Silverthorne, a Must-Visit for Outdoor Enthusiasts & Skiers

Giving you access to some of the most scenic spots in Summit County, Lily Pad Lake is one of the most easily accessible trails from town. This makes it extremely popular with residents and visitors who are looking to explore the Eagles Nest Wilderness. As you venture deeper into the trail you’ll come across woodlands filled with aspen and pine trees, streams, beaver ponds, and much more. The Lily Pad Lake Trail is rich with flora and fauna and it’s common to come across beavers, moose, and other wildlife residents. The trail only allows for hiking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.

Lily Pad Lake Trailhead: Co Rd 1231, Frisco, CO 80443

Open to hikers and bikers, Blue River Trail connects the city of Silverthorne to some of the most stunning wilderness areas such as Eagles Nest and Ptarmigan Peak. The county-wide paved trail system connects places such as Vail Pass, Copper Mountain, Glenwood Springs, Breckenridge, Keystone, Dillon, and Frisco. You’ll find two trailheads to start your journey from, one at North Pond Park and the other at Silverthorne Elementary School. While adventuring through these well-groomed trails, you’ll be able to see stunning, unspoiled scenic areas and an array of flora and fauna. In addition to hiking, visitors are also able to cross-country ski or snowshoe through the Blue River Trail.

Silverthorne Elementary School (Trailhead): 101 Hamilton Creek Road, Silverthorne, CO 80498

One of the easier and more family-friendly trails in Silverthorne, the Sally Barber Mine Trail is perfect for those hiking with younger kids or are looking for something that requires a relatively low amount of effort. The trail is less than three miles round trip but can be extended if you decide to delve into some of the detours that can be found off the trail. The trail is slightly paved though it is still not ADA accessible. There are also several signs to guide you during your journey, ensuring you a fun and safe trip. Be on the lookout for flowing creeks, peaceful spaces, waterfalls, and eventually, the remnants of the abandoned mine site.

Sallie Barber Mine Trailhead: 3882 Gulch Road, Breckenridge, CO 80424

High Country Tours offers an array of snowmobile adventures which range from beginner/ family-friendly to more challenging sites. It is one of the best ways to explore Colorado’s high country such as Dillon, Keystone, Copper Mountain, Breckenridge, Frisco, Silverthorne, and Kremmling and Summit County. Snowmobile tours depart daily and the experienced guides will provide you with snowsuits, boots, and DOT-approved helmets for your trip. You can choose from 1, 2, or 3-person capacity snowmobiles, some of which also have additional features like hand warmers and heated seats. After you wrap up your scenic tour, head back to the Birdseye Outpost for some snow tubing fun.

7101 Heeney Road, Heeney, CO 80461, Phone: 970-668-9945

Considered one of the top five most difficult trails in the state of Colorado, Buffalo Mountain Trail is suitable for the more experienced hiker. The trail has some moderate traffic, especially between April and September, and has a distance of about 5.3 miles to get out and back. Though it could very steep and tough, the views you’ll see from the very top will surely be worth it. Solid hikers may take approximately five to six hours to get out and back, though it could very well be longer for moderate hikers. Keep in mind that you may have to climb several rough boulders before eventually reaching Buffalo Mountain’s summit.

Colorado’s premier fly shop and guide service, Cutthroat Anglers, provides the finest quality personal service, fly fishing products, and instructions. Since fly fishing is their passion, they know all of the best sites and equipment to ensure that you have the best possible experience. You can choose to go fishing on an exotic saltwater flat or a clear Rocky Mountain stream - the experience can be completely tailored to what you want to do. Some of their trips include float trips, wade trips, private water trips, and exotic trips. If you’ve never gone fly fishing before, there’s no better place to learn than with the professionals at Cutthroat Anglers.

400 Blue River Parkway, Silverthorne, CO 80498, Phone: 970-262-2878

Activities and Attractions for Couples:

The Theatre SilCo was incorporated in 1993 and is a professional theatre committed to providing the residents and visitors of Silverthorne with a place to enjoy performing arts. The entire community comes together to experience the performances and educational programs which are offered by the theatre. The theatre is housed in what was once Dillon Town Hall, a historic building that was built in 1899. Some of the productions scheduled there include Tell Me On A Sunday by Andrew Lloyd Webber, Every Brilliant Thing by Duncan MacMillan and Don Black, and Mamma Mia by Ulvaeus, Andersson, and Johnson.

460 Blue River Pkwy, Silverthorne, CO 80498, Phone: 970-513-9386

Gore Range Outfitters is one of the best and most professional establishments to play your adventure in Summit County. You can choose to go hunting, horseback riding, hiking, and have a true cowboy experience with the experts at Gore Range. The authentic Rocky Mountain horse riding experience is incomparable and you will see some of the most stunning sights during your ride. Other places you can explore are the Eagles Nest and Ptarmigan Wilderness areas. Hike out into the pristine woodlands and explore the unadulterated trails - there’s even a chance you’ll see mule deer, moose, elk, and several other wild animals.

358 Blue River Pkwy, Silverthorne, CO 80498, Phone: 970-406-1485

Considered one of the top golf courses in the nation by Golf Magazine, the Raven Golf Club at Three Peaks was designed by Hurdzan/ Fry and Tom Lehman. It is less than an hour away from Denver and is surrounded by immaculate greens, lush rolling fairways, and spectacular views of crystal-clear creeks, towering pine trees, and snow-capped mountain peaks. Golfers will find the greens to be both challenging and playable. The layout is spectacular and you’re sure have one of the most unforgettable golfing experiences you’ll ever have. If you’re able to, participate in one of the many events held at the golf club such as the Club Championship, Superintendent’s Revenge, and the Payne In My Stewart Classic.

2929 Golden Eagle Road, Silverthorne, CO 80498, Phone: 970-262-3636, (website link)

Where to Eat:

Sunshine Cafe is a wonderful casual eatery where you can have classic American-style meals and take pleasure in knowing that breakfast is served all day long. Their hearty breakfasts have been keeping the people of Summit County satisfied and nourished for over three decades. Specials like the trout & eggs are a local favorite and you shouldn’t leave Silverthorne without trying it. Other popular choices from their all-day breakfast menu include the salmon benedict, the local’s breakfast burrito, the sunshine omelet with shrimp and mushrooms, and the ski tech which includes sausage patties and hash browns smothered in a spicy chili.

250 Summit Place, Silverthorne, CO 80498, Phone: 970-468-6663