Winter Activities for Kids in Summit County: Family-Friendly Fun On and Off the Slopes

Summit County, Colorado, is a winter wonderland for families looking to create unforgettable memories in the mountains. While our ski slopes are world-renowned, there's a whole world of kid-friendly fun beyond the chairlifts. Whether you're visiting for a weekend getaway or considering a second home in the area, here’s your guide to the best winter activities for kids in Summit County, both on the mountains and off.

On-Mountain Activities for Kids

Ski & Snowboard Schools

Breckenridge, Keystone, Copper Mountain, and Arapahoe Basin all offer top-notch ski and snowboard lessons for kids of all ages and ability levels. Half-day and full-day programs are available, and many resorts have dedicated learning areas with magic carpets, gentle slopes, and fun obstacles to keep young skiers engaged.

Kids Adventure Zones

Many ski areas feature kid-specific adventure trails through the trees, mini terrain parks, and themed runs. At Breckenridge, the "Haunted Forest" and "Ripperoo’s Forest" offer exciting twists and turns designed just for kids.

Keystone's Snow Fort & Night Skiing

Keystone Resort is a family favorite, thanks to its massive snow fort at the top of Dercum Mountain and its kid-friendly night skiing. The fort changes each year and is a great spot for climbing, sliding, and imaginative play in the snow.

Off-Mountain Outdoor Fun

Sledding & Tubing Hills

For a break from skiing, head to one of the local sledding or tubing hills:
• Carter Park (Breckenridge): A free sledding hill perfect for younger kids. Bring your own sled or rent one in town.
• Frisco Adventure Park: Offers a groomed tubing hill with a magic carpet lift, making it easy for little ones to enjoy multiple runs.
• Copper Mountain Tubing Hill: A thrilling tubing experience with several lanes and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Ice Skating

Bundle up and hit the ice! Summit County has several rinks to choose from:
• Stephen C. West Ice Arena (Breckenridge): Indoor and outdoor rinks with public skating, rentals, and even skating aids for beginners.
• Dillon Ice Rink: A classic outdoor rink with mountain views and cozy vibes.

Sleigh Rides

Take a scenic sleigh ride through snowy meadows with hot cocoa and cozy blankets. Many outfitters offer horse-drawn sleigh rides, including Breckenridge Stables and Two Below Zero Sleigh Rides (Frisco), both offering magical experiences for kids and relaxing rides for adults.

Indoor Winter Activities for Kids

Mountain Top Explorium (Breckenridge)

Mountain Top Explorium is an interactive children's museum located right on Main Street and is perfect for younger kids. It features hands-on exhibits, creative play spaces, and frequent family events.

Breckenridge Recreation Center

If your crew needs to burn off some energy indoors, the Breck Rec Center has a kid-friendly pool with a slide, climbing wall, and play areas. There are also gym courts and a rock-climbing wall for older kids.

Frisco Historic Park & Museum

Step back in time and explore Frisco’s pioneer roots at the Frisco Historic Park & Museum. The museum is open year-round and offers a glimpse into Summit County’s history with kid-friendly exhibits and a self-guided tour of original log cabins.

Library Storytimes & Crafts

The Summit County Library branches in Breckenridge, Frisco, and Silverthorne often host winter story times, craft sessions, and other kid-focused activities—perfect for those cold, snowy afternoons.

Ready, Paint, Fire! (Breckenridge)

A must-visit destination, Ready, Paint, Fire! is a vibrant art studio offering a warm and welcoming environment where children can explore their creativity through a variety of hands-on art projects, from pottery and canvas painting to mosaic and candle making.

A Winter Playground for All Ages

Summit County truly has something for every member of the family. Whether you’re hitting the slopes, exploring historic towns, or simply sipping hot cocoa by the fire, it’s a magical place to spend time with your kids in the winter.

Thinking about making Summit County your home base for winter fun?

As a local real estate expert specializing in vacation and investment properties, I’d love to help you find the perfect mountain retreat for your family. From ski-in/ski-out condos to spacious homes close to all the action, I can guide you every step of the way. Let’s connect!

Let’s connect!