RAFTING NEAR SILVERTHORNE, COLORADO
35 minutes to two world-class rivers — Summit County's best kept secret.
Silverthorne sits at one of the most strategic crossroads in Colorado. Head east on I-70 and you're at Clear Creek in Idaho Springs in 35 minutes. Head north on Highway 9 and you're at the Colorado River near Kremmling in the same amount of time. No other town in the state puts you this close to two completely different rafting experiences.
Most visitors in Summit County know it for ski resorts — Keystone, Breckenridge, A-Basin. But summer here is seriously underrated, and rafting is one of the best ways to spend a day off the mountain. The outlet stores and Lake Dillon are great, but there's whitewater waiting in both directions.
Whether you want the canyon thrills of Clear Creek or the scenic float and wildlife of the Upper Colorado, you can be back in Silverthorne for dinner. It doesn't get much more convenient than that.
Which Trip Is Right For You
Explore Silverthorne / Dillon
Everything you need to build the perfect Summit County day around your time on the water.
Lake Dillon
Colorado's largest high-altitude reservoir — sailing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and fishing at 9,017 feet.
Dillon Amphitheatre
Stunning outdoor concert venue on the shores of Lake Dillon — live music all summer long with mountain views as the backdrop.
Silverthorne Outlets
Over 70 outlet stores right off I-70 — a Summit County staple for bargain hunting before or after the river.
Breckenridge
World-class skiing in winter, mountain biking and hiking trails all summer long. 20 minutes south.
Keystone Resort
Mountain biking, scenic gondola rides, and summer activities — 15 minutes from Silverthorne.
Arapahoe Basin
The longest ski season in Colorado, plus summer hiking above treeline. One of the great Summit County classics.
Dillon Dam Brewery
Summit County's beloved brewpub — craft beer, great food, and a lively atmosphere right in Dillon.
Arapahoe Cafe & Pub
A Dillon institution since 1981 — hearty mountain breakfasts and lunches on the shore of Lake Dillon.
Nozawa
Excellent Japanese and sushi in the heart of Silverthorne — a surprisingly good find at altitude.
Ristorante Al Lago
Authentic Italian cuisine with stunning views over Lake Dillon. One of Summit County's most romantic dinner spots.
Ten Mile Brewing
Breckenridge's popular craft brewery with a great taproom and rotating seasonal beers.
Silverthorne Pavilion
An outdoor amphitheater hosting free summer concerts — one of the best evening spots in Summit County.
Backstage Theatre
Breckenridge's beloved live theatre company — quality productions in a cozy mountain venue.
Breckenridge Bar Scene
Main Street in Breckenridge has a handful of live music bars and lively après-ski spots open all summer.
Breckenridge Arts District
A thriving creative hub with galleries, studios, and events spread throughout Breckenridge's historic district.
Silverthorne Public Art Exhibits
Rotating installations and exhibits showcasing local and regional artists throughout Silverthorne — free and open to all.
Blue River Greenway
A paved multi-use trail winding through Silverthorne along the Blue River — beautiful views, easy access.
Theatre Silco
A beloved independent movie theatre and community venue in Silverthorne — catch a film or live event in a charming mountain setting.
Hampton Inn Silverthorne
Reliable, comfortable, and centrally located — a solid base for Summit County adventures.
Best Western Ptarmigan Lodge
A Summit County classic — cozy rooms, great mountain views, steps from Dillon Reservoir.
Keystone Resort Lodging
Slopeside condos and hotel rooms at Keystone Resort — 15 minutes from Silverthorne, full ski-resort amenities.
Lakeside Vacation Rentals
VRBO and Airbnb are packed with cabin and condo rentals on or near Lake Dillon — ideal for groups.
Breckenridge Resort Lodging
Stay right on the mountain in Breckenridge — 20 minutes away with ski-in/ski-out access and summer activities.
Make a Day of It
Your Summit County day, start to finish — with the river as the centerpiece.
Hit the Water
Choose your direction — 45 min east to Clear Creek or 45 min north to the Colorado River. Book your trip →
Lunch in Dillon
Post-raft refuel at Dillon Dam Brewery or Arapahoe Cafe on the lake shore.
Lake Dillon
Paddle board, kayak, or just walk the shoreline at one of Colorado's most beautiful reservoirs.
Wind Down
Dinner at Ristorante Al Lago with lake views, then live music at the Silverthorne Pavilion.
How Far Is the River?
Click any city to see how far it is from our two locations. Most of Colorado is closer than you think.