Cities and Towns in Summit County, Colorado
Founded on 1861-11-01, Summit County is one of 64 counties in the state of Colorado. The city of Breckenridge is the county seat. With FIPS code of 117, Summit County has a population of 30,941 and area of 618.92 square miles (1,603 km²).
List of all cities in Summit County, CO alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Breckenridge, CO | 80424 | 970 |
| Copper Mountain, CO | 80443 | 970 |
| Dillon, CO | 80435 | 970 |
| Frisco, CO | 80443 | 970 |
| Heeney, CO | 80498 | 970 |
| Keystone, CO | 80435 | 970 |
| Montezuma, CO | 80435 | 970 |
| Silverthorne, CO | 80497 | 970 |
| 80498 | 970 |
Major Cities and Towns in Summit County, Colorado
Breckenridge
Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates
- Area: 5.9 square miles
- Population: Approximately 5,078 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 80424
- Latitude: 39.4817° N
- Longitude: 106.0384° W
Location and History
Breckenridge is located in the heart of Summit County, nestled in the Rocky Mountains. Founded in 1859 during the Pike’s Peak Gold Rush, Breckenridge quickly became a bustling mining town. The discovery of gold in the nearby Blue River brought an influx of settlers and prospectors. By the late 19th century, Breckenridge had established itself as one of Colorado’s most prominent mining towns. However, as the gold rush waned, the town experienced a period of decline. It wasn’t until the 1960s, with the development of Breckenridge Ski Resort, that the town experienced a resurgence. Today, Breckenridge is a popular year-round destination, known for its world-class skiing, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Breckenridge is served by the Summit School District, with notable institutions including Breckenridge Elementary School. The town is famous for its well-preserved historic district, which features buildings dating back to the 19th century. Major landmarks include the Barney Ford House Museum, which tells the story of an escaped slave who became a prominent businessman in Colorado, and the Breckenridge Ski Resort, one of the most visited ski destinations in North America. The town also hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the Breckenridge International Snow Sculpture Championships and Oktoberfest, which draw visitors from around the world.
Frisco
Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates
- Area: 1.8 square miles
- Population: Approximately 3,131 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 80443
- Latitude: 39.5744° N
- Longitude: 106.0976° W
Location and History
Frisco is centrally located within Summit County, adjacent to the Dillon Reservoir and surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Tenmile Range. The town was established in 1880, during the height of Colorado’s mining boom. Frisco originally served as a hub for the mining operations in the surrounding mountains, providing supplies and services to miners. The town’s economy declined as mining activity decreased, but Frisco reinvented itself as a tourist destination in the mid-20th century. Its proximity to several major ski resorts, including Breckenridge, Copper Mountain, and Keystone, has made it a popular base for outdoor enthusiasts. Frisco’s rich history is preserved in its well-maintained historic buildings and vibrant community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Frisco is part of the Summit School District, with Frisco Elementary School serving the town’s educational needs. Major landmarks in Frisco include the Frisco Historic Park and Museum, which offers a glimpse into the town’s mining past with its collection of historic buildings and artifacts. The nearby Dillon Reservoir is a focal point for recreational activities, offering boating, fishing, and scenic trails. Frisco’s Main Street is lined with unique shops, restaurants, and galleries, reflecting the town’s blend of old and new. The annual Frisco BBQ Challenge, held each summer, is one of the town’s most popular events, drawing visitors from across the region.
Dillon
Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates
- Area: 2.4 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,057 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 80435
- Latitude: 39.6255° N
- Longitude: 106.0431° W
Location and History
Dillon is located on the shores of the Dillon Reservoir, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The town’s history dates back to the late 19th century when it was established as a trading post and supply center for the nearby mining camps. Dillon’s original location was submerged in the 1960s when the Dillon Reservoir was created to provide water for Denver, forcing the town to relocate to its current site. Despite this upheaval, Dillon has thrived as a community and a destination for outdoor recreation. The town is now a gateway to the nearby ski resorts and offers a range of activities on the reservoir, including boating, fishing, and ice fishing in the winter.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Dillon is served by the Summit School District, with Dillon Valley Elementary School located nearby. The Dillon Marina is a major landmark, offering boat rentals and sailing lessons on the Dillon Reservoir. Another key attraction is the Dillon Amphitheater, which hosts concerts and events throughout the summer, taking advantage of the stunning lakeside setting. The Dillon Ice Castles, a seasonal attraction built entirely of ice, draw thousands of visitors each winter, adding to the town’s appeal as a year-round destination. Dillon’s unique history and its scenic location make it a special place in Summit County.
Silverthorne
Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates
- Area: 3.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 4,402 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 80498
- Latitude: 39.6372° N
- Longitude: 106.0753° W
Location and History
Silverthorne is located in the Blue River Valley, just north of Dillon and near the confluence of several major highways, making it a key gateway to the ski resorts of Summit County. The town was incorporated in 1967, making it one of the newer communities in the county. Silverthorne was initially developed as a residential area for workers building the Dillon Dam, and it has grown rapidly due to its strategic location and the booming tourism industry in the region. Today, Silverthorne is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities and its role as a commercial hub, with a range of shops, restaurants, and services that cater to both residents and visitors.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Silverthorne is part of the Summit School District, with Silverthorne Elementary School serving the community. One of the town’s major landmarks is the Silverthorne Pavilion, a popular venue for events and weddings that also hosts community activities and performances. The Blue River runs through the heart of Silverthorne, providing excellent fishing and scenic trails for walking and biking. The Outlets at Silverthorne is another key attraction, offering a wide range of shopping options in a beautiful mountain setting. Silverthorne’s combination of natural beauty and modern amenities makes it a vibrant and attractive place to live and visit.
Blue River
Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates
- Area: 2.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 877 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 80424
- Latitude: 39.4316° N
- Longitude: 106.0445° W
Location and History
Blue River is a small town located just south of Breckenridge, along the scenic Blue River. The town was incorporated in 1964 and has developed primarily as a residential community for people working in nearby Breckenridge and the surrounding resorts. Blue River’s location in the mountains offers residents stunning views and easy access to outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and skiing. The town has a laid-back, rural atmosphere, with a focus on preserving the natural environment and maintaining a close-knit community. Blue River’s proximity to Breckenridge provides residents with the amenities of a larger town while retaining the charm of a small mountain community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Blue River is served by the Summit School District, with students typically attending schools in nearby Breckenridge. The town’s most notable landmark is the Blue River itself, which offers excellent trout fishing and scenic beauty. The nearby Quandary Peak, one of Colorado’s famous “Fourteeners,” is a popular hiking destination and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The town’s commitment to preserving its natural surroundings and its strong sense of community make Blue River a unique and desirable place to live in Summit County.
Map of Cities in Summit County, CO
