Colorado
Value Times are April, May and September through December.
Excludes Holidays and Special Events
Whether it’s a hillside glowing bright yellow with fall aspen leaves, or the jagged, snow-covered peaks of the San Juan Mountains; scenery steals the show in Colorado. From the moment you set foot in the state, the mountains are either surrounding you, or are visible on the horizon, constantly presenting new vistas. Whether you’re skiing, hiking, driving or walking; you’ll be ogling the incredible alpine scenery—it’s simply unavoidable.
Your Destinations:
Avon
Known as the “Heart of the Valley” for its geographic location and family-friendly atmosphere, Avon is a great place to vacation. Skiing, hiking, river paddling and more mountain adventures are easily found in Avon. The town serves as a gateway to the world-class Beaver Creek Resort and is eight miles west of world-famous Vail. Avon is also home to three national parks: Harry A. Nottingham Park located in the "Heart of the Valley"; Avon's Whitewater Park located beneath "Bob the Bridge" and Pocket Parks located throughout Avon.
Breckenridge
The stunning landscape and Victorian atmosphere of Breckenridge continually attracts national and international guests. With world-class skiing and hiking trails plus over 600 restaurants, galleries, and the only municipality in the world to own a Jack Nicklaus designed, 27-hole golf course, Breckenridge is a premier year-round family resort area.
Frisco
Nestled high in the Colorado Rocky Mountains bordered by the Arapahoe National Forest and the shores of Lake Dillon, you’ll find it—a town offering charm and exciting adventure. Where shimmering snow ideal for downhill or cross country skiing and snowmobiling melts away to humidity-free summers filled with hiking, rafting, fishing, camping and more.
Steamboat Springs
You’ll find Steamboat Springs nestled in the Rocky Mountains of Northwest Colorado. Winter, summer, spring or fall—any time is a great time to visit Steamboat Springs. Of course World Class Skiing is found in the town known as Ski Town, USA®. In the summer, pristine wilderness awaits your exploration as you ride up the gondola, hike through a wildflower field, and enjoy mountain biking rides with epic views. The Old West excitement of Steamboat Springs keeps visitors of all ages coming back to town year round.
DINING
We particularly recommend dishes made from local game such as elk, buffalo or trout. Colorado also has good western chuck wagon (beef and beans), Mexican, Irish, Chinese, French, German and Swiss cooking. The ski areas offer some of the state’s best dining, ranging from sushi (flown in fresh daily) to fresh trout, wild game and Colorado beef.
SHOPPING
Colorado offers a wide variety of shopping. It’s a good place to find western wear, Old West and cowboy memorabilia, plus outdoor gear and equipment for hiking, camping, backpacking, mountain biking and climbing. In the ski areas, you’ll find many gift and clothing boutiques as well as art galleries.
TRAVEL TIPS
Don’t spend time on the snow-covered mountains without using sun block, you can sunburn very easily in winter.
Use snow tires or chains where required in mountainous areas. Four-wheel-drive vehicles with adequate tires are also acceptable in many cases.
WEATHER
Colorado is both a winter and summer destination, so when you go will depend on what you want to do.
During the winter, temperatures average about 16-43 F/-9 to 6 C. At lower elevations, the first snows may fall as early as September, though it tends to disappear quickly. Last snows of the season may fall as late as May. Bright, sunny days are common into December, but it can get cold and downright freezing in the higher elevations. Layered clothing and a heavy coat are recommended for Colorado’s changeable climate.
In the summer, it’s generally very warm during the day—even in the mountains—with the average temperature ranging from 59 to 88 F/15 to 31 C. The evenings cool down quickly, jackets and sweaters are needed.
GETTING THERE
Frisco and Breckenridge are just 2 hours west of Denver International Airport (DIA) via I-70 and Colorado 9 southbound. You can cross the Continental Divide by driving through it via I-70 and the Eisenhower/Johnson Memorial Tunnel, or by driving over it on U.S. 6 which follows Loveland Pass and reconnects to I-70 on the west side of the Divide at the Silverthorne exit. You’ll arrive at Frisco first, and travel through to Breckenridge.
GETTING AROUND THE AREA
Breckenridge and Frisco are both located in Summit County, offering free transportation with Summit Stage. These shuttles run year-round to the towns of Silverthorne, Frisco, Dillon, and other ski areas. Call 970.668.0999 for more information.
Driving Conditions
For information on road conditions please call 303.639.1111.
The information contained here and within the Time Out Vacations website is believed to be correct. Every effort has been made to assure accuracy. Time Out Vacations and Global Connections, Inc. assumes no responsibility for errors, inaccuracies or omissions.
The destinations listed are subject to change without notice or may no longer be available under this vacation certificate.
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