Photo Credit: John Picken
A Colorado winter is not just a beautiful picture of a snowy landscape you might see in a magazine. To really understand why this part of North America is world renowned for its winter recreation and stunning scenic beauty, all you have to do is experience it once. Let this be your guide to the best of what a Colorado winter vacation has to offer.
Skiing & Snowboarding
The best skiing in North America is found right here in Colorado, on the slopes of some of the finest resort facilities in the world. Colorado ski trips have become annual events for many families around the country and international skiers and snowboarders as well. Here are some of the most popular Colorado ski resort destinations.
- Aspen
- Beaver Creek
- Breckenridge
- Copper Mountain
- Durango
- Keystone
- Mt. Crested Butte
- Steamboat Springs
- Vail
- Winter Park
The fun and adventure of Colorado vacations aren’t limited to the ski slopes these days. In fact many other winter sport activities have become very popular in Colorado and throughout the country.
Dog Sledding
There’s something very special and close to nature about sledding along a Colorado mountain trail behind happily barking dogs, the trees sliding past with picturesque mountain backdrops all around. You’ll find professional dog sledding tours and lessons throughout Colorado, like Good Time Adventures in Breckenridge or Mountain Musher out of Vail.
Ice Climbing
Why should rock climbing have to stop one a Colorado winter sets in? At places like Ouray the challenges never stop. The Ouray Ice Park is the world’s first ice climbing park and is located in the Uncompahgre Gorge in Ouray, Colorado. Every Autumn as the temperature starts dipping below freezing, water is released down the sides of the gorge where it freezes and creates spectacular formations perfect for climbing. Every January the ice park holds its annual Ouray Ice Festival and Climbing Competition.
Snowmobiling
A close second to skiing in popularity is snowmobiling the endless miles of groomed trails that you’ll find at nearly every Colorado resort. In fact one of the best ways to see the Colorado backcountry is on a guided snowmobile tour like those from Grand Adventures and Cottonwood Country. For those with previous experience on a snow mobile there are unguided rentals as well which allow you to strike out on your own adventure. Just be very aware of where you plan to go ahead of time and take all safety precautions. It’s a good idea to consult with the local Forest Service office about avalanche dangers.
Snowkiting
Try your hand at perhaps the most thrilling new winter sport and learn how to ski or snowboard using a kite and the power of the wind. Colorado Kite Force and the Telluride Snowkite School can get you started and up to speed with lessons and equipment.
Fun and adventure await you on a Colorado winter vacation in the Rockies.
