Unforgettable Summer Getaways in Colorado Beloved Ski Towns

Fraser, CO - While Colorado is renowned for its world-class ski resorts, the locals in our mountain communities often share the secret mantra, "They come for the winters but stay for the summers." The true essence of Colorado's magic reveals itself during the warmer months, offering unforgettable experiences in our beloved ski towns.

For Nature Enthusiasts: Crested Butte Nordic

• Destination: Immerse yourself in Crested Butte during the wildflower season, reaching its peak in July.
• Must-Experience: Don't miss the Crested Butte Wildflower Festival from July 12-21, 2024, a spectacle of full blooms. It's the ideal time to explore the high country surrounding this laid-back, free-spirited mountain town.
• Trail Recommendation: Embark on the moderately challenging Crested Butte Upper Lower Loop, a 4.6-mile hike featuring road and singletrack paths, offering glimpses of a lake, old mining ruins, and meadows in full bloom.
• Savor: Rejuvenate at the Public House Pub & Taproom with post-hike delights like poutine or elk chili.

For Adventure Seekers: Grand Lake Nordic: Devil's Thumb Ranch, Snow Mountain Ranch

• Destination: Explore the Tabernash/Granby/Grand Lake region for outdoor adventures—secure accommodations at Devil's Thumb or Snow Mountain Ranch.
• Can't Miss: Witness early morning wildlife at Rocky Mountain National Park; dawn or dusk are prime times to spot moose and elk herds from the west entrance near Granby.
• Trail Recommendation: Hike to Columbine Lake, a 2.8-mile one-way ascent to a glacial lake at the top of the Divide, starting at the Junco Lake trailhead.
• Indulge: Treat yourself at Debbie's Drive-in with thick milkshakes, classic burgers, and irresistible fried chicken planks.

For Culture Enthusiasts: Breckenridge and Gold Run or Frisco Nordic Centers

• Destination: Head to the local stronghold of Frisco, which boasts a vibrant and revitalized main-street culture. Stay at the charming Frisco Inn or Frisco Lodge for an authentic in-town experience.
• Take advantage of Experience on-the-water action with breathtaking mountain views on nearby Lake Dillon, including stand-up paddleboarding.
• Trail Recommendation: Explore the North Tenmile Creek for a leisurely, picturesque creek-side meander.
• Savor: Indulge in brunch at Frisco's Bread + Salt, offering delights like the Monte Cristo or slow-roasted pork chilaquiles.

For Engaging Minds: Vail or Beaver Creek Nordic Centers

• Destination: Opt for summer slopeside lodging in Beaver Creek, where enticing deals await for mid-week or extended stays.
• Must-Do: Enjoy golf with a view. Vail Valley has ten golf courses with stunning backdrops and refreshing summer conditions. Visit Vail Golf Club for the valley's most walkable course, or indulge in Beaver Creek Golf Course, a members-only Robert Trent Jones course ranking among the top 100 courses in the country. Pro tip: Between May 15 and June 15, non-members can golf the course or stay on-site at a Beaver Creek property, and the course is all yours.
• Trail Recommendation: Embark on the moderately challenging Shrine Ridge Trail just west of Vail Pass, a 4.3-mile out-and-back offering jaw-dropping views.
• Savor: Delight in hand-crafted Italian cuisine at Zino in Edwards, featuring dishes like ravioli with truffle pearls, brown butter, ricotta, egg, and roasted garlic panko.

Indulge in the seamless blend of adventure, relaxation, and culinary delights as you explore, unwind, and savor the captivating allure of Colorado's Nordic wonderlands during the radiant summer months.

About Colorado Cross County Ski Association: The CCCSA is a member-based 501c6 nonprofit organization comprised of 17 Nordic resorts and 2 Nordic retailers. The CCCSA aims to define Colorado as a premier Nordic Destination, providing world-class skiing and snowshoeing to a diverse group of visitors while enhancing the visitor and local experience through engaging educational content. The CCCSA strives to promote sustainable, low-impact recreation and tourism while boosting economic activity in rural mountain communities.

The Colorado Tourism Office (CTO) is a division of the Governor’s Office of Economic Development and International Trade. The mission of the CTO is to empower the tourism industry by inspiring the world to explore Colorado responsibly and respectfully. The Colorado Tourism Office seeks to advance the strength and resilience of the entire industry through collaboration, inclusivity, innovation, and leadership. In 2022, Colorado travelers spent $27.7 billion, generating $1.7 billion in local and state revenues, reducing the tax burden for every Colorado household by $760. For more information, please visit www.colorado.com.