Colorado Ski Resorts in Summer: Top Spots for Family Fun
What do Colorado ski resorts in summer offer? That’s a great question. Decades ago, these mountain towns often became quiet after the snow melted. Today, however, they buzz with exciting activities. Major ski destinations now host a full slate of summer adventures. Families, couples, seniors, and kids all find plenty to enjoy.
A summer trip to the Rockies feels completely different now. Hiking and biking trails have expanded. Sightseeing remains popular, but new thrills keep everyone active. You can enjoy day trips from Denver or longer stays in places like Aspen Snowmass. Here are 9 of the best Colorado ski resorts in summer that deliver unforgettable experiences.
#1. Aspen (and Snowmass)
First, Aspen stands out as a world-famous destination. It combines spectacular scenery with classic mountain charm. Drive about three hours from Denver over Independence Pass, or fly into the local airport just five miles from town.
While visiting, explore the iconic Maroon Bells — one of the most photographed spots in North America. Ride the Silver Queen Gondola up Aspen Mountain or the Elk Camp Gondola at Snowmass. Brave kayakers can tackle the Roaring Fork River, while families enjoy milder whitewater trips.
Music lovers should plan around the Jazz Aspen Snowmass events. Foodies flock to the Food & Wine Classic each June. At night, enjoy fine dining at high elevation and vibrant nightlife with over 100 bars and restaurants. In short, Aspen and Snowmass offer endless options for Colorado ski resorts in summer.
#2. Breckenridge
Next, Breckenridge shines with arts, culture, and outdoor fun. Its Arts District features local and international artists in painting, sculpture, theater, and more. Walk the charming downtown and Riverwalk Center to enjoy live music, museums, and galleries.
Outdoor adventures await just minutes away. Play a round at the award-winning Breckenridge Golf Club. Take the family to Epic Discovery for the Gold Runner Coaster, alpine slides, zipline tours, and challenge courses. In addition, summer festivals like the Beer Festival in July and Food & Wine Festival draw big crowds. The Film Festival in September adds even more excitement. Because it sits close to Denver, Breckenridge makes an easy weekend getaway.
#3. Copper Mountain
Copper Mountain Resort also ranks high among Colorado ski resorts in summer. It offers free gondola rides for adults on the American Eagle Lift — the only resort in the state with this perk. From June through September, mountain bikers enjoy beginner to expert trails with convenient village access.
Hikers love scenic sections of the Colorado Trail. Families can play mini golf, ride bumper boats, try the alpine coaster, or race go-karts. Don’t miss the fun Mac & Cheese Fest in July. Located just 80 miles from Denver, Copper works perfectly for quick trips or longer stays. You can even combine it with nearby Breckenridge for a full mountain experience.
#4. Crested Butte
Crested Butte delivers family-friendly adventures too. Enjoy whitewater rafting and kayaking on the Taylor River. Play golf on a scenic Robert Trent Jones II course. Hiking, biking, fly-fishing, and guided tours round out the options.
The Crested Butte Music Festival brings six weeks of classical and jazz performances each summer. The town sits about four-and-a-half hours from Denver. Nearby Gunnison offers extra lodging and an airport with convenient flights. Overall, Crested Butte provides a relaxed yet active vibe for Colorado ski resorts in summer.
#5. Estes Park
Estes Park welcomes visitors with charming downtown shops, galleries, and a relaxing river walk. Stroll by Lake Estes, visit a local brewery, or explore horseback riding and golf. History buffs enjoy the famous Stanley Hotel, which inspired Stephen King’s The Shining.
For a highlight, drive Trail Ridge Road through Rocky Mountain National Park. This route features the longest stretch of highway above treeline in North America. Spot wildlife, enjoy tundra views, and stop at the Alpine Visitor Center. Grand Lake makes a great side trip. Estes Park lies only 80 miles from Denver, so it suits easy day trips or weekends.
#6. Silverton (and Ouray)
Travelers seeking something unique often head to Silverton. This historic mining town in the San Juan Mountains offers Old West charm. The surrounding Weminuche Wilderness features towering 14,000-foot peaks and Continental Divide scenery.
ATV and Jeep tours thrive here. Visit nearby Ouray, known as the “Switzerland of America,” for hot springs and scenic drives along the San Juan Skyway. Silverton Mountain’s summer bike park and chairlift rides add more thrills. With excellent air quality and rich history, this area creates a memorable escape among Colorado ski resorts in summer. It sits about six hours from Denver, with nearby airports in Durango and Montrose.
#7. Telluride
Telluride also transforms beautifully in summer. Its Victorian downtown feels charming with boutiques, restaurants, and an opera house. Events like the Telluride Film Festival, Jazz Festival, and Blue & Brews fill the calendar.
Hiking, biking, whitewater rafting, and a scenic gondola keep things active. Golf enthusiasts enjoy an 18-hole championship course, while spa treatments offer relaxation. Because it sits near Silverton and Ouray, you can easily combine visits. Major airlines serve the local airport too.
#8. Vail (and Beaver Creek)
Vail and Beaver Creek provide a full buffet of summer activities. Just 100 miles west of Denver along I-70, they remain easy to reach. Options include dude ranches, whitewater rafting, kayaking, and hot air balloon rides.
Choose from many golf courses or try fly-fishing and rock climbing. Families love Epic Discovery with its ropes courses, climbing walls, and nature programs. Ride the gondola for stunning views of three mountain ranges. In addition, outdoor concerts and village shopping create a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
#9. Winter Park
Finally, Winter Park and Fraser sit just 90 minutes from Denver. Surrounded by wilderness areas, they offer hiking, biking, and three excellent golf courses. The High Country Stampede Rodeo runs on summer weekends.
Ride Colorado’s longest alpine slide for thrills or relax on the Zephyr Scenic Chairlift. Shops, boutiques, and museums add variety. As a result, Winter Park serves as an ideal basecamp for Colorado ski resorts in summer fun.
Colorado Summer Vacation Deals
All of these locations sound enticing, but which is best for you? Maybe it’s the one with the best deals that can save you money? That’s a real possibility. You can find out by searching our current Colorado summer vacation deals and choosing you preferred summer location. Under each location, you’ll find deals for things like gear rentals, lodging, transportation, activities, gondola rides, fishing expeditions, hot air balloon rides, and much more!
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