Ultimate Guide to Winter Activities in Colorado

Winter in Colorado gives you access to diverse natural snow-covered landscapes, providing tons of winter activities. From iconic small ski towns that make enjoying snow sports accessible to Denver, a large city with delicious food, cultural events, and historic sites, Colorado has something for everyone. Here are the top winter activities in Colorado to enjoy during your trip.

Best Things to Do in Colorado in Winter

Visiting Colorado in winter transports you to a true winter wonderland. The Rockies transform into a stunning snowy playground, ideal for world-class skiing and snowboarding at famous resorts like Aspen and Vail. Beyond the slopes, charming mountain towns sparkle with festive lights and a cozy ambiance where you can sip hot cocoa and immerse yourself in the holiday spirit. Colorado offers a perfect blend of adventure and serenity, from exhilarating snowshoe hikes to relaxing in hot springs. So grab your ski gear and head out to the great outdoors because these are the best things to do in Colorado in winter.

1. Go Skiing or Snowboarding

Colorado is widely regarded as the top ski and snowboarding destination in the USA. With over 25 ski resorts spread across the Rocky Mountains, it offers slopes suitable for beginners, experts, and everyone in between. The high altitude results in plentiful snow, renowned for its dryness and fluffiness, making it perfect for skiing from October through April.

Where to Go Skiing and Snowboarding in Colorado

Ski towns dot Colorado, providing many options:

• Vail boasts one of the largest resorts with diverse terrain.
• For easy access from Denver, Breckenridge Ski Resort is an excellent choice, reachable in under two hours from the airport.
• Steamboat Springs Ski Resort is great for families and less crowded compared to places like Aspen or Vail.
• Howelsen Hill Ski Area offers an affordable ski experience as North America’s oldest operating ski area.
• Steamboat Resort provides ample skiable terrain for all skill levels.

Winter Park Resort

Winter Park is recognized as a premier ski experience in Colorado. Often rated among the best ski resorts in North America, it is the longest continually operating ski resort in the state and has undergone significant enhancements. It features expansive ski terrain for all skill levels and provides opportunities for families to explore snowy trails or enjoy activities like tubing.

Things to Do at Winter Park Resort

The sheer variety of winter activities makes Winter Park Resort popular for families. From sunset snowshoeing to downhill skiing on a ski bike, there are unique experiences available. It offers a Ski & Ride by Headlamp tour for guided night skiing, and even sleigh rides. This resort is the most comprehensive choice for enjoying Colorado’s winter wonderland.

2. Cross Country Skiing

If you prefer a more relaxed approach to skiing, try cross-country or Nordic skiing. It offers solitude away from the crowds, allowing you to enjoy nature while reducing joint impact. This activity is also more affordable since you don’t require a lift ticket at a ski resort; instead, you can find trails with daily passes.

Where to Go Cross-Country Skiing

• Many ranches offer cross-country skiing as part of your stay, such as Vista Verde Ranch, which includes hot chocolate.
• Nordic Centers, like the Breckenridge Nordic Center or The Beaver Creek Nordic Sports Center, are available throughout the state, particularly near ski resorts.

3. Snow Tubing

There are numerous options to enjoy the snow beyond skiing, such as snow tubing, an activity accessible to everyone. Many tubing hills throughout Colorado offer conveyor belts to transport you back up the hill effortlessly.

Where to Go Snow Tubing

Snow-tubing hills can be found across Colorado.

The Coca Cola Tubing Hill at Winter Park and the Frisco Adventure Park are particularly convenient to Denver.

4. Copper Mountain Snow Maze

Located in the East Village near the Super Bee chairlift, Copper Mountain Snow Maze is the highest alpine snow maze in the world, created entirely of snow. It has doubled in size to 8,000 square feet, providing a fantastic winter adventure.

This winter activity is free for anyone over three years old; just sign a waiver before your visit on the Copper website.

5. Sleigh Rides

A horse-drawn sleigh ride complements a family outing or a romantic getaway beautifully. Many sleigh rides include hot chocolate, cookies, and some even offer full meals.

Where to Go for Sleigh Rides in Colorado

Sleigh rides are plentiful at various resorts and adventure centers across Colorado, making for a romantic experience through a winter wonderland.

• Two Below Zero in Frisco offers sleigh rides with hot chocolate, cookies, and dinner options with musical entertainment.

6. Snowmobiling

For those seeking a thrilling adventure, snowmobiling provides an exhilarating experience. After fresh snow falls, it’s common to see people towing snowmobile trailers on the roads leading into the mountains.

Where to Go Snowmobiling in Colorado

For newcomers to the area, guided snowmobile tours are recommended.

• Breckenridge Snowmobiling offers tours and unguided rentals in popular areas like Breckenridge, Keystone, Vail, and Copper Mountain.
• T-Lazy-7 Ranch and Saddleback Ranch provide guided snowmobiling tours during winter.

7. Hot Springs

Relax in one of Colorado’s several hot springs, a perfect way to soothe sore muscles after skiing. Some hot springs maintain a natural feel while others are man-made pools fed by natural sources, so you’ll find plenty to choose from to warm up.

Best Hot Springs in Colorado

• Old Town Hot Springs in Steamboat Springs
• Glenwood Hot Springs
• Mount Princeton Hot Spring Resort

8. Horseback Riding

Horseback riding in Colorado can be enjoyed year-round, primarily through trail rides or indoor lessons. Many ranches offer trail rides that conclude with a warm drink, providing a beautiful connection with nature, regardless of the weather.

Where to Go Horseback Riding in Colorado

• Saddleback Ranch
• Several guest ranches, including Vista Verde Ranch, offer winter trail rides and lessons.

9. Relax in Your Cabin

Take advantage of Colorado’s cozy cabins during winter, featuring amenities like fireplaces and private hot tubs, creating a serene escape amid nature. Numerous options are available on vacation rental platforms, so ensure you plan ahead as the best ones book quickly.

You can also find luxurious cabins at dude ranches, such as Vista Verde Ranch, which combines a homely experience with fine dining and exceptional service.

10. Spend Time in the Mile High City

Consider taking a break from the mountains to explore what Denver has to offer. The city’s food scene is ever-evolving, with the emergence of microbreweries and diverse dining options. Trendy food courts are popping up, providing a taste of several restaurants in one location.

We enjoyed attending a Denver Nuggets basketball game, while the Bronco’s football season continues into early winter, and the Colorado Avalanche plays hockey.

With Colorado being one of the first states to legalize cannabis, consider joining a tour that visits grow facilities and dispensaries.

Winter Activities in Denver

• Enjoy Afternoon Tea at the Brown Palace.
• Ice skating at Skyline Park.
• Join a food tour with Delicious Denver.
• Attend a professional sports game and cheer for the local teams.

11. Extreme Winter Adventures in Colorado

While Dan showcased some exceptional winter activities, Dave and I want to elevate the experience by sharing a few adventures perfect for adrenaline seekers and those looking for a new winter sport.

12. Backcountry Skiing

For true thrill-seekers, backcountry skiing offers unparalleled excitement, but proper skills are essential. Colorado provides excellent opportunities for guided backcountry skiing tours, ensuring safety and expert guidance in navigating avalanche risks.

Where to Go Back Country Skiing

Aspen Expeditions Worldwide (Aspen): Offers guided tours in Aspen and Snowmass.

Colorado Adventure Guides (Summit County): Features tours in Breckenridge and Copper Mountain.

San Juan Mountain Guides (Ouray and Telluride): Specializes in challenging tours in the San Juan Mountains.

Irwin Guides (Crested Butte): Provides custom experiences in the Elk Mountains.

Paragon Guides (Vail and Beaver Creek): Known for hut-to-hut skiing trips.

Rocky Mountain Alpine Guides (Rocky Mountain National Park): Offers guided tours in stunning terrains.

13. Fat Biking

During winter, mountain bikes are converted to fat bikes, making them ideal for snowy trails, and rentals are widely available. As you navigate the trails, remember to check local conditions and permits.

Where to Go Fat Biking in Colorado

Crested Butte: Known as the birthplace of mountain biking, offering numerous trails for fat biking.

Aspen/Snowmass: Offers excellent fat biking trails with available rentals and guided tours.

Durango: Features local favorites such as Horse Gulch and Telegraph Trail Systems.

Steamboat Springs: Known for its ‘Champagne Powder’, ideal for fat biking conditions.

Breckenridge: Offers scenic fat biking trails with winter landscapes.

14. Dog Sledding

Experience the thrill of dog sledding, where you can enjoy beautiful backcountry scenery. Ensure you book with a reputable company for a safe and fun experience.

Where to Go Dog Sledding in Colorado

Breckenridge: Known for ski slopes, also offers memorable dog sledding adventures.

Winter Park: Local outfitters provide tours through the scenic Fraser Valley.

15. Ice Climbing

Colorado presents exceptional ice climbing opportunities, best enjoyed with an expert guide. There are numerous locations offering ice climbing courses and tours.

Where to Go Ice Climbing in Colorado

Ouray Ice Park: Features over 200 man-made and mixed climbs.

Lake City: Less crowded and offers various natural formations.

Vail Valley: Guided tours available for hidden ice falls.

Telluride: Offers a range of routes with expert guidance.

East Vail Chutes: Recommended for more experienced climbers.

16. Snowshoe in Colorado

Snowshoeing may not seem extreme, but it provides an excellent workout and can be easier than hiking in winter conditions. It’s a fantastic way to explore deep snow areas.

Where to Go Snowshoeing in Colorado

Rocky Mountain National Park: Offers trails like Bear Lake and Emerald Lake, ideal for snowshoeing.

Aspen and Snowmass: Numerous trails offer spectacular views for snowshoeing enthusiasts.

Breckenridge: Also has scenic trails such as Boreas Pass.

Vail: Various trails optimal for snowshoeing.

Steamboat Springs: Known for great conditions and popular trails.

Telluride: The San Juan Mountains provide stunning landscapes.

Crested Butte: Renowned for exceptional snowshoeing opportunities.

Winter Packing Tips

When preparing for your winter adventure, pack layers, including breathable base layers, insulating layers, and a waterproof outer layer. For more tips on winter packing, visit: 5 Winter Layering Tips to Dress for Extreme Cold Weather.

These are all the best winter activities to do in Colorado. The Centennial State is a fantastic winter travel destination. So what are you waiting for? Get outside and enjoy the snow in Colorado this winter.