The Towns of Summit County

Whether you are a local, a second homeowner or a visitor to our area, it’s likely you have a favorite part of Summit County that you revisit again and again. Take some time in the warmer days and months ahead to explore the hidden gems and landmarks all over the county, including our largest towns of Breckenridge, Frisco, Silverthorne and Dillon. Maybe you’ll discover a new favorite spot you didn’t know was there.  

Each town has its own spin on modern mountain culture, western mining history or a mix of both. Each has unique perks. What they all have in common is the striking backdrop of the Colorado Rocky Mountains, featuring the Ten Mile Range to the south and the Gore Range to the north and a variety of outlets for both locals and visitors to celebrate our love of the great outdoors. Best of all, each Summit County municipality features something special that can be enjoyed by all, at no cost.  

Breckenridge, elevation 9600, population 4,938 

We admit we’re a bit partial to our hometown of Breckenridge. Main Street is not only postcard perfect but radiates a magic known to cast a spell of love on almost everyone who strolls through. The Riverwalk Center is the heart of town with a walking path alongside the Blue River and a variety of art installations. Ride the free gondola up to Peak 8 to overlook the town from the west or take a drive up Boreas Pass and enjoy breathtaking views of the Ten Mile Range. Stop by the Welcome Center and get directions to visit the outdoor Sawmill mining museum or Isak the Troll at his hiding place in the woods.  

Frisco, elevation 9097, population 3,116 

Take a self-guided/self-paced stroll back in time through one of Colorado’s most significant heritage collections. The Frisco Historical Park on Main Street immerses visitors in the roots of our western mountain culture. There are 11 buildings on the tour including a jail and schoolhouse. Step back into the present at Frisco Marina. Watch the sailboats lakeside from the marina beach or lawn. Several miles of the Summit County Rec Path border the Dillon Reservoir shoreline offering countless ways to enjoy the beauty of the lake’s blue waters.  

Silverthorne, elevation 9035, population 4,673 

The boldest section of the Blue River spills out on the south side of the Dillon Reservoir and traverses through the town of Silverthorne where it offers the only Gold Medal Waters in Summit County. This is large trout fly fishing at its best.  Several pedestrian bridges offer incredible opportunities to overlook the Blue River where it runs wider than anywhere else in the county. The Rec Path parallels the river all the way through town, connecting one side of town to the other with a tunnel underneath Highway 6 just a block south of I-70. 

Dillon, elevation 9111, population 945 

There are few places in Colorado where such a vast body of water surrounded by soaring mountain peaks exists. In Summit County we have the Dillon Reservoir which is best viewed from the eastern shores in the town of Dillon. The Dillon Marina Park offers a lakeside playground and beach that is likely one of the most spectacular spots in the state to view a Rocky Mountain sunset. The newly renovated amphitheater will once again host free concerts, though the timeline and schedule are still to be determined. Miles of Summit County Rec Path continue along this side of the lake as well.  

Now you know where to go to spend a few hours with family, friends or quiet time alone. If you need assistance deciding which part of Summit County you want to purchase a home in, we can help with that too! Our Breckenridge Associates Real Estate agents have many decades of experience living and working in our county. We list properties from Blue River to Silverthorne and everywhere in between. Give us a call today to help buy or sell your home in Summit County, Colorado.