Summit and Eagle County Locations Guide (Winter and Spring) ❄️
- Hunter Lundgren
- Nov 9, 2023
- 5 min read
Updated: Jan 19
Snowy sessions are the best! It's our goal to recommend spots that are just as accessible as they are beautiful this time of year. Some spots we’ve included involve hiking
for the more adventurous individuals. If they do require a hike we make sure to let you know in the description!
Breckenridge
Boreas Pass Road
This spot requires about a 1/4 of a mile uphill hike to get to the view. It has a good amount of parking and the view is really gorgeous! Although you’ll likely still see some people, it’s generally more secluded than other spots. There are lots of pine trees and some cool rock formations as shown in the video below. If you choose this spot be prepared with boots, tall wool socks and very warm clothing to ensure you can make the trek to get there! This location will work for any length session, but it’s particularly good for longer photoshoots because the lighting stays lovely throughout.
Link to the parking area-
Sawmill Reservoir
If you would love a location in town in Breckenridge, this is a wonderful location. The iconic slopes are in the background, with a partially or totally frozen pond depending on the month you schedule your session. There are ample pine trees! It takes 5-8 minutes to hike to the pond from the parking lot. It is uphill on the way in.
Here’s the link to view photos from a recent winter session here- https://galleries.ryanandhunter.com/nellieclassof2026/
Link to the parking area- https://maps.app.goo.gl/KVu58XcXfhGmKwiv9?g_st=ipc
Frisco/Dillon/Silverthorne
Dillon Dam (Near Osprey Observation Site)
This location is right on the water after a short hike through the pine trees. The water can be fully frozen but sometimes it isn’t fully frozen as pictured below. We love its seclusion due to being a less popular spot and the variety of backdrops. Parking is along the side of the road and there is a small portion of the hike that is very steep, so good shoes and tall socks are a must. If you have shoes you’d like to wear that aren’t suitable, consider packing them in a backpack and changing once you arrive at the view.
Link to the parking area- https://maps.app.goo.gl/F591gdqj4PqtAqHj9?g_st=ic
Giberson Bay
We love the view at this spot! It’s right along the water with opportunities to take photos in the pine trees as well. The hike down to the beach is extremely short but steep with some wooden stairs. The parking is very accessible.
Link to the parking area-
Sapphire Point
Not recommended for groups larger than 12 people
We love this location in the winter and spring time! The view in the photos above doesn't require any hiking, and the parking area is paved. If you want to take a short hike to the overlook area (pictured below) it has some nice rocks. The only downside to this location is that it is very highly trafficked, with other photographers frequently using it. It is also used as a wedding venue, so sometimes parts of the area are reserved. If you will be eloping here ask us about how you can make a reservation!
Link to the parking area-
Swan Mountain Road Pull Off
Great for large groups
What we love about this spot is the accessibility- it is right on the side of the road. It is a pull off, making parking somewhat limited. If you have young children or want to avoid road noise this may not be the spot you prefer. We love the large open field and stunning mountain view. The downside is that depending on the time of year and snowfall the drifts can be very big here.
Link to the parking area-
Officer’s Gulch
Great for smaller families, couples and seniors
This spot has lovely views in almost every direction! It requires a very short hike to get to the view areas. There is a small bridge and some nice rocky areas which are great for sitting photos.
Link to the parking area-
Windy Point Trail
Great for any type of session
This spot is a flat hike down a dirt road and has lovely 360° view with pine trees all around! The parking is accessible, the only downside is you will need to be prepared to trek through the snow.
Link to the parking area-
Blue River Arm Trailhead
Great for large groups
This spot is beautiful, with a very short, flat walk to the view. There is plentiful parking as well and it is the closest location along Lake Dillon to downtown Breckenridge. Because there aren't any trees or other wind protection it is very windy! We only recommend this spot if you bring hats to wear for the majority of the photos. It is a very open area with little to no shade, so it provides about 45 minutes of ideal light.
Link to the parking area- https://maps.app.goo.gl/gybcuYdNFouqr6Pj7?g_st=ic
Willow Preserve Overlook
Would work well for any type of session
This location is right in the heart of Frisco, close to many stores and restaurants. There is a small parking lot and a very short walk can offer a couple different views. It’s not a secluded location, but the path itself doesn’t tend to be traveled much. We haven’t had a session here yet, but it would work well for someone who wants a very accessible spot with view of the mountains.
Link to the parking area- https://maps.app.goo.gl/EQKubznKXqMvQ28D6?g_st=ic
Keystone
Loveland Pass
Would work for any type of session, although best for smaller groups
Loveland Pass is very high in elevation, resulting in 360° views in every direction. There is a good amount of parking on the side of the highway. There are views right when you get out of the car, but keep in mind that there are a couple inclines that are necessary to hike in order to get to the best flat ground. This is a windy, dramatic spot with beautiful mountain views .
Link to the parking area- https://maps.app.goo.gl/fNSYp5udLbEHdeAE8?g_st=ic
Blue River
Hoosier Pass
Great for any type of session
Hoosier Pass is very accessible with plenty of parking and lots of beautiful pine trees along with some a small view of the mountains. Due to the elevation this spot stays snowy from November until May. It very popular for taking photos so you will most likely see at least a few people during your session.
Copper Mountain/Vail
Clinton Gulch Dam Reservoir
Great for any type of session
We love Clinton Gulch because of its unparalleled beauty and accessibility. It’s right off of HWY 91 and there are breathtaking views right when you get out of the car. It only requires a short 3-5 minute hike to the best spot for photos. The only downside is this location can be a bit tricky due to the lighting. Because of the direction the sun is coming from we usually have to wait to take the majority of the photos until the sun is completely down. This still allows 45 minutes or so of beautiful light!
Here’s the link to view photos from a recent winter session here- https://galleries.ryanandhunter.com/dollyandkelly/
Link to the parking area- https://maps.app.goo.gl/dCaqpbvsXjaK1dpt5?g_st=ipc
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