Explore Summit County: Upcoming Events with the FDRD

The Dillon Ranger Station offers a thoughtful lineup of ranger-led hikes, snowshoe tours, and educational speaker series throughout the winter and early spring. These programs are a wonderful way to learn more about Summit County’s natural environment, outdoor safety, and mountain culture whether you’re a local looking to get outside or a visitor hoping to connect more deeply with the landscape.

Please note: Times, costs, and capacity can vary by event and may change due to weather or conditions. Always check the official event page for the most up-to-date information.

Tails on Trails: Dog-Friendly Snowshoe at Acorn Creek

Enjoy a winter snowshoe with your four-legged companion on this dog-friendly outing. Rangers share tips on winter trail etiquette, wildlife awareness, and safe recreation with pets.

Date: January 10
Where: Meet at Acorn Creek Trailhead
Time: 10 am
Cost: Free
What to Bring: Participants should bring their dog, a 6-foot leash, poop bags, and treats if desired, along with warm layered clothing, snowshoes (or arrange to borrow a pair by emailing maddie@fdrd.org), a hat, mittens, sunglasses, sunscreen, water for both you and your dog, and snacks.
More Info: https://fdrd.app.neoncrm.com/nx/portal/neonevents/events?path=%2Fportal%2Fevents%2F30453

Social Hike Saturday – January

A relaxed, community-focused hike designed to get people outdoors together. Great for meeting fellow outdoor enthusiasts while learning about local trails and winter conditions.

Date: January 17
Where: Meet at Boreas Pass Trailhead
Time: 10 am
Cost: Free
More Info: https://fdrd.app.neoncrm.com/nx/portal/neonevents/events?path=%2Fportal%2Fevents%2F30467

Speaker Series: CAIC – Avalanche Forecasting: The How and Why

Learn how avalanche forecasts are created and how to interpret them for safer winter travel. An excellent introduction for anyone recreating in snowy terrain.

Date: January 20
Where: Highside Brewing in Frisco
Time: 6-8 pm
Cost: Free
More Info: https://fdrd.app.neoncrm.com/nx/portal/neonevents/events?path=%2Fportal%2Fevents%2F27285

Snowshoe Tour: Deer Creek with Ranger Rita

Join Ranger Rita for a guided snowshoe through the Deer Creek area, focusing on winter ecology, animal tracks, and forest management.

Date: January 21
Where: Meet at the Deer Creek Trailhead
Time: 9 am
Cost: Free
More Info: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/whiteriver/about-forest/districts/?cid=stelprdb5348686
What to Bring: Please bring snowshoes or traction spikes depending on weather conditions (to borrow snowshoes, email maddie@fdrd.org), along with a windproof jacket and pants, winter boots, a backpack, gloves or mittens, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, water, and lunch or snacks.

BONUS Speaker Series: Ethan Marsh – 10th Mountain Mushing

A fascinating talk exploring the history and modern culture of mushing and its ties to Colorado’s high-country heritage.

Date: January 31
Where: Thirsty Pika Taproom
Time: 2 pm
Cost: Free
More Info: https://fdrd.app.neoncrm.com/nx/portal/neonevents/events?path=%2Fportal%2Fevents%2F31388

Full Moon Hiking Tour – Campion Trail

Experience the quiet beauty of winter under the full moon on this guided hike, with insights into nocturnal wildlife and winter navigation.

Date: February 10
Where: Meet at Swan’s Nest Trailhead
Time: 6:30-8:30 pm
Cost: Free
More Info: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/whiteriver/about-forest/districts/?cid=stelprdb5348686
What to Bring: Please bring waterproof, warm boots; snowshoes (to borrow a pair, email maddie@fdrd.org); a headlamp or flashlight; a thermos or reusable mug; binoculars for moon gazing; warm layers; a windproof jacket and pants; gloves or mittens; a hat; water; and snacks, and note that pets and smoking are not permitted on this hike.

Speaker Series: CAG – Backcountry Ski / Splitboard 101

An introductory session covering gear basics, planning, and safety considerations for those new to backcountry skiing or splitboarding.

Date: February 17
Where: Highside Brewing
Time: 6-7:30 pm
Cost: Free
More Info: https://fdrd.app.neoncrm.com/nx/portal/neonevents/events?path=%2Fportal%2Fevents%2F27443

Social Hike Saturday – February

Another opportunity to enjoy an easy, ranger-led winter hike while connecting with the local outdoor community.

Date: February 21
Where: Meet at Ptarmigan Trailhead
Time: 10 am
Cost: Free
More Info: https://fdrd.app.neoncrm.com/nx/portal/neonevents/events?path=%2Fportal%2Fevents%2F31979

Speaker Series: Summit Huts 101 – Powder, Peaks, and Cozy Retreats

Learn about Summit County’s hut system, trip planning, and what to expect when reserving and staying in these iconic backcountry retreats.

Date: March 17
Where: Highside Brewing
Time: 6 pm
Cost: Free
More Info: https://fdrd.app.neoncrm.com/nx/portal/neonevents/events?path=%2Fportal%2Fevents%2F30449

FDRD’s 8th Annual Casino Night

A fun community fundraiser supporting Friends of the Dillon Ranger District, featuring games, prizes, and an evening of socializing for a great cause.

Date: April 11
Where: Silverthorne Pavillion
Time: 6 pm
Cost: $75 per person
More Info: https://fdrd.app.neoncrm.com/nx/portal/neonevents/events?path=%2Fportal%2Fevents%2F30418

Make the Most of Your Time in Summit County

Ranger-led programs are a fantastic way to explore responsibly, learn something new, and connect with the mountain environment year-round. Be sure to check registration details early, as many events fill quickly.

Let Summit County Welcome You Home

Summit County offers more than just breathtaking scenery—it’s a place where local events, outdoor adventures, and a welcoming community come together to create the ultimate mountain lifestyle. If you're falling in love with the people, places, and spirit of this community, stop by the Breckenridge Associates Real Estate office at 229 S. Main Street or call us at 970-453-2200. Our local Brokers are here to share insider tips, answer your questions, and help you find your place in the high country.