Summer in the Rockies

Family hikes, festivals, nearby lakes, and scenic day trips.

Summer in the Rockies is so magical! It's the best escape from hot cities and experiencing a high alpine summer is unlike anything else! That heavy snow and cold climate in the winter forces some of the most gorgeous meadows, crystal clear lakes and streams you’ve ever seen! The mountains are so tall that they usually still have a dusting of snow at the very tops then  their jagged rock faces are exposed showing off the ancient grandeur of the peaks! You’ll often see white dots gliding across them which are Mountain Goats! Even driving the highways you’ll see herds of Elk, Pronghorns, and even big horned sheep! There’s always something going on during the summer from park concerts to festivals. Here’s some of my favorite ones below! 

Burro Race in Fairplay Colorado Picture credit: Burro Days

Summer Events

Burro Days in Fairplay Participants run alongside their pack burros, a tradition that started in the gold rush mining days of the area. Burros were used to haul across the rugged terrain and mines where trains couldn’t go and as things go among friends a few drinks at the saloon then the race was born. The quiet mainstreet comes alive to cheer on everyone! Definitely worth a visit! This weekend usually sells out at both cabins so be sure to inquire early if you want to attend! 

Festival in the Clouds Alma’s crown jewel of events! The community gathers to support live music, local artisans, and good food next to the South Platte River in Alma City Park. The views from the park alone are worth the trip and the locals will make it worth it to stay! Be sure to check out our favorite local artist Faith LeFever. She has commissioned pieces at both our cabins and even did our Mountain Mural wall of Breckenridge Mountain at Skiers Right Lodge.  

Breckenridge Events Breck has non-stop events going on year round! There are absolutely tons in the summer too. Their Go-Breck website is a fantastic resource for things going on during your stay. One of our personal favorites is the Brecktoberfest event in Downtown Breck. It’s not a very family friendly event but it is a really good time with lots of local beer vendors and food stands.

Best Apres Ski

Outer Range Brewery This has been voted the best Apres Ski Spot in the area multiple times. We love supporting them and have even been to their sister Brewery in the French Alps! The beer is delicious, the fried chicken is amazing and they always have fun themes or pop-up events going on that support local Colorado small businesses and artisans. We were lucky enough to host their Corporate Work Retreat last year which was such an honor. 

RMU A younger crowd with a bar and good music. If you’re an introvert it’s not the place for you. Think of a mountain bar/club where people are dressed for the slopes and wanting to party with friends. If you're staying with us for a girls or guys trip and like to party this is a great spot for you. 

Best Summer in the Rockies Hikes

Kite Lake is a hands down winner for me! It has east parking, it's accessible to three 14er mountains, the lake is lovely and it's full of wildflowers and marmots in the right season. 

Rainbow Lake in Frisco is a great one for families with littles. There's also lots of lakeside activities in Frisco to do during the summer and the town is cute! 

You can also check out our other blog on hikes for some further recommendations. The sky is the limit with trails in Colorado so if there's something you’re keen to see let us know your skill level and we can probably find it!

Adventurous Activities 

White Water Rafting In Breckenridge for adventurous families wanting to get out on the river!

Fly Fishing in Buena Vista (45min) Darin (my husband) has personally used this outfitter before and had a great time catching loads of trout with a knowledgeable friendly guide. 

Breckenridge Rec Center, More kid focused and day passes available for use of the pools and water slides. 

Rent Dirt Bikes and explore to off road trails! A fantastic trip for adventurous families or the perfect boys trip! My husband did this with his cousins a few years back and they had a blast!

Brown Trout from My husbands fly fishing trip in Buena Vista, CO

Things the Whole Family Can Enjoy

South Park City Museum Re-made western town from local artifacts and on the weekend they have docent volunteers in costume to answer questions. (Some stairs but a fun low cost activity for all ages) You can get discounted tickets at the counter from their website coupon

Country Boy Mine Family tour activity, they have livestock you can visit, gold panning, and mine tours.

Colorado Wolf Center There is no zoo close by so this is the next best thing. It is an hours drive but they have incredible knowledge of the re-introduction of wolves to Colorado plus support for the endangered canines. 

Day trip to Buena Vista About a 45mins drive from the cabin, the town is gorgeous surrounded by mountains and its a very old school main street feel with local boutiques and great spots to eat. I love visiting here and it makes for a lovely day out to a less crowded town.