Silverthorne - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting
About Silverthorne
Silverthorne is a town in Summit County, which is a Home Rule Municipality, and the county seat of Summit County. Silverthorne is located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. With four major ski areas within 30 minutes of town, Silverthorne serves as a gateway to some of the best skiing in North America. In the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and golfing. With its central location and wide range of recreational opportunities.Hotels near Silverthorne
Things to Do at Silverthorne
There are endless things to do in Silverthorne, no matter what time of year it is. In the winter, the area is perfect for skiing and snowboarding, with several world-class resorts nearby. The summer months offer ample opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking, and there are also plenty of: golf courses, fishing spots, and scenic drives to enjoy. No matter what your interests are, you're sure to find something to do in Silverthorne. And with so many great restaurants, shops, and other amenities nearby, it's the perfect place to call home base for your next Colorado vacation.
Top Activities Near Silverthorne
History of Silverthorne
The town of Silverthorne is located in Summit County, Colorado, about 30 miles from the state capital of Denver. The town was founded in the late 19th century, and its first residents were miners who were attracted to the area by the silver boom. The town quickly grew, and by the early 20th century it had become a thriving community. However, the silver boom eventually ended, and Silverthorne's economy declined. The town remained relatively small until the 1970s, when it underwent a period of growth thanks to the development of ski resorts in the area. Today, Silverthorne is a popular tourist destination, and its picturesque setting makes it a popular choice for weddings and other events. Despite its modern day popularity, Silverthorne remains steeped in history, and its rich heritage can be seen in its many old buildings and landmarks.
Best Time to Visit Silverthorne
Because of its high elevation, Silverthorne experiences very cool temperatures even in summer, so it is usually best to visit in the late spring or early fall when the weather is milder. However, any time of year is a great time to enjoy Silverthorne's natural beauty, and there are always plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained.
Tips for Visiting Silverthorne
- Plan your visit around the seasons. Silverthorne is a beautiful place all year round, but each season offers its own unique activities and attractions. If you're looking to hit the slopes, winter is obviously the best time to visit. But if you're more interested in hiking and scenic drives, summer or fall may be better suited to your needs.
- Book your lodging early. Silverthorne is a popular destination, especially during peak season. Be sure to book your hotel, condo, or vacation rental well in advance to ensure that you'll have a place to stay when you arrive.
- Make a list of must-do activities before you arrive. There's so much to see and do in Silverthorne that it can be easy to get overwhelmed. To make sure you make the most of your visit, sit down and make a list of the top things you want to do and see before you even start packing your bags. That way, you can be sure not to miss anything important.
- Set a budget...and stick to it! It's easy to overspend when you're on vacation, so it's important to set a budget before you arrive and then stick to it as best you can. Decide how much money you're willing to spend on activities, meals, lodging, etc., and then try your best not to go over that amount.
- Pack for all weather conditions...just in case! The weather in Colorado can be notoriously unpredictable, so it's always best to err on the side of caution when packing for your trip. Even if the forecast says it will be sunny and warm the whole time you're here, pack a few extra layers just in case temperatures drop unexpectedly or storms move in.
- Sample the local cuisine at one of Silverthorne's many restaurants. From fine dining to casual cafes, there's something to suit every taste.
- For a taste of culture, check out the Liston Range Heritage Center, which houses a collection of artifacts from Summit County's past.
- Spend an evening stargazing at one of Silverthorne's many parks and open spaces. With no light pollution, the night sky is truly breathtaking.
Interesting Facts and Trivias About Silverthorne
- Silverthorne is located just minutes from several world-class hiking trails, including the Continental Divide Trail.
- The town is also home to several great fishing spots, such as the Blue River and Williams Fork Reservoirs.
- Silverthorne hosts a number of events throughout the year, including the Annual Chili Cook-off and the Snow Sculpture Contest.
- The town is home to three world-class ski resorts: Breckenridge, Keystone, and Copper Mountain.
- The Dillon Reservoir, located just north of Silverthorne, is the largest body of water in Summit County and provides water for Denver and much of the Front Range.
- The Dillon Reservoir, located just north of Silverthorne, is the largest body of water in Summit County and provides water for Denver and much of the Front Range.
- The reservoir is also a popular recreation spot, with boating, sailing, windsurfing, and fishing being popular activities.
How Much Time Did Visitors Spend at Silverthorne
In order to properly explore Silverthorne, Colorado, one should plan to spend at least three days in the town.
How to Reach Silverthorne
From Denver, take Interstate 70 west to Exit 205 for Silverthorne/Dillon. Head south on Colorado 9 for 3 miles, then turn left onto Rainbow Drive. Follow Rainbow Drive for 1.6 miles until you reach Rainbow Court. Turn right, then take an immediate left onto North Blue River Parkway. Continue on North Blue River Parkway for 1 mile until you arrive in Silverthorne. Located just off of I-70, Silverthorne is a convenient spot to base yourself while exploring all that Summit County has to offer.
Entrance Fee of Silverthorne
There is no entrance fee to explore the town, though visitors may need to pay for parking or activities.
Opening Hours of Silverthorne
Silverthorne is open year-round, and its hours of operation vary depending on the season. In the summer, the town is open from 9 AM to 9 PM, and in the winter, it is open from 8 AM to 8 PM.