Colorado is a winter wonderland with gorgeous snowy landscapes and breathtaking mountain views. Snowshoeing is one of the best ways to explore these stunning areas and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced snowshoer, Colorado offers a variety of fantastic locations to hit the trails in winter. Here are the top places in the state for snowshoeing.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most popular destinations for snowshoeing in Colorado. With over 300 miles of trails, there’s something for everyone, from easy hikes to challenging treks. The park has a diverse landscape of snow-covered forests, towering mountains, and frozen lakes that make for a unique and stunning snowshoeing experience. Be sure to check with the park before you go; some areas may require permits or have seasonal closures.
Breckenridge Nordic Center
The Breckenridge Nordic Center offers excellent snowshoeing trails in Summit County. The center has over 1,400 acres of terrain with stunning views of the Tenmile mountain range. They have trails for all skill levels, from gentle beginner trails to more challenging routes. The Nordic Center also offers guided snowshoe tours, giving you the chance to explore the area with experienced guides.
Vail Nordic Center
The Vail Nordic Center is another great spot for snowshoeing in Colorado. The center offers over 10 kilometers of snowshoe trails and has a wide range of terrain for all ability levels. The trails wind through aspen groves, evergreen forests, and open meadows, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The center also has guided snowshoe tours and rentals available, making it easy to explore the area.
Grand Mesa National Forest
Grand Mesa National Forest offers some of the top snowshoeing trails on the Western Slope. The Mesa has over 55 kilometers of trails that wind through stunning landscapes of snow-covered spruce and aspen forests. Snowshoers can enjoy the peacefulness and solitude of the quiet and remote areas of the forest. Visitors can also rent snowshoes at the visitor center or join a guided snowshoe hike.
Mueller State Park
Mueller State Park is a great spot for snowshoeing in the Pikes Peak region. The park has a variety of terrain, from steep hills to gentle meadows, making it suitable for snowshoers of all skill levels. The trails offer stunning views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and Pikes Peak. Snowshoe rentals and guided hikes are available at the park.
Brainard Lake Recreation Area
The Brainard Lake Recreation Area is another popular spot for snowshoeing in Colorado. The area has several trails that lead to frozen lakes and stunning mountain views. The area also has a variety of wildlife, including moose, elk, and snowshoe hares. Visitors can rent snowshoes and poles at the winter sports rental shop near the entrance to the park.
Estes Park
Estes Park is a charming mountain town that’s perfect for a snowshoeing getaway. The town has many trails that wind through the beautiful forests and offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Some of the popular trails include Hermit Park Open Space, Gem Lake, and Lily Lake. Visitors can rent snowshoes from several local shops in town.
Mount Falcon Park
Mount Falcon Park is a popular spot for snowshoeing in the Denver area. The park offers gorgeous views of the city and the Rocky Mountains and has several trails that are suitable for snowshoers. The Castle Trail is a popular and challenging trail that winds through the park and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Conclusion
Colorado offers endless opportunities for snowshoeing and exploring the beautiful winter landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned snowshoer or a beginner, the state has something for everyone. From the stunning Rocky Mountain National Park to charming mountain towns like Estes Park, you’re sure to find a spot that caters to your needs. So, grab your snowshoes and hit the trails for an unforgettable winter adventure.