Snow-capped mountains tower over the streets of Silverthorne, a picturesque town that sits at nearly 9,000 feet elevation in western Colorado. Its proximity to the Rocky Mountains make this region one of the most popular ski areas in the country. In summer, the evergreen-covered peaks transform into a mecca for hiking and mountain biking, and the nearby Blue River is home to some of the state’s best fly-fishing spots. When you’ve had your fill of outdoor adventuring, head back to Silverthorne’s downtown, where you’ll find a vibrant main street lined with low slung brick buildings housing small boutiques, mom-and-pop restaurants, and food trucks. Silverthorne also boasts a thriving cultural scene with its own theater company as well as several galleries and art studios.

Silverthorne experiences cold, snowy winters and hot, sunny summers. In winter, you can hit the slopes and then cozy up to the fire at your Silverthorne Colorado vacation rental. During spring and fall, the days are longer and warmer, a perfect time to get out on the hiking trails to catch a glimpse of spring wildflowers and the autumn leaves as they provide a dash of color to the sea of endless green forest. In summer, the warm weather draws outdoor enthusiasts to the Dillon Reservoir and nearby rivers. There is an art stroll each Sunday during the summer months where you can view local artists’ work against a backdrop of live music and visual arts performances.

Lily Pad Lake Trail

This epic three-mile-long trail takes you through dense forest and past beaver ponds to a lake full of lily pads. The pathway offers spectacular views of Buffalo Mountain, and if you are lucky, you may be able to spot deer, elk, and moose along the way. Down by the lake itself there are plenty of rocks to sit upon and take in some rest (and views). During the winter, the paths can become quite icy, so a steady pair of boots, spiked even better, is a good item to have prepared.

Blue River Trail

This multi-use paved trail is a great way to see some of the area’s most beautiful landscapes. It features a breathtaking array of flora and fauna, including the Eagles Nest and Ptarmigan Peak, while connecting places like Vail Pass, Breckenridge, and Frisco. There are two different trailheads in Silverthorne, making it easy to get out and explore. Be sure to check out the streams between the trees here and there, and also keep an eye out for the moose that tend to pass by.

Dillon

Just two miles away, this small town on the shore of Dillon Reservoir bursts with year-round attractions. In summer, it hosts boat races, a dynamite farmers market, and open-air concerts at Lake Dillon Amphitheater. In winter, people flock here for ice fishing, snowmobiling, and skiing. Dillon is also blessed with some of the nicest parks in the area, including Dillon Town Park and Marina Park, where you can picnic and barbecue on charcoal grills.