Colorado in winter is a snowy wonderland. You can ski. You can snowshoe. You can relax in a hot spring. This guide lists the top things to do in winter Colorado. It suits new visitors and returning travellers alike.
Colorado suits both thrill seekers and slow travellers. You can chase fast runs in the morning. You can sit by a fire in the evening. Denver also gives you city sights in winter. Read on for ideas you can plan around.
Colorado Ski Resorts
Colorado is famous for skiing. Resorts suit beginners. Resorts also suit expert skiers. Pick a resort that fits your skill level. Check snow and lift details before you travel. See our Wolf Creek ski resort guide for one resort example.
Colorado Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is simple. You need snow on the ground. You do not need years of training. You also do not need costly gear to start. Pack warm layers. Pack snowshoes and sturdy boots. Check trail and snow details before you set out.
Useful kit includes warm base layers. Add wool socks and a warm hat. Add a waterproof jacket and gloves. Add snow pants and sturdy boots. Dress in layers you can add or remove.
Backcountry Hut Trips
A hut trip mixes rest and adventure. You stay in a backcountry hut. You wake to mountain views. You can ski or snowshoe from the hut. It is a quiet way to enjoy winter.
You can stay in one hut for a calm retreat. You can also travel from hut to hut. Book in advance. Huts fill up in winter. Check route and weather details before you travel.
Colorado Snow Biking
Snow biking puts a bike on snow. It suits riders who want a change from skiing. It also suits riders who like a slower pace. Start on a groomed trail. Dress warm and wear a helmet.
Some resorts rent snow bikes. Ask about a short lesson if you are new. Pack water and a snack. Plan a full day out. Check trail rules before you ride.
Colorado Fat Biking
Fat biking uses a bike with wide tyres. Wide tyres help on snow. Fat bikes are popular at ski areas and on groomed trails. It is a fun way to ride in winter.
Some Nordic centres allow fat bikes on their trails. Check local rules first. Rent a bike if you do not own one. Start with an easy route. Dress warm and ride at a steady pace.
Colorado Snowkiting
Snowkiting uses a kite and a board or skis. Wind pulls you across the snow. It is like kiteboarding on water. It gives you a day away from the slopes. Learn with a guide if you are new.
Colorado Ice Fishing
Ice fishing is a calm winter activity in Colorado. You fish through a hole in frozen water. Dress very warm. Bring warm drinks and a shelter if you can.
Check ice conditions and local advice before you go. Ice can change from lake to lake. Go with someone who knows the area. Stay safe and dress for cold wind.
Colorado Ice Climbing
Ice climbing is a bold winter sport in Colorado. Climbers use axes and crampons on frozen waterfalls. It needs skill and training. Start with a guided climb if you are new.
Ouray is a well known place for ice climbing in Colorado. Lake City is another area climbers visit. Check local conditions and access before you travel. Climb only with the right gear and experience.
Colorado Ice Skating
Ice skating is a classic winter treat in Colorado. Outdoor rinks suit new skaters and confident skaters alike. Wear warm layers and gloves. Take your time if you are new.
Some towns and resorts run outdoor rinks in winter. Check opening times and ice conditions before you go. Rent skates if you do not own a pair. Skate only where ice is marked as safe.
Colorado Horseback Riding
Horseback riding in winter gives you a slow view of snowy trails. Winter Park is one place where winter rides run. Dress warm. Listen to your guide.
Guided rides suit new riders best. Book ahead in busy winter weeks. Check what warm clothing the operator advises. Wear sturdy boots and gloves.
Colorado Sleigh Rides
A sleigh ride is a slow way to enjoy snowy scenery. A horse pulls the sleigh. You sit under warm blankets. It suits couples and families alike.
Many rides run in mountain towns in winter. Dress warm and bring gloves. Book ahead if you travel in a busy week.
Colorado Snowmobiling
Snowmobiling is a fast way to explore snowy ground. You ride a motorised sled over snow. It suits riders who want speed and open space. Dress warm and wear a helmet.
Guided tours suit first timers best. A guide leads the route. Check trail rules and age rules before you book. Rent gear through the tour operator if you need it.
Colorado Dog Sledding
Dog sledding is a ride through snowy forest. A team of dogs pulls the sled. A musher steers from behind. It is a quiet and memorable winter ride.
Operators run in many mountain communities and ski areas. Book ahead in winter. Dress warm. Listen to the musher before you set out.
Colorado Snow Tubing
Snow tubing is simple fun for the whole family. You sit in a tube. You slide down a snowy hill. You do not need ski skills to enjoy it.
It suits families with young children. Many resorts run tubing hills in winter. Check age and height rules before you go. Dress warm and wear gloves.
Colorado Hot Springs
Hot springs are a calm way to end a winter day. You soak in warm water outdoors. Snow may fall around you. It is a restful break from cold air.
After skiing or hiking, a warm soak feels good. Some springs suit families. Some suit quiet visits. Check opening times and rules before you go.
Colorado in winter suits many travellers. Pick a few ideas from this guide. Mix fast days with slow days. Check weather and road details before you travel. See our winter vacations in Colorado guide for more trip plans.
Mountain Towns and Denver in Winter
Mountain towns give winter a slower pace. Walk main streets. Browse shops. Stop for warm food and drink. Stay in town for a night if you can. It is an easy break between ski days.
Denver also works well as a winter base. You can visit city sights. You can enjoy shops and dining. See our things to do in Denver in January guide for city ideas. Check our Colorado weather guide before you travel. Read our guide to driving around Vail Pass for mountain road tips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Colorado worth visiting in winter?
Yes. Colorado in winter offers snow sports. It also offers hot springs and mountain towns. It suits active travellers and slow travellers alike.
What are the best things to do in Colorado in winter if I do not ski?
Try snowshoeing and snow tubing. Try ice skating and a sleigh ride. Visit a mountain town. Relax in a hot spring.
Is Colorado in winter good for families?
Yes. Snow tubing suits young children. Ice skating and sleigh rides suit families too. Check age and height rules before you book.
What should I wear in Colorado in winter?
Wear warm layers. Add a waterproof jacket and gloves. Add a warm hat and sturdy boots. Add snow pants for outdoor days.
When does winter last in Colorado?
Winter conditions often run through the cold months. Snow can fall from late autumn to early spring. Check local weather and road details before you travel.
Is Denver a good base for a winter trip in Colorado?
Yes. Denver gives you city sights and dining. It also gives you a base for mountain trips. Check weather and road details before you drive to the mountains.
