Off Season Ski - Aug 2023
Dee Rietz – Guest Contributor
Keeping in the spirit of off-peak adventures, our August travels took us to the ski country in Summit County Colorado.
Being married to an avid photographer helps me to see the views through a different lens. The mountains call us several times a year to visit family. But more and more our favorite times are ‘off-peak’ ski season. The vistas are just as grand without the snow-covered pines and offer the locals a time to gather and enjoy the beauty without the stifling crowds ladened with equipment. Find that affordable rental in the off-season and don’t worry about struggling with icy mountain roads.
The town of Breckenridge offers a full menu of boutique shopping, cafes, and breweries – galleries and nightlife. The rooftop patios are ideal for a sunny afternoon of soaking up those breath-taking views. The ski lodge offers fun activities for the entire family to include the ride up the lift, a zipline, hiking trails and Alpine coaster rides down the ski runs.
The reservoir at Dillon is a pristine fresh water “lake” that is a source of water for the city of Denver. While there is no swimming here, it provides a wonderful opportunity to try your hand at fly-fishing or a leisurely kayak outing. The locals enjoy the weekly offerings at the farmers’ market around the park as well as the live entertainment featured at the amphitheater.
There are plenty of summer/fall festivals at the local towns. We have enjoyed the Fourth of July celebration in Frisco and the Bourbon and Bacon festival in Keystone. Plan your visit to soak up a local celebration.
Our favorite activity is exploring the trails and hidden lakes that are nestled in those grand mountains. The crystal blue skies are the most stunning backdrop for clusters of wildflowers and wildlife. They are certainly the inspirations for artists of all genres.
….For purple mountain majesties. It is the best!
