Life in Dillon centers on nature, music and outdoor activity
Dillon is a touristy mountain town with a small community, surrounded by alpine scenery on the east side of a recreational reservoir. "We have a little over 1,000 full-time residents, but there will be 10,000 people in town at different times of the year," says longtime resident Anne Marie Ohly, broker and founder of Omni Real Estate Company. She says while nearby towns like Keystone and Breckenridge are mostly known for their ski resorts, hiking, biking and boating bring people here. "We are very centrally located within our county and have more of a focus on summer recreational activities." Dillon Amphitheater, an outdoor music venue hosting national artists in the summer, is a big draw. Homebuyers can find everything from luxury living on the water to condos central to downtown.
Outdoor spaces offer disc golf, bouldering and water access
Dillon’s trails are integral to a countywide network of mountain biking, snowshoeing and off-roading pathways. "You can ride your bike all the way to Vail, Colorado, if you want to," Ohly says. Tenderfoot Mountain Trail leads through sage, aspen and pine forests. The Dillon Reservoir Recreation Path passes by Dillon Reservoir, also called Lake Dillon, to wind through Marina Park, where there's a playground and beach area. The park is adjacent to Dillon Marina, a site for regattas, sailing classes and boat rentals. Sapphire Point Overlook provides a sweeping view of Lake Dillon, from a 9,500-foot elevation. In the winter, the frozen lake becomes a surface for winter sports such as cross-country skiing. Dillon Town Park, another popular spot, debuted new playgrounds, a bouldering wall and an upgraded baseball field in 2023. The park also has sports courts, including pickleball. Dillon Nature Preserve's trails extend into the White River National Forest. Lake Dillon Disc Golf gives players a place to practice.
Luxury estates, cottages and condos offer a range of living styles
Dillon has custom-built luxury estates, some award-winning. It also has country cottages, traditional two-story homes, townhouses and condos. Some homes are on their own private lots, surrounded by towering pines. Others are within communities built for lakefront living or convenience to town. Corinthian Hill is a desirable waterfront community with amenities such as a pool and sports facilities and easy trail access. Dillon New Town's single-family homes, many on a half-acre or more, are walking distance from the marina. Sail Lofts’ condos are in the heart of downtown Dillon, on the corner of La Bonte and Main streets. While large homes in prime locations enter a multimillion-dollar range, the median sale price is more modest, at $847,000
Farmers market, concerts and yoga bring neighbors together
Town Park hosts the Dillon Farmers Market on Fridays from June to September. While locals fill their totes, live music plays in the background. During the event's early hours, they can also drop into a donation-based yoga class. Dillon Amphitheater is next door to Marina Park, providing a concert venue set against the mountains and water during the summer. Past performers have included everyone from tribute bands to the Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra to Grammy Award-winning artists such as Sierra Ferrell and the legendary Bob Dylan. The venue also hosts ecstatic dance, yoga, and boot camp on Wellness Wednesdays.
Rustic dining, vegan slices and happy hour favorites
Commercial options are along the highway and clustered downtown. Dillon Ridge Shopping Center has a mix of national chains and local retailers, including City Market for groceries, Petco, the souvenir shop Everything Colorado Dillon and Chimayo Grill Mexican restaurant. Red Mountain Grill serves Americana food and southwestern twists in a rustic atmosphere overlooking the mountains. Scrappy's Pizza is a local favorite with a diverse menu that includes New York-style slices and vegan options. Pug Ryan's Brewery is known for its steaks, seafood and happy hour specials.
Summit schools include a magnet option for grades 7 through 12
Summit School District participates in school choice. Dillon Valley Elementary School is an International Baccalaureate school with a B rating on Niche. Summit Middle School also earns a B rating, and Summit High School scores a B-plus. Grades seven through 12 may also apply to attend the magnet school, Snowy Peaks Junior and Senior High School, which earns a C on Niche. The school prides itself on individualized lesson planning with a student-centered learning approach.
Connections to Silverthorne, Keystone and beyond by road or bus
U.S. Highway 6 passes through Dillon and connects with Interstate 70 and Colorado Highway 9 just north of town. Summit Stage is a free bus system serving Summit County, including Dillon, with connections to Silverthorne and Keystone.
Written By
Kathryn Ashworth
