Eat. Adventure. Stay.
Copper Mountain is the perfect venue for all things winter, but it’s just as fun during the summer. Situated between the ski towns of Vail and Breckenridge, Copper Mountain, located just outside of Frisco, Colorado, offers big mountains, big views, and even bigger fun. Think running up ski slopes, quad-burning trails, mixed terrain–oh, and all while trying to breathe at nearly 10,000 feet. Don’t know where to start? Here’s how to get the most out of your Colorado vacation:
Before you start your day’s activities, it’s paramount that you fuel–especially if you’re a Mudder, because we know you play hard. Copper Mountain Resort has several taverns, pubs, and grills, but for true dining, head into the nearby town of Frisco. For a big breakfast, head to Butterhorn Bakery & Cafe for their Eggy Bread–thick slices of homemade cinnamon bread that is coated and grilled in an egg batter–or their large egg dishes. For lunch or dinner, try Peppino’s Pizza and Subs. They specialize in thin, crispy pizza with toppings like sweet basil and roasted chicken, but can also be accommodating to those who prefer a thick crust, are vegetarian, or gluten-free.
Only a 30 minute away, Breckenridge offers even more restaurants and cafes. For satisfying regional cuisine, head to Hearthstone, which features sustainable seafood and naturally raised beef paired with seasonal veggies. Better still, diners eat in the Kaiser Home, originally built in 1880 by German immigrants. Hankering for a sweet treat? Daylight Donuts serves fresh donuts and breakfast at their downtown Breckenridge location, but you can grab a donut at their Copper Mountain location, too.
Colorado is all about breakfast, and The Little Diner, located in Vail, Colorado, a quick 25 minutes northwest of Copper Mountain, is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. This place fills up, so grab a spot early. Also in Vail is Sweet Basil, a trendy restaurant offering everything from roasted chicken salad to caramelized onion & fig tortellini to dark chocolate mousse cake for dessert. Their extensive wine list pairs with each entree or dessert, as well, so go ahead and treat yourself post-event.
It’s obvious that winter activities involve the mountains, but Copper Mountain offers an extensive list of summertime activities. The easiest? Hiking. For a great option, check out Mayflower Gulch, beginning just six miles away from the Copper Mountain Resort. The four-mile round-trip hike showcases both the natural beauty and history of the region, including the chance to see the ruins of several old barns, old mining camps, and spectacular blooming wildflowers. Consider checking out all of the hikes available, seen here in this trail map. Several routes will take you to the top of Copper Mountain, which summits at 12,313 feet. For those not interested in hiking, Copper Mountain lifts will take visitors to the top for free with a $12 purchase in Copper Village.
Copper Mountain Resort offers several other activities, like downhill mountain biking, go-karts, bumper cars, and more. The Resort also boasts itself as having the largest outdoor climbing wall in Colorado so you can continue working on your grip strength, long after you’ve finished your Tough or Tougher Mudder.
Nearby Frisco’s Lake Dillon is the perfect place to cool down on a scorching hot day, and the options to swim, kayak or even sail are all possible. Think you have good balance? Try stand-up paddle boarding for a fun and challenging activity.
The Copper Creek Golf Course lets you play on the highest championship golf course in the United States, while Woodward at Copper gives ski and snowboard enthusiasts the opportunity to train year-round at their 19,400 square foot indoor training center.
You’re going to want gear that takes you from the Tough Mudder to the trails and from breakfast to dinner: check out Merrell’s new 2017 line for everything you need.
Copper Mountain Resort lets you stay at the most convenient, exhilarating option in Frisco, and packages makes your stay even more worthwhile. Book yourself a massage or facial at the Copper Mountain Spa & Athletic Club, then use the 25-yard pool, hot tub, and weight room to keep up your athletic performance.
If proximity is not as important to you, check out the economical, though no less cozy, Bivvi Hostel. The hostel offers complimentary breakfast, as well as beers on tap from 4-8 p.m. every afternoon.
Nestled directly in the mountains, Alpine Inn has contemporary rooms, extra amenities like a saltwater pool and spa, a complimentary continental breakfast and even an exercise room. The convent location in Frisco makes the drive to Copper Mountain or other surrounding areas a breeze.
Looking to stay close to the venue? Check out the list of Tough Mudder recommended hotels here.
