities in Summit County
Summit County, Colorado, is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, offering a breathtaking array of natural wonders and activities that cater to all levels of adventure seekers. Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, this region is renowned for its stunning landscapes, pristine wilderness, and year-round recreational opportunities.
In the winter, Summit County transforms into a world-class skiing and snowboarding destination, with renowned resorts like Breckenridge, Keystone, and Copper Mountain. These resorts offer a variety of terrain for all skill levels, from gentle slopes for beginners to challenging backcountry for the experienced. Beyond the slopes, winter activities include snowshoeing through serene forests, cross-country skiing on well-groomed trails, and exhilarating snowmobiling across powdery meadows.
As the snow melts and summer blooms, Summit County reveals a different kind of splendor. Hiking and mountain biking trails abound, leading adventurers through wildflower-strewn meadows, aspen groves, and alpine tundra. The Colorado Trail and the Tenmile Range offer some of the most scenic treks, with panoramic views that stretch across the Rockies.
For water enthusiasts, the Blue River and Dillon Reservoir are prime spots for fishing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and sailing. The reservoir's calm waters are perfect for a leisurely day on the boat, while the river's rapids provide thrilling whitewater rafting experiences.
Nature lovers will be enchanted by the Eagles Nest Wilderness and the White River National Forest, where wildlife sightings are common. Keep an eye out for elk, moose, and mountain goats, as well as a variety of bird species. These protected areas are also ideal for backcountry camping, offering a chance to disconnect and immerse oneself in the tranquility of the mountains.
For a more relaxed outdoor experience, take a scenic drive along the Boreas Pass Road, which offers stunning vistas and historic sites, or visit the quaint mountain towns of Frisco and Silverthorne. These towns offer charming boutiques, local eateries, and cultural events, providing a perfect blend of nature and community.
Summit County's high-altitude environment also creates a unique setting for stargazing. Clear nights reveal a canopy of stars that seem close enough to touch, with the Milky Way often visible to the naked eye.
Whether seeking adrenaline-fueled adventures or peaceful moments in nature, Summit County, Colorado, delivers an unforgettable outdoor experience that resonates with the soul of every nature lover.
Weather in Summit County
Summit County, Colorado, nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, is a destination that offers a diverse range of weather conditions throughout the year, each bringing its own unique opportunities for adventure and relaxation.
Winter, from November to April, transforms Summit County into a snowy wonderland, with temperatures often ranging from 15°F to 30°F. This is prime time for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, as the area is home to renowned ski resorts like Breckenridge and Keystone. Snowfall is abundant, providing a powdery playground for winter sports. Despite the cold, the low humidity makes the chill more bearable, and sunny days are not uncommon, offering stunning, crisp mountain views.
Spring, from May to June, is a season of transition, with temperatures gradually warming up to the 40s and 50s°F. The snow begins to melt, and the rivers swell with runoff, making it an excellent time for whitewater rafting. The weather can be unpredictable, with late-season snowstorms possible, so visitors should be prepared for a variety of conditions.
Summer, from July to August, is a time of mild and pleasant weather, with temperatures typically ranging from the 60s to mid-70s°F. The humidity remains low, and while afternoon thunderstorms are common, they usually pass quickly, leaving fresh, clear air and vibrant rainbows in their wake. This is the perfect season for hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying the county's numerous outdoor festivals and events.
Autumn, from September to October, sees cooler temperatures, ranging from the 30s to 60s°F, and is a less crowded time to visit. The aspen trees turn a brilliant gold, offering spectacular fall foliage viewing opportunities. The weather is generally stable, but early snowfall can occur, especially at higher elevations.
The most popular weather conditions tend to be in the summer, when the climate is ideal for a wide range of outdoor activities, and in the winter, when snow sports are at their peak. For those seeking the most pleasant climate with fewer crowds, late spring and early autumn can be the best times to visit Summit County. Each season offers its own unique beauty and array of activities, making Summit County a year-round destination for travelers.
Transportation in Summit County
Summit County, Colorado, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and winter sports lovers, offers a variety of transportation options for visitors looking to explore its picturesque towns and world-class ski resorts.
Most travelers arrive at Summit County via Denver International Airport, which is about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive away. From the airport, visitors can rent a car, take a shuttle service, or use ride-sharing apps to reach their destination in Summit County. Colorado Mountain Express and Summit Express are popular shuttle services that provide comfortable and convenient transportation directly to various locations within the county.
For those who prefer to drive, Interstate 70 is the main route that connects Denver to Summit County. This allows for a scenic drive through the Rocky Mountains, but it's important to be prepared for winter driving conditions if traveling during the snow season.
Once in Summit County, the Summit Stage offers free public bus transportation throughout the county, including service to Breckenridge, Frisco, Dillon, Silverthorne, Keystone, and Copper Mountain. This makes it easy to travel between the ski resorts and towns without the need for a personal vehicle.
For those staying in towns like Breckenridge or Keystone, the areas are quite walkable, with many shops, restaurants, and attractions within easy walking distance. Additionally, these towns offer their own free shuttle services that circulate through the town and connect to the ski lifts, adding to the convenience for visitors without cars.
Biking is also a popular mode of transportation in the summer months, with an extensive network of recreational paths that connect the towns and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Bike rentals are available in various locations for those who wish to explore on two wheels.
In summary, Summit County is well-equipped to handle visitors with a range of transportation options. While the area is not entirely walkable due to the distances between towns and ski resorts, the free public transportation and shuttle services make it easy to get around without a personal vehicle. Whether arriving by air or road, and whether you're looking to hit the slopes or simply enjoy the mountain scenery, Summit County's transportation infrastructure supports a seamless travel experience.