5 Colorado Mountain Towns to Visit this Summer

You might think that mountain villages are best left for winter holidays, but many of Colorado’s ski resorts also make for wonderful vacation spots during the summer. The sunny, warm months provide the opportunity for new outdoor adventures and cultural events. Here are five mountain towns, within driving distance from your Boulder apartment, that are worth exploring this season:

Aspen

Located a four-hour drive from Habitat Apartments is the famous town of Aspen. Known for its luxurious resorts, retail shops, and numerous arts and cultural events, this mountain town is a popular tourist destination for Colorado residents and out-of-state visitors.

Summer vacationers in Aspen will find a mix of exciting festivals and outdoor activities. From June through July, Aspen hosts many events, including the Food & Wine Classic and Wanderlust, a yoga and wellness retreat. You can also ride a gondola to the top of Aspen Mountain, where you’re able to hike the trails or listen to live music at the summit, while taking in the stunning views.

Vail

Another beautiful mountain town worth visiting this summer is Vail, which is located about two hours west of our rental community. The city offers a variety of seasonal activities for visitors, including outdoor fun like hiking, mountain biking, river rafting, fishing, and golfing.

The town also hosts several cultural events during the summertime. From July 1^st to August 6^th, vacationers can attend numerous symphony concerts at Bravo! Vail, one of the biggest classical music festivals in the country. Starting on July 27^th, you can also enjoy live performances at the Vail International Dance Festival. 

Beaver Creek

Just west of Vail, you’ll find the charming town of Beaver Creek. From spa resorts to outdoor adventures, the city is a fun vacation spot that has something for everyone.

In addition to kayaking, rafting, and horseback riding, the town also accommodates those seeking relaxation. Make a reservation at a hotel spa, like Allegria and Bachelor Gulch, to enjoy saunas, skin treatments, and rejuvenating massages. For more kid-friendly affairs, you can attend local events like the Beaver Creek Rodeo and Movies Under the Stars, a seasonal outdoor film series.

Breckenridge

Another great mountain resort for families is Breckenridge, located a two-hour drive from our apartment complex. The historic town is a scenic and inviting place for summer vacationers of all interests.

The Breck Summer Fun Park provides a variety of attractions and entertainment for visitors, including zip lines, chairlifts, climbing walls, pony rides, a roller coaster, a maze, and plenty of open trails for hiking. The town also hosts the Blue River Series, a summer concert event that is part of the year-round Breckenridge Music Festival, with musical acts from various genres, including blues, jazz, and classical.

Estes Park

There are many mountain towns to visit, which feature lively summer events, but Estes Park is the one that offers outdoor recreation within close proximity to Boulder. About an hour north of our apartment community, the charming village has many shops, restaurants, art galleries, and available lodging for visitors. Estes Park is also the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, where you can go camping and explore its unique wildlife and scenic terrain.

Colorado has an abundance of resorts where you can engage in a variety of festivals and recreational activities this summer. Whether you’re interested in camping outdoors, relaxing at a spa, or attending a live show, you’ll enjoy a wonderful vacation during your stay at one of the aforementioned mountain towns.