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Colorado Winter Activities

Winter in Colorado

Winter in Colorado

When you think of winter in Colorado, you probably imagine grand ski slopes, big halfpipes, and fabulous ski towns. Well, that’s all true and something any real connoisseur should experience; however, Colorado has much more going on than just skiing and riding.

Winter in Colorado’s Resort Towns

Colorado’s resort towns are winter wonderlands and add to the winter vacation experience. Join in on the slopeside apres ski scene; it’s a fun social opportunity with your friends and a chance to meet new ones. Base areas also access ski lodges, shopping, dining, transportation, and more. If you’re with a group, event centers are available to host whatever you have in mind. A big day on the slopes will make you tired and sore. Plenty of spas are just around the corner and offer various services.

Vacationing in a Colorado resort town is a fun experience for everyone. Resort towns have become experts at facilitating the tourist crowd. Downtown areas are full of boutique shops, art galleries, restaurants, pubs, cafes, event venues, and more. Wandering around a Colorado resort town is a must-do for any visitor.

Winter in Colorado’s Resort Towns

Winter in Colorado Aspen

Skiing and Riding in Colorado

Some of the Best

Winter in Colorado produces some of the best skiing and riding in the world. In fact, there are 25 world-class ski resorts and many smaller ones. Colorado's ski areas span the state, covering more than 40,000 acres of terrain beginning at the sky-scraping Continental Divide and unfolding north, south, east, and west deep into the Centennial State's majestic mountain ranges. Colorado's ski slopes and terrain parks have been expertly designed to cater to beginners through expert-level skiers and riders. Resorts will have ski and ride schools to help bring along any level of athlete. Clinics and special programs are also available. You will find that handicapped people are catered to, as well as the new and growing uphill crowd. If you have a young family, childcare services and ski/ride programs for kids are available to help make the family experience most enjoyable.

Ski and Ride Gear

Don't worry about the gear if you’re new to the sport. There are so many sports shops that you might even accidentally walk into one. If you’re unsure which shop will best accommodate your group, start by asking the concierge or the booking agent who helped set up your trip. In addition to getting set up with the best gear, you’re looking for services such as convenient ski storage or slopeside access to your gear, transportation to the slopes, and help with your gear if necessary. If you have brought your own gear, find a ski shop or a slopeside locker service so you don’t have to carry all that cumbersome gear around. Shops are great to partner with as they can get your gear tuned and ready to go.

winter in colorado skiing

Nordic Centers, Cross-Country Skiing

Ski Touring Centers (snowshoeing)

If cross-country skiing or snowshoeing is your passion, or there are people in your group who want to check this out, Colorado’s resorts are the place to be. Not far from the alpine resort, you will find a ski touring center. These low-key, friendly centers welcome newbies and offer lessons and gear rental. They usually have a cafe and a ski shop. It’s a nice change of pace, and tickets are a fraction of what you’ll pay at the Alpine resort.

Winter in Colorado Cross Country Skiing

Destination Resorts in the Winter

Guest Ranches - Destination Resorts

Tucked away in more remote locations are Colorado resorts that are commonly referred to as Guest Ranches. Winter in Colorado transitions activities at these ranches, and they take on new reasons to visit. Below are a few standouts.

Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort and Spa is a perfect example of this type of destination. Located in northern Colorado. This destination ranch has 120km of groomed trails, with a complete pro-shop, lessons, gear, snowshoes, and dogs are welcome. The lodge is exquisite, complete with dining facilities and a spa.

Grand Lake Nordic Center is also located in northern Colorado. This destination resort has 35km of groomed Nordic trails, a tubing hill, an on-site restaurant, and a summer golf course, and it is dog-friendly. They don’t provide lodging, but there’s plenty of that nearby.

Vista Verde Guest Ranch, just north of Steamboat Springs in Clark, Colorado, is a luxury destination resort and spa with year-round attractions. During winter in Colorado they offer:

  • 15km of groomed cross-country trails for both classic and skate skiing.
  • Guided snowshoeing.
  • A snowtubing hill.
  • Backcountry ski tours with guides and equipment available.
  • Fat biking or winter mountain biking.
  • Horseback riding goes year-round as they have an incredible indoor facility.
  • Hop on board a sleigh ride before an exquisite dinner.
  • Explore the National Forest via snowmobile tours.

These are just a few examples of resort destinations that truly remove you from the hustle of daily life. There are more throughout Colorado, you will just have to poke around to find the destination resort that meets your needs.

Colorado’s Hot Springs in the Winter

Iron Mountain Hot Springs

Winter at Colorado's Natural Hot Springs

Natural Hot Spring Resorts Open Year-round

Most of Colorado’s natural hot spring resorts are open year-round. The natural spring water is always hot, and experiencing its benefits is often more soothing in the winter than summer. These resorts vary in their accommodations, but many offer onsite lodging, dining, and spa services.

The popular Glenwood Springs Hot Springs and Spa between Aspen and Vail is an icon of relaxation and rejuvenation. The resort is home to the world's largest hot springs pool, a full-service athletic club, a gift shop, a grill, and a 107-room lodge. They offer specials such as the wellness package, ski swim stay, the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park package, and more. The Shoshone Chutes adventure river ride keeps kids of all ages engaged. This is a perfect destination resort for the whole family.

Iron Mountain Hot Springs, also located in Glenwood Springs, overlooks the Colorado River. This resort emphasizes smaller (total of 16) geothermal pools, ranging in temperature, and a single freshwater pool to cool off in. The resort includes a bathhouse and two Cafés. There is no lodging onsite, but there are plenty of choices nearby. The emphasis is on the adult experience at this resort.

Indian Hot Springs, located in Idaho Springs just off of I-70, is the closest natural hot spring to Denver. Consider making an overnight stay at this resort and spa. They have rooms and cabins with kitchens. There is no onsite dining, but there are lots to choose from nearby. They do offer spa services to complement your relaxing stay.

Explore Colorado's natural hot springs via our Hot Springs Guide. There are many to choose from, and each one is unique in what they offer.

Other Popular Winter in Colorado Activities

  • Snowmobile and winter buggy tours. These tours are a popular way to really “get out there” and explore the winterscape.
  • A winter scenic train ride. This is another spectacular way to experience Colorado’s more remote mountain vistas and learn about days gone by.
  • Sleigh rides. Authentic horse-drawn sleigh rides are found throughout Colorado. A dinner experience accompanies most.
  • Ice fishing. Lakes are all over Colorado, and ice fishing is a great way to enjoy them in the winter. Local shops will set you up with all the gear and guides can be hired too.
  • Tubing and sledding hills. Colorado has some exceptional sledding/tubing hills worth a visit for some big fun.
  • Winter Events. Events are ongoing in Colorado, and winter has a whole set of highlights.

winter in Colorado snow tubing

Winter in Colorado Getting Around

With convenient non-stop flights to Denver and some of the regional airports in Colorado, getting to your favorite resort is easy. Once landed, ground transportation will take you to your destination doorstep. Going to Winter Park? Take the “Winter Train” via DIA’s A-Line Train that connects in Union Station, and go straight to Winter Park!

Summit County Transportation

If you’re basing your winter in Colorado vacation from the Summit County area which means you could be staying in any of the following resort towns:

  • Silverthorne
  • Frisco
  • Dillon
  • Breckenridge
  • Copper Mnt

The FREE Summit Stage bus can get you around the entire Summit County area. That means you can easily access four world-class ski and ride resorts (Breck, Keystone, A-Basin, Copper Mnt). Download the app and stay up to date with the time and place of this bus line.

Alpenglo Adventure Tours is another fantastic transportation service in the Summit County area. This company specializes in door-to-door tour service for scenic trains, brews booze and bud tours, and the Zephyr train.

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Colorado Summer

Colorado Summer Vacation Plan

Colorado Summer Vacation Plan, the best season

This is the perfect starting point for planning your Colorado summer vacation. Visiting during the summer is arguably the best time to experience everything this glorious state has to offer.

As the most geographically diverse region in the United States, the Mountain West provides endless natural wonders to explore. Your road trip adventure begins with choosing destinations that match your expectations, mapping out scenic mountain routes, and finding family-friendly activities along the way.

Be sure to use our FREE itinerary tool to organize your entire vacation.

  • Sporting

    Engage in your favorite mountain sports. Such as Golf, Bicycling, Rock Climbing, Horseback Riding, Adventure Parks, Fishing.

    Learn More

  • Get Out There

    Learn about Colorado's State and National Parks, RV Travel, Hiking, Backpacking, Wildlife & Birdwatching, Wildflowers.

    Learn More

  • Family Fun

    Check out these family-fun activities: Things to do with Kids, Aerial & Adventure Parks, Hot Springs, Educational Tours.

    Learn More

  • On the Water

    Check out how to get your toes wet. Whitewater Rafting, Lakes & Marinas, Sailing, Paddle Crafts, Fishing.

    Learn More

  • Sightseeing & History

    Ways to get an eyeful and learn about the past. Historical Scenic Train Rides, Gondola Rides, Off-Road Tours, Ghost Towns, Dinosaurs, Museums.

    Learn More

  • Culture

    Experience these native activities. Check the Events Calendar, Wine Tasting Rooms, Breweries, Find a Rodeo, stop at a Farmers Market.

    Learn More

  • Shopping

    Colorado has everything from immersive Malls, Antique Shops, Art Galleries & Art Walks, Artsian Markets, many made-in-Colorado wares.

    Learn More

  • Scenic Drives

    Colorado's vistas are a journey not to miss. Find exceptional scenic drives, byways, and leaf peeping.

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  • Top Spots

    Colorado has some very attractive destinations. State standouts: Estes Park, Royal Gorge Region, State & National Parks, Resort Towns.

    Learn More

  • Big Kids
    Some things are just for adults. Wine Tasting Rooms, Casinos, Brews & Bud Tours, Romantic Getaways.

    Learn More

Eagles Nest Wilderness

Nature & Public Lands: The Great Colorado Outdoors

Colorado’s landscape is a masterclass in diversity, featuring everything from 14,000-foot "Fourteeners" to rolling sand dunes and deep river canyons. With nearly half the state designated as public land, your options for exploration are practically infinite. Whether you are looking for the amenities of a state park or the rugged solitude of a national forest, the "Centennial State" is your playground.

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Adventure Parks

Family & Adventure Parks: High-Altitude Thrills

When the snow melts, Colorado’s ski resorts transform into summer "Discovery" centers. From alpine slides and mountain coasters to world-class aerial parks, these destinations offer a "Disney World of the Mountains" experience. It’s the perfect way to keep the kids engaged while enjoying the crisp mountain air.

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DillonImages_2.jpg

Water & Recreation: Rafting, Lakes, and Rivers

Water in Colorado is a precious summer resource. Between the adrenaline-pumping whitewater of the Arkansas River and the glass-like serenity of Grand Lake, there is a "liquid" adventure for every pace. Whether you’re piloting a motorboat, paddling a SUP, or bracing for a Class IV rapid, the high country water is calling.

Explore More:

Colorado Summer Vacation plan Royal Gorge Dinosaur Experience

Sightseeing & History: Echoes of the Old West

Touch the living history of the American West. Colorado’s past is etched into its landscape—from the dinosaur tracks of the Royal Gorge to the silver-mining ghost towns of the high country. Sightseeing here is an immersive journey through time, easily accessible via historic trains and guided jeep tours.

Explore More:

Colorado Summer Vacation plan georgetown loop train

Events, Wine & Culture: The Spirit of Summer

Summer in Colorado is one long celebration. From the legendary Red Rocks Amphitheater to the sun-soaked peach orchards of the Western Slope, the state's cultural calendar is packed. Experience the unique "high-altitude" profiles of our wineries or dive into the world-renowned craft brewery scene.

Explore More:

Artisan shopping in Colorado

Shopping & Local Treasures: Malls to Mountains

Shopping in Colorado is an exercise in variety. You can spend your morning browsing luxury flagships in Denver and your afternoon hunting for 19th-century antiques in a small mountain town. Colorado is also a haven for artisan entrepreneurs, offering custom gear and boutique clothing you won't find anywhere else.

Explore More:

San Juan Skyway

Scenic Drives & Byways: Views from the Top

In Colorado, the road to your destination is often a highlight of the trip. Our 26 Scenic and Historic Byways offer front-row seats to spectacular panoramas, lush forests, and glimpses of elk and bighorn sheep. From the towering heights of Trail Ridge Road to the winding beauty of the Million Dollar Highway, these drives are a "must" for any road trip.

Explore More:

Horseback Riding in Colorado

Sporting & Recreation: Active Adventures

For those who prefer their vacation with a side of cardio, Colorado offers world-class facilities and natural terrain. Whether you're chasing a "birdie" at 8,000 feet, grinding gravel on a mountain bike, or exploring the backcountry on horseback, the high-altitude air provides a new element of challenge.

Explore More:

Beaver-Creek-Resort

Top Destinations: Exploring Colorado's Regions

Every corner of Colorado has a unique heartbeat. To plan the perfect vacation, you first have to find your region. From the bustling energy of the Front Range to the secluded beauty of the Western Slope and the world-famous resort towns of the Central Mountains, your base camp awaits.

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Best for Big Kids

Discover sophisticated activities and leisure tailored for the mature traveler. Whether you're planning a full weekend getaway or just taking a little time off, these experiences offer the perfect blend of relaxation and discovery.

A Colorado Summer Vacation Plan and more

There are many more amazing places and things to do on your Colorado Summer Vacation, and hopefully, you will make discoveries along your journey.

Your summer vacation plan starts with finding destinations and activities that interest you, then crafting your summer road trip route to accommodate these visits.

If finding kids' activities is a primary focus, please check out this article about kids' activities in Colorado. Please use the free itinerary tool, as it is indispensable for organizing your trip. Have a nice summer vacation in Colorado!

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Colorado Summer

Colorado Travel Guide

Colorado Travel Guide - The "Know Before You Go"

In Colorado, the landscape is legendary, but the conditions are unpredictable. Whether you are navigating the high-altitude hairpins of a mountain pass or navigating the terminals of the world’s most iconic airport, success depends on one thing: information. Use the guides below to ensure your 2026 adventure is defined by the views, not the obstacles.

Be sure to use our FREE itinerary tool to organize your entire vacation.

Eagles Nest Wilderness

Nature & Public Lands: The Great Colorado Outdoors

Colorado’s landscape is a masterclass in diversity, featuring everything from 14,000-foot "Fourteeners" to rolling sand dunes and deep river canyons. With nearly half the state designated as public land, your options for exploration are practically infinite. Whether you are looking for the amenities of a state park or the rugged solitude of a national forest, the "Centennial State" is your playground.

Explore More:

Adventure Parks

Emergency Contacts

Emergency tips:

Please print this section or take a screenshot, just in case you're in a "Digital Dead Zone." This information will not load.

Location Services: know your Mile Marker or GPS Coordinates. "I'm on I-70 near the mountains" isn't helpful to dispatch; "I'm at Mile Marker 215 on Westbound I-70" will get help to you faster.

1. Immediate Life & Safety

911 (Emergency Only): For accidents, medical crises, or active fires.

Text-to-911: Available in most Colorado counties. If you are in a "Digital Dead Zone" where a voice call won't go through, try sending a brief text with your location and the nature of the emergency.

2. Roadside & Highway Assistance

*CSP (*277): Dial this from your mobile phone to reach the Colorado State Patrol. Use this to report aggressive drivers, road hazards, or to request help if you are stranded on a highway.

511 (CDOT Road Info): The automated line for real-time road closures and traffic alerts.

CDOT Safety Patrol (Sponsored by GEICO): On major corridors like I-70 and I-25, CDOT provides free limited roadside assistance (fuel, flat tires, jump-starts). Look for the yellow-and-blue trucks or call *CSP to see if a patrol is nearby.

3. Backcountry & Search and Rescue (SAR)

Contact: Dial 911 (Ask for the County Sheriff). In Colorado, the County Sheriff is responsible for all search-and-rescue operations.

The CORSAR Card: A "must-have" for hikers. It is not insurance, but a small annual fee ($3–$15) that helps reimburse local volunteer SAR teams for the costs of your rescue.

Expert Tip: Mention that Colorado SAR teams do not charge for rescues, but the CORSAR card helps fund these volunteer teams.

4. Environmental & Fire Alerts

Wildfire Reporting: If you see smoke or a new fire, dial 911 immediately.

Emergency Alerts (County Specific): Encourage visitors to sign up for temporary alerts. For 2026, many counties have moved to systems like DougCoAlert or Smart911.

COtrip Planner App: The best source for fire-related highway closures and evacuation routes.

5. Health & Medical Resources

Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222 (Universal).

COHELP: 1-877-462-2911 (Statewide public health info line).

High-Altitude Triage: Most resort towns (Vail, Aspen, Steamboat) have specialized 24-hour urgent care centers specifically for altitude sickness and mountain injuries.

6. Wildlife & Livestock

Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW): To report injured wildlife or dangerous encounters with bears, mountain lions, or moose.

Northeast Region (Denver/Boulder): 303-291-7227

Northwest Region (Steamboat/Grand Junction): 970-255-6100

DillonImages_2.jpg

Water & Recreation: Rafting, Lakes, and Rivers

Water in Colorado is a precious summer resource. Between the adrenaline-pumping whitewater of the Arkansas River and the glass-like serenity of Grand Lake, there is a "liquid" adventure for every pace. Whether you’re piloting a motorboat, paddling a SUP, or bracing for a Class IV rapid, the high country water is calling.

Explore More:

Colorado Summer Vacation plan Royal Gorge Dinosaur Experience

Sightseeing & History: Echoes of the Old West

Touch the living history of the American West. Colorado’s past is etched into its landscape—from the dinosaur tracks of the Royal Gorge to the silver-mining ghost towns of the high country. Sightseeing here is an immersive journey through time, easily accessible via historic trains and guided jeep tours.

Explore More:

Colorado Summer Vacation plan georgetown loop train

Events, Wine & Culture: The Spirit of Summer

Summer in Colorado is one long celebration. From the legendary Red Rocks Amphitheater to the sun-soaked peach orchards of the Western Slope, the state's cultural calendar is packed. Experience the unique "high-altitude" profiles of our wineries or dive into the world-renowned craft brewery scene.

Explore More:

Artisan shopping in Colorado

Shopping & Local Treasures: Malls to Mountains

Shopping in Colorado is an exercise in variety. You can spend your morning browsing luxury flagships in Denver and your afternoon hunting for 19th-century antiques in a small mountain town. Colorado is also a haven for artisan entrepreneurs, offering custom gear and boutique clothing you won't find anywhere else.

Explore More:

San Juan Skyway

Scenic Drives & Byways: Views from the Top

In Colorado, the road to your destination is often a highlight of the trip. Our 26 Scenic and Historic Byways offer front-row seats to spectacular panoramas, lush forests, and glimpses of elk and bighorn sheep. From the towering heights of Trail Ridge Road to the winding beauty of the Million Dollar Highway, these drives are a "must" for any road trip.

Explore More:

 

Horseback Riding in Colorado

Sporting & Recreation: Active Adventures

For those who prefer their vacation with a side of cardio, Colorado offers world-class facilities and natural terrain. Whether you're chasing a "birdie" at 8,000 feet, grinding gravel on a mountain bike, or exploring the backcountry on horseback, the high-altitude air provides the ultimate training ground.

Explore More:

Beaver-Creek-Resort

Top Destinations: Exploring Colorado's Regions

Every corner of Colorado has a unique heartbeat. To plan the perfect vacation, you first have to find your region. From the bustling energy of the Front Range to the secluded beauty of the Western Slope and the world-famous resort towns of the Central Mountains, your base camp awaits.

Explore More:

A Colorado Summer Vacation Plan and more

There are many more amazing places and things to do on your Colorado Summer Vacation, and hopefully, you will make discoveries along your journey.

Your summer vacation plan starts with finding destinations and activities that interest you, then crafting your summer road trip route to accommodate these visits.

If finding kids' activities is a primary focus, please check out this article about kids' activities in Colorado. Please use the free itinerary tool, as it is indispensable for organizing your trip. Have a nice summer vacation in Colorado!

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Alma

The settlement of Alma sprang up in 1873 when the Boston and Colorado Smelting Company built an operation there. At 10,578 feet, Alma currently is the highest incorporated town in the U.S. Listed on the State Register of Historic Properties, the 1925 Alma School is a rare local example of Mission-style buildings. It now serves as Alma’s Town Hall and is open to the public during regular business hours.

Also listed on the State Register, the 1936 Alma Community Church is a well-preserved stone church of the Rustic style. The 1871 Clesson Cabin was one of the first permanent residences in Alma. Contact Town Hall (719-836-2712) to arrange group tours of the town’s historic buildings.

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Snowy Colorado Mountains

Colorado Destinations

Unique Colorado Destination

The culturally rich city of Denver and the quiet mountain escape of Aspen are all attractive Colorado destinations. Colorado has a vacation destination for everyone. Are the high mountain peaks calling your name? Get to know Colorado and plan your trip to check off everything on your bucket list. Rafting, skiing, hiking, art shows, concerts, mountain biking, cycling, dining, fishing, mountain retreats, exploring nature, and much more. Coloradoinfo.com has divided Colorado into 3 regions. Each of these regions represents unique characteristics and proximity.

Colorado's cities and towns are as diverse and beautiful as its landscape.

View our interactive regional map of Colorado to take a closer look and find the locations you want to visit.
Check out our Activity Guides to find fun and interesting things to do in Colorado.

Colorado destinations - Gunnison National Forest

The Central Mountains

The heart of the Rocky Mountains spans the state north to south, and is home to the highest elevated cities and towns in the country, which feature over two dozen ski resorts. This region is Colorado’s gem for world-famous ski areas, mountain lifestyle, and activities.

The Rockies Playground, recently named by the Colorado Tourism Office, is the most central region of the Rocky Mountains and includes some of Colorado's most famous resort towns. Due to their close proximity and popularity as ski resorts, the name was chosen to appeal to potential tourists. This region's towns include Vail, Aspen, Breckenridge, Winter Park, Glenwood Springs, Dillon and Leadville. However, significant resort towns lie north and south of the playground region, including Steamboat Springs in north-central Colorado. Resort towns in south-central Colorado include: Crested Butte, Monarch, Del Norte, Powderhorn and Wolf Creek. The Central Mountains region captures almost all of the mountain towns north to south, aside from Telluride and Durango.

The Central Mountains region includes several spectacular national forests.national forest in Colorado

All of which include amazing mountain scenery, wildlife, trail systems, nearby camping and towns. From north to south:

The Front Range & Plains

A way of referring to how the plains of Colorado meet the eastern slope of the continental divide.

If you want to watch a Broadway show or enjoy a museum exhibit, you will have the most options in the Front Range. The urban cities of Denver, Boulder, Fort Collins, and Colorado Springs are well known for their performing arts, museums, and cultural festivals.

Don't Miss Front Range Colorado Destination

The Front Range region includes notable attractions such as Estes Park, the eastern gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park.

Pikes Peak, a whole family mountain attraction, lies just west of Colorado Springs. Featuring a scenic train, rafting, horseback riding and much more.

Red Rocks Amphitheatre, an amazing music venue in the foothills west of Denver.

Colorado's Western Slope

The Western Slope is a much more remote experience. Grand Junction is the largest city in the area and is often referred to as a city with a small-town feel. This high plains region is rich in agriculture, canyonlands, and warmer weather. The town of Palisade has both wineries and legendary peaches due to its extended growing season and access to water flowing out of the mountains to the east.

For those looking for a more remote experience should check out Gateway to the south of the Grand Valley. The wide open lands surrounding Gateway are a high desert wonderland with only a trickle of the traffic that comes through Grand Junction.

Northwest Colorado, or The Great West

Features of this area are the national parks such as Dinosaur National Park, the remote Brown’s Park, and the wild horses of the Sand Wash Basin. This area is popular with outdoor enthusiasts offering a variety of camping, RV parks, off-road vehicles, horseback riding, rafting, cycling and exploring in general. While the mountains are melting down, northwest Colorado is in full bloom.

Southwest Colorado, or The Mountain Mesas

Another very diverse region of Colorado with a mix of Colorado destinations and ski resort towns such as Telluride, and Durango. Complemented by Montrose, a very agricultural community but also rich with adventure. In the very southwest corner of Colorado is Cortez. Surrounded by big attractions such as  Mesa Verde National Park, Monument Valley . Cortez is also the gateway to the Four Corners and the Canyonlands of Utah.

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