There was a time when visiting Summit County meant only one thing: skiing. Those days are like last year’s ski equipment – outdated and unfashionable. Colorado’s high peaks region has evolved to become an off-slope destination with a wide range of enjoyable activities for everyone. You don’t have to be a skier to enjoy yourself and there’s more to do today than sitting in a lodge and reading a book.

The area’s long-standing reputation as a place for adventure seekers is rivaled by growing off-mountain trends to attract new travelers with varied interests. Whether you’re a flavor-loving foodie or a laid-back art lover, Summit County is the place to discover fun and relaxing activities for every interest.

Get Out of the Cold

The sub-freezing temperatures at the peak are perfect for skiers, but in the valley towns throughout Summit County, visitors can enjoy a milder experience. Get out of the cold and into one of the areas day spas for an afternoon of pampering.

With dozens of spas offering treatments from rejuvenating hot rock massages to relaxing salt tub soaks, the variety is as exciting as the skiing. From the indulgence of The Spa at Breckenridge to the serenity of Bodyworks in Frisco, a day of pampering will leave you with a smile as you enjoy the feeling of being more relaxed than the cold, sore skiers tromping off the mountain at the end of the day.

Let the Animals Show You Around

For either a bit of romance or adventure, call on Summit County’s four-legged guides. Couples bundle up to keep each other warm during horse-drawn dinner sleigh rides in Frisco. Enjoy a two-hour package from aptly named Two Below Zero that includes a romantic ride to and from dinner.

If you want a little more adventure than a quiet evening ride, hang on while everyone’s best friends mush across a landscape of stunning vistas. Dog sled tours are fun and exciting for the entire family.

Do More than Look at Art…Make Art!

With an abundance of artisans and craft persons, Summit County is the perfect place to stroll galleries and appreciate unique and stunning collections inspired by the Rocky Mountains’ dramatic peaks and valleys.

For a more hands-on experience beyond mere art appreciation, sign up for one of many instructional opportunities offered by local artists. Learn to blow-glass or splash watercolor on canvas to capture a dramatic landscape. Make your vacation a rewarding experience by creating your very own masterpiece memento.

Hungry Yet?

When skiers rave about great meals or Colorado steaks, it could be the cold, exercise, and hunger talking at the end of a long day on the mountain. However, with almost 150 places to dine and eat in Summit County, the mountains are a foodies’ paradise in the clouds.

Choose from southwestern specialties, trendy fusion eateries, and everything in between. With locally sourced ingredients, creative cooking, and visitors from all over the globe, it is easy to find the best the mountains have to offer for everyone’s tastes. Dine on Pan-American one night, and brewpub finger food the next, and be sure work off a bit of dinner with a relaxing evening walk to enjoy the crisp high-altitude air.

Schedule a Therapy Session

Summit County is more than just ski shops and gear. It’s high fashion, handmade jewelry, unique crafts, and eclectic style. Engage in everyone’s favorite – retail therapy, and spend a day exploring the shops, galleries, and outlet stores — and unless you overdo it, you won’t need a roof rack to bring your purchases home.

After a long day of shopping, take time to stretch, relax, and enjoy a restful stay at one of Summit County’s luxurious bed and breakfasts. More than seven million people visit Summit County each year. An increasing number of visitors skip the slopes, proving that the mountains are not just for skiers anymore.