Your Complete Guide to Silverthorne, CO
There are few cities in the US that offer the same indoor and outdoor magic as Silverthorne, Colorado. Located just an hour from Denver in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Silverthorne is a nature lover’s paradise with something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re looking to hit the slopes at one of the many world-class ski resorts nearby or take a hike through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country, Silverthorne is the perfect place to call home base.
And when you’re ready to relax and refuel after a long day of outdoor adventure, you’ll find no shortage of great restaurants and bars to choose from.
Ready to explore all that Silverthorne has to offer? Here’s our guide to experiencing everything this mountain town has to offer.
Get to Know Silverthorne
Located in Summit County, Colorado, Silverthorne is a small town with a population of just over 4,600 people. The town was founded in 1883 as a silver-mining camp but today is better known as a gateway to some of the best skiing and outdoor recreation in the state.
Despite its size, Silverthorne punches well above its weight when it comes to things to do. In addition to being home to four world-class ski resorts, Silverthorne is also situated on the Blue River and offers easy access to many amazing outdoor spaces.
The weather in Silverthorne is typical of a mountain town, with cold winters and cool summers. However, due to its high elevation (the town sits at 9,000 feet above sea level), Silverthorne experiences more extreme weather than many other parts of the state.
If you’re planning on visiting Silverthorne, be sure to pack your layers!
The Best Things to Do in Silverthorne, CO
Whether you’re visiting Silverthorne in the winter or summer, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. Here are some of our top picks for things to do in Silverthorne:
Winter Activities
As a mountain town, Silverthorne is unsurprisingly a winter wonderland. The town is home to four different ski resorts, so you’ll have no shortage of options when it comes to hitting the slopes.
The closest ski resort to Silverthorne is Keystone Resort, which is just a 20-minute drive from town. Keystone offers 3,148 acres of skiable terrain and is known for its family-friendly atmosphere.
If you’re looking for a little more of a challenge, Breckenridge Ski Resort is just a 30-minute drive from Silverthorne. With 2,908 acres of skiable terrain, Breckenridge offers something for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
In addition to skiing and snowboarding, there are plenty of other winter activities to enjoy in Silverthorne CO. Ice skating, sledding, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing are all popular pastimes in the winter months.
Or, if you’re looking for something a little more unique, nearby Breckenridge is home to the Snow Sculpture Championships. This annual event sees teams worldwide compete to create the most intricate and beautiful snow sculptures. Plan your trip to Silverthorne for the winter months, and you can catch all the icy action!
Summer Activities
Silverthorne comes alive in the summer when the town’s many outdoor activities become accessible once again.
One of the most popular things to do in Silverthorne in the summer is hiking. With easy access to hiking and biking trails, Silverthorne is the perfect basecamp for exploring all nearby mountains.
If you’re not up for a day of hiking, there are plenty of other outdoor activities to enjoy in Silverthorne. Whitewater rafting, fishing, mountain biking, and horseback riding are all popular summer pastimes in the town.
And, of course, no trip to Silverthorne would be complete without spending some time on the Blue River. The river offers both calm sections perfect for river-side picnics and more challenging rapids for those who want to get their adrenaline fix.
Where to Eat and Drink in Silverthorne
Silverthorne is home to several great restaurants and bars, so you’ll never go hungry or thirsty during your visit.
Check out some of the town’s great breweries if you want to grab a bite and drink. Angry James Brewery, Dillon Dam Brewery, and Timberline Craft Kitchen and Cocktails are great choices for great entertainment.
The town also offers some great bites – from Sauce on the Blue’s Italian dishes to the breakfast options at Sunshine Café. You are sure to find a taste for every craving.
Whether you’re looking for a casual meal or a night out on the town, Silverthorne has something to offer everyone.
Silverthorne Entertainment
If you aren’t the mountain-top exploring kind, there’s still plenty of fun and excitement to be had in Silverthorne. The town is home to many great shops and boutiques, so you can easily spend an afternoon browsing the stores.
Or, if you’re looking for some entertainment, Silverthorne CO offers a variety of options. Head to the town’s rec center to check out some of the local’s favorite ways to sweat or catch a movie in nearby Dillon, CO.
First Fridays in Silverthorne are always a good time, too. This monthly event sees the town’s businesses staying open late and offering special deals and discounts. Local artisans, entertainers, and more set up shop throughout the town, so it’s the perfect opportunity to find some unique souvenirs.
Where to Stay in Silverthorne
There are many great places to stay in Silverthorne, from hotels and motels to vacation rentals and campgrounds.
If you’re looking for a place to stay close to all the action, several hotel and motel options range from cheap and easy to luxurious and upscale. The Pad and the Hotel Indigo are both great places to stay in Silverthorne.
Or, if you’re looking for a unique lodging experience, Silverthorne is also home to a number of vacation rentals and campgrounds. Consider renting a cabin in the woods or pitching a tent under the stars for a truly unforgettable trip.
No matter what type of lodging you’re looking for, Silverthorne has something to offer everyone.
Planning Your Trip to Silverthorne
Silverthorne CO is the perfect destination for you whether you’re looking for a winter wonderland or a summer playground. Use this guide to help plan your trip and make the most of your time in this beautiful mountain town.
While you are here, make sure to stop by Timberline Craft Kitchen and Cocktails for the best meal of your trip! We offer a variety of delicious dishes that are sure to please everyone in your group. And our craft cocktails are the perfect way to end a day of exploring Silverthorne.