19 Fantastic Things To Do in Frisco Co In Winter (By A Local)

Two Passports One Planet Travel Blog contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase using these links, we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. Please read our privacy policy and disclaimer for more information.

Looking for fun things to do in Frisco Co In Winter for an upcoming visit to Summit County in the Colorado Rockies?

Frisco is a picturesque postcard small high mountain town with easy access to/from Denver: a perfect getaway destination in Colorado’s Rockies year-round. But, in winter and especially during the holiday season, our town transforms into a winter wonderland! There are so many activities in Frisco Co to enjoy!

Sample 6 world-class ski resorts, all less than 30 minutes drive. Try tubing, cross country skiing, a brewery tour, a horse sleigh ride, or even glass blowing!

Frisco’s Main Street shopping is plentiful with a delicious selection of restaurants and bars to tempt you inside.

We spend 4-5 months every year in Frisco and especially love being here from December to March. As locals, we’ve enjoyed most of these activities. We created our Things To Do In Frisco from our personal knowledge of living here to help you have an amazing time too!

19 Best Things To Do In Frisco Co In Winter

You may be wondering if there is enough to do and see in a tiny mountain town in the middle of winter, especially one which isn’t a ski resort.

Well, the good news is that there are numerous winter activities in Frisco to fill a day trip, weekend, week’s stay or even longer. Frisco is super family friendly but also perfect for couples, and groups of all ages.

Some activities on our list require pre-booking and may cost a little more; others are very affordable or free. Enjoy checking them out:

1. Go Tubing At Frisco Adventure Park

Could racing down slopes on giant tubes really be that much fun? Well, the answer is absolutely!

After a short safety video, your hour starts. A ‘magic carpet’ lift system does the hard work and gently takes you to the point of descent. You then choose which lane to tube down.

Each 1200 foot lane has a different experience – some are less steep; others have more rolling terrain. Choose to tube solo or link your tubes together. You can opt for a straight push off, or be spun by the attendant setting you off at a faster pace.

If you are coming with a group or kids, you think this will end up being one of your favourite things to do in Frisco Co together because linking the tubes is a whole other experience than tubing solo!

Whatever your choice, the ride down is exhilarating! Depending how busy it is, you can fit in 5-6 runs in your hour slot. Reservations are essential and you can book online at Frisco Adventure Park Tubing site.

Afterwards head into the adjacent lodge for a hot chocolate and watch the action from indoor or outdoor seating area.

2. Downhill Ski Or Snowboard on World Class Slopes

From Frisco, you’re only a short bus or car drive away from a new ski slope run each day! In fact we have 6 world class ski resorts on our doorstep to choose from. This map shows relative distances from Frisco.

As there are so many variations on ticket prices and ever changing ‘deals’ check these out online. For comparative purposes we show full costs of a 1-day pass cost for mid February 2025 (peak season).

Summary and Day Lift Pass Costs of 6 Ski Resorts Near Frisco

Copper Mountain Ski Resort

Copper Mountain Ski Resort has an amazing Thursday $99 dollar lift ticket deal! Plan ahead as you can only buy this ticket ONLINE & IN ADVANCE– ie. Don’t go on-line or turn up and ask for it at the resort on the day!

Loveland Ski Area

Just through the Eisenhower tunnel, we feel Loveland Ski Area is more affordable and family orientated than ‘resort based’ ski resorts. For advanced skiers, there is no shortage of black runs!

There is also a dedicated area called Loveland Valley for beginners. It’s a perfect slope to learn on. Day lift tickets here cost $50 for adults and $30 for ages 6-14.

The lodge area is spacious serving standard food and refreshments. Car parking is right next to the lifts and ticket office.

Breckenridge Ski Resort

Breckenridge Ski Resort is a 5 mountain sprawl offering extensive expert and advanced trails. 11% are Green for beginners. Being a resort, there are other activities for non skiers around town.

It’s pricey, especially for families, so head to their site to check if you can find better prices for advanced bookings.

Other resorts nearby: Keystone, Arapahoe Basin and Vail.

Keystone Ski Resort

This is what we would call an intermediate ski area with a great range of runs to challenge yourself on.

Vail Ski Village Resort

If you want glitz on and off the slopes, and aren’t budget conscious Vail may well be for you. It’s a beautiful resort with 18% of trails suiting beginners and 53% are best for advanced skiers.

Arapahoe Basin Ski Area (‘A’ Basin)

With peaks at over 13,000 feet and 73% of runs rated advanced level, this is where to come to challenge yourself at high altitude. Steep runs rule here so be warned 🙂

Note: You cannot buy tickets in person on arrival at A Basin. You must buy them on-line beforehand. Facilities here are adequate but minimal compared to the other slopes we reference.

3. Hike Local Trails (or ShowShoe)

FREE. Most trails allow x-country ski-ing, snowshoeing and are dog friendly.

Wrap up warm in layers and hit packed (or untouched) snowy trails for a leisurely or invigorating hike.

We have over 55 miles of hiking trails around Frisco and Summit County. Here’ some of our favourites ranked from easy to difficult.

• Rainbow Lake Hike is an easy 1.5 mile round trip from Zach’s Stop parking lot. Elevation gain is 460 feet. (Rated Easy)
• Continue on from Rainbow Lake, and join Peaks Trail for a longer hike of 7.8 miles (one way) with around 950 feet gain. It’s possible to do part of this in a loop or continue on to Breckenridge and take the free shuttle bus back to Frisco! (Rated Moderate)
• North Tenmile Trail parking lot is at the second Frisco turnoff from I-70 heading west from Denver. The trail follows along the valley and stream (beautiful in winter with ice crystals on the water). Round trip is 6.8 miles with 900 feet elevation gain. (Rated Moderate)

• Masontown to Mt Royal. Masontown is a mining ghost town just under 1 mile hike starting from the Kayak Lot off Frisco Main Street.
• From Masontown you can challenge yourself on the very steep climb to the top of Mt Royal. The views are spectacular – elevation gain is 1,370 feet. (Rated Difficult)

Main trails are typically ‘packed’ and so you may not need snow shoes – we’ve hiked several with good winter boots and hiking poles.

Just being out in the fresh mountain air with peace and quiet is invigorating as you go at your own pace. It’s one of our most relaxing things to do in Frisco Co when the sun shines in winter months.

4. Cross County Ski at Frisco Nordic Centre

Just across from the Tubing Adventure Park, you will find the Nordic Center Ski lodge, where you can sign up for cross country ski-ing, skate ski-ing or snowshoeing.

There are 27km of cross country trails, 10km of snowshoe trails and it’s easy to book a lesson, and rent equipment on site! Instructors are awesome and it’s a great way to build confidence if you are a newbie to this sport.

The scenery here is stunning and as you ski at your own pace you’ll want to stop and take photos. Starter loops take about an hour.

The hut where you fill out paperwork and rent skis has bathrooms and snacks/drinks for sale. To book, use the Frisco Nordic Center website.

Bringing your doggie to Frisco? Head onto the rec path just east of the Nordic Center where dogs can join their humans on a winter bike ride or cross country ski.

5. Mountain Bike in the Snow 

We’re not kidding!! Stop by Rebel Ski and Bike on Frisco Main Street and they will kit you out with a fat tyre bike and organize a tour route with transport through Vail Valley which is gorgeous!

Of course you can cycle around some trails on your own but access can change – for example these bikes are not permitted on the Nordic Centre pass at the time of writing.

The bike store can also advise on conditions – a bit like Goldilocks and her porridge, you don’t want it too slushy, or too icey – just somewhere in between.

Teens will love the cool looking bikes: the whole experience is quite different from regular biking or riding Frisco’s summer mountain trails.

6. Lace Up Your Ice Skates

Frisco does have a small unsupervised pond within Meadow Creek Park (near to Walmart) where if you have your own skates you can go play around on.

As most of us don’t pack ice skates in our luggage 🙂 we suggest heading to Dercum Square in River Run Village Keystone where you can rent skates and enjoy a groomed rink. This is a great place to learn the basics of skating.

Alternatively head over to Lakeside Village in Keystone and twirl your way around the 5 acre lake. There’s tons of space and ample car parking around the village.

While you are here, walk around the rink and down by the river. You can also grab a snack, sit by the fire and watch others skate.

Local teams practice and play ice hockey here, another fun activity to check out, or maybe even try. The rink rents out pucks and sticks!

7. Take a Scenic Sleigh Ride

This is an iconic Frisco winter wonderland experience! It’s a little pricey but hey we have it on our Christmas Gift wish list every year!

You can choose from a horse sleigh ride with hot chocolate or combine with a themed 3-course dinner with family entertainment. We know these experiences can sometimes feel a bit hokey but honestly this is top notch!

It’s operated by 2 Below Zero and for over 30 years this family business has grown to become an established fixture in our community.

8. Go Sledding

One of the best free activities in Frisco Co. Bring your sled to this decent slope next to Frisco Nordic Center and spend a few hours messing around on the hill. If you are coming to Frisco with younger kids, teens or big friends who are little kids at heart, it’s a must to bring them here.

This is not a formally groomed space but it’s popular with locals and visitors alike. It can get a little busy after a fresh dump of snow but we’ve never found it too crowded!

Kids will use up plenty of energy hiking back up the hill after each ride down! (No tow here). When you are done for the day, head over to the main lodge for warming hot chocolate drink.

9. Tour Frisco Museum on Main

It’s a marvel that these original log cabins that make up the Frisco Museum remain right on Main Street.

Start at the Main Museum then check out the various cabins within the outdoor park adjacent to here.

You can see how people lived here a century and more ago, what the local jail looked like (not fun!) and a typical early day store.

When you’re done, warm up with a hot drink from Mountain Coffee Roasters just down the street. Their coffee is fantastic and it’s a welcoming spot in town.

10. Enjoy A Frisco Winter Festival 

Frisco loves to throw a party to bring us locals and visitors together. You will see posters around town with details of upcoming events – they are well advertised.

❄️ Wassail Nights (November 30- December 8, 2024)

Free. This multi evening festival is our celebration of the beauty of winter being upon us. Many vendors in town offer free wassail (think delicious warm cider). One business will end up crowned the 2024 Wassail champion!

Wassail is a traditional drink with the sentiment of good health or to ward off bad spirits dating back centuries. Read more about Wassail origins in England – it’s quite fascinating.

❄️ Annual Frisco Gold Rush (Feb 8th, 2025)

Free to watch. Small fee to enter.

2025 marks the 54th year of this event! It’s such fun to watch (or participate) in the most historic Nordic race in the state. It’s open to all ages and skill levels so bring your skies and join in.

You do need to pre-register (& sign a waiver) but registration is open up to and including race day! Frisco Nordic Center can assist you get organized!

🎇 Spontaneous Combustion Bonfire (Feb 8th, 2025)

Free. 6pm to 8pm. Refreshments available. Just after the Nordic event above ends, keep on celebrating by heading to Frisco’s annual bonfire.

Each year around 300 used Christmas trees are collected and these fuel the fire. Drinks and snacks are for sale and proceeds go to a local non profit organisation.

11. Blow Glass at The GatherHouse

If you’ve watched the TV Show ‘Blown Away’ and would love to try your hand at this ancient craft, Frisco GatherHouse is the perfect place to sign yourself up for a lesson. It’s also a brilliant gift for someone!

John, who owns GatherHouse and runs the classes, is an inspiring teacher. We’ve taken several classes and can vouch for his patience, fun approach and talent as an experienced glass blower.

To book a session just check out The GatherHouse website and text for an appointment.

Return the day after your session to collect your finished masterpieces which are wrapped for transport home!

12. Relax With A Spa Treatment

For a small town, Frisco has some great relaxation options. Frisco Inn on Galena offers a wide range of treatments at its Mount Royal Spa, perfect to unwind from busy days. If you are staying at the hotel, you can arrange a massage in the privacy of your own room.

It is essential to book ahead in the winter season and you can reserve a treatment directly via Mount Royal Spa Website.

Alternatively, try A New You Massage on Main Street who offer a range of facials, massage treatments and rejuvenating feet treatments. Much needed after a day on the slopes we say!

They can also come to your condo or accommodation if you prefer.

13. Throw Axes Indoors 

Thrashin Axes might be just the place for you and your friends/family to head to one evening and have fun competing as a team or trying something new.

Do axes travel faster at high altitude like golf balls? Well, you will need to visit to find out whether this is true or just a myth!

14. Sample Rattlesnake Sausage At Ein Prosit

No winter visit to Frisco is complete without a trip to Prosit, an award winning German themed bar/restaurant on Main Street. It’s low key with long wooden benches and tables for indoor seating.

Along with 16 varieties of sausages (vegetarian too), you can order a giant pretzel with fresh cucumber salad and several mustard condiments. The beer on tap is excellent!

Love a cocktail? Then we suggest heading to the back of the emporium shop area within the same building. Here you will find the award-winning Pullman Distillery Tasting Room which is housed in an old railway carriage. It’s a very unique spot to enjoy a local drink in our small mountain town

With 2024 national awards for their Alpine Gin and malt whisky, the team here do an amazing job. We’re so impressed to hear they travel to Scotland to do their whisky research!

15. Enjoy A Local Brewery Tour

If you fancy getting picked up from your accommodation and driven to 4 breweries in the area, this activity is for you. Accompanied by your host Josh, you will enjoy a range of local beers along with food before being driven home.

Portions are generous and each venue has different entertainment while you are there. Sport TVs to pool, jokes and even magical tricks!

It will be a fun filled night, so maybe a day off from the slopes the following morning is a good plan 🙂

16. Indulge in Frisco’s Retail Therapy

Our mile long Frisco Main Street is a joy to explore year round.

There’s a great mix of stores to browse around from Rivers with its fantastic range of clothing to smaller retailers like Juniper Tree where you can always pick up a small gift or something for the home.

Next Page Books is packed with great reads as well as guide books for Summit County and Colorado.

If you enjoy local art, head to the Arts Alive Gallery (101 Main) where you will see displays from local artists.

Like bargain hunting? Frisco also has 3 excellent consignment stores where you can usually find great quality items for a steal! My last treasure was a seldom worn Arc’teryz jacket 🙂

17. Have Fun At A Frisco Happy Hour

Let us share a secret – Frisco is a bit of a party town. Maybe it’s the high altitude, all the fabulous outdoor scenery and activities, but come the end of the day, we love our Happy Hour venues.

Read our article for locations and specials at Frisco’s Best Happy Hour Spots.

There’s options for every taste and budget in town from wine at Bagali’s to delicious cocktails at 5th Street Grille. Check out Sports at Ollie’s or enjoy a 2 for 1 Margaritas at Casa Sanchez on Fridays.

18. Enjoy Live Music At 10 Mile Music Hall

Many bars and restaurants in Frisco often offer live music during their Happy Hour.

We also have a music venue right on Main Street which has weekly live music gigs. From tribute acts to emerging local artists, there’s a huge variety of genres played here. The best way to find out what’s on when you’re in town is to go to 10 Miles Music Hall Web-Site.

19. Play a Game of Pool With Frisco Locals

If you enjoy letting your hair down a little and mingling in a home town bar, maybe shooting some pool, then Frisco won’t disappoint.

The Moose’s Jaw on Main Street is where it’s happening until late each evening. There’s a lively local crowd and a mix of visitors and if you are a solo traveller, you’re likely to make new friends here.

There’s also another Games Room – Co Bar – down the east end of Main, across from Ollie’s Sports Bar & Pub. Here you have pool tables, pinball machines and an arcade type atmosphere.

Where To Stay In Frisco

With a population of under 3,000, Frisco has worked hard to retain a traditional mountain town vibe. So you won’t find many chain hotels in town, rather more traditional smaller inn type establishments.

A few blocks out from Main Street, you will discover plenty of Air B&B/Vbro accommodation options from large homes perfect for big groups to condos, great for couples.

We’ve selected 3 hotels that we rate ranging from budget 2 star to a 4 star. All are highly rated and well managed:

📍New Summit Inn + Booking Link – clean, comfortable with free breakfast and reliable staff. Decor is a little dated but overall excellent value. Short drive to all activities. Seasonal hot tub! (2 star)

📍Frisco Inn on Galena + Booking Link – a classic, central Frisco boutique hotel (one block from Main Street) with huge character and Mount Royal views. Excellent breakfasts, hot tub, and spa facilities. (3 star)

📍AC Marriott Hotel + Booking Link – located just off I-70 this newly built hotel is within walking distance to free shuttles taking you to local resorts like Breckenridge. The decor is modern, functional with an on-site bar/restaurant and ample parking. (4 star)

What To Pack For Frisco Co In Winter

Winter months in the Rocky Mountains are pretty cold, although days are often sunny and it feels quite warm.

Things we suggest you pack when coming to Frisco & Colorado Mountains in Winter include:

• Down jacket (with hood) suitable for ski-ing, sledding etc.
• Warm waterproof boots (Sorrels are great)
• Thermal leggings or vests to wear underneath
• Ski type trousers (pants) and breathable tops (layers are good)
• Wool socks
• Thick winter Gloves
• Scarf or Neck warmer
• Face mask (for ski-ing)
• Woolly Hat
• Sunglasses
• Lip balm
• Hiking poles and/or crampons (if you plan to do snow hiking)

FAQs

Here are several commonly asked questions by people thinking about things to do in Frisco Co in winter with answers to each one.

Is Frisco a ski town?

Frisco is not a managed ski resort town like nearby Copper, Keystone or Breckenridge. It’s actually much more in our opinion and activities in Frisco Co reflect this.

Frisco is an independent small mountain town with has 6 world class ski slopes to choose from, all within easy access either by the free Summit County shuttles or driving between 10-30 mins.

Also Frisco has its own Nordic Center, Adventure Park, miles of outdoor trails for cross-country, sledding slopes, sleigh rides, so if you are looking beyond the downhill slope, Frisco is a perfect Rockies destination.

Is Frisco Co expensive?

If you are planning to visit Frisco over big holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year, President’s Day and Easter, prices will peak. So be prepared to pay more for accommodation during these times but prices will still mostly be lower than staying at say Vail or Breckenridge resorts.

Typically Denver residents come at weekends from first snowfall through to the end of March (or Easter). So, if you can, come during the week when hotel prices may be more affordable.

If you plan to spend time ski-ing at resorts like Vail, Breckenridge or Keystone, this will certainly add to your costs. Consider heading to Loveland, a more affordable locally run ski area.

One of the fun things to do in Frisco Co is eating out on Main Street. Most restaurants are fairly good value because there’s quite a bit of competition. We especially love the local and independent restaurants on offer, although there are fast food options dotted around.

Is Frisco, Colorado high altitude?

Frisco sits at 9,079 feet above mean sea level so you’re definitely in high altitude terrain. As a result, temperatures in the coldest month which is January, range from lows of 10F to highs of around 27F.

The average annual snowfall in Frisco is 159” compared to the US average of 28”. But it doesn’t snow all the time of course, so expect sunny days along with snow! In fact we have an average of 241 sunny days a year in Frisco!

Frisco is at a little lower altitude than nearby Breckenridge so this is another reason to consider staying here. It’s worth knowing that if you come here, drink plenty of water! Also experts say one alcoholic drink at high altitude is the equivalent to 3 at sea level 🙂

Wrap Up – Things to Do in Frisco Co In Winter

We hope our list has given you exciting ideas and helpful information to start planning your winter trip to Frisco.

Whether you spend time enjoying snowy adventures, relaxing at a local spa or reading an overdue book as you sip a warm drink next to a roaring fireside, Frisco offers amazing winter activities for everyone.

One final Tip: it may be winter when you visit but Frisco is blessed with many ‘Bluebird’ days when the sun shines brightly and there isn’t a cloud in the sky.

So, don’t forget to pack sunscreen, even in the depths of winter!