Dillon and Silverthorne, 2 Colorado Towns on a Reservoir's Edge

Published May 4, 2021 09:13PM

Take exit 205 on Interstate 70 to experience two of the Rocky Mountains’ favorite small towns, Dillon and Silverthorne. Located along the shores of Dillon Reservoir, here are eight stops you can’t miss.

1. Bluebird Market

This new collective marketplace is quickly becoming the heart of Silverthorne. You’ll find incredible, locally-owned food and beverage options from crȇpes to wood-fired pizza, coffee and ice cream. Enjoy a cocktail at the Mighty Bar, shop rotating retail pop-ups and peruse local art. The Old Dillon Inn, which once sat in the original town of Dillon that’s now at the bottom of Dillon Reservoir, has been preserved inside the marketplace. Stay next door at the new Hotel Indigo with an onsite tequila bar and restaurant, Kúcu Tequila Bistro.

2. Local Events

Locals know First Fridays are the best time to be in town thanks to the community gathering of the same name with a different theme each month. Events range from a bonfire with a burning snowman in April to welcome spring, to a summer kick off with live music in June. Check in with the Lake Dillon Theatre Co.’s box office while you’re in town for the latest schedule of shows.

3. Endless Trails

Whether you hike or bike, Silverthorne has a trail for you. Head to local favorite trailhead, Willowbrook, where you can hike a moderate 5-mile loop or connect to other trails for a longer hike. If you’re a mountain biker, head to Gore Range Sports where you can get beta on local trails, buy parts and gear or get a tune up. You can even demo Revel mountain bikes. Afterwards, stay at The Pad, a re-imagined upscale hostel with a variety of lodging options from shared dorms to deluxe private rooms with a focus on community.

4. North Pond Park

The water is a bit calmer at North Pond than on the reservoir, so it’s a family-friendly way to enjoy the water. Rent a stand-up paddleboard from Colorado Adventure Guides at the pond or just enjoy the beach and the views of the Gore Range. Grab a sandwich to-go from Enza’s Delicatessen & Market to enjoy a picnic at the pond.

5. Dillon Marina

Get out on the water at the Dillon Marina. Rent a pontoon or sailboat to explore the entire reservoir or opt for a human-powered craft with a stand-up paddleboard or kayak rental. After a day on the water, nothing beats relaxing at Pug Ryan’s Tiki Bar along the water. Enjoy tropical-themed cocktails and food at 9,000 feet, or try one of Pug Ryan’s local brews.

6. Dillon Amphitheater

What’s better than watching a Colorado sunset over the water? Listening to amazing live music while doing so. The Dillon Amphitheater offers amazing views along with an impressive lineup of concerts, some of which are free, all summer long. Don’t miss the Dillon Farmers Market on Friday mornings throughout the summer down the street from the amphitheater.

7. Recreation Path

Rent bikes from Lake Dillon Bike Rentals to explore the stunning, paved recreation path that circles Dillon Reservoir. You can rent adult and kids bikes, or tandem bikes to help the little ones along. Ride the entire 18.7-mile loop or just a portion of it. For a totally Colorado experience, do a biking and craft brewery tour stopping at Dillon Dam Brewery and Pug Ryan’s in Dillon and Angry James and Baker’s Brewery in Silverthorne.

8. Local Libations

Not a beer drinker? Dillon has you covered. Head to Saved by the Wine where you can enjoy small plates and wine flights on a deck overlooking Buffalo Mountain. The owners are female ski-instructors and donate 2.5% of profits to animal shelters. If you’re looking for a well-crafted cocktail, head to Bistro North for excellent martinis and upscale dining. Looking for somewhere to après with the kids? Newly renovated Elevation Bowl has an arcade, shuffleboard and bowling along with food and adult beverages.

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