Silverton Mountain, Colorado: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Are you looking for a winter wonderland with deep powder and extreme challenges? Silverton Mountain in Colorado is your spot. It's a top choice for those who love outdoor adventures. With over 1,800 acres of wild terrain, it's perfect for expert skiers and snowboarders.

This place has natural chutes, glades, and gullies that will test even the best. But it's not just for skiing. Silverton Mountain is also great for cultural, historic, and family fun all year round.

In winter, enjoy ice climbing and snowmobiling. In summer, try hiking, mountain biking, and exploring off-road. It's a dream spot for outdoor lovers.

Key Takeaways

• Silverton Mountain offers over 1,800 acres of ungroomed, steep terrain for expert skiers and snowboarders
• Guided skiing, helicopter drops, and backcountry experiences provide access to this powder paradise
• The town of Silverton offers a wealth of cultural, historic, and family-friendly activities year-round
• Outdoor adventures range from ice climbing and snowmobiling in winter to hiking, mountain biking, and off-road exploration in summer
• Silverton is a true four-season destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking thrilling mountain adventures

Welcome to Silverton, Colorado: An Outdoor Adventurer's Paradise

Nestled in the San Juan Mountains

Silverton, Colorado, is a hidden treasure in the beautiful San Juan Mountains. This historic town was once a key mining spot but now is a top spot for outdoor lovers. It has a deep history and a unique feel that mixes old and new perfectly.

A Historical Gem with Outdoor Activities Galore

Silverton's mining past is still alive with old towns, landmarks, and vintage train rides. But it's also a place for many outdoor activities. You can enjoy skiing and snowmobiling in winter, and hiking, biking, and exploring in summer. This mix of history and adventure makes Silverton a special place for those who love the outdoors.

"Silverton is not only a picturesque mountain town, but also a historical gem that offers an abundance of outdoor activities."

Being close to the San Juan Mountains means easy access to top-notch skiing, ice climbing, and backcountry snowmobiling in winter. In summer, you can hike, bike, and explore off-road. No matter the season, Silverton has activities for every outdoor lover.

Exploring the Town of Silverton

Historic Downtown and Mining Landmarks

Walking into Silverton, Colorado's historic downtown feels like a trip back in time. This town sits high in the San Juan Mountains, at 9,318 feet. It shows off its mining past with well-kept buildings and landmarks.

Places like the Mayflower Mill and the Animas Forks ghost town let you see Silverton's mining history up close. The Grand Imperial Hotel and other old buildings add to the Old West feel. Exploring downtown Silverton lets you feel the town's history and the spirit of its people.

The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a key attraction in Silverton. This steam train goes through the beautiful Animas River canyon. Built in 1882 for mining, it now takes visitors on a scenic trip through the Weminuche Wilderness.

It's a unique way to see the San Juan Mountains and learn about mining history. The train ride is a must for anyone visiting Silverton. It's a chance to see the town's beauty and its mining heritage.

Winter Adventures in Silverton

Silverton, Colorado turns into a winter wonderland full of exciting outdoor activities. It has the challenging slopes of Silverton Mountain and the frozen backcountry. This town is perfect for those who love winter sports.

Skiing and Snowboarding

Silverton Mountain is a top spot for expert skiers and snowboarders. It has 1,300 acres of tough, not groomed terrain. With a ticket price of just $25, it's a great deal. It limits daily skiers to 400, making it exclusive.

Snowmobiling and Ice Climbing

There's more to do in Silverton than just skiing. You can go on exciting snowmobile tours or try ice climbing on the frozen waterfalls. Ice fishing on the lakes and streams is also a favorite activity.

"Silverton is a true winter wonderland, offering a diverse array of snow-based adventures that cater to thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts alike."

Silverton is a winter paradise with beautiful mountains and lots of snow activities. Whether you like skiing, ice climbing, or just exploring, Silverton has it all. It's a must-visit for winter lovers.

Silverton Mountain: A Skier's Bucket List Destination

Silverton Mountain in Colorado is a dream spot for skiers and snowboarders looking for a big challenge. It has over 1,800 acres of steep, untouched terrain. This place is perfect for those who love natural chutes, glades, and gullies.

There are no groomed runs or marked trails here. So, it's a true backcountry skiing experience. It's designed for the most skilled riders who want to test their limits.

One-of-a-Kind Extreme Terrain

Silverton Mountain's slopes are not for beginners. They are completely ungroomed, offering a raw, backcountry adventure. Only expert skiers and snowboarders can tackle this terrain.

Getting to this unique place often means hiking or taking a helicopter ride. This adds to the excitement and thrill of the experience.

Guided Skiing and Helicopter Drops

To safely enjoy Silverton Mountain, you must ski with a certified guide. These guides are experts who lead you through the backcountry. They also teach important safety skills and how to handle avalanches.

For a bigger thrill, you can try helicopter-accessed skiing. This lets you start your run from the top of remote, untouched slopes. It's the ultimate way to experience Silverton Mountain's legendary powder.

"Silverton Mountain is the ultimate destination for skiers and snowboarders seeking the most extreme and untamed terrain in Colorado. It's not for the faint of heart, but for those willing to push their limits, the rewards are unparalleled." - John Doe, Avid Skier

Nightlife and After-Dark Experiences in Silverton

When the sun goes down in Silverton, Colorado, the town turns into a cozy spot for night activities. Stargazers should find a high spot to see the stars. History lovers can relax at the Grand Imperial Hotel's saloon.

At Avalanche Brewing Company, you can meet new people and have fun. The Columbine Roadhouse is great for live music in the evening. For a spooky night, check out the nearby ghost towns.

Silverton's nightlife and evening activities are magical and unique. You can stargaze, visit historic hotels, or enjoy local pubs and live music. This mountain town has something for everyone at night.

"Silverton's nighttime adventures offer a truly magical way to experience the town's rich history and natural beauty." - Outdoor Enthusiast Magazine

Summer Adventures in Silverton

When the snow melts in Silverton, Colorado, the town turns into a paradise for outdoor lovers. Hikers and backpackers can dive into the Weminuche Wilderness, where the largest 14,000-foot peaks in Colorado await. Mountain bikers can ride the historic Rainbow Trail and other scenic paths, enjoying the area's unmatched beauty. With most of the county open to the public, Silverton is a dream spot for summer activities, hiking, backpacking, and mountain biking.

Hiking, Backpacking, and Mountain Biking

Silverton is close to the Weminuche Wilderness, making it perfect for exploring the backcountry. Whether you want a short hike or a long backpacking trip, the trails here offer stunning views of the San Juan Mountains.

For those who love excitement, Silverton is a top spot for off-road adventures. The Alpine Loop takes you through remote areas, showing off historic ghost towns, mining sites, and amazing mountain views. There are also many off-road trails around Silverton, great for Jeep tours and off-road adventures.

Off-Road Adventures on the Alpine Loop

These off-road trips are a fun way to see Silverton's beautiful landscapes and learn about its history. Whether you're up for a calm hike or an exciting mountain biking ride, Silverton has summer activities for every outdoor lover.

Silverton Mountain, Colorado: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Silverton Mountain is in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado. It's a place for outdoor adventures. You can enjoy winter sports or summer activities here.

In winter, it's a dream spot for skiers and snowboarders. The mountain gets a lot of snow, offering deep powder. The high lift takes you to expert-only areas, perfect for experienced riders.

For a bigger challenge, try guided skiing and heli-drops. These offer access to extreme terrain. With only eight skiers per group, it's safer.

When it's warm, Silverton is great for summer fun. You can hike, bike, or explore the wilderness. The Alpine Loop is a historic route you can follow.

Whether you love winter sports or summer activities, Silverton has it all. It's perfect for anyone wanting a memorable mountain trip.

Family Fun in Silverton

Silverton, Colorado, is a great place for families. It has many activities and attractions for kids and adults. At the Kendall Mountain Recreation Area, families can ski, snowboard, ice skate, sled, and cross-country ski in winter. In summer, it's perfect for picnics, hiking, and other outdoor fun.

The Polar Express train ride is a magical experience for families. During the holidays, families take a train from the Durango Depot to the North Pole. There, they meet Santa Claus and enjoy a light show with holiday music. On the way back, Santa gives each child their first Christmas gift.

The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad offers a scenic trip that everyone loves. It's a great place for families to make special memories together.

Cultural Experiences and Heritage Tourism

Silverton, Colorado, is a treasure trove for those interested in history and culture. Visitors can dive into the town's mining past by exploring ghost towns like Animas Forks and Ironton. These places show what life was like during the mining era. The Silverton Hillside Cemetery gives a glimpse into the town's history, including the effects of the Spanish flu pandemic. For a unique experience, you can visit these towns at night.

Ghost Town Exploration

Travelers can take a step back in time in Silverton. Walking through ghost towns, you can feel the spirit of the Old West and mining history. These places tell stories of the early settlers' struggles and strength.

Old West Events and Traditions

Silverton celebrates its western heritage with various events and traditions. The Silverton Skijoring event mixes the town's western roots with modern fun. Skiers are pulled by horses, trying to catch batons at high speeds. You can also commute around Silverton on a snowmobile, a rare chance in Colorado. These activities keep Silverton's spirit alive and show its strong Western legacy.

"Silverton's cultural offerings allow travelers to step back in time and gain a deeper understanding of the town's storied past."

Where to Eat, Drink, and Stay in Silverton

Silverton, Colorado, is a charming town in the San Juan Mountains. It offers a wide range of dining, drinking, and lodging options. Whether you want a hearty meal, a refreshing beer, or a unique hotel, Silverton has it all.

For a cozy dining experience, visit Avalanche Brewing Company. Enjoy their from-scratch pizza, wraps, and local brews. If you're in the mood for southern-style barbecue, Thee Pitts Again is the place to go. Handlebars Food and Saloon celebrates Silverton's mining past with its decor and menu.

Silverton has many lodging choices. You can stay at the dog-friendly Canyon View Motel or the historic Grand Imperial Hotel, which opened in 1883. It has 40 suites. For a unique stay, check out the cozy vacation rentals in town.

Close to Silverton, Telluride and Ouray offer more dining, drinking, and lodging. Whether you want a big meal, a local beer, or a special place to stay, Silverton has it for you.

Dining Options in Silverton

• Avalanche Brewing Company - Cozy restaurant serving from-scratch pizza, wraps, and local brews
• Thee Pitts Again - Classic southern-style barbecue
• Handlebars Food and Saloon - Mining-themed decor and meat-centric menu

Lodging in Silverton

1. Canyon View Motel - Dog-friendly accommodation
2. Grand Imperial Hotel - Beautifully renovated historic hotel with 40 suites
3. Vacation rentals - Cozy and unique options throughout the town

Nearby Destinations

Not far from Silverton, you can visit the ski town of Telluride and the outdoor haven of Ouray. They offer more dining, drinking, and lodging choices.

Conclusion

Silverton, Colorado, is a dream spot for outdoor lovers. It has exciting activities and cultural experiences all year round. In winter, it's a hotspot for skiing, snowmobiling, and ice climbing.

Summer brings hiking, backpacking, mountain biking, and off-road fun. The town's mining history and Old West vibe are also big draws. You can take ghost town tours, ride historic trains, and enjoy real western events.

Whether you're into snow sports or summer adventures, Silverton has it all. It's a top spot in the beautiful San Juan Mountains. So, get your gear ready and explore this outdoor paradise in the Rockies.