10 Winter Activities to do in Colorado Besides Skiing

Can you imagine a Colorado winter without skiing or snowboarding? We just did! Fear not, there’s still tons to do! Check out these 10 Colorado winter activities to try this season.

If you haven’t already noticed, Colorado doesn’t skip a beat when it comes to winter! By mid-November, most of the state has become a total winter-wonderland, and its residents start flocking to the mountains with snow gear in tow. Coloradans take ski season seriously, and the 26 ski resorts around the state draw visitors from around the world. In fact, more than seven million people skied or snowboarded in Colorado just last year!

But what about those of us who aren’t so keen on skiing or snowboarding? What about those of us who just want to try something different this year?

We’ve created a list of 10 unique ways to enjoy winter in Colorado this year! Enjoy!

1. Snowmobiling in Breckenridge

Get ready to enjoy the Colorado mountains in a new and exciting way! Breckenridge Snowmobiling provides guided and unguided snowmobiling tours, giving you access to remote forest trails, vast meadows, and unparalleled views of some of the nation’s highest peaks. This activity is perfect for those looking for a mix of beauty and adrenaline. Head to Breckenridge Snowmobiling to make your reservation today!

2. Explore Rocky Mountain National Park by Snowshoe

Rocky Mountain National Park in known for its miles of hiking trails and picturesque alpine lakes. While these hikes are primarily visited during the summer months, don’t let the snow deter you from enjoying the great mountain views. All of the lakes are accessible via snowshoeing trails and offer varying difficulties.

For an easy-going outing with the family, consider Bear Lake, Sprague Lake, or Lily Lake. For a lengthier hike, check out Trail Ridge Road. This alpine highway closes during the winter months due to snowfall — making it a great location for snowshoeing and winter views of North Rocky Mountain National park.

3. Ice Skating in Downtown Denver

If you haven’t skated in Downtown Denver, now’s your chance! This year, Denver is celebrating 10 years of the Downtown Denver Rink at Skyline Park, offering free ice skating seven days a week from November to February. Just bring your skates (or rent a pair) and join the ranks as one of nearly half a million people who have skated the rink in the last decade. The ice rink is located near Denver’s 16th Street — perfect for grabbing dinner and drinks before or after you skate!

Insider Tip: If you are looking for something more competitive than a casual skate with your family, consider joining a COED game of Broomball.

4. Sleigh Ride Dinner

Looking for a memorable family outing or a romantic date night? We’ve got just the thing! Head to 4 Eagle Ranch in Wolcott, Colorado for one of their seasonal Sleigh Ride Dinners, where you’ll enjoy a cozy sleigh ride accompanied by a warm drink, a bowl of chili, and stargazing to remember. Following the ride, you’ll be treated to an authentic ranch supper, an open-fire, and entertainment throughout the evening. Finish the night with s’mores by the campfire.

5. Go Ice Fishing at Antero Reservoir

Calling all fishermen and women out there! Ice Fishing is a wonderful way to enjoy the peace and calm of Colorado in the wintertime. Join Ice Fish Colorado for a guided day of ice fishing at Antero Reservoir. The pristine reservoir is located just over an hour from Colorado Springs and is home to some of the largest fish in the state.

Insider Tip: Be sure to know and understand the guidelines and safety regulations before you head out for your day of fun! 

6. Snow Tubing in Keystone

Want to enjoy the energy of the slopes without skiing or snowboarding? Snow tubing just might be your cup of tea! Keystone’s Adventure Point is fitted with a state-of-the-art conveyor lift, lights for night tubing, and six lanes with varying steepness. This activity is perfect for everyone over the age of four. Just bring yourself and some warm clothes and get ready to laugh your way down the mountain!

7. Ice Climbing in Ouray

Whether you’re looking for the next extreme send or just looking for snow, exploring Ouray’s ice park is a unique way to experience a piece of Colorado in the winter. The Ouray Ice Park is home to more than 100 man made ice climbing routes of varying difficulties — even some for the kiddos! If you are new to the sport, guided climbs can be arranged, but experienced climbers are welcome to jump right into the gorge and get cracking.

Insider Tip: For anyone looking to just watch from the side, the park is just a short walk from the center of Ouray’s dreamy little downtown.

8. Go on a Food Tour in Colorado Springs

Come winter, no one wants to be walking the streets, aimlessly looking for a spot to eat. Explore Colorado Springs’ unique food scene with intention this winter as you cozy up mouth-watering cuisine in some of the city’s quaintest joints. At Rocky Mountain Food Tours, you’ll get a glimpse into Colorado Springs’ culinary world with the help and knowledge of a local guide!

Insider Tip: There are three different tours available featuring Colorado food, local craft beer, or delicious cocktails! Public tours run every week, year round. Contact us if you have a group and would like to set up a private experience!

9. Torchlight Parade in Winter Park

Make this Christmas Eve memorable with Winter Park’s festive Torchlight Parade! Visitors can enjoy a seat by the bonfire with a warm drink while they watch the sunset. The Torchlight Parade doesn’t truly begin until after dark, when the mountain lights up with flares and fireworks! This one night only event makes for the perfect Holiday tradition — If you’re lucky, you might even spot Santa!

10. See the Royal Gorge by Train

Visit the Royal Gorge for a special experience this winter —The Royal Gorge Route Railroad provides guests with 360-degree views of some of the nation’s most incredible sights. For kiddos and the young at heart, be sure to catch the Santa Express Train. Guests will experience a Holiday themed journey that leads to Santa himself. During the train ride, you’ll be able to get some Holiday shopping done at the retail store, sing along to Christmas carols, and enjoy hot cocoa, some treats, and a locally sourced meal.

Who said you couldn’t enjoy Colorado without skiing or snowboarding? We hope you enjoy some (or all!) of these fun winter activities this year in Colorado!

Cheers! Your Rocky Mountain Food Tours Team

(So, what’s a food tour, anyway…?)

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