Summer Events You Won't Want To Miss in Summit & Park County

Breckenridge:

• July 4th: Independence Day Celebration - Free!

• July 9th: Breckenridge Summer Beer Festival

• July 29-31: Breckenridge Food and Wine Festival

• August 12-21: Breckenridge International Festival of Arts

• August 14-19: Breck Epic

• August 26-28: Breckenridge Hogfest: Bacon and Bourbon

Frisco:

• Saturday May 21 - Town Clean Up Day - Free!

• Satuday June 4 - Rock The Dock - Free!

• June 17-18: Frisco BBQ Challenge

• July 4: Frisco’s Fabulous 4th of July - Free!

Keystone:

• June 25-26: Keystone Bacon & Bourbon Festival

• July 2: Stars and Guitars - Free!

• August 6-7: 25th Annual Bluegrass & Beer Festival

• September 3: Keystone Oktoberfest

Dillon:

• May 21: Town Clean Up Day - Free!

• June 11: Lake Dillon Beer Festival

• All Summer Long: Dillon Amphitheater Concerts - Check out the calendar

• Every Friday In Summer: Dillon Farmer’s Market

Silverthorne:

• May 21: Town Clean Up Day - Free!

• FIrst Friday of Each Month: First Friday Celebrations

• July 4: Fourth of Jul Celebration with the National Repertory Orchestra

Fairplay:

• June 3,4 & 5: Town Clean Up Day - Free!

• July 4: Fairplay’s Independence Day Celebration - Free!

• July 29-31: Burro Days - Free!

Upcoming Events

Here are the events planned around the county this winter that you won't want to miss!

Breckenridge

• Lighting of Breckenridge and Race of the Santas - December 4

• Ullr Fest - December 8-17

• Big Beers Festival - January 5-7

• International Snow Sculptures Championship - January 24-30

 

Frisco

• Wassail Days - November 27-December 5

 

Silverthorne

• Lighting of Silverthorne - December 3

 

1. The people – Locals, second homeowners, business owners, athletes, families and outdoor enthusiasts of all shapes and sizes comprise the population of Summit County on any given day. They bring the towns to life with their love for the mountains, welcoming smiles and service to our community to delight everyone who crosses their path. I have never felt more connected to my community than I do here in Summit.
2. The mountains – Need I say more? Whether simply taking in the views of our awe-inspiring terrain or experiencing them firsthand with a myriad of activities, we are blessed with a stunning mountainous backdrop for our everyday enjoyment.
3. The opportunities – We are fortunate to have a real estate market where investing in real estate has never been more fun. With our typical double-digit appreciation rates, we get to invest in property, watch our money grow while ALSO enjoying our assets for personal use!
4. The activities – As a summit county local, my biggest problem is always the best problem to have, which activity(s) will I do today? With so many great adventures to be had right out our backdoor, it seems I’m still discovering new activities each year and am so lucky to enjoy them on a daily basis.
5. The fun – I think this might be the culmination of #’s 1-4, but it is worth pointing out, that when the people in the mountains get together there is never a shortage of fun. The best part of living in Summit County are all of the memories I’ve made with friends and family over the years, where we all prioritize one thing: having fun.

Upcoming Events

Here are the events planned around the county this winter that you won't want to miss!

Breckenridge

• Lighting of Breckenridge and Race of the Santas - December 4

• Ullr Fest - December 8-17

• Big Beers Festival - January 5-7

• International Snow Sculptures Championship - January 24-30

 

Frisco

• Wassail Days - November 27-December 5

 

Silverthorne

• Lighting of Silverthorne - December 3

Colorado Craft Brokers have been carefully following and fighting for homeowners' rights in the current Short Term Rental limitation discussions that have been taking place across the county. Below is a collection of the latest information as of 9/24/21. We will strive to keep all of our clients informed and fight for your best interest as topics and ideas continue to unfold in our local governments.

*Please note - things are changing quickly, so always ask us for the latest update*

Dillon: Council has decided not to move forward with a moratorium and will focus the next 4-6 council meetings on finding affordable housing solutions. 

Frisco: Nothing has been decided but are researching options. Keep in mind the Citizen initiative to put a vote on the ballot this fall to limit STR’s is still out there. That initiative has a few more days to gather the required signatures.

Silverthorne: Just watching and listening at this time. No action is planned as of right now.

Blue River: Will have a conversation but most likely will not take action to limit STR’s.

Town of Breckenridge:

First reading of the draft ordinance was approved 9/15/21. The second reading and final vote is Tuesday, September 28^th.

• The town approved a cap of 2200 permits. There are currently 2495 and over 300 additional were applied for in the past two weeks.
• Council reasoning: degradation of community character, although affordable housing and limiting tourism have both been mentioned by Council members.)
• The ordinance does not apply to units/complexes with front desks, security systems, and a central phone system.
• Permits will be reduced through attrition as properties are sold or owners permits expire. New permits will be issued through a wait list system. 
• A temporary six-month STR permit will be issued to new property owners to allow them the ability to honor reservations that existed on the date the property transferred and the permit was lost. Details will be established in the administrative regulations.
• The effective date will be 35 days from the second reading and final ratification of the ordinance.

Summit County:

The County passed an emergency ordinance to put a twelve-week (90-day) moratorium on new short- term rental license applications. The purpose of the moratorium is to allow staff time to get caught up on processing permit applications.

• The moratorium goes into effect Friday, September 17^th at 11:59 PM.
• Properties in Keystone, Copper Mountain, and in the 4 o’clock Subdivision and Skiwatch in Breckenridge are exempt from this moratorium and may continue to apply for permits as normal.
• Property owners can apply for permits throughout the regular process through Friday. 
• Properties under contract should submit a letter as we outlined last week with the new permit application through Friday by submitting it to str@summitcountyco.gov
• During the moratorium, properties under contract and properties that are under construction may apply for a special exception prior to applying for the permit.

·         During the moratorium, the County plans empirical data research and will work to find creative incentives for property owners to convert their properties to long-term rentals in “locals zones”. These zones include:

  *   Dillon Valley

 *   French Creek

  *   Woodmoor

  *   Wildernest

  *   Frisco Terrace/Evergreen

  *   Lake View Meadows

  *   Mesa Cortina

  *   Summit Cove

  *   Alpine Breck

  *   Quandary Village

  *   Peak 7

Upcoming Events

As we transition between Summer, to Fall, to Winter, the event calendars are starting to fill up. Here are some of the events planned around the county so far that you won't want to miss!

Breckenridge

• Bricktoberfest - September 24-26

• Lighting of Breckenridge and Race of the Santas - December 4

• Ullr Fest - December 8-17

• Big Beers Festival - January 5-7

• International Snow Sculptures Championship - January 24-30

 

Frisco

• Wassail Days - November 27-December 5

 

Silverthorne

• Pumpkin Fest - October 3

• Lighting of Silverthorne - December 3

 

Fall is one of my favorite times of year in Summit County. The aspens turn a stunning golden color and light up all of the trails and streets. And, we are often blessed with an “indian summer” where we can enjoy sunshine filled days and outdoor summer activities well into October. Yes, we might see our first snowfall mid-September, but typically it comes and goes and we keep playing. If it doesn’t, we just break out the skis and snowboards early! Here are a few of my favorite hikes, bike rides and scenic drives not to miss in Summit County this fall:

 

Trails/Roads for fall foliage:

• Aspen Alley

  • Skill Level: Intermediate

  • Distance: 1.3 miles one way or 2.6 round trip

  • Elevation gain: 519’

  • Terrain: Single Track

  • Accessible for: Hiking, Mountain Biking

 

• Frisco Peninsula Lakeshore Loop

  • Skill Level: Intermediate

  • Distance: 6.1 miles

  • Elevation gain: 217’

  • Terrain: 95% Single Track

  • Accessible for: Hiking, Mountain Biking

 

• Boreas Pass Road & Optional Baker’s Tank Single Track

  • Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate if you take the single track back

  • Distance: 6 miles

  • Elevation gain 617’

  • Terrain: 0-50% single track - you can walk, ride or drive out and back on the road or ride/walk out on the road and then take the single track back

  • Accessible for: Hiking, Mountain Biking or Driving (stay on road please)

 

• Lily Pad Lake Trail

  • Skill Level: Beginner

  • Distance: 3.3 miles

  • Elevation Gain: 396’

  • Accessible for: Hiking

 

Remember, our fall weather will change quickly so always be prepared with plenty of layers, a rain jacket and sunscreen. As always, if you have any questions on any trails or need a hiking or biking buddy, please don’t hesitate to reach out!

 

Happy Trails!

 

Ever wonder how Lake Dillon got its name? The Town of Dillon was established in 1881 where the lake currently sits. The town has since been relocated twice, in 1963 a dam was constructed and Lake Dillon was created to supply the City of Denver’s water. Not only does Lake Dillon supply most of the water for Denver, it also spans across three Summit County towns offering endless fun activities on the water. Here are my 4 favorite activities on Lake Dillon:

1. Stand Up Paddleboard, Kayak or Canoe

Bring your own vessel or rent one from the Frisco or Dillon Marina. There are several entry points which you can “put in” on the Lake and paddle around to explore the many islands while enjoying 360 views in the sunshine. Local tip: bring a cooler and have a picnic on one of the shores or islands that you have to paddle to!

• Rent a boat

  1. Both Frisco and Dillon marinas offer boat rentals of different types: fishing boats, pontoon boats or sail boats. Depending on what your in the mood for, a boat rental is a great way to cover lots of distance on the lake and enjoy it with friends.

1. Enjoy Waterfront Happy Hour 

   1. Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with a beachy beverage from either the Tiki Bar at the Dillon Marina or the Island Grill at the Frisco Marina. Both have beautiful water and mountain views and delicious island cocktails!

2. Go Fishing

   1. You can bring your own gear and access the lake from any of the shore locations around the lake. Or you can book a fishing boat charter with Alpine Fishing Adventures if you prefer a guided adventure.

 

I highly recommend getting on or close to the water of Lake Dillon while you’re in Summit County. It is an incredible experience to be surrounded by majestic mountain views while floating on beautiful serene water. With so many ways to enjoy the Lake, there is certainly something for everyone. If you check it out, make sure to let me know how it was and share your photos!

There is a popular saying among locals in Summit County, "We came for the winters, but stayed for the summers." This sentiment is shared almost unanimously by year round Summit County residents and it does not take long to understand why. Summer in the mountains offers a variety of outdoor activities and perfect weather to enjoy them. One of the easiest, most accessible activities is hiking. Whether going for an easy stroll with the family or a multiple hour adventure to the summit, there are hikes of all shapes and sizes all over Summit County. Here we'll share a few of our favorite hikes. Choose your adventure level, grab your sunscreen and start walking. Have any questions, need more recommendations or a hiking buddy? Please reach out, we'd be happy to help or join you!

Trail Name: Wellington Trail

Location: Breckenridge

Difficulty: Easy

Length: 2.7 miles

Elevation Gain: 236 feet

Description: Easy to access out and back trail that longs along a river in Breckenridge. You'll alternate between single and double track, pass by old mining sites and enjoy shaded walking through the forest. 

 

Trail Name: Bald Mountain

Location: Breckenridge

Difficulty: Moderate

Length: 10.3 miles

Elevation Gain: 3,123 feet

Description: This trail is easily accessible at the end of Baldy Road. It is a nice option because you are able to drive more than half of it (with a truck or SUV) and then hike the remaining to the top. It is an easy hike up a dirt road with beautiful views of Breckenridge and littered with wildflowers.

Trail Name: Peaks Trail

Location: Frisco to Breckenridge

Difficulty: Hard

Length: 15.3 miles

Elevation Gain: 1,735 feet

Description: This challenging hike winds through the woods between Frisco and Breckenridge. With a variety of terrain from bridge crossings, to stepping stones, there is no shortage of excitement on this trail. It is an out and back trail, but another nice option is to leave a car at one end and hike it in one direction.

 

Happy Trails to you!

 

As the world begins to normalize, we are all looking forward to celebrating the birth of our great nation this 4th of July. There are plenty of events to choose from across all of Summit County! Take a look at the various schedules for each town below and join us for a long over due celebration in the mountains! Make sure to let us know your plans so we can meet up for a "cheers"!

Breckenridge:

July 4th

• 7:00am - 11:00am – Independence Day 10k

• 9:30am – Firecracker 50

• 10:00am - 11:30am – Independence Day Parade

• 11:00am - 4:00pm – Chalk Art on Washington Street

• 11:00am - 6:00pm – Live Music @ AirStage

• 6:00pm - 8:00pm – NRO Concert

 

Frisco:

July 4th

• Early Morning – Chalk artists on Main Street

• 10:00am – Frisco 4th of July “Bikes and Barks” Parade on Main Street from Historic Park to 5th Avenue

• 11:00am – 5:00pm – Free balloon art

• 11:00am – 5:00pm – Free caricature art

• 11:30am – 12:00pm – Gora Gora Marching Band

• 12:45pm – 1:15pm – Gora Gora Marching Band

• 1:30pm – 5:00pm – Aerial acrobats

• 2:00pm – 2:30pm – Gora Gora Marching Band

 

Silverthorne:

• July 4 – National Repertory Orchestra Patriotic Salute – Rainbow Park

• July 5-6 – Art on the Blue Art Festival – Silverthorne Performing Arts Center

 

Dillon:

• July 4 – 4:00pm – Independence Day with your Colorado Symphony – Dillon Amphitheater