Late-winter fun in Frisco, Colorado

Spring may officially arrive this month, but in Frisco, Colorado, March means snow ― and lots of it. Within minutes of Copper Mountain, Breckenridge, Keystone, and Arapahoe Basin ski areas, the town also boasts the Frisco Peninsula Recreation Area just ¼ mile beyond its charming and historic Main Street, which is lined with excellent eateries for pre- and post-snow sport refueling.

Frisco Nordic Center.
WHAT: 43 kilometers of nordic skiing and 15 kilometers of snowshoeing trails through snowy woods and alongside Lake Dillon. Start at the lodge for rentals and lessons. WHEN: 9-4 Nov-early April; night trekking by reservation. HOW MUCH: Trail passes $14; rentals from $14. WHERE: 18454 State 9; 970/668-0866. 

Two Below Zero Sleigh Rides.
WHAT: Snuggle under antique lap robes as you skim along beneath the stars, anticipating the heated tent camp where a hearty dinner and cowboy entertainment await. WHEN: 6:30 p.m. Mon-Sat (check in 30 min. early). HOW MUCH: $70. WHERE: Departs from the Frisco Nordic Center (above); www.dinnersleighrides.com or 800/571-6853.

Food Hedz World Café.
WHAT: Despite its strip-mall location, this funky new eatery is wowing patrons with fusion cooking by chef David Welch, who previously worked at a four-star restaurant. WHEN: Lunch and dinner Tue-Sat. HOW MUCH: $$$. WHERE: 842 Summit Blvd. (between Safeway and Wal-Mart); 970/668-2000. 

Samplings.
WHAT: Soothe your après-ski muscles at this tony wine bar and restaurant as you sip a little Pinot, nibble small plates of steamed mussels and duck confit ravioli, and tuck into a dinner of Colorado lamb loin or polenta-crusted ruby trout. WHEN: Dinner daily. HOW MUCH: $$$. WHERE: 320 Main St.; 970/668-8466.

The Juniper Tree.
WHAT: Wind carefully through this mountain-style home decor haven ― mind the wooden moose head over the faux fireplace. Carving sets, embroidered linen napkins, and cheery crockery draw shoppers looking for alpine-themed indulgences. WHEN: Open daily. WHERE: 507 Main St.; 970/668-5689.

Info: From Denver, drive 70 miles west on I-70 to exit 201, which becomes Main St. Contact the Frisco Chamber of Commerce (970/668-5547).