Favorite Summer Getaways in Colorado: See Our Team's Top Picks
Embrace the Adventure and Beauty of Colorado this Summer
May 5, 2023. All photos via RGKColorado
Colorado summers are a time of pure joy and excitement. The long, sunny days offer endless opportunities to explore the state's breathtaking natural beauty. From hiking to rafting, there's something for everyone. The warm weather also brings an abundance of outdoor festivals, concerts, and events, where locals and visitors alike can come together to celebrate the season. Farmers' markets are filled with fresh, locally grown produce, and outdoor patios are the perfect place to enjoy a cold beer or a refreshing cocktail. With so much to see and do, Colorado summers are truly a time to embrace the beauty of nature and soak up the warmth and joy of the season. Here are our favorite summertime traditions and getaways...
The Denver area is just a short drive away from so many beautiful activities and getaways. Here, Amy Kissinger visits St. Mary's Glacier.
1. Vail: We know Vail as a premier ski area but it's a fantastic summer alpine escape for outdoor enthusiasts with over 166 Miles of hiking trails, 343 miles of mountain biking trails, and 86 miles of rolling rivers. Bask in the beauty of Vail mountain's vistas, breathe in the cool mountain air, and enjoy dining and shopping experiences that only Vail can provide. Discover all Vail has to offer in summer.
2. St. Mary’s Glacier: Generally considered a moderately challenging route, this 1.5 mile out-and-back trail near Idaho Springs is a summer must. Pack a lunch and enjoy the breathtaking view of the glacier or stop in Idaho Springs for great dining and brews! Learn more about St. Mary's Glacier.
3. Golf: Colorado is home to one of the biggest varieties of golf courses anywhere in the country with over 200 courses to play ranging from city courses lined with trees, links-style courses in the eastern part of the state and beautiful mountain courses. From private clubs to public courses throughout the state, there is something for everyone. While many are open throughout the year, the summer time is the perfect time to play in the high country at courses such as Red Sky Ranch or Breckenridge. See GolfDigest's 'Best Courses You Can Play in Colorado.'
Jane Goulder and husband Joel enjoy horseback riding at Devil's Thumb Ranch.
4. Devil’s Thumb Ranch: Where pioneering spirit meets modern comforts on over 6,500 acres in the Rocky Mountains (75 miles outside of Denver). Join authentic ranch adventures from horseback riding, fly fishing, and cross-country skiing to fat tire mountain biking and zip lining. Jane says: "We love Devil's Thumb Ranch!" See all Devil's Thumb Ranch has to offer and book your stay today.
5. Steamboat Springs: Steamboat Springs offers endless summer adventures but one of the most popular is floating down the Yampa with family and friends. Allison says: "We kick-off our summer every year by spending a weekend in Steamboat. The weather is gorgeous, everything is green and there are a ton of things to do! Biking, hiking to waterfalls, tubing the Yampa, paddleboarding at Steamboat Lake and visiting the Strawberry Spring hot springs. Tons of fantastic restaurants too! Such a fun place to be in the Summer!" Plan your trip to Steamboat Springs.
Steamboat Springs is gorgeous in all four season including world-class skiing, but Allison Rankin loves it in the summer time as she photographs here.
6. Scenic Gondola Rides at Keystone Resort: Discover the beauty of the Colorado Rocky Mountains from a height of 11,640 feet with the whole family. The lift will transport you to the top of Keystone Mountain where you can indulge in breathtaking views of Lake Dillon, the Continental Divide, and the Ten Mile Range. At the summit of Keystone's Dercum Mountain, capture stunning photo opportunities, go for a hike, or simply unwind with a satisfying lunch. The gondola operates Thursday - Monday and will also be open for the fourth of July holiday.
7. Grand Lake: A charming village located on the tranquil banks of Colorado's largest natural lake, is enveloped by magnificent mountain ranges. Its picturesque setting against the backdrop of Rocky Mountain National Park makes it the perfect hub for embarking on outdoor adventures, creating cherished family moments, and making lasting memories. Learn more about Grand Lake.
Whether with family or friends, Amy Kissinger agrees that Coors Field is a Denver staple during the summertime.
8. Colorado Rockies Games: Whether you go to a night game or day game, so much summer fun is had at Coors Field with a friendly atmosphere, a beautiful ballpark and affordable tickets. Gather up some friends, grab a hot dog and a beer and cheer on the boys in purple! See the Rockies schedule and buy tickets.
9. Dillion Amphitheater: Lakeside, mountain views and live music - Colorado summer at its finest! Dillon Ampitheater is a beautiful venue featuring nationally recognized artists, local favorites and movie nights. The 2023 calendar includes Train, Gregory Alan Isakov, Pretty Lights and more. Upcoming shows, live web cam and ticket purchase.
10. Blues & Brews Festival, August 5-6, 2023: A Keystone staple, indulge in a weekend of live music from acclaimed national bluegrass performers, while savoring crafty brews and delectable mountain fare.
Allison says: "So many fun things to do in the Silverthorne area from concerts at Dillon Amphitheater, to shows at SilCo (Silverthorne Theater Company), hiking and biking, paddleboarding on Lake Dillon, farmers markets, rafting, riding the gondola at Keystone Resort. Lots of weekend events in Keystone like Blues and Brews, Wine and Jazz and Bacon and Bourbon Festivals"
A stunning sunset over Dillon Reservoir in Keystone during the summer, just over an hour drive from Denver.
11. Colorado BBQ Challenge - Held annually in Frisco for years, Colorado's longest running barbeque competition moves to Copper Mountain in 2023. Sanctioned by the Kansas City BBQ Society, all the BBQ, music, competitions, and community will still be going strong with the addition of Copper's summer activities including The Rocky Mountain Coaster, Woodward Wrecktangle, go-karts, climbing wall, mountain biking, zipline, bumper boats, and more. The event is free to the public for guests to attend, with food and beverage tickets available for purchase.
12. Red Rocks Amphitheater: An easy choice in any Denver list of "must-see" places, experience an extraordinary open-air amphitheater that hosts concerts, fitness events, and films, all just a stone's throw away from Denver. This one-of-a-kind venue promises a unique atmosphere and a range of entertainment options that cater to all tastes. Upcoming events, tours and tickets.
From the scenic beauty of the Rocky Mountains to the abundance of outdoor activities and events, there's never a dull moment in the Mile High City. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, there is something for everyone. So explore and enjoy the warm sunshine, stunning views, and endless possibilities that await you all around Colorado!
More from our Denver blog:
- Behind the Scenes: How a Full Service Real Estate & Design Team Maximizes Your Home Sale
- Discover our Favorite Summer Trails for Hiking and Biking in and around Denver
- 10 Local Denver Gift Shops for a Neighborhood Holiday Shopping Experience
- Denver's Best Patios to Soak Up the Sun
- Honoring Hardworking Moms: Insights and Advice from the RGK Team
- Top 5 Areas to Update in Your Home
If you are thinking about buying or selling anywhere in the Denver area, reach out to Allison Rankin, Jane Goulder, or Amy Kissinger at RGKColorado.com. Whether you are a first-time buyer, an investor or a seasoned buyer looking to upsize or downsize, we have the experience, resources and relationships to help and we would love to help you begin your next chapter in the Denver area!
