sTrolling around Breck

August 17, 2018 by Kevin W

Looking for a quick hike with some beautiful Mountain View’s and maybe even . . . a life size troll? Well then, we have just the hike for you. Get your family and friends together and go sTrolling around Breckenridge and head towards the Wellington Trail. With a little luck you just might find Isak Heartstone, the friendly neighborhood troll.

Isak Heartstone sits by the forest deep in thought.

Isak Heartstone was built for the Breckenridge International Festival of Arts , which lasts for 9 days in locations all over Breck. There is still two days left for the actual festival but Isak Heartstone is here to stay. . . at least for a few years. Check out the link above for more information about the artist and his inspiration for creating Isak.

The troll has been a popular destination during the middle of the day so pick a good time to explore . If you wanted to get some photos while no one is around try going early in the morning or just before sunset for the most personable experience.

For easy access park at the Wellington Bike Park lot. From there the trail is just a few hundred feet from the parking lot. Start going up the dirt road and it is your first little trail on the left. From here it’s just a 10 minute walk up to where the troll hides. If the troll wasn’t enough be sure to keep hiking up the trail. These same trails will lead you to some old mines and much more.

Have fun out there and be sure to check out all the other amazing art installations built for the festival! If you need a ride to or from the Summit County make sure to give us a call at 970-668-6000

Back pack, blanket and wheels…check, check and check!

August 14, 2018 by Lora B

Kick Push: A Roll in Movie Night

Catch the outdoor feature at the Riverwalk Center lawn in Breckenridge today 8/14 at 8:30 PM. Kick Push: A Roll in Movie Night is aptly named for at least 2 reasons; first, it’s a film about wheels and the inspiring people who push their limits. Second, the movie is showing in the park and the best way to get there is ON WHEELZ 😉 . BreckFilmFest is teaming up with Breckenridge International Festival of Arts /BIFA to get this show to you FREE of charge! You can thank them by visiting their websites and seeing what else they have going on and how you may contribute.

See the source image

If you’re not already hooked up with manual transportation get over to Alpine Sports and rent some. There are great summer rental discounts so no need to buy new. But, if buying new makes better sense for you hit up Sun & Ski in Dillon. Summit county is an ideal place for a bike or skateboard; these small mountain towns are close to each other and the trails that wind throughout are amazing! Most of our main roads have a bike lane reserved for you. I could go on and on about the bike trails but it’ll be better for you to just get on ’em. Click here for lots of trail maps and other helpful info.

Silverthorne’s Rainbow Park has a great skate park, so does Frisco. Copper Mountain boasts the only indoor skate park. Breckenridge has the first one laid down in Summit.

Well, layer up ladies and gents cuz it’s chilly after the sun sets. Cozy up with friends, family and perfect strangers for an exciting look into the world of wheels (sans motor).

Stargazing at Sapphire Point

August 10, 2018 by Kevin W

Looking for a quiet night in the mountains away from town? Avoid the activities on main street and try checking out some stargazing up on Sapphire Point at the top of Swan Mountain. This is a great way to get away from the crowds and enjoy some fresh mountain air and free fun under the stars. Sapphire point is just a short walk from the main parking lot at the top of Swan Mountain, which makes this makes this destination easily accessible but decently secluded. Check out the Sapphire Point destination info to help find the parking area and trail head.

the Milky Way over Summit County- a Santiago Luque Photo

Up here the light pollution is low so the stars are extra clear and at just under 10,800 feet you have a slight height advantage as well. Sapphire point is also a great place to overlook the city lights of the near by towns of Frisco and Dillon, which are complimented nicely by the lakes reflection. Nights here in Summit County are no stranger to clear skies so a vivid view of the milky way is almost always expected. Colorado is known for its “300 days of sun” a year but people forget to mention how great the night time is out here in the mountains. So get out side and escape the hustle bustle with a nice local escape.

There are some interesting astronomy events coming up the next few months as well so be sure to check the calendar and see if they fall the same dates as your trip!

A Local Tip: Get out there a little early and catch the sun setting over the Gore Range. Sapphire point is also one of the BEST places for a sunset in Summit County.

A snowy sunset taken from Sapphire Point

8/10 to 8/19 Breckenridge International Festival of Arts

August 7, 2018 by Lora B

Visit the BIFA website for all the showtimes, displays, demos, etc…

Here are several reasons to take part in this year’s art show.

Danish artist Thomas Dambo’s loveable troll will be hanging out on a Breck trail waiting for friendly passers-by to say hello.
The Vijay Iyer Trio is a award winning jazz band playing at the Riverwalk Center in Breckenridge on August 9th at 8 pm.
Tree-O is a 3 person band that plays while perched in the birch. See when they play here.
Concrete Jams showcases skateboarding to jazz. Bring your nieces and nephews- you’ll have something to talk about for months… “Remember that rad jazz skater?!”
A Cirque de Soleil style show by the Australian ensemble “Gravity & Other Myths” – A Simple Space. These bendy acrobats push the limits of the body in a beautiful show of strength and artistry.

*A special THANKS to BreckCreate for having an awesome website with all the info you’ll need for planning your festival attendence!

Let Your Stress Float Away on the Water Taxi

August 3, 2018 by Kevin W

Taking the free bus around the lake to visit your favorite Summit County restaurants and bars seems convenient but it doesn’t sound too fun. A water taxi ride across the lake at 9,017 feet though? Now that seems like a more appealing way to travel…especially if you plan on drinking! Family dinners, friendly gatherings, and bar hopping between Frisco and Dillon has never been so stylish! The taxi runs all week over the summer (weather permitting) so come join in on the fun. Pick a sunny day, find some friends and plan a day around the lake. The Water Taxi offers both one way and round trips to cater to all types of plans and activities. Check prices with the link above!

The two most popular destinations for the water taxi are Dillon’s Tiki Bar and Grill and Frisco’s Island Grill . These two destinations bring together a beach type atmosphere with gorgeous mountain views, making it a perfect place to enjoy food and drinks on the lake. If you were looking to explore a little farther from the lake both drop off points give you great access to Frisco and Dillon’s main streets. From there you will have access to all of Frisco and Dillon’s shops and eateries.

The Tiki Bar in Dillon

The Island Grill in Frisco

If you get too used to the convenience of the water taxi and don’t want to walk anywhere after getting off the pontoon boat we still have good news for you. For just an extra 3 dollars the taxi will shuttle your bike across the lake too! Not only does that allow you to get into town with ease it also opens up a plethora of biking trails in Dillon, Frisco, and neighboring towns.

Have a furry friend who wants to explore with you? The taxi will also shuttle your dog across the lake as well. After all, summit county is one of the best places around to be a dog!

Two Dogs Enjoy Some Sunshine by the Marina on Lake Dillon

So if you are in Summit County and looking to turn an average day out in the town to an unforgettable one, try the Water Taxi and enjoy the lake the way its meant to be!

Lights on Dillon!

July 31, 2018 by Lora B

Lake Dillon Theater Company

The Underpants, a play by Steve Martin, shows August 3 thru September 2 at the Flex Theater. It’s a bawdy comedy about bloomers falling down in public and the fallout thereafter.

Dillon Valley East

Click on the link above to explore a variety of vacation rentals.

Dillon Inn
Free WIFI, free parking, free shuttle, fitness center, sauna, hot tub. No doggies, but a lot of family fun!
Best Western Dillon/Ptarmigan Lodge
Pets allowed. Inexpensive and well designed rooms. Clean and no fuss. Continental breakfast and kitchenettes in select rooms.

Vacation Like a Local

July 27, 2018 by Kevin W

Planning a vacation to an unfamiliar destination is often times difficult, especially in a small mountain town like Summit County. Setting a trip up yourself can be hard work. Especially one that hits some of the local hot spots. It takes lots of time and research, which is why many people seek help when booking a trip. Most travel agents will point you toward Summit Counties popular destinations, which are plentiful here in the mountains and great for first time travelers. BUT if you have that irresistible urge to break away from the crowds then this type of travel package may not be for you. So how do you book a trip that allows you to vacation like a local? Easy! You book with a Summit County local who knows how to travel. Fortunately for you we have a Sales agent right here at Summit express who fits the mold!

a Quiet Morning in the Clouds of Summit County

One of our longest standing sales agents, Nick Isaacs, has started his own company, which specializes in customized travel itineraries all over the world. Nick has traveled all of the lower 49 as well as 35 other countries, so he is a seasoned traveler. If you were looking into taking a vacation to Summit County Colorado and were looking for some great local help, Nicholas World Travel is the perfect site for you. Set up your custom travel itinerary to Summit County with the help of a local who knows the area! Don’t fall victim to the typical activities here in the mountains. Set up a trip that will allow you to see the sights and enjoy the activities that really keep the locals here for the long haul.

Other Tips for Traveling like a Local

Book your transportation up to Summit County with Summit Express (our drivers and sales agents have lots of local information to share)
Try looking for local Air B&Bs
Avoid hotels and adventure destinations that are first in search results
Talk to the locals. A lot of them will be happy to share their (second) most favorite place to adventure to

Compare vacation properties and save

July 24, 2018 by Lora B

Keystone is a great place for family fun in the summer months! Spend some time on the water – sailing, river rafting, or fly fishing. Walk onto a scenic golf course or one of many hiking or biking trails. Do something out of the ordinary- ride horse back, rent jet skis, catch a play in nearby Dillon and Silverthorne.

Definitely hit up the local eateries and enjoy fantastic food and friendly service. My favorite place for wings- Cala Pub & Restaurant. Click here for their menu and to take a look inside. Then treat yourself to a spa day after all that activity!

Summit County Mountain Retreats offers to beat pricing (by 10%) on comparable properties. They offer all the amenities and lots of extras think air mattresses, pack-n-plays, wine and even oxygen! Check out the discounts that are offered here. Their website has an interactive map so you can see where you’ll stay in relation to the gondola, lifts and other attractions. We are happy to partner with them!

2 Hikes Offering Visitors Some Peace and Quiet

July 20, 2018 by Kevin W

Traveling to the mountains is usually sought to be an escape from the normal hustle bustle of life but with Summit County’s growing popularity it has become harder and harder to find hikes that offer true peace and quiet in the mountains. Getting to the high Rockies of Summit County is not always an easy feat. Whether its a crowded flight, long security lines, traffic jams, or a even a friendly shared shuttle ride you can always count on some sort of a delay. As a mountain carrier we see all these examples first hand but we have a remedy. What’s that you ask?

Well, after conquering all of the elements of getting to the mountains how do you really enjoy the true peace and quiet of the rocky mountains? Easy! You get away from the crowds. So where do those places still exist? Don’t you worry, your local shuttle company has you covered! Here are 2 hikes that will allow you to enjoy the true, untouched beauty Summit County has to offer without having to share the moment with hundreds of other vacationers. Peace and quiet is just a few more steps away.

Hike # 1

Loveland Pass Lake

The first of the 2 hikes is loop trail perfect for all levels of adventurers. It is on the shorter side in regards to distance but it has views that go on forever. At just under 12,000 feet of elevation this hike offers breathtaking views at a literal breath taking height. Although the hike is only about a mile there is a lot to see in this relatively short loop. Alpine lakes, Arapahoe Basin, Loveland Ski Resort, Keystone and Breckenridge are just a view places visible from the surrounding areas of the lake. A bonus for out of state visitors; there is almost always some left over snow on the peaks surrounding the lake, even through the summer months.

If the one mile loop isn’t long enough then try heading up some of the pirate trails that stagger even farther up the nearby mountain. Even though this lake is right off of the main road the hike remains a hidden gem. Access is fairly easy, yet very few people stop off the somewhat hidden dirt road. Loveland Pass lake is your perfect stop for a quick hike, an alpine adventure, or even just a picnic. At 12,000 feet this is one of the higher hikes with little elevation gain needed. But don’t forget! You are 2 miles above sea level so even a summer day can get chilly real quick! Make sure to bring water and an extra layer or two.

photo taken on a hike by Summit Express employee

Mountain pups enjoying the beautiful views and empty trails up at Loveland Pass Lake

Hike # 2

Acorn Creek Trail

The Acorn Creek trail is located just north of Silverthorne. This hike is nestled in a quiet valley and features beautiful views of the Gore Range. Acorn Creek is just far enough from town to avoid the crowds but close enough to fit in a quick half day hike. Plentiful amounts of aspen trees, wildflowers, and frequent wildlife sightings make this hike a true Colorado experience. The total hike is 8.3 out and back but this hike can easily be cut in half without sacrificing much. The views start almost immediately so this hike is perfect for time sensitive hikers too. Thanks to boot packing by the locals in the winter, the acorn creek trail is accessible all year around. The open ranch lands backed by the towering Gore range is a really hard view to beat. Acorn Creek and its surrounding area is truly something special.

*Local Tip* Acorn Creek is a hot spot for large numbers of Elk in the early spring. Make sure to bring a camera to document the scenic back drops and Colorado wildlife you will see along the way.

Photo taken on hike by Summit Express Employee

Watching the sun set over the Gore range from the Acorn Creek trail head.

Although Summit County is becoming a very popular vacation destination there are still plenty of hikes that can get you away from all the hustle bustle and back into desolate mountain trails. Hopefully you can get out and find some of that peace and quiet that we all long to have out here in the mountains.

PS. Feel free to ask any of our drivers or agents here at Summit Express about 2 of their favorite local hikes. They may let you in on some great local knowledge. . .just don’t tell anyone else 🙂

Concert in the Park? Yes please!

July 17, 2018 by Lora B

Every THURSDAY in Frisco…

Check it out! Free outdoor concert at the Frisco Historic Park gazebo at 120 Main Street. Enjoy the sounds and sites of summer from 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm through August 16th. This Thursday Jared & The Mill from Phoenix AZ will be waxing melodic in an Indie rock accent.

Next Thursday the Chris Duarte Group will deliver hard hitting blues rhythms. Same place, same hours.

Frisco has great bike paths and is a good place to hoof it. So, leave the car behind or park a safe distance away and enjoy the sites as you walk down Main Street. The park itself is surrounded with tiny museums, a tee pee, and a lot of local charm. Come downtown for a late lunch then shop Frisco’s gems.

GatherHouse is a glass blowing studio and gallery on the corner of Main St and 2nd Ave. Buy earrings, a vase, or light fixtures; better yet, schedule a time to make your own custom drinking glasses. Don’t be intimidated by the process- John will help you each step of the way for a safe and unforgettable experience.
On the same corner sit the popular consignment shops, Funky Trunk Boutique and Rags to Riches. Alpine Accents Consignments is just across the street, on the corner of 1st Ave.

There are 3 eateries within throwing distance of the park- Lost Cajun, Moose Jaw, and the Log Cabin Cafe. The Lost Cajun is the place to go for fried seafood, po-boys, and jumbalaya. Moose Jaw boasts the best burgers in Frisco. The Log Cabin Cafe is a breakfast and lunch joint with phenomenal biscuits and jam (be aware they close at 2:30 pm daily).

So much to enjoy, so little time. Just come back next Thursday to hit up whatever you missed. Remember to bring your own blanket or chair, a sun hat and water. Hope to see you there!