While everyone else heads to the slopes, go back in time on a sleigh ride with Two Below Zero, which bundles you up, dashes through the snow and drops you off at a cozy tent for dinner and a family-friendly show. Hot chocolate — with a nip of schnapps for the grown-ups — and appetizers await, and dinner is chuckwagon-style. Save room for the hot caramel apple pie. The views of the White River National Forest along the way can’t be beat, and the cowboys who run it all are as friendly as can be. Cost: $84 ages 13-up; $55 ages 4-12. Two seatings nightly. — Kyle Wagner
Meet at Frisco Nordic Center, 18454 Colorado 9, 970-453-1520,
Stay: The Hotel Frisco has an old-time feel, likes kids and pets, fires up the hot tubs and offers simple rooms with a little extra space. The location in downtown Frisco means you’re out of hectic ski traffic but still close to the highway and near the shops and eateries. Rates: King bed starts at $318 a night in winter.
308 Main St., 800-262-1002,
Dine: In the morning, head over to the Butterhorn Bakery for piping-hot, icing-slicked cinnamon rolls and the eggs Butterhorn: poached eggs on their house-baked croissants topped with red-pepper sauce. You may have to wait, but it’s worth it — grab a well-made latte to pass the time.
408 Main St., 970-668-3997,
Frisco is 73 miles west of Denver via Interstate 70 to Exit #203, then south 2 miles on Colorado 9
