Summit County is a very beautiful place to be in the winter. One of the best ways to relax and soak in the beauty of the area’s peaceful woods and mountains is on a pair of snowshoes. There are hundreds of miles of trails, varying in length and difficulty.
You can enjoy a short walk through the woods or spend the whole day trekking in the Summit County backcountry. The Dillion Ranger District has a very informative and easy to us listing of trails on their website. You can check it out here: Dillion Ranger District Winter Recreation Opportunities.
All of the trails listed on this site include the trail’s general location, which activities are allowed on the trail, and level of difficulty. I would recommend avoiding all the trails that are open to snowmobiles, as the noise does travel and disrupt the otherwise peaceful atmosphere.
Snowshoes can be rented at many of the ski rental shops in Breckenridge for a low daily fee. Alpine Sports is a good choice if you want to grab some snowshoes and head out on your own. Also, check out the Breckenridge Nordic Center! They not only offer rentals, but guided snowshoe tours and lessons for snowshoeing enthusiasts of all ages and ability levels.
Please snowshoe within your physical ability and make safe decisions. If you are not familiar with snowshoeing and winter trail use, it is a good idea to speak with someone knowledgeable with the area’s trails before going out for the day. Call the ranger station or speak with the folks at the rentals shop about which trails to go on and trail safety.
Trail safety tips:
- Avoid traveling in or before a storm. The trail can become unclear (and many times disappear) potentially leaving you in a dangerous situation.
- Bring plenty of clothing layers. The weather in Colorado is very variable and it is a good idea to be prepared.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks.
- Always let someone know where you are going and when you are planning on returning.
- Know your own limitations and travel within them.
- Speak with someone familiar with the areas trails.
Be safe and have fun!
Tips From Our Readers:
"There are free snowshoe and ski tours everyday at Copper Mountain. There are moonlight snowshoe tours each month when there is a full moon." -Katherine Jeter. Check out our blog about other awesome things you can do at Copper Mountain!