Tucked in the Rocky Mountains just 45 minutes from Denver, Dillon Colorado is a great weekend escape with year-round activities. Overall, it is a great location for the outdoor enthusiast with boating, hiking, biking, skiing and so much more. Not looking to get dirty? That’s fine too. Silverthorne outlet mall has good shopping ranging from Coach, Nike, Columbia, etc.

Where to stay

There are a lot of types of places to stay in or around Dillon. I personally chose an Airbnb. As a big summer and winter getaway you will have no problems finding Airbnb’s galore but you should book at least 1-2 months in advance. Also, be warned that the prices of these Airbnb’s are more like hotel prices as this is a desired vacation destination. If you are more into hotels or ski chalets you will find plenty of these as well.

Dining

Yes, you can find a Chipotle, Subway or McDonalds but there are also some great local places you shouldn’t pass up. One of my favorites is Dam Brewery. Good brews and great food can be found in this fun local brewery atmosphere. Personally, I had a salad but was regretting not getting the chicken fried as I saw many of them go by looking amazing. My friends and I all got different items and none of us were disappointed. The next night we tried out another local spot, Pug Ryan’s, this was not as good in my mind but still a great option. We also heard good things about Lake Dillon Tavern and Pizza Grill.

Summer

Dillon Reservoir – With over 26 miles of shoreline enjoy the warm weather days of summer on the water surrounded by mountains. You can also catch summer concerts by the lake from memorial to labor day.

Biking – Colorado is a very biker friendly state and Dillon is no different. There are plenty of bike rental shops to choose from so don’t worry if you can’t haul your own. One of my favorite rides in this area was going to the top of Vail pass and riding down. Approximately 30 minutes west of Dillon past Copper Mountain you can stop at the rest stop near the top of the pass and ride the path all the way down into Copper Mountain. Now you will see plenty of fools riding up as well but let’s be honest a full downhill ride is much more fun! If you choose this option you will have to have a way to haul the bikes to the top to start. Not feeling like you got enough of a workout going down mountain? Ride all the way back from Copper to Silverthorne along well maintained bike paths. The path winds you back along the river and has great views!

Hiking – Two wheels down a mountain not your style? There are several hiking options near Dillon to get out and get active. There are over 40 hiking trails around the area for any skill level. Check all trails for hiking trails here or anywhere! Looking at more than just a weekend? Be sure to check out one of my favorite hikes, Hanging Lake. Located another 1.5 hours west in Glenwood Canyon this hike will not disappoint. Read about it here!

Winter

Skiing – Within 30 minutes from 5 major ski areas, Dillon is the perfect hub in the winter. Loveland, Arapahoe Basin, Keystone, Copper, and Breckenridge are all options nearby. I have personally skied Copper and Arapahoe Basin, both of which are great! You can also find places for tubing, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing.

Ice Castles – Dillon Colorado is one of only six places to host the ice castles in the world. When I was doing my research and realized they weren’t even carved into castles I thought about not even going, let me say I was sooo glad I did end up going. Tips: Go at night! They have the place all lit up and even had fire shows! This allowed for great photos and truly made it like a winter wonderland. Next, buy your tickets ahead of time. This sells out quickly. You don’t want to get there and not be able to go in because the outside is less than spectacular. Finally, bundle up. This is outside and if you go at night it is likely in the single digits.

Nearby

A short drive from Dillon you can make it to Copper and Breckenridge. Copper has summer activities including mini golf, zip lining, a climbing wall, a roller coaster and much more. Conversely, the winter at Copper brings great skiing, tubing, a spa and athletic center. Breckenridge on the other hand is a smaller ski town. With a main street lined in shops and a river that runs through, Breckenridge is a picturesque as you would imagine.