Vanlife in Colorado | Summit County, Winter Park, Berthoud Pass, and Copper Mountain
If you are looking for what full time vanlife in Colorado actually looks like during early winter, this week captures it perfectly.
We spent the week bouncing between Summit County, Denver, Winter Park, Berthoud Pass, and Copper Mountain, chasing early season snow, filming a client project, and settling into the rhythm of life on the road in the mountains.
It was a mix of resort riding, backcountry days, vanlife routines, and some of the best scenery you can find in Colorado.
Vanlife in Summit County Colorado
We kicked things off in Summit County, one of the best places in Colorado to base up for vanlife.
With towns like Dillon, Silverthorne, and Frisco all within a short drive, it is easy to balance outdoor adventure with everyday needs.
Our days started simple.
Coffee in the van with views of snow covered peaks
Quick drives to the mountain for early season laps
Evenings spent finding quiet places to park and reset
It is the kind of routine that makes vanlife feel sustainable, especially in the early part of the winter season.
Early Season Snowboarding in Summit County
Even though it is still early in the season, we were able to get in consistent days on snow.
Early season riding in Colorado has its own appeal.
Smaller crowds
Laid back atmosphere
A chance to ease into the season
It is less about chasing perfect conditions and more about getting back into the rhythm of being on the mountain.
Denver Resupply and Vanlife Reality
Midweek, we made our way down to Denver for a grocery resupply.
If you are living out of a van in the mountains, this is part of the routine. Prices are higher in resort towns, so heading into Denver for supplies can make a big difference.
It also gives you a chance to reset, restock, and prepare for the next stretch in the mountains.
Winter Park Colorado Vanlife and Snowboarding
After Denver, we headed up to Winter Park, Colorado, where we spent a few days camping and filming a client project.
Winter Park is one of the most vanlife friendly areas in Colorado, with easy access to the resort and nearby camping options.
We were able to sneak in some riding at Winter Park Resort, and conditions were better than expected for this time of year.
Riding Mary Jane at Winter Park Resort
One of the highlights at Winter Park was riding Mary Jane.
Known for its trees and more technical terrain, Mary Jane offers a completely different feel compared to other Front Range resorts.
Even early in the season, the terrain here is fun and engaging, with great views and a more laid back vibe.
If you are visiting Winter Park, this is an area you will want to explore.
Splitboarding at Berthoud Pass Colorado
From Winter Park, we made our way up and over Berthoud Pass for a backcountry day.
Berthoud Pass is one of the most popular splitboarding and backcountry skiing zones in Colorado, located right along US Highway 40 between Winter Park and Empire.
This area offers:
Easy roadside access
Variety of terrain options
Incredible high alpine views
The snowpack was still thin, which is common early in the season, but it felt incredible to get the splitboards out and enjoy some quiet turns away from the resorts.
Returning to Summit County and Copper Mountain
After a few big days, we made our way back to Summit County.
We met up with friends at Copper Mountain and got in some fun laps to wrap up the week.
Copper is one of the best resorts in Colorado for progression, thanks to its naturally divided terrain and wide variety of runs.
Even early season, it is a great place to ride and explore.
Sunday Morning at Butterhorn Bakery
Before closing out the week, we made a stop at Butterhorn Bakery in Frisco.
If you are in Summit County, this is one of the best breakfast spots around.
Fresh baked goods
Strong coffee
A cozy atmosphere that is perfect after a cold morning
It was the perfect way to slow things down before heading back out for one last ride.
Balancing Work and Travel on the Road
One of the biggest themes of the week was finding balance.
Filming a client project in Winter Park
Working remotely from the van
Making time for riding and exploring
This is what full time vanlife really looks like. It is not just travel, it is work, logistics, and finding ways to make both fit together.
Why Colorado Is Perfect for Winter Vanlife
This week reinforced why Colorado is one of the best places in the country for winter vanlife.
Access to multiple ski resorts
Backcountry zones like Berthoud Pass
Towns like Denver for resupply
Endless outdoor opportunities
Whether you are riding at Copper Mountain, exploring Winter Park, or touring in the backcountry, everything is within reach.
Final Thoughts
This week was a perfect snapshot of what we love about life on the road.
Vanlife in the mountains
Early season snowboarding
Splitboarding in the backcountry
Working and creating on the go
It is not always easy, but it is always worth it.
If you are thinking about chasing snow across Colorado or trying vanlife in the winter, this is exactly what it can look like.
Watch the Full Episode
Check out the full Detour Diaries episode to follow along with the entire week, from Summit County to Winter Park, Berthoud Pass, and Copper Mountain.
