Best attractions and places to see around Silverthorne include a diverse array of natural features and recreational opportunities in Summit County, Colorado. Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, the area is characterized by expansive reservoirs and scenic river trails. Visitors can explore a blend of outdoor activities and cultural experiences, making it a compelling destination.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
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This is a scenic spot to look out over the reservoir. The dam itself was built in the early 1960s and required relocating the original town of Dillon, which is now sitting beneath the water. Today, the reservoir holds Denver’s largest water supply and sends it through a tunnel under the Continental Divide. Surrounded by mountain towns, Dillon Reservoir is a popular locale for boating, fishing, and summer concerts at the lakeside amphitheater.
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The bike path to and around the Dillion Reservoir is very scenic and peaceful. There are amazing mountain views almost everywhere around the water, and you can watch boats launching from the nearby marina.
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Excellent dedicated bike trail along the dam and shore of the reservoir.
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Flat and paved path through the wetlands at the western lakeside of Dillon Reservoir. As it's pretty close to Frisco, it might get a little busy during the weekends – besides of that you will be spoilt by the stunning mountain scenery all around you.
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Well maintained and easy to ride multi use path leading all the way from Frisco to Breckenridge. The path is separated from the street and offers amazing views of the surrounding mountains.
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Here's a nice view of the Dillon Reservoir. Take a moment to enjoy the landscape.
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Start of the excellent wide, paved Bikeway from Dillon to Frisco, continuing on the Blue River Bikeway on to Breckenridge
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Silverthorne offers a wide range of outdoor activities, particularly around its scenic reservoirs and trails. You can enjoy cycling along paths like the Dillon Dam & bike path, which provides stunning mountain views. Dillon Reservoir itself is popular for boating, fishing, and summer concerts. For those seeking more active pursuits, there are numerous running, mountain biking, and hiking trails nearby. Explore options like the Running Trails around Silverthorne, MTB Trails around Silverthorne, and Hiking around Silverthorne.
Yes, Silverthorne boasts several family-friendly attractions. The Dillon Dam and Reservoir is a great spot for all ages, offering scenic views and opportunities for boating and fishing. The Dillon Dam & bike path and Dillon Trailhead — Summit County Recpath are excellent for family bike rides or walks. Additionally, Rainbow Park features playgrounds, sports courts, and open fields, while North Pond Park offers paddleboarding and ice skating in winter, making them perfect for families.
The Silverthorne area is rich in natural beauty. Key features include the expansive Dillon Reservoir, offering breathtaking mountain views and water activities. The Blue River Trail runs alongside the scenic Blue River, known for fly-fishing and lush landscapes. For more challenging adventures, Buffalo Mountain and Ptarmigan Peak provide rewarding hikes with panoramic views of the Rockies. Green Mountain Reservoir, a bit further north, is unique for allowing wakeboarding and waterskiing.
For easy and accessible options, consider the Frisco Wetlands Bike Path, which is flat and paved, offering stunning mountain scenery. The Blue River Recreational Path is another well-maintained, multi-use path separated from the street, providing amazing views. Both are noted as wheelchair-accessible. The Dillon Trailhead — Summit County Recpath also provides access to wide, paved bikeways suitable for various users.
While Silverthorne is known for its natural attractions, you can also explore cultural and historical aspects. The Silverthorne Performing Arts Center hosts the Lake Dillon Theatre Company, offering diverse performances. For a deeper dive into local history, the Frisco Historic Park and Museum (in nearby Frisco) provides insights into the region's past, including mining and the Ute people. The Summit Historical Society also offers guided tours of local landmarks like the Rice Barn and Myers cabin.
Silverthorne offers a variety of hiking trails for different skill levels. For a moderate challenge, consider the Willow Creek Falls via South Willow Creek Trail in the Eagles Nest Wilderness. Other notable trails include Lily Pad Lake (easy), Ptarmigan Trail (moderate), and the Tenderfoot Mountain Loop. You can find more detailed information and routes on the Hiking around Silverthorne guide.
Visitors frequently praise the stunning mountain views and the peaceful atmosphere, especially along the cycle paths and around the reservoirs. The opportunity to observe boats launching from marinas and the well-maintained trails for biking and walking are also highly appreciated. The blend of accessible, family-friendly options with more challenging mountain adventures makes it a popular destination for diverse interests.
Yes, beyond general boating on Dillon Reservoir, you can enjoy various water sports. The Blue River is renowned for fly-fishing and offers opportunities for whitewater rafting, canoeing, and kayaking in different stretches. Green Mountain Reservoir, located north of Silverthorne, is a unique spot in the area where activities like wakeboarding, tubing, waterskiing, and swimming are permitted, in addition to paddleboarding and general boating.
Silverthorne offers plenty of winter activities for those not interested in skiing or snowboarding. North Pond Park transforms into an ice skating and ice fishing destination. Many area trails, including the Salt Lick Trails, Rock Creek Trail, and those at the Nordic Center at Raven Golf Club, are popular for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Sledding is also a favorite activity at Rainbow Park during the colder months.
Silverthorne is surrounded by scenic viewpoints. The Dillon Dam and Reservoir offers a prime spot to overlook Denver’s largest water supply with mountain backdrops. The Dillon Dam & bike path provides continuous mountain views as you cycle or walk. For more elevated perspectives, challenging hikes up Buffalo Mountain or Ptarmigan Peak reward with expansive panoramic views of Summit County and the surrounding Rockies.
For shopping, the Outlets at Silverthorne offer a variety of name-brand stores. When it comes to dining, the Bluebird Market is a vibrant food hall with diverse culinary options from various vendors. For a more upscale experience, Sauce on the Blue is an Italian restaurant located by the Blue River, known for its pleasant patio views.


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