colorado places to visit in winter

19 Magical Places To Visit In Colorado In The Winter

Colorado is a world-renowned winter destination thanks to endless cold weather activities and famous resort towns in the stunning Rocky Mountains.

From skiing and ice climbing, to shopping and hot spring soaking, Colorado is a winter paradise for anyone.

Looking for Colorado winter vacation ideas?

I’ve lived in the Denver area most my life and have visited every major mountain town in Colorado. These are a few of my favorites in winter.

Read on for the best places to visit in Colorado in the winter.

Table of Contents

The Best Places To Visit In Colorado In The Winter

Breckenridge, colorado.

Breckenridge, simply referred to as “Breck”, is one of Colorado’s most popular ski towns.

As one of the larger mountain towns you’ll have no problem finding a variety of things to do here.

Stroll Main Street, zip along miles of trails, après ski, enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride, go for a free gondola ride, and partake in the town’s endless list of festivities. 

For lots more, check out Breckenridge In Winter: Top Things To Do .

Getting Here & Where To Stay 

The nearest major airport is Denver International Airport at 95 miles away.

Breck offers an extensive selection of accommodations from luxury ski-in-ski-out hotels to quiet mountainside cabins.

My favorite hotels are The Lodge at Breckenridge and One Ski Hill Place . 

Pagosa Springs, Colorado

Pagosa Springs is one of the state’s best destinations for soaking it up and hitting the slopes.

Thanks to its remote location you’ll find fewer crowds here than in the acclaimed resort towns closer to Denver.

After an adventure filled morning of snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or downhill at Wolf Creek, spend your afternoon soaking in the hot springs.

The hot springs are, after all, what makes this Colorado mountain town so loved. 

Did you know Pagosa Springs is home to the world’s deepest geothermal hot spring aquifer?

There’s no doubt the springs make this one of the best Colorado winter vacation destinations!

Getting Here & Where To Stay In Pagosa Springs, Colorado In Winter

The nearest airports to Pagosa Springs are:

• Durango-La Plata County Airport – 56 miles away 
• Albuquerque International Sunport – 208 miles away
• Denver International Airport – 302 miles away 

Pagosa Springs is a smaller town but has some great lodging options.

Look into cozy mountainside rentals, or for easy hot springs access, stay at The Springs Resort & Spa .

Ouray, Colorado 

Ouray is a picturesque town tucked into the San Juan Mountains of Colorado.

Its main draw in the winter is ice climbing, thanks to the world famous Ouray Ice Park.

If you’re not up for ice climbing, check out guided backcountry skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.

No matter what you do, be sure to end your day relaxing in the Ouray Hot Springs. 

Tip: The Ouray Ice Festival is held at the end of January every year. This ice climbing competition is the town’s most popular event and one of the more unique winter activities in Colorado.

Getting Here & Where To Stay   

The nearest airport is Montrose Airport at 39 miles away, it’s regional but you can find quite a few major airlines here.

The nearest major airport is Denver International Airport at 325 miles away.

Ouray is quite small but has a handful of great hotels. Check out The Imogene Hotel or Ouray Inn .

Aspen, Colorado

Aspen is one of the most famous ski towns in the world. Despite its glitzy exterior, it’s just a regular ski town at its core.

Hit one of Aspen’s four ski resorts and sip a cold one on a patio.

Then shop at Gucci or a western wear store, party into the wee hours, and keep an eye out for the many celebrities who frequent this much-loved ski town. 

For more information, check out: Aspen In Winter: Top Things To Do .

Getting Here & Where To Stay In Aspen During The Winter

The nearest airport is Aspen / Pitkin County Airport, 4 miles away. As for international airports, the nearest is Denver International Airport, 223 miles away.

Aspen has a variety of luxury hotels and mountainside mansions to choose from this winter season.

My favorite hotels here are W Hotel Aspen and Hotel Jerome . 

If you’re on a budget, weekday visits and vacation rentals like Airbnb and VRBO , are your best bet.

Buena Vista, Colorado

This small town is situated between the stunning Collegiate Peaks and roaring Arkansas Rive.

The area is excellent for snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and taking in the outstanding views. It’s also known for having a laid-back vibe and friendly locals.

Buena Vista is also home to one of my favorite hot springs in the state, Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort.

For a magical winter experience, soak in the resort’s small pods along the river. 

Getting Here & Where To Stay

The nearest major airport is Denver International Airport at 147 miles away.

Buena Vista has a few small hotels and lodges. My favorite of which are the Surf Hotel & Chateau and Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort . 

If you plan to visit the springs, I recommend staying at the resort. Overnight guests have exclusive access to upgraded facilities. 

Tip: You may also like Buena Vista’s neighboring town, Salida.

Denver, Colorado

Denver is the largest city in Colorado, and despite sitting at 5,280 feet above sea level, sees surprisingly mild winter weather.

You’ll have no problem finding something to do in here with 200 parks, dozens of museums, and fun professional sports teams.

Not to mention, winter festivals galore and countless adventures within quick driving distance. 

For lots of ideas regarding what to do in Denver during winter, check out my Denver Winter Weekend Guide

Denver International Airport is located 25 miles away from downtown.

Downtown Denver is the best area to stay if visiting the Mile High City.

There are tons of lodging options, but if you’re looking for a unique stay check out The Crawford Hotel or The Art Hotel .

Vail , Colorado

Vail is one of the most renowned ski destinations in the world and an absolute monster of a resort — it’s the largest in the state and one of the largest in North America.

Vail Ski Resort has a whopping 5,289 acres of skiable terrain, 33 ski lifts, and 193 marked skiing trails on three faces: the front side, the back bowls, and Blue Sky Basin.

Phew , got all that?

After you’ve spent the day downhill or nordic skiing (or maybe snow tubing!) stroll through the cobblestoned European-inspired villages.

In the luxury villages shop, enjoy some hot chocolate, après, or relax in a world class spa.

For a full list of things to do, check out The Best Things To Do In Vail, Colorado During Winter

Eagle County Regional Airport is the closest airport at 37 miles away, and DIA is 119 miles away.

Lionshead and Vail Village are among the most popular areas in Vail Valley. The two are right next to each other and it’s easy to navigate between them.

My favorite hotel in Lionshead is The Arrabelle and in Vail Village, The Lodge at Vail .

Crested Butte , Colorado

Crested Butte is one of the state’s most underrated ski destinations.

The resort may be on the smaller side, but it makes up for it with diverse runs and small crowds.

Spend your day skiing, fat biking, or snowshoeing followed by shopping on Elk Street and dinner at a delicious local restaurant. 

Never heard of fat biking? It’s an off-road bicycle with oversized tires. The tires allow for extra traction and grip, perfect for biking in the snow.

Crested Butte loves summer biking, it’s no surprise winter fat biking is much-loved as well.

Getting Here & Where To Stay In Crested Butte, Colorado 

Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport is just 29 miles away. Denver International Airport is the nearest international airport at 253 miles away.

Crested Butte has a mix of large hotels and quaint inns.

The Nordic Inn and Grand Lodge Crested Butte are among the most popular options.  

Colorado National Monument

Perhaps snowy mountains aren’t your idea of a magical winter in Colorado? That’s no problem.

The red rock, western slope of Colorado is for you.

Colorado National Monument is a desert park with endless miles of hiking trails and incredible views.

It does occasionally get snow, but much less than other parts of the state, making it excellent for year-round hiking. 

To get here, check out Grand Junction Regional Airport, just 20 miles away or DIA, 286 miles away.

The nearest town is Grand Junction, which has plenty of lodging options. Check out SpringHill Suites by Marriott . 

Prefer to stay somewhere more remote? You may like the stunning Gateway Canyons Resort & Spa .

Winter Park , Colorado 

Winter Park is located just west of Denver and is home to Winter Park Resort, one of the closest ski resorts to Denver.

Here the cold weather months offer endless activities aside from the obvious skiing and snowboarding.

You can also snow tube, fat bike, ice fish, ice skate, snowshoe, and much more.

Wrap up your day with some après and exploring the shops downtown.

Tip: Be sure to also stop by the nearby towns of Granby and Grand Lake (if you’re heading to Grand Lake be sure to check out my guide: The Best Things To Do In Grand Lake ).

Getting Here & Where To Stay In Winter Park

The nearest major airport is Denver International Airport at 92 miles away.

The town has a handful of hotels and rentals available.

Check out Gravity Haus Winter Park and Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa .

Glenwood Springs , Colorado 

If you’re looking for a place to relax this winter in Colorado, Glenwood Springs is the spot for you.

While it does offer many fun activities like snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and mountain coasters, its main draw are the hot springs.

The most popular springs here are Glenwood Hot Springs Resort and Iron Mountain Hot Springs.

The two are especially dreamy when they turn into a snowy winter wonderland.

Glenwood is a great place to relax and unwind during the winter months.

Aspen/ Pitkin County Airport is the nearest airport, 38 miles away. The closest major airport is 182 miles away, Denver International.

Glenwood Springs is one of the larger mountain towns and offers a variety of historic hotels.

My favorite is Hotel Colorado , which is walking distance to some of the best hot springs.

Rocky Mountain National Park 

A visit to this park during the off-season offers a unique opportunity to experience the quieter side to this often very crowded national park. 

Enjoy a peaceful day in Rocky Mountain National Park snowshoeing, ice skating, cross-country skiing, or sledding.

Keep an eye out for deer and elk, who spend their winter in the park’s lower elevations.

For lots more information, check out Things To Do In Rocky Mountain National Park During Winter .

The closest airport is Denver International Airport, which is 77 miles to Estes Park.

Estes Park is less than 5 miles from the park entrance and has tons of small hotels and inns worth staying in.

For more ideas, check out The Best Estes Park Cabins On The River .

Colorado Springs , Colorado 

Colorado Springs is the second largest city in the state and is surrounded by breathtaking beauty.

The city’s most notable resident is Pikes Peak, a 14,000 foot behemoth staring down at the city.

And yes, you can visit the top, via Pikes Peak Cog Railway, even in winter.

Spend your winter in Colorado Springs exploring Garden of the Gods, having a cocktail at the immaculately decorated Broadmoor Hotel, or take a day trip to the Royal Gorge Bridge.

Looking for something a little quieter? Check out neighboring Manitou Springs.

For more ideas, head on over to The Best Things To Do In Colorado Springs During Winter .

Where To Stay In Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs has an airport serviced by most major airlines, just 12 miles from downtown. Otherwise, Denver International Airport is 84 miles away.

Colorado Springs has some really beautiful resorts.

My favorites are The Broadmoor , Cheyenne Mountain Resort , and Garden of the Gods Resort & Club . 

Telluride , Colorado

Telluride is one of the most remote ski towns in the state, but it’s worth the extra effort to get here.

In addition to the town’s top notch ski resort, which offer short lines and an excellent variety of runs, the town of Telluride itself is one of the biggest draws.

This charming settlement has a way of making you feel like a local even after just one day.

Shop, dine, and drink at one of the town’s many small businesses this winter season. 

To access Telluride you have three airports to choose from: Telluride Regional Airport (6 miles away), Montrose Airport (70 miles away), or Denver International Airport (354 miles away).

Stay in the town of Telluride or Mountain Village, both are connected by a free gondola, making it easy to navigate between the two.

My favorite place to stay in Telluride is the Madeline Hotel & Residences in Mountain Village or Hotel Telluride in town.  

Durango , Colorado 

Southwest Colorado gets some incredible snow, making it a wonderful place to ski and snowboard.

When you’re not on the slopes, consider snowmobiling, visiting Mesa Verde National Park, or taking a scenic train ride through the San Juans via the Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.

Wrap up your day soaking in the mineral waters of Durango Hot Springs. 

You will not regret a winter vacation to this quiet corner of the Rocky Mountains.

You May Also Like: The Best Things To Do In Durango, Colorado

The Durango – La Plata County Airport is serviced by many major airlines, and is just 15 miles from downtown.

Otherwise, Albuquerque International Sunport and Denver International Airport are the closest international airports at 218 and 361 miles away, respectively.

Durango is one of the state’s larger mountain towns so you’ll find plenty of accommodation options here.

Check out the Historic Strater Hotel , or for a spot right on the Animas River, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel .  

Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park

Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park surrounds a deep, nearly-vertical gorge that’s been carved out over the past 2 million years by the Gunnison River.

This gorge is so deep and steep that portions of the canyon floor see less than an hour of sunlight per day, a fact which attributed to the canyon’s name.

The rocky, vertigo-inducing cliffs make for stunning views, especially when covered in snow during the winter months.

Winter visitors will be able to snowshoe the canyon rim or take in the viewpoints.

Montrose Regional Airport is closest to the park, just 15 miles away, and Denver International Airport is 274 miles away.

Montrose is the nearest town to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and offers a variety of lodging options, but mostly chain hotels.

Check out Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites or Hampton Inn Montrose .

Otherwise, The Lodge at Needle Rock in Crawford on the park’s northern edge.

Steamboat Springs , Colorado  

Steamboat Springs is located in northwestern Colorado and is known for fantastic downhill skiing, snowmobiling, stunning natural hot springs, and lots of western wear.

Spend your day trying out winter sports followed by après, shopping, and relaxing in Strawberry Hot Springs. 

No matter the time of year you plan to visit, be sure to check out this Strawberry Hot Springs Guide for everything to know before your visit.

Getting Here & Where To Stay In Steamboat Springs During Winter

For flights check out Yampa Valley Regional Airport, 24 miles away, or DIA, which is 181 miles away.

Steamboat Springs is a large mountain town offering a wide variety of accommodation options.

Check out mountainside mansion rentals or Steamboat Grand Hotel . 

Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is Vail’s neighboring town with equally impressive skiing and snowboarding opportunities.

Hit the slopes, spend the day at a luxury spa, stroll the charming village, or have a gourmet meal amid breathtaking mountain views.

You’re sure to love a winter visit to Beaver Creek in Colorado.

Eagle County Regional Airport is the closest airport at 27 miles away, and DIA is 129 miles away.

Beaver Creek is small but offers an impressive selection of luxury resorts.

Some of my favorite options for a winter visit are Park Hyatt Beaver Creek and The Pines Lodge .

Boulder, Colorado

Boulder is a favorite Colorado destination, no matter the time of year.

The gorgeous town sits at the base of the picture-perfect Flatirons and Rocky Mountains.

Boulder isn’t a ski destination, although it still offers tons of great outdoor recreation.

Go snowshoeing in Chautauqua Park or bike the Boulder Creek Path. Then wrap up your day browsing shops on Pearl Street Mall and dining out at delicious restaurant.

For more ideas, check out Boulder In Winter: Top Things To Do .

Boulder is only 27 miles from downtown Denver and 39 miles from DIA. You can get to Boulder via bus from either destination.

This beautiful town has some excellent hotels to choose from, among my favorites are the St. Julien and Hotel Boulderado .

As you can see, Colorado has so many magical places worth visiting in winter. How many have you visited?

Any questions or additional ideas? Please leave a comment below!

If you’d like to follow along with my travels in real time, check out  @seen.by.amy  on Instagram or  @seenbyamy  on TikTok!

Looking for more ideas? Below are additional Denver and Colorado guides or head on over to Visit Colorado .

Looking for a warmer winter vacation? Check out these Warm Winter Getaways In The USA

More Ideas For Your Colorado Vacation – In The City:

• Denver, Colorado: Winter Weekend Guide
• Denver, Colorado: The Best Things To Do During Winter
• Denver, Colorado: The Best Things To Do During Christmas
• Colorado Springs: The Best Things To Do During Winter
• Boulder In Winter: Top Things To Do

More Ideas For Your Colorado Vacation – In The Mountains:

• Rocky Mountain National Park: Things To Do In Winter
• Aspen In Winter: Top Things To Do
• Breckenridge In Winter: Top Things To Do
• Vail In Winter: Best Things To Do
• Estes Park In Winter: Top Things To Do
• Durango, Colorado: Best Things To Do
• What To Wear In Colorado In Winter (For Mountain Towns & Ski Trips)
• Colorado National Park Road Trip

Hey! I’m Amy, author of this article and owner of this website. I've lived in Denver, Chicago, New York, Utah, and Arizona. I’ve visited almost all 50 states, and traveled in nearly a dozen countries. I enjoy writing about places I've lived and the many incredible destinations I've visited worldwide. My hope is that my love for travel will inspire others to see more of this beautiful planet.

Disclaimer: This post may contain commissionable links, these are at no extra cost to you, thank you for your support.

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16 best places to visit in colorado in the winter.

Last updated on February 22nd, 2024.

When you think about visiting Colorado in the winter, it’s usually for one reason: to ski.

The US state’s renowned for its number of fabulous ski resorts, complete with snowy scenic backdrops.

But, aside from the skiing, there’s plenty to do in Colorado that doesn’t involve a set of skis or a snowboard. In this post I’ll be sharing the 16 best places to visit in Colorado in the winter.

Many towns resemble a scene straight out of a Hallmark Christmas movie, offering visitors a traditional and fantastical escape. 

Colorado has plenty of pretty and charming towns to visit, which make ideal material for your USA bucket list . 

A name synonymous with winter in Colorado and its skiing resorts, it’s little wonder why many visitors flock to Aspen. 

The Aspen Snowmass resort is one of the most famed in town, featuring not one, but 4 ski mountains.

Non-skiers are catered for too, with activities like the Breathtaker Alpine Coaster and tubing on the schedule. These donut-shaped tubes are a whole lot of fun come summer on the water, or winter on the slopes.

Christmas is also well celebrated in Aspen, with a special event in town called the 12 days of Aspen.

Taking place during the last 12 days of December, Aspen transforms into a Christmassy festive wonderland.

Family-friendly activities like ice skating and cookie decorating are just a handful of the happening events. The 12-day celebration ends with a colorful fireworks display at Aspen Mountain on New Year’s Eve.

The event is just one reason that makes Aspen one of the best places to visit in Colorado in the winter.

Where to stay in Aspen

Off the resort is the Limelight Hotel Aspen . A great location in the town, enjoy the large-sized rooms and freshly cooked breakfasts.

This super cozy 1-bedroom condo is a sound, and affordable, choice in Aspen. With a king bed, wood fireplace and an outdoor patio, you’ll get the most out of your stay here.

Beaver Creek

A town in Colorado that was made for winter, Beaver Creek resort is the all-in-one destination. Beaver Creek Mountain is packed with plenty of powdery snow, ideal for any type of winter sports.

Once you’ve had your fill on the slopes, it’s time to head back to Beaver Creek Village . There are more than 20 places to eat and drink, and over 35 shops to flex the credit cards. The village also includes different types of lodging, as well as the facilities to accommodate the resort’s activities.

Beaver Creek is around a 2-hour drive from Colorado’s capital city, Denver. Offering guests complimentary hot chocolate and freshly-baked cookies every day at 3pm, Beaver Creek knows how to treat its clientele.

Where to stay in Beaver Creek

Away from the resort, but close enough to the activities if the Beaver Creek Lodge, Autograph Collection . Grand suites, big bedrooms and bathrooms and wine tasting every day at 6pm, it ticks plenty boxes.

Tradition and comfort go hand in hand at this beautiful condominium in Beaver Creek . It’s ideal for 4 guests, with 1 bedroom, 2 beds and 2 bathrooms.

Sitting at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado is the city of Boulder. Named one of the best places to spend Christmas in the USA, Boulder is magically transformed come winter.

Lights, lights, lights — places to visit in Colorado in the winter

The only other place that probably can rival Boulder’s Christmas lights is Vigo in Spain . A Christmas tradition that happens every year, the city places its iconic holiday star atop Flagstaff Mountain.

Consisting of 365 energy-saving LED lightbulbs, you can see the giant star from anywhere in Boulder.

The city has even more LED-light displays downtown, as well as in the Chautauqua district. Other notable winter highlights include a holiday hike, holiday tea services and a larger-than-life Christmas tree.

Each year, Hotel Boulderado puts up the two-story tree beneath its dazzling stained-glass mezzanine. The setting’s also where they serve a delicious afternoon tea with plenty of finger sandwiches and cream-filled cakes and pastries.

Where to stay in Boulder

In the center of the city, the Bradley Boulder Inn is a comfortable and affordable choice. Rustic surroundings, home-made breakfasts and within minutes’ walk to the city’s attractions, it’s one to consider.

Stay in the heart of the downtown area of Boulder, at this huge and spacious apartment . A unique blend of industrial chic and modern design, it also comes with a view of the Flatiron Mountains.

Breckenridge

One of the best-known winter destinations in Colorado, Breckenridge sparkles like a snow globe when the festive season arrives.

A backdrop of snowy peaks and frosted trees, Breckenridge is small town USA winter charm at its finest. In the run-up to Christmas, the town sparkles under an umbrella of 250,000 LED lights.

Annual December events include the Lighting of Breckenridge and the Race of the Santas. Pack the right winter clothing for outdoor activities such as sledding and snowboarding. 

My personal favorite is a scenic horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snow. Stay snug beneath a warm blanket with a mug of complimentary hot cocoa and homemade cookies.

The annual events, snowy landscapes and family-friendly activities makes Breckenridge one of the best places to visit in Colorado in the winter.

Where to stay in Breckenridge

An aparthotel that meets all of your needs, Hyatt Vacation Club at The Ranahan is worth considering. It has 2 pools on site, complimentary WIFi and is in a good location for accessing the slopes.

Just 200 steps to the nearest ski lift, this condo in Breckenridge is an ideal choice. Cozy furnishings, a hot tub (communal) and a central location make this an ideal choice. The condo can host up to 4 guests.

Crested Butte

Plenty of snowing, sledding and other winter sports activities await at Crested Butte, one of the best places to visit in Colorado in the winter.

This idyllic small town in Colorado transforms into the prettiest winterfest, starting with a lighting of the town’s grand tree.

One of the most adorable winter events is its annual reindeer scavenger hunt. Fun for children and adults, it’s a weekend of tracking down one of Crested Butte’s beloved reindeer.

The colorful street of Elk Avenue is like something cherry-picked straight out of a Hallmark movie. Filled with artisan shops and boutique finds, you’ll feel like you’re on a real-life movie set.

The town welcomes in the new year with a torchlight parade followed by a cracking fireworks display. One of the best places to visit in Colorado in the winter, Crested Butte is where long-life memories are made.

Where to stay in Crested Butte

The Purple Mountain Bed & Breakfast is just 2.9km from the Crested Butte Mountain Resort. With beautiful bedrooms, an on-site spa and free bikes for its guests, it’s a good option for Crested Butte.

Just 5 minutes from the downtown Crested Butte is this modern apartment with loft . The apartment’s located near the Upper Loop, Strand Hill and Teocalli Mountain hiking/biking trails.

A small city in southwest Colorado near the border with New Mexico, Durango goes all when winter arrives.

The Christmas holidays are well celebrated here, with events running throughout December such as the Winter Solstice Artisans’ Market. Goods are made by local artists and craftspeople, so you can feel assured that you’ll be supporting a good cause.

One of the top ski towns in America, visitors flock to try out the terrain in Durango. However, the city also has other non-skiing activities to try, like snowmobiling and dog sledding if skiing’s not for you.

Polar Express Train Ride — what is there to do in Colorado in the winter?

There’s one special attraction which makes Durango one of the best places to visit in Colorado in the winter. The town’s home to the magical Polar Express Train , which takes you and your family to the ‘North Pole’. 

Based on the 2003 animation movie, the ride culminates in meeting some of Santa’s elves, reindeer and Santa himself.

Children receive a special gift, and everyone receives hot cocoa and cookies at the end of the adventure.

Where to stay in Durango

Just 5 minutes by car from the center of Durango is the very comfortable Homewood Suites by Hilton . Offering all the amenities you need for your stay, it’s a good, and affordable choice. 

Enjoy the best of Durango by booking a few nights at this on-mountain condo with spa bathroom and chef’s kitchen. Indulge in views of the San Juan Mountains from the living room, dining room, bedroom and deck.

Get closer to the wildlife, and nature, with a visit to the picturesque Estes Park. 

Visitors tend to use the town as a base for visiting the Rocky Mountain National Park. Come winter, the town hosts a number of events, guaranteed to draw out the Christmas spirit.

Pencil in the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony and a light parade that takes place over Thanksgiving weekend. For adults, the holiday pub crawl to breakfast with Santa will be unlike anything you’ve ever seen, or done, before.

One highlight of the winter season is the Yuletide lights driving tour in Estes Park. Print out a copy of the map from the website , and enjoy a self-drive of the town’s prettiest buildings.

Where to stay in Estes Park, Colorado

Wake up to the best of the Colorado nature with a few nights at Boulder Brook on Fall River . Rooms come with a patio and a river view, and there’s also a hot tub for guests to use.

Pet-friendly and offering stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, this vintage cabin is worth considering. It has 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom and can accommodate 4 guests.

Adventure and adrenaline are the keywords when you visit Frisco, Colorado in winter.

The small town’s packed with tons of activities, which will easily fill up your itinerary. A first stop for adventure seekers should be the Frisco Adventure Park. They’ve a multi-lane tubing hill plus a beginner ski and ride hill.

Within the park is the Frisco Nordic Center. It boasts 27,000 ski trails and 20,000 snowshoe trails with lessons and classes also available. The park also offers snowshoe tours that’ll take you through the snowy and scenic trails.

Another annual event worth mentioning is the Soup Cup Classic. Here, local restaurants and amateur cooks battle it out to see which soup reigns supreme. It’s the guests that’ll judge the soup, and decide who will win best professional soup and best amateur soup.

Where to stay in Frisco, Colorado

Located 200m from the Frisco Historic Park is the Frisco Inn on Galena . Offering guests cozy bedrooms, homemade breakfast and a central spot, you’ll have a comfortable stay.

Map: places to visit in Colorado in the winter

Just 45 minutes west of Denver is the municipality of Georgetown.

Steeped in history, Georgetown was the former silver mining camp along Clear Creek in the Rocky Mountains.

However, when winter, and the holiday season arrives, the town’s transformed into a scene from Christmas’ past. Horse-drawn wagon rides through the snow, sparkling Christmas lights and plenty of festive food and drink marks the winter season.

The annual Georgetown Christmas market is more than just a place where you can stock up on festive gifts. Carolers and dancers in Victorian costume entertain the crowds, leaving you to concentrate on eating, drinking and being merry.

The market also pays tribute to some of the European Christmas market traditions, such as the Santa Lucia children’s procession. Free to visit, it makes Georgetown one of the best places to visit in Colorado in the winter.

Where to stay in Georgetown, Colorado

Charming and inviting is the best way to describe Hotel Chateaux Chamonix .

Located in the historic center of Georgetown, the hotel’s an easy 10-minute drive from the Loveland Ski Area. All bedrooms come with mountain views.

Glenwood Springs

In a city known for its hot springs, there’s no escaping a visit when in Glenwood Springs. Hotel Glenwood Springs has a year-round indoor pool and is located adjacent to Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. 

Mineral water from the nearby Yampah spring produces over 3.5 million gallons of water each day. And, at temperatures of 50°C (122°F), it makes this the hottest springs pool in Colorado.

However, fret not, as the resort doesn’t intend to cook its guests. The spring water’s cooled down before entering its 2 pools. Open throughout winter, it takes me back to my Blue Lagoon experience in Iceland .

The resort has 107 rooms and is 320m (0.32km) from the town center.

Made for wellness — what is there to in Colorado in the winter besides skiing?

Along with hosting a number of winter sports, Glenwood Springs is also known for its wellness facilities.

Follow in the footsteps of the Ute Indians by taking a time out in the Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves.

Mineral-rich steam enters the underground caverns, allowing you to soak up its healing properties. It’s an experience that’ll leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

The origins of the name of this small town in Colorado lies within its history.

What was once a gold rush town, is today a place of agriculture, industry and development. When winter arrives, the locals in Golden make the most out of the snowy weather.

Whether it’s hiking, biking or ice climbing in Clear Creek Canyon, people here like to be active. Golden Gate Canyon State Park tops the list for its spectacular hikes and views of the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area. 

Exploring downtown Golden during the holidays, is akin to walking into a light extravaganza. The season also welcomes boutique shops, as well as an art market showcasing the work of Colorado artists. 

One of the coolest places to visit in Colorado in the winter, the town’s also home to the famous Coors Brewery.

Where to stay in Golden, Colorado

Less than 800m (0.8km) from the Coors distillery, the location of The Golden Hotel, Ascend Hotel Collection , is unbeatable. Spacious rooms, complete amenities and a restaurant on site, it’s an all-in-one accommodation package.

Stay in the heart of Golden at this chic and modern apartment in the downtown area . It can sleep 4 guests, and there’s 1 bedroom, plus a kitchen, deck and patio.

Leadville and Twin Lakes

Boasting the title of the highest incorporated city in North America is Leadville and Twin Lakes.

Surrounded by larger-than-life mountains and glorious scenery, it’s little wonder why Leadville is sometimes called the city in the clouds. 

Taking after its location adjacent to the 2 largest glacial lakes is Twin Lakes. The reflections in the lakes of the largest peaks makes it a popular spot for photographers. Hiking, biking, canoeing and kayaking are just a handful of activities on offer.

Come winter, Leadville has more than 100mi (161km) of multi-use winter trails. One of the best places to visit in Colorado in winter, visitors come for cross-country skiing as well as for snowmobiling and snowshoeing.

After a long day on the slopes, come home to this pet-friendly cozy house with hot tub . With uninterrupted mountain views and plenty of storage space, you’re guaranteed a comfortable stay.

Where to stay in Leadville, Colorado

Shake up your accommodation in Leadville at this rustic tiny house . It can comfortable sleep 3 people, and has facilities including a kitchenette, fridge and a flushing toilet.

Known as the ‘Switzerland of America’, you’re in for a serious winter vacation treat in Ouray. Named after Chief Ouray of the Ute Indians, the town was once a beacon for miners searching for gold.

Follow the blue glow — places to visit in Colorado in the winter

When winter arrives, so too does the heavy snow. The glow from the Ouray Ice Park adds a touch of brilliant blue to the town’s bright lights.

Its ice park is world famous, attracting visitors from the four corners to try out its ice climbing. And, while you might think it’s not for you, you’d be wrong. Ouray offers classes for beginners, so if you’re thinking of trying it out, you’re in the right place.

Like Glenwood Springs, Ouray also has natural hot spring pools that remain open even throughout winter. Let the hot mineral water melt away any stress and tension, and give your muscles some much needed attention.

While here, you might be swayed into taking a snowshoe tour of several of its ghost towns. It’s your chance to learn more about their past, plus what it was like to live during the period.

Where to stay in Ouray

Beaumont Hotel and Spa is made for rest and relaxation. This adults-only hotel in downtown Ouray has a spa on site to help you relax after a long day’s exploring. Ouray Hot Springs is 800m (0.8km) from the hotel, and Ouray Ice Park is 1mi (1.6km) away.

Located a few blocks from downtown Ouray is this quaint and historic cabin . Pet-friendly, you’re close enough to the center, but can still enjoy the surrounding outdoor activities.

Steamboat Springs

Famed for its champagne powder snow, 6 towering peaks, snowmobile trail tours and 3,000 skiable acres is the very pretty Steamboat Springs.

The town’s also home to more Olympic skiers than other towns in North America. But, if your skiing skills are far from the likes of Lindsey Vonn, don’t worry. There are plenty more things in Steamboat Springs to keep you busy.

Saddleback Ranch offers a range of other non-skiing activities such as horseback riding, snowmobile tours and dinner sleigh rides.

The 280ft frozen waterfall at Fish Creek Falls attracts hikers, ice climbers and anyone that wants to see it.

I can’t write about Steamboat Springs without mentioning the Steamboat Ski Resort. It hosts a range of winter sports activities, most notably, night skiing. Your night time adventure will take you across 5 trails, which include See Me, Stampede and Lil’ Rodeo.

One of the best places to visit in Colorado in the winter, Steamboat Springs will not disappoint.

Where to stay in Steamboat Springs, Colorado

Less than 5 minutes by car to the slopes, the Inn at Steamboat offers large rooms and mountain views. Also, on site is a swimming pool and a well-equipped fitness center.

Enjoy your very own log cabin in a picturesque part of Steamboat Springs. With 2 bedrooms, 2 beds and 1 bath, it can comfortably sleep 5 guests.

While skiing may be the main reason why visitors come to Telluride, it’s not the only one.

The holiday season’s undeniably one of the prettiest in Colorado, with Christmas lights adorning every shop window downtown. It makes Telluride one of the prettiest places to visit in Colorado in the winter.

Seasonal events are aplenty in this former Victorian mining town. They include a North Pole area at Mountain Village, complete with Santa, train rides, refreshments and holiday-themed concerts.

My personal favorite is a horse-drawn sleigh ride against the backdrop of the snow-covered San Juan Mountains.

More than skiing at Telluride — what part of Colorado is best in winter?

Put down the skis and pick up your skates. There are 2 ice-skating rinks in town, one at Telluride Town Park and the other at Hotel Madeline at Mountain Village.

Be sure to try out the free Telluride and Mountain Village gondola. The views are spectacular and far reaching and marks Telluride as one of the top places to visit in Colorado in the winter. On a clear day, it’s possible to see as far as the La Sal mountain range in Utah.

Where to stay in Telluride

Add a touch of luxury to your stay in Telluride at the Madeline Hotel and Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection . Overlooking the San Juan Mountains, the rooms, services and food in Mountain Village live up to its 4-star title.

Go for a boutique, and more affordable option, with this stylish 1-bedroom lodge . Good for 2 guests, it provides comfortable accommodation in what’s arguably one of the most expensive ski towns.

Set at the base of the Vail Mountain is the small town of the same namesake.

Also taking after its name is the town’s famous, and huge, Vail Ski Resort. Villages with accommodation ranging from mid-range to luxury allow you to stay closer to the action.

Skiers are spoiled at Vail with 5,317 acres of skiable terrain right on their doorstep. Different areas of the resort offer unforgettable views and the chance to ski all of Vail’s seven back bowls. These are the snow-filled alpine basins, stretching 6mi (9.7km) from east to west.

When it’s time to dine, there’s one option that beats the rest: on-mountain dining. Vail Ski Resort has 3 places to dine on the mountains, offering American cuisine and wine with a view.

Non-skiers are not forgotten at Vail. Jump on board the mountain coaster, which takes you down 3,400ft surrounded by Vail’s scenic mountains.

As in Telluride, Vail’s gondolas are a great way to see the sights and are family friendly too. Unlike in Telluride, however, the gondola rides aren’t free.

How to get to Vail?

There are a few options on how to reach Vail.

Denver International Airport is 100mi (161km) away, while Eagle/Vail Airport is just 30mi (48km) from Vail. Another option, and one that’s also affordable, is the Epic Mountain Express/Colorado Mountain Express shuttle service.

It will take you directly from Denver International Airport to towns including Aspen, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge and Vail.

Where to stay in Vail, Colorado

Right in the center of Vail is the sublime The Lion Vail . With huge rooms and suites with luxury touches, it’ll be hard to leave come checkout. The Nordic Center is 2.2mi (3.5km) from the property, while Adventure Ridge is 4.3mi (7km) away.

Snuggle up beneath the covers at this gorgeous modern 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom condo . Inside, is a wood burning fireplace, fully equipped kitchen and plenty of storage space.

The complex is home to Vail’s largest indoor heated swimming pool. A free shuttle bus will take you to the slopes in winter. Throughout the year, a free town of Vail bus stop is located behind building 2 to provide even more convenience.

What are your thoughts on these best places to visit in Colorado in the winter? Would you like to spend the holiday or a winter break in one of these small towns? Let me know in the comments below.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. Thank you for your support.

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Which places should I visit in Colorado in the winter?

1. Telluride 2. Breckenridge 3. Durango 4. Steamboat Springs 5. Beaver Creek 6. Crested Butte

74 thoughts on “ 16 best places to visit in Colorado in the winter ”

I would recommend visiting Aspen in the winter! It’s a beautiful place to visit and the skiing is amazing.

It is beautiful and perfect for skiing

I’m not much of a winter person! I’ve never been to any of these in winter. But they look delightful and yes- Straight out of a hallmark movie!

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20 Cool Colorado Winter Activities To Try

December 29, 2023 By //  by  Shawn Reeser

Admiring the winter season is easy when there are so many fun activities to indulge in Colorado. From traditional downhill skiing and snowboarding to fishing on a frozen lake, the Rocky Mountains are an ideal destination for snow and iced-based things to do.

There are also plenty of more contemporary ways to experience the beauty of the winter. From winter festivals to fine dining at the local lodge, your day and nights should never be dull in the Rockies. Even just strolling the streets of the charming ski towns is sure to dazzle and delight.

Top Things To Do in Winter in Colorado

Fresh snowfall brings with it a slew of extraordinary things to do each winter. There’s really no place like Colorado in the U.S. when it comes to snow-covered fun. From skiing Vail’s back bowls to ripping an expansive country field on a snowmobile, this Southern Rocky Mountain state has got wintertime fun covered.

For those looking to skip the slopes, consider this additional guide to planning a winter vacation for non-skiers .

1. Ski Resorts

With over 30 ski areas to choose from, there is truly terrain for every kind of skier and snowboarder. All levels and budgets can be accommodated. There are smaller slopes perfect for learning the craft, and big giant playgrounds that keep everyone in your group entertained for days.

Some of the most popular resorts in the state are also among the closest to Denver. Breckenridge and Vail are among the most visited in the state. No matter where you go in the Rockies, there is likely a ski area not too far away.

The ski season here will typically kick off sometime in October, with Arapahoe Basin usually opening first, but sometimes Wolf Creek and even Loveland try to beat it out. A Basin is also the last one to close, with its season often stretching well into May, and even later some years. Most resorts though, open sometime in November and close in early April.

2. Snowcat Skiing

Snowcat skiing entails guests ripping through fresh powder in the backcountry, craving their own lines down the mountainside. You’ll begin your day by riding through the untouched natural terrain in a heated snowcat, followed by venturing into untracked meadows on your skis or snowboard. If getting blown in the face with freezing gusts is not for you, then you’ll love the comfort of snowcats.

Located within Central Colorado are two snowcat skiing companies, namely Aspen Mountain Powder Tours , and Eleven Experience ; both give downhillers an opportunity to experience the rounded alpine valleys surrounded by the powdery hilly terrains. These are far from the only two choices, as there are more than ten snow car skiing operations around the Colorado Rockies.

3. Heli-Skiing

Instead of going with the traditional route to see the vast region of the mountains, let’s opt for heli-skiing. Imagine being perched out a helicopter door, the cold winter breeze gently blowing on your face, and leaping onto a downward slope!

For those in a relationship with adrenaline or wanting to try something new, heli-skiing is perfect. Two well-known providers based in Colorado are; Telluride Helitrax and Silverton Heli-Skiing.

Silverton Heli-Skiing is the only entity in the U.S. that facilitates single drops as well as whole-day excursions providing access to Colorado’s deepest heli-skiing area. It’s a favorite for the not faint of heart.

On the other hand, Telluride Helitrax based in the San Juan Mountains facilitates access to more than 200 square miles of land and many landing zone options.

4. Cross Country Skiing

Downhill isn’t the only way to enjoy skiing in the Rocky Mountains. Nordic skiing, more often referred to as cross country skiing, is fantastic across the state. There are Nordic centers near all the favorite ski towns and resorts, plus endless miles of trails in the national forests to peruse on your own accord.

Most cross country ski areas, called Nordic centers typically, will offer rental skis to those on vacation or just looking to try the sport. It’s an excellent form of exercise and a way to get outside and enjoy the winter sun.

5. Snowshoeing

Most of the aforementioned Nordic centers in Colorado provide access to snowshoers on their multi-use trails. Many will even have snowshoe rentals available, as do many ski resorts. It’s not uncommon for ski areas to allow snowshoeing on some of their cat trails (greens), or even have separate trails completely for these winter hikers.

Like cross country skiing, snowshoeing is a splendid way to burn some calories and see the sights. You can venture into the picturesque and peaceful national forest trails and perhaps not even see other people, unlike the crowded ski slopes.

6. Ski-Mountaineering School

Ski-mountaineering includes a combination of uphill and downhill skiing in addition to mountaineering, orienteering, and climbing. If you are someone who prefers to slowly trek across the winter landscape, absorbing and appreciating the views, then this sport is perfect for you. It’s common along Colorado’s front range, among all its other mountain ranges, with a great resource on the most popular routes available online.

There are a few locations around the state that offer ski-mountaineering courses and guided treks. Irwin Guides out of Crested Butte offers tours for experienced skiers and technical climbers. They include an avalanche pack, any special climbing gear if needed, and knowledgeable guides. They keep a low guest-to-guide ratio of 3:1 and always put safety first.

7. Backcountry Hut Trips

Hut trips are the epitome of Colorado’s wintery adventures. For prolonged snowshoeing adventures and cross-country skiing, more than 160 huts and yurts (permanent circular tents) are accessible throughout the state. They are typically furnished with essential amenities for cooking heating and sanitary conveniences.

Snowmobiles (and ATVs if weather permits) are often used to access many of the huts much quicker. Space is extremely restricted, so book as early as possible for any of the reservable huts.

For those who are new to hut hopping , consider starting with the Jon Wilson Yurt . Although it’s secluded deep in Colorado Rockies near Lake City, it’s a prime trek for novices at only 1.25 miles from the highway, CO-149.

The well-renowned 10th Mountain Division Hut System , situated between Aspen, Leadville, and Vail comprises 30 huts spanning over 350 miles of trails. The huts are named after the U.S. Army division that utilized the facility for training during world war II.

8. Snowbiking, Snow Biking and Fat Biking

These three similar-sounding activities are all very different snow-based activities, although they are often referred to by the same name, snow biking, or as one word, snowbiking. Let’s break down the difference between “snowbiking”, “snow biking” and “fat biking”.

Snowbiking – When written as one word, snowbiking technically implies no motor. A Snowbike® is a registered trademark that’s used to glide down the slopes, similar to downhill skiing. You can rent snowbikes at a few places locally, and there are even some ski resorts that allow them on their chairlifts, such as Breckenridge Ski Resort. You then ride down the mountain as you would on your skis or snowboard, except your sitting down on a Snowbike®.

Snow Biking – When snow biking is written as two words, it implies it has a motor. These are sort of like snowmobiles and are used in a similar fashion. There are some snow biking competitions and you could use them in the backcountry (uphill, downhill, on the flats) the same as you would a snowmobile. This version is not a registered trademark and technically needs a space between them, snow bike, however, you still might see it improperly referred to as a snowbike with one word.

Fat Biking – These are bicycles with fat tires and thick treads that are suitable for riding on packed snow. They are becoming more popular in mountain towns, and you can often see someone riding along for fun or transportation. There are even competitions held, such as the above-pictured race in Crested Butte. There are some shops in select towns that will rent you a fat bike to use for a fun day off the ski slopes.

9. Snowkiting

Snowkiting is very similar to kiteboarding on water. However, you’ll use skis or a snowboard instead of a surfboard. It’s simpler to master kiteboarding since snow supplies less friction than water. Do note that snowkiting lessons do require you already have a snow kite and harness available.

Many people attempt snowkiting on frozen lakes, such as Lake Dillon in Summit County. An advantage is that this skill can be later applied to kiteboarding on the water during the warmer, summer weather.

10. Ice Fishing

Nowadays, ice fishing has become accessible, comfortable, and almost risk-free to most adventurers via a whole slew of technologies such as ice fishing huts, thermal knee pads, karambit fades, portable heaters, and small portable drills called augers. If you’re passionate about fishing and no longer want the winter to stop you, then ice fishing is perfect for you.

For those who want to test their skills, companies such as Ice Fish Colorado provide trips and guides in the front range area. Like all snow-based activities, being comfortable is key here, so dress warmly and in layers. However, ice fishing isn’t the only sport that involves conquering ice.

11. Ice Climbing

Imagine how epic it would feel scaling a vertical ice wall or to maneuver up a frozen waterfall. Consider ice climbing in Colorado this season, with something for all levels.

Each year, an estimated 10,000 climbers gather at Ouray Ice Park based in the perched town of Ouray to scale up to over 200 pathways. Another well-touted spot, secluded in the remote Hinsdale County, is Lake City Ice Park (pictured above).

Both ice parks, Ouray and Lake City host a climbing festival. The former is held in January and is by far the most popular one in the state. However, to ditch the crowds and experience an often-unseen part of the Rockies, head to Lake City in February for their annual Ice Climbing Fest.

Based out of Vail, Apex Mountain School offers courses aimed at showing you the ropes of climbing frozen waterfalls and steep terraces. It’s just one of more than a dozen climbing guides that specialize in both rock and ice climbing, with lessons and guided tours available.

12. Ice Skating

This activity is suitable for all ages and skill levels. Take the family out to one of the many outdoor ice rinks found across the state. From the front range urban corridors in cities like Colorado Springs and Denver to the high Rockies in all your favorite ski towns, there’s usually a frozen-over lake or pond to skate on.

Most locations will rent you ice skates, usually for a small cost. Sometimes ice skating is free at various locations, or for a nominal fee. The typical winter outdoor ice skating season runs from around Thanksgiving through March, and most are open all day into the evening.

13. Horseback Riding

Colorado’s picturesque and Instagram-ready scenery is even more exciting from the back of a mustang, no we are not talking about a matte-black turbocharged Mustang. We’re talking about a horse that will take you through the snow-covered ravines.

Winter horseback riding is a marvelous and refreshing way to connect with nature not only through scenery but with a beautiful equestrian companion. There are numerous summer ranches that also offer this activity throughout the snowy season. It’s a unique way to discover the Rocky Mountains and one that’ll take you back in time.

14. Sleigh Rides

For those looking for some quality time with their loved one(s), a horse-drawn sleigh ride is a terrific way to spend an afternoon or evening. There are even sleigh rides pulled by snowcats at some locations.

Options vary from a simple tour with hot cocoa and/or cider provided, to ones that end the ride with a western-style dinner, and perhaps live entertainment. Nearly all ski towns provide sleigh rides for its guest, whether directly through the resort, or a local company. Dash through the snow in Colorado’s wonderland this winter.

15. Guided Snowmobile Tours

Grab your closest friends and traverse Colorado’s frozen landscapes on your very own snowmobile tour . There are many options out there, all across the Rockies. Most outfits offer guided tours that speed through the national forests. Most will usually end up in a big meadow or somewhere to allow you really accelerate without fear of bumping into those in front of you.

Alternatively, some places allow you to just rent a snowmobile and go off on your own. They will typically transport the snowmobile to a trailhead of your choosing, and then pick it up at the end of the day.

The advantage of renting a snowmobile for an unguided adventure is more freedom to ride where you want to go. One key disadvantage to not taking the guided tour is if something happens where you crash your snowmobile in thick snow, you won’t have anybody to help you get it out but you and your friends. This is time-consuming and less safe than a guided tour.

16. Dog Sledding

This is one of the most iconic snowy activities in the big mountains, although not many people will ever get a chance to try it. In the Colorado Rockies, you can find several outfits that organize guided dog sled tours . Most of them will let you drive your own dog sled, though there are some, that just strap you in for a seated adventure.

From Pagosa Springs to Steamboat Springs, there’s a team of huskies waiting to take you out on an adventure. The dogs are eager to pull their sleds and transport people on a one-of-a-kind adventure through stunning alpine landscapes.

17. Snow Tubing

The young and young-at-heart will love this winter pastime. Snow tubing is essentially sledding, except you’re on an intertube and there is usually a lift involved. This makes it far more manageable and easy-going to get back up the hill and race your friends down again. Some locations even allow you to link up your tubes with others for an extra thrill.

Most ski towns have access to a snow tubing hill either at the resort or through another local company that manages its own facilities. Tubes are always provided for a fee, you just need to dress warmly and come ready for fun. It’s a terrific way to spend an evening after a day skiing or a day away from the ski slopes.

18. Hot Springs

There’s nothing else quite like soaking in hot springs after a long day of wintertime adventuring in the Rocky Mountains. There are a wide array of choices, from free, primitive pools alongside a river, to developed resorts with multiple pools, spas, and lodging on-site.

Almost anywhere you go in the Colorado high country, you’re never too far away from a hot spring. Most ski areas will put you within at least an hour or two drive from these mineral thermal pools, making them terrific day trips for recovering from your skiing, snowboarding, or whatever other winter sport you got into.

19. Winter Events and Festivals

There is a myriad of exciting events and festivals happening from December through March. From those kicking off the ski season with a bang to those closing it down with gusto, there is so much happening over the wintertime in Colorado to keep guests and locals entertained.

One of the most unique events is snow boating, which entails maneuvering a kayak or boat through icy ponds and snow banks instead of the usual water rapids. In April, boat enthusiasts may try their luck at snow boating by signing up for an exclusive course at Monarch Mountain. For those who are hesitant to take part, the event provides the freedom to watch from the sidelines in anticipation of the region’s active whitewater season.

So grab your coat, check the upcoming winter event calendar , and venture into Colorado’s winter wonderland!

20. Apres Ski

This activity might be more popular than the actual skiing for some skiers. French for “after ski”, apres ski is just a fancy way of saying happy hour. It gives riders a chance to boast about their day slashing through powder and ripping down groomers to friends and families, and share drinks with those who didn’t make it up on the slopes.

With breweries, wineries, distilleries, and ample bars scattered around the various ski towns, there’s no shortage of places to imbibe. Whether you drink high up on the mountain as one of the lodges for a special experience or down at the base village, it’s a fun way to unwind and plan your night ahead (or the next day’s adventures). Cheers!

Top Bars in Colorado’s Mountain Towns: (redirects to Mile High Happy Hour)

• Breckenridge
• Castle Rock
• Crested Butte
• Fairplay and Alma
• Glenwood Springs
• Idaho Springs
• Silverthorne
• Snowmass Village
• Steamboat Springs
• Winter Park

Those are among our favorite things to do during a Colorado winter. Enjoy these wonderful activities and make the most out of your time in the Rocky Mountains. Wondering where to go? Here are our favorite Colorado winter vacation spots .

About Shawn Reeser

Shawn is a front range local who loves to share about Colorado. He's usually off on an adventure somewhere mysterious.

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22 Best Places to Visit in Colorado in Winter

Planning a winter trip to the beautiful state of Colorado?

Colorado, with its majestic peaks and pristine landscapes, transforms into a winter wonderland when the snow starts to fall. From ski resorts to historic towns, the state boasts a variety of must-visit destinations. Each place provides unique experiences, from thrilling ski runs to cozy fireplaces, creating a magical winter atmosphere.

Get ready to explore Colorado’s sublime landscapes and immerse yourself in its winter charm. Here is an ultimate guide to the best places to visit in Colorado in winter.

Also Read: 20 Best Things to do in Colorado in the winter

Best Places to Visit in Colorado in the Winter

There is nothing quite as beautiful as frosty Colorado in the winter season!

Enjoy a dip in the Strawberry Park Hot Springs. Take the family on a dog sledding expedition.

Snowshoe through the snow-covered trails of Rocky Mountain National Park.

Visit the ice sculptures at Ouray Ice festival for a truly enchanting experience.

Brave the slopes in Vail and Aspen to experience some of the best skiing on the planet.

Explore Breckenridge’s historic downtown district with its unique shops, restaurants, and galleries.

Go ice skating on the lake in Grand Lake. Or ice fish in the pristine waters of Steamboat Springs.

Here are the best places to visit on your winter trip to the Centennial State.

Rocky Mountain National Park & Estes Park

Rocky Mountain National Park tops the list of amazing Colorado winter vacation destinations.

The park is home to majestic Rocky Mountains that stretch across the horizon, offering breathtaking views for miles.

Colorado’s winter transforms the park into a stunning white landscape, with snow-capped peaks and frozen lakes providing beautiful sightseeing opportunities.

Nearby is Estes Park , a charming town that serves as the gateway to the national park.

It’s known for its cozy lodges and local shops as well as a charming Main Street.

Together, Rocky Mountain National Park and Estes Park provide a memorable winter experience that features natural beauty and local charm in abundance.

Also Read: 18 Best Winter Hiking Trails in Colorado

As Colorado’s capital city, Denver provides a vibrant mix of attractions for winter visitors.

Upon landing at Denver International Airport , start your journey in the city by heading straight to Union Station.

This historic transportation hub is now a social hotspot with restaurants, bars, and a hotel.

The River North Art District, or RiNo, is a must-visit for the art lover.

Renowned for its street murals, RiNo hosts a variety of galleries and studios, along with trendy food and drink establishments.

Denver’s museum scene is another highlight.

Visit the Denver Art Museum for its extensive collection, or engage with science at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science.

Finally, don’t miss an opportunity to explore City Park, one of Denver’s most popular parks, even in the winter.

It’s home to the Denver Zoo and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, surrounded by snow-covered grounds that add a magical touch to the city’s landscape.

Explore these features and more on a visit to Denver this winter.

Colorado Springs Area Attractions

A visit to Colorado Springs during winter is a stunning experience.

The city, known for its bright blue skies and remarkable scenic landscapes, comes alive in the snowy season.

Winter activities are in abundance – Pikes Peak, one of the most famous mountains in the United States, excites with its snow-covered slopes, ideal for skiing and snowboarding.

The Garden of the Gods Park, even under a dusting of snow, is a sight to behold.

Its dramatic red-rock formations contrast beautifully against the white snow, providing a unique hiking experience.

The Broadmoor Seven Falls freezes in the winter, transforming into an ice-climbing wall that is a delight for climbers.

The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, with its diverse collection of animals, is enjoyable even in the colder season.

A winter trip to Colorado Springs is truly a remarkable experience, filled with unforgettable sights and activities.

Royal Gorge Bridge & Park

Renowned as one of Colorado’s most impressive landmarks, Royal Gorge Bridge & Park is an exceptional winter destination.

This iconic suspension bridge, hanging high above the Arkansas River, provides breathtaking views of surrounding snow-capped peaks and the vast icy chasm below.

The park’s aerial gondolas present a unique perspective of the gorge’s winter beauty, delivering a thrilling, bird’s eye view from a heated cabin.

For those who seek an active experience, the park’s Via Ferrata climbing route remains open in winter, with climbers provided specialized cold-weather gear.

Ascending the iced, rocky face of Royal Gorge is an exhilarating experience, with the crisp winter air adding an extra element of excitement.

Also found within the park is the Plaza Theater and Visitor Center, where guests can learn about the history of the bridge and the park.

The theater screens a short documentary that delves into the construction of the bridge and its significance.

The park’s Winter Wonderland of Lights event is truly a highlight, with the bridge and surrounding park area illuminated with thousands of twinkling lights.

This spectacular light display, set against the snowy landscape, invokes a sense of winter magic that is unique to Royal Gorge Bridge & Park.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge , once a gold-mining town, is now widely recognized for its magnificent ski slopes and vibrant culture.

The town’s Main Street is a hub of activity, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and art galleries for visitors to explore.

One must-see attraction is the Breckenridge Troll, a 15-foot wood sculpture that has captured the imagination of many visitors.

Winter sports are a highlight in Breckenridge, and nordic skiing is a particularly popular choice due to the well-maintained, scenic trails.

Another unique way to experience the beauty of Breckenridge in winter is by taking a horse-drawn sleigh ride.

The ride allows you to take in the beautiful scenery in a unique and enjoyable way.

One cannot discuss winter destinations in Colorado without mentioning Vail .

This town is known for the Vail Ski Resort, a top-rated location for ski lovers.

The resort features varied terrains suitable for a range of ski abilities, from beginner slopes to advanced courses.

For those looking for a different winter activity, the Vail Nordic Center provides opportunities for cross country skiing.

The well-maintained trails at the center provide an excellent way for visitors to explore the natural beauty of the area in a less conventional, but equally enjoyable manner.

Not just a winter destination, Vail also offers a variety of cultural and culinary experiences for visitors year-round.

Skiing, however, remains the main attraction that draws thousands of visitors each winter.

Winter Park

A quintessential mountain town, Winter Park holds its own as a choice winter destination in Colorado.

Snow tubing at Coca Cola Tubing Hill is among the popular activities here, with multiple hills designed for this exhilarating ride down the snow.

Skiing and snowshoeing are equally popular along with exploring the charming town.

Winter Park also caters to those who prefer more traditional winter pastimes, such as ice skating.

Several rinks are available throughout the town, providing a delightful experience for both locals and visitors.

Winter Park is more than just outdoor sports, it’s an atmosphere that embodies the spirit of a Colorado winter, making it a must-visit location on your trip.

Telluride , a historical mining town, is a gem in the midst of the San Juan Mountains.

It transforms into a winter paradise as the season rolls in, with the whitewashed peaks of the mountains creating a dramatic backdrop.

The town, along with its adjacent Mountain Village, is renowned for its ski resorts and snowboarding trails that attract visitors from around the globe.

Apart from its winter sports, the town is also home to horseback riding trails.

From the back of a horse, you can enjoy a unique perspective of the snow-laden landscapes.

This activity gives riders a somewhat different experience of the snowy Colorado winter.

A trip to Telluride during winter promises a delightful blend of outdoor activities, scenic beauty, and a warm, welcoming community – making it a standout destination in Colorado in the winter months.

Also Read: 9 Best Things to do for Christmas in Telluride, Colorado

Ouray is a unique winter destination in Colorado.

It is famously called the ‘Switzerland of America’ and is renowned for its outstanding ice climbing opportunities.

This charming town shines in the winter months, primarily due to the famous Ouray Ice Park.

This extraordinary outdoor playground is one of the top spots for ice climbing, attracting visitors with a love for the outdoors and a desire for a unique winter experience.

The park provides well-maintained climbing routes for varying levels of experience, from entry-level climbers to seasoned professionals.

Besides ice climbing, Ouray is also known for its historical architecture and friendly locals, contributing to a truly delightful winter visit.

Another must-visit location in Colorado during winter is Aspen , a town that doesn’t skimp on wonderful winter experiences.

Aspen Mountain, a renowned ski area, attracts visitors with its high-quality ski slopes.

The mountain is steeped in the history of Aspen’s ski industry, featuring challenging terrains that provide an exhilarating experience for winter sports aficionados.

Aspen isn’t just about Aspen Mountain, though.

There are four ski areas in total, each with its unique atmosphere and level of difficulty, making Aspen a versatile destination for snow sports.

Experienced skiers can tackle the steep slopes of Aspen Highlands, while those starting their skiing journey may find Buttermilk more inviting.

Apart from snow sports, Aspen also offers a sophisticated cultural scene.

You will find several Christmas events in Aspen throughout the holiday season.

The Wheeler Opera House stands as a testament to the town’s vibrant arts scene, hosting performances that range from music concerts to stand-up comedy.

The Aspen Art Museum provides an insight into contemporary art with exhibits that intrigue and inspire.

For food lovers, there’s no shortage of delightful dining options.

From upscale restaurants to laid-back cafes, the culinary scene in Aspen is diverse and satisfying.

Don’t forget to explore the shopping scene with its unique boutiques and high-end shops that sell everything from ski gear to designer clothing.

Colorado National Monument

A prime weekend getaway for outdoor enthusiasts, Colorado National Monument is an iconic feature of the state’s landscape.

This vast reserve, situated near Grand Junction, is distinguished by its towering monoliths and deep canyons, shaped by the relentless forces of nature over millions of years.

The monument offers an exciting exploration opportunity for those who relish the outdoors.

The well-marked trails, such as the Serpents Trail and Monument Canyon Trail, provide an exhilarating hike along the red rock cliffs and through narrow canyons, revealing panoramic vistas at every bend.

Wildlife viewers will appreciate sightings of desert bighorn sheep, golden eagles, and a variety of other species that inhabit this rugged terrain.

For a unique experience, visitors can traverse the 23-mile Rim Rock Drive.

This scenic drive winds its way through the park, providing spectacular, up-close views of the monument’s geological formations.

The road is ideal for both driving and cycling, making it a versatile choice for exploration.

Winter brings a fresh perspective to Colorado National Monument, with a blanket of snow adding a striking contrast to the red sandstone monoliths.

Visitors can enjoy the crisp, cool air and the silence of the snow-covered landscape, providing a refreshing break from the usual winter crowd at ski resorts.

Grand Junction

Grand Junction , located on the western slope of Colorado, is a notable winter destination.

This dynamic Colorado mountain town transforms into a white wonderland during the colder months, providing visitors with a unique winter experience.

Grand Junction is a hub for multiple outdoor activities that include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing.

The town’s close proximity to the Grand Mesa, the world’s largest flat-top mountain, adds to its appeal.

Here, winter trails provide breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, while the Powderhorn Resort beckons skiers and snowboarders with its notable slopes.

But outdoor pursuits aren’t all Grand Junction has to offer.

The vibrant downtown area is filled with quaint shops, art galleries, and restaurants that serve delicious local fare.

The town is also known for its wine, with several vineyards and wineries that provide wine tastings even in winter.

The Colorado River, which flows through the town, provides a stunning backdrop, especially when its banks are covered in snow.

Grand Junction’s combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences makes it a unique and appealing winter destination.

Steamboat Springs

Steamboat Springs deserves a spot on your Colorado winter trip itinerary.

The city is synonymous with its famous Steamboat Ski Resort, a premier destination for winter sports aficionados.

This ski resort is lauded for its well-groomed slopes and diverse terrain, accommodating ski levels from novice to expert.

Apart from its renowned winter sports, Steamboat Springs also invites guests to thaw out in its natural hot springs.

The Strawberry Hot Springs are among the top attractions in Steamboat Springs.

These hot springs, situated in a soothing natural setting, provide visitors with a unique and relaxing experience, perfect for unwinding after a day of skiing and snowboarding.

The combination of exhilarating ski resorts and the calm of the hot springs makes Steamboat Springs a destination worth considering for your winter trip to Colorado.

Crested Butte

Crested Butte captures the quintessential Colorado winter experience, with its landmarks dominated by snow-capped mountains.

The town is synonymous with the Crested Butte Mountain Resort, a prime winter sports destination.

This resort is home to meticulously groomed slopes, attracting visitors with its diverse range of terrains suitable for varying skiing abilities.

Beyond skiing, Crested Butte entices visitors with its other top attractions.

The area is home to the Crested Butte Nordic Center, where cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular activities.

The trails provide an excellent platform to admire the beauty of the snow-capped peaks in the distance.

In the town itself, cultural and culinary delights await.

Crested Butte’s restaurants and cafes uphold Colorado’s reputation for excellent food and drink, and the local shops provide unique keepsakes and gifts.

Despite the cold winter temperatures, the warm and welcoming community of Crested Butte ensures a memorable visit to this Colorado gem.

Mesa Verde National Park

Mesa Verde National Park , located in Southwest Colorado, is a significant archeological site renowned for its preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings.

The park is home to over 600 cliff dwellings and more than 4,000 archeological sites, making it a fascinating visit for history and culture buffs.

The most famous among them is the Cliff Palace, which is considered the largest cliff dwelling in North America.

The park provides guided tours to explore these structures, giving visitors a glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Pueblo people who made these cliffs their home centuries ago.

Winter adds a unique charm to Mesa Verde National Park.

The snow-covered landscape offers a striking contrast to the red sandstone cliffs, making it a scenic winter destination.

Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are popular activities, with the park’s trails providing magnificent views of the surrounding landscapes.

The park’s winter wildlife is another highlight, with visitors often spotting mule deer, wild turkeys, and other species in their natural habitat.

The park’s Far View Visitor Center provides an educational experience with its exhibits on Ancestral Puebloan life.

The nearby Spruce Tree Terrace Café is a great spot to warm up with a hot meal.

Durango, located in southwestern Colorado , transforms into a magical winter wonderland with the arrival of the colder months.

The city’s proximity to the San Juan Mountains makes it a popular destination for winter sports, with activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling being top picks for visitors.

Purgatory Resort, located just north of Durango, is a prime location for winter sports, with a wide range of slopes to cater to different skill levels.

Durango is also home to the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, a historic train route that offers scenic rides through the snowy landscapes.

The winter train rides provide a unique perspective of the snow-clad wilderness, making it a must-try experience when in Durango.

In addition to its outdoor appeal, Durango also impresses visitors with its vibrant culture and local cuisine.

The city’s numerous restaurants serve a variety of dishes, with local specialties like the green chili and the Colorado craft beers being must-try items.

The historic downtown area is an inviting place to explore, with its mix of shops, galleries, and breweries.

Glenwood Springs

Glenwood Springs is a Colorado destination that possesses a unique blend of natural attractions and recreational activities.

One of the key attractions is the Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, known for having one of the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool.

The resort provides a rejuvenating experience as visitors soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters while surrounded by the splendid Colorado mountains.

Another must-visit spot in Glenwood Springs is the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park.

Located atop Iron Mountain, this park is the only mountaintop theme park in America.

It features cave tours where visitors can explore the fascinating underground world of the caverns and enjoy thrill rides with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

Hanging Lake is another popular tourist site in Glenwood Springs.

Located in Glenwood Canyon, this pretty lake is famed for its crystal-clear waters and waterfalls that set it apart as one of the most beautiful natural sites in Colorado.

Keystone Ski Resort

Keystone Ski Resort is a prominent destination known for its excellent skiing opportunities in Colorado.

One of the key draws of this resort is ‘night skiing’, an exciting activity that allows visitors to continue their enjoyment of the slopes even after sunset.

The resort illuminates specific ski runs, providing an exhilarating and unique skiing experience under the stars.

In addition to this, Keystone Ski Resort features a range of ski terrains suitable for various skill levels, from beginners to the more advanced.

The resort is also home to a ski and ride school, where professional instructors provide lessons to improve technique and confidence on the slopes.

Beyond skiing, the resort offers a variety of other winter activities, such as snowboarding and snow tubing.

Various dining options are available on-site, ensuring a satisfying meal after a day on the slopes.

Great Sand Dunes National Park

Great Sand Dunes National Park is a unique destination in Colorado, known for its massive sand dunes, which are the tallest in North America.

The stark contrast of the snow-covered Sangre de Cristo Mountains in the backdrop and the rolling sand dunes in the foreground create a striking and unforgettable visual.

This park provides a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the beauty and vastness of a desert in the midst of a cold Colorado winter.

In the winter months, the sand dunes transform into a snowy landscape, providing a unique environment for a variety of outdoor activities.

Sandboarding and sand sledding, done using specially designed boards and sleds, are popular activities that give visitors a thrilling experience.

Hiking is another popular activity, with various trails leading visitors through the park’s diverse landscapes.

Wildlife sightings are another fascinating aspect of a visit to this park.

The park is home to several species of animals, including birds, insects, and mammals, which can often be seen moving about in their natural habitats.

The park also features a visitor center that is well worth a visit.

Here, guests can learn about the park’s history, geology, wildlife, and more through a variety of exhibits and displays.

Buena Vista

Buena Vista , located in Colorado, is a destination that promises a delightful winter escape.

A key attraction in this region is Mount Princeton Hot Springs.

These natural hot springs are a major draw for visitors, providing an outdoor spa experience in the midst of a frosty Colorado winter.

The warm, mineral-infused waters provide a relaxing respite from the cold, and the view of the snow-capped mountains from the springs is a sight to behold.

Buena Vista is also known for its winter sports, with activities such as skiing and snowboarding that appeal to both beginners and experienced practitioners.

The town has a charming, relaxed vibe, with a selection of restaurants serving local cuisine, shops that sell locally-made goods, and historical sites.

Pagosa Springs

Pagosa Springs is a must-visit Colorado location during the holiday season.

The town’s chief attraction, The Springs Resort & Spa, is a destination famous for its geothermal hot springs.

Visitors can soak in the soothing, mineral-rich waters while admiring the snow-covered mountain view.

The town also offers a winter wonderland experience with outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing at the Wolf Creek Ski Area.

This ski area is known for its abundance of snow, making it an ideal spot for winter sports.

Pagosa Springs also has a vibrant local culture, with an impressive selection of restaurants and shops.

Visitors can taste a variety of local dishes, including the Colorado lamb, and explore shops selling handmade crafts and artisan goods.

The holiday season in Pagosa Springs is special due to the annual Winterfest, marked by a parade, a hot air balloon ascension, and other joyful events, filling the town with a festive spirit.

Avon & Beaver Creek

Avon is a welcoming destination that serves as a gateway to the renowned Beaver Creek Resort.

This alpine location is known for its well-groomed slopes, luxurious accommodations, and world-class dining options.

Beaver Creek Resort is a highlight for winter sports lovers, with over 1,800 acres of skiable terrain that showcases Colorado’s scenic landscape.

From challenging black diamond runs to beginner-friendly slopes, the resort accommodates various skill levels.

The resort hosts sporting events such as the Beaver Creek World Cup, drawing ski and snowboard athletes from all over.

Avon complements the vigor of the Beaver Creek Resort with its own charm.

It is home to Nottingham Lake, which transforms into an ice rink in winter.

You can visit the several restaurants, shops, and galleries in town that exhibit local flavors and talents.

Together, Avon and Beaver Creek provide a distinctive experience that draws visitors back year after year.

These attractions make Glenwood Springs an ideal destination for a winter getaway.

Did you like our guide to top winter attractions in Colorado?

What are your favorite Colorado destinations to visit in winter? Let us know below.

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Travel | These Colorado towns are great in winter —…

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Things To Do

Travel | these colorado towns are great in winter — even if you don’t ski, getaway for a weekend of skijoring, sleigh rides, ice sculptures, hot springs soaks.

Not being a skier in Colorado is the equivalent of blurting “Voldemort” at Hogwarts. People look at you in shock. How dare you not ski?! The thing is, skiing and snowboarding can be pricey — season pass or lift tickets, skis or snowboard, boots, helmet, and layers of cold-weather gear. Plus, trying to get anywhere in the mountains along  I-70 is so … trying .

So what else is there to do, then?

Turns out, there’s a lot more to Colorado in the winter than shredding pow. You can snowshoe to a glorious, four-course dinner, spectate at an elite ice climbing competition, soak your muscles in a hot springs, or ride through a snowy wonderland by train. Read on for tips for finding winter fun off the slopes.

Billed as the highest city in the country, Leadville is surrounded by fourteeners and is home to snow almost year-round. You could try summiting a peak, but this is recommended only if you have experience climbing in winter. Fortunately, you don’t have to climb one to enjoy great mountain views. There are world-renowned trails for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Or take the 1-mile trail to the Tennessee Pass Cookhouse for a four-course dinner with a backdrop like no other.

Plan your visit around Crystal Carnival Weekend (March 5-6) and enjoy the skijoring — kind of like waterskiing, but instead of water there’s snow and instead of a boat there’s a horse. That’s right! A horse and rider gallop down the street towing a rope — and on the other end of that rope there’s a person on skis. They race through downtown in a series of jumps. It’s a hootin’-hollerin’ good time! And if someone in your group does want to ski, Ski Cooper is a short drive away.

This southwestern mountain town isn’t always easy to get to (keep your eye on storms), but once you’re there, you’ll quickly understand why it’s called the “Little Switzerland of Colorado.”

Ouray is a winter dreamscape nestled in a valley between high mountain cliffs. Every year, staff at Ouray Ice Park turn Uncompahgre Gorge into frigid walls of ice fit for the most talented climbers. You can try the sport yourself or simply watch others. Visit in January to watch the best ice climbers in the world compete.

There are plenty of other activities, if ice climbing isn’t your thing. You can soak in the hot springs, walk around Box Canyon Falls Park, drive along the Million Dollar Highway, or hike the Ouray Perimeter Trail. If someone in your group does want to ski, it’s not far to Telluride.

If you’re looking for a perfect après ski atmosphere without ever skiing, head to Cortez, between Canyons of the Ancients National Monument and Mesa Verde National Park. It’s a great area in winter since crowds are minimal and the views are endless.

Finding sustenance (in both liquid and solid form) is easy on Cortez’s main drag and in surrounding towns. Grab a pint at WildEdge Brewing Collective, Main Street Brewery, or J Fargo’s Micro Brewery and pair it with pub favorites (the beer nachos are incredible at WildEdge). Dolores River Brewery and Mancos Brewing Co. are good options if you venture further from town. The Farm Bistro just off Main Street has a new lounge that serves only Colorado beer, wine and spirits. Plus, it offers a true farm-to-table experience described as delivering “comfort food with style.” Yum.

Buena Vista

Opt to warm yourself instead of freeze on the slopes with a trip to Buena Vista. There’s a large concentration of hot springs in the area to soak the weariest muscles.

Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort offers pools of varying temperatures and even a 400-foot water slide. Or rent a private cabin at Antero Hot Springs or the Merrifield Homestead Cabins for more of a secluded retreat. Head south to find Joyful Journey Hot Springs or Salida Hot Springs and Aquatic Center to swim in one of the largest indoor hot springs pools in the country.

If something more exciting beckons, try Monarch Dog Sled rides. Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be in the Iditarod? It’s not as easy as you might think to stay standing on a dog sled. Not to worry, though, if you don’t want to drive the dogs; you can stay seated up front. Make sure to bundle up and wear goggles since snow is bound to get kicked up into your face.

Cripple Creek

Cripple Creek is known for the casinos lining its main street, but there’s more to this town than you might realize. Visit in February, and you’ll find the downtown corridor transform into a sea of ice as the town hosts the state’s largest ice carving competition. Artists from all over try their hand at creating masterpieces from hundreds of pounds of ice. There’s an ice maze for kids to outwit, an ice slide for those who are a kid at heart, and even an ice martini bar! It’s a lot of fun for the whole family.

You may have to fight ski traffic for a bit to get to Georgetown, but it’s worth it. It’s the perfect family-friendly day trip from Denver. Every December, Georgetown’s Sixth Street transforms into a quintessential Christmas postcard. Stringed lights illuminated downtown and the smell of roasting chestnuts fills the air; you may think you’ve stepping onto the set of a holiday movie. Take a sleigh ride around town, listen to carolers, and stroll through vendors to pick out gifts for the whole family. After you’ve filled up on eggnog, head to the Georgetown Loop Railroad. Every year it features holiday excursions that traverse Santa’s Lighted Forest and might even include a visit from the jolly man himself! Every kid goes home from the train ride with a special treat and smiles for days.

You might not think of Creede as a winter destination, but there are few prettier scenes than this little town, nearly surrounded by mountain cliffs blanketed in snow.

Plan your visit to take in the annual Chocolate Festival, where local business owners showcase delectable chocolate specialties. January brings the annual TommyKnocker Pond Hockey Tournament. Whether you’re on the ice yourself or just spectating, there’s plenty of live entertainment and good food. If you’re “officially over winter” by February, head to Creede for its aptly-named Cabin Fever Daze. There’s live music, night skating, curling, bonfires, improv theater, and all-around good fun.

Pagosa Springs

The question is, what isn’t there to do in Pagosa Springs in winter? If you like horses, head over to Astraddle A Saddle or Buckaroo’s for horse-drawn sleigh rides. If you like dogs or going fast, try a dog sledding excursion through San Juan Dog Sleds or Mountain Paw Dog Sledding.

Maybe you prefer to breathe in the crisp, winter air on top of some wheels? Several outfitters can hook you up with fat bikes for some gnarly routes at Reservoir Hill Park or Cloman Park. Take a tube for a visit to Reservoir Hill Park and zip down the hill behind Healing Waters — it’s free. Then soak away any aches in one of the 24 pools at Pagosa Springs Hot Springs Resort.

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13 Memorable Things to Do in Colorado in Winter (not just skiing)

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There are so many memorable things to do in Colorado in winter, it can be hard to choose just one.

The winter season is all about the snowy weather and beautiful lights, and nowhere does it more justice than Colorado.

It’s the perfect time of year to enjoy winter by skiing, snowshoeing, or tubing. But there are a lot more things to do in winter than just these common activities.

Let’s take a look at the absolute best things to do in Colorado in winter.

1. Ice Climbing

If you enjoy rock climbing in the summer, then you may enjoy ice climbing in the winter. 

Join an experienced guide for a half-day of ice climbing in Telluride . Ice climbing is a very unique winter activity in Colorado but can be extremely fun. 

Your tour comes with all the ice tools, instruction, gear, boots, crampons, helmet and safety harness. 

This is a great 6-hour adventure for families or first-time climbers who need instruction and quality safety equipment.

Thinking of living in Colorado? This guide will help you avoid costly mistakes and remove the stress of planning so you can experience the joys of mountain living.

Imagine climbing up the side of a frozen waterfall while it’s snowing outside! An ice climbing adventure is great for families or if you’re a first-time climber. 

Simply book your ice climbing session in Telluride this winter and be prepared for an awesome time.

2. Denver Driving Tour 

While the Colorado weather is cold and snowy, warm up on a Winter Driving Tour of Denver . 

Sit back and relax in a heated car while your tour guide takes you around Denver sharing haunted and historic tales of the city. 

Bring your camera for a chance to capture some epic photos and maybe even see some paranormal activity!

Enjoy a 2-hour ride in a comfy and private car through the historic and beautiful city of Denver. 

You’ll learn about the architecture, haunted history, and see gorgeous Christmas light displays.

Winter Driving Tour of Denver is a perfect thing to do in Colorado in December no matter if it’s raining, snowing, or cloudy outside. 

3. Dog Sledding

Start your day in Denver and get picked up for a custom dog sledding tour . 

This full day excursion includes private transportation, ski or snowboard rentals, a day of dog sledding, snowmobiling or tubing.

You can sit back and relax on your winter vacation while letting a local book your tours and get the details together.

This concierge service includes tips on where to ski and how to book the best rentals.

Plus, your ride to the mountains in a private vehicle is included. Find out more details about this winter ski tour or dog sledding adventure.

4. Snowshoeing

Colorado is known for its amazing and incredible hiking trail options, from flat cross country paths to steep fourteener hikes. 

However, when the ground is covered in loads of snow in the winter, it’s the best time for snowshoeing.

Colorado’s rugged terrain and natural environment makes for some of the best winter hiking trails . 

Venture out into the snow and head out into the winter landscape. Enjoy a gorgeous snowy day or a clear day with blue skies and frozen lakes. 

In the past few years I have discovered snowshoeing as a winter activity and absolutely love the experience.

One of the best parts about snowshoeing is the ease of escaping to somewhere completely secluded and quiet. 

When the trees and landscape surrounding you are covered in soft white powder, it seems to only heighten the feeling of solitude. 

Be sure to wear comfortable shoes or hiking boots and warm clothes with lots of layers.

Snowshoeing is especially great for small groups or families who want to avoid the ski crowds during the busy seasons. 

5. Natural Hot Springs Soaking

When it’s cold and snowy outside, one of the best things to do in winter is soak in natural mineral hot springs.

Winter also has the added benefit the least busy season for getting in your bathing suit.

And Colorado is home to some of the best hot springs in the country — many of which are just a few hours’ drive from the Front Range.

Enjoy the hot water bubbling up from the small pools at Mount Princeton Hot Springs. Move the rocks around to create the perfect pool temperature.

Or spend some time in the world’s largest natural hot springs pool at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort & Spa .

In just an hour or two drive from Denver you can soak in a variety of hot natural spring waters. Spend the day or spend a weekend while your stress melts away. 

During the holidays is an especially magical time for visiting any hot springs in Colorado. Take in the cool winter air and see the gorgeous twinkling light displays every evening.

6. Horse-Drawn Sleighs

One of my favorite things to do in Colorado in winter is to ride in a horse-drawn sleigh. 

Most Colorado ski towns offer sleigh rides in many different settings from groomed trails to rustic outdoor terrain.

Snuggle up with your partner or family under a warm blanket with the crisp winter air in your face.

Add-on to your sleigh ride adventure with a romantic dinner for two or a chuckwagon dinner afterwards. And during the holidays you can sip on some hot chocolate. 

Horse-drawn sleigh rides are great activities for couples or families with young kids.

We loved going on a daily sleigh ride at Vista Verde Ranch earlier this year!

7. Gondola Rides

Gondola rides are one of the most scenic ways to see all that Colorado has to offer, especially in winter. 

Nearly every mountain town in the state has a gondola (or several!) to choose from.

Some gondolas are only available in the summer and fall time, while others are perfect for the snowy seasons.

One gondola ride that is open all-year round is the Glenwood Gondola in Glenwood Springs. In about 5-6 minutes you’ll travel to the top of Iron Mountain with 360 degree views of the valley below.

Or check out Snowmass Village which has the Elk Camp Gondola and takes you to the summit for epic photos or skiing.

Winter Park also has several gondola rides to choose from whether you’re hoping to ski or simply enjoying it for the gorgeous views.

Gondolas are a great way to explore a mountain (year round) even if you aren’t interested in skiing or snowboarding. 

8. Skiing or Snowboarding

A list of the best things to do in Colorado in winter isn’t complete without skiing or snowboarding. 

From Winter Park to Aspen and Steamboat Springs , each ski town offers a unique vibe and stellar ski trails. 

Many Colorado ski resorts have as many as 2,000-3,000 skiable acres with Vail having as much as 5,000 acres of ski and snowboard trails.

In other words, the state has no shortage of ski resorts and mountains for skiing or boarding.

At the end of the day you can enjoy a hot beverage and delicious food at the ski lodge or downtown village.

Then, let your muscles relax in one of the many natural hot springs pools peppered throughout the state. 

9. Snow Tubing 

If you want to hit the mountain and feel the wind in your hair but don’t want to deal with the crowds at the slopes. 

A popular spot in Colorado for tubing is the Tubing Hill at Frisco Adventure Park . But there are many other ski resorts and towns in Colorado that have tubing hills.

Typically a tubing hill features multiple lanes for snow tubing, each one with a different experience. Some lanes are long and fast while others are slower with rolling terrain.

Once you’re at the bottom of the hill, simply pull your tub onto the surface lift and get transported to the top of the mountain for another run.

Beginner ski & ride lessons are available for newcomers or kids who want to learn to safely tube.

If you’re staying at a Colorado dude ranch you could even have the snow tubing hill all to yourself!

10. Winter Mountain Drives 

Much like going on a gorgeous fall drive in Colorado, a winter drive can also be just as beautiful. 

Tour the state from the comfort of your heated car, even if the Colorado weather is cold and snowy outside. 

Be sure to bring your camera for a chance to capture some epic photos as there are many scenic pull offs and spots to stop.

This is a perfect thing to do in Colorado in December no matter if it’s raining, snowing, or cloudy outside. 

Be sure to check for road closures during especially icy or cold days as some highways or steep roads may be closed for the season.

And don’t go for a drive on snowy or icy roads if you’re not comfortable with cold-weather driving yet.

11. Winter Roller Coasters

Mountain roller coasters, or alpine coasters, are perfect for thrill-seekers who want to speed down the side of a mountain. 

Most alpine coasters in Colorado are only open during the warm summer months. However, there are a few that are available during the winter and make for a fantastic experience!

The Glenwood Springs Adventure Alpine Coaster sits atop Iron Mountain at 7,100 feet in elevation. This is an awesome winter activity for kids and adults of all ages. 

During the holiday season the coaster track is decked out in thousands of fairy lights and makes for a memorable roller coaster experience!

Aspen also features the Breathtaker Alpine Coaster which is open during both winter and summer. Soar on an elevated track at speeds up to 28 miles per hour.

A winter roller coaster ride is one you and your family will remember for a long time! 

12. Ice Castles or Snow Sculptures

One of the most amazing things to do in Colorado in winter is to visit the Ice Castles or see snow sculptures. 

In past years the Ice Castles have been available for touring in Dillon and are one of the most magical experiences.

Kids and adults will enjoy all of the activities available from ice slides to touring the caves or taking a photo on the giant ice throne.

But since the Ice Castles aren’t available in Colorado every year, you can also check out beautiful ice formations at the International Snow Sculpture Championships .

Every year this event is held in Breckenridge and features epic snow sculptures from local ice artists. Plus, it’s a completely free event!

Walk through the sculpture garden or Ice Castles during the day or night, as each one offers a uniquely different experience.

13. Scenic Train Rides

Take in all that the wintery wonderland by enjoying a ride on one of Colorado’s scenic trains . 

One of the most popular train rides is the Georgetown Loop Railroad which turns into a holiday express complete with hot chocolate and Santa Clause.

Make your way through the Colorado mountains with fun-filled lights and synchronized music. 

The train cars are heated and feature large windows for viewing the lights and wooded fantasyland outside.

The Royal Gorge Route Railroad in Canon City is another option that is perfect for sightseeing in the summer or winter. The beautiful clear dome cars offer awesome scenery and romantic dinner settings. 

Or ride to the summit of Pikes Peak on the newly renovated Pikes Peak Cog Railway, which is one of the highest cog trains in the world. 

Be sure to dress warm and bring your camera as these scenic train rides are nothing short of amazing.

A train ride is a perfect winter activity that is family-friendly and great for small groups.

When it comes to the best things to do in Colorado in winter, there is no shortage of ideas. 

Some additional activities you can add to your list include snowmobiling, ice fishing, and sledding.

There are just too many awesome things to do in Colorado in the winter to add them all to this list. But I hope this guide gave you some good ideas to try this winter season.

Professional Writer & Travel Blogger

Carrie Smith Nicholson is one of the co-founders of Hashtag Colorado Life. After living in Texas for her whole life she moved to Colorado 7 years ago. As a travel blogger and entrepreneur for the past 11 years, her writing has been featured on NBC News, HuffPost Live, Glamour Magazine, Inc Magazine and many other media outlets. When she's not writing about new travel locations, she enjoys spending time outdoors hiking and trying new foods. You can follow her outdoor adventures on Instagram, @hashtagcoloradolife.

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18 Colorado Winter Vacations You Can’t Miss

• October 3, 2021
• By foxintheforest

Last Updated on September 29, 2023 by foxintheforest

If you’re looking for the ultimate winter wonderland then you’ve got to check out the many Colorado winter vacations on offer. From ski bunny holidays to backcountry hut trips, there are many reasons to book a winter vacation in Colorado.

The snowy season here in the Centennial State brings plenty of the white fluffy stuff, but it also boasts lots of sunshine too. In fact, you can ski in the mountains in the morning and enjoy a 60-plus-degree day in Denver in the afternoon.

I’ve spent the last 12 years living and exploring all around Colorado. As a long-time local, I want you to experience the magic of a winter vacation in Colorado just like a seasoned pro. 

So dig into this list of the most amazing Colorado winter vacations to add to your wish list. 

About This Guide to Winter Vacations in Colorado

Inside this local guide to the best winter vacations in Colorado you’ll get expert advice on the top winter wonderlands in the state. Here’s what to expect:

• Things to do in Colorado in the winter besides ski
• What makes visiting Colorado in the winter so great
• The top Colorado winter vacations including what to do and where to stay
• Additional Colorado travel resources

What is There to Do in Colorado in the Winter?

Okay, so skiing in Colorado may be the most obvious choice for wintery fun, but if you don’t ski, don’t fret – there are plenty of things to do in Colorado in the winter .

In fact, many of the hottest Colorado winter vacations don’t involve skis or expensive lift tickets. A few of my all-time favorite winter pastimes include:

• Checking out some of the best winter hikes in Colorado
• Stay in a cozy cabin or yurt and relax
• Go fat biking
• Try ice skating in Colorado on a frozen lake
• Give snowmobiling a try
• Take an ice climbing lesson

Is Winter a Good Time to Visit Colorado?

If you want to experience the magic of the Rocky Mountains mountains during the snowy season, then winter is an excellent time to visit Colorado. The mountains look dramatic and beautiful this time of year. Not to mention, the smoky skies of summer are long gone, giving the landscapes a crisp look.

Winter is also a cheaper time to visit Colorado if you aren’t staying near a ski slope. This means you can find excellent deals on lodging and you don’t have to fight through lots of crowds.

The downsides? A lot of the dirt roads are not maintained over winter, meaning you don’t have many options for exploring (but most mountain towns are still alive and well). Also, take note that many hiking trails in Colorado are exceptionally dangerous in the winter due to avalanche hazards.

The Top Colorado Winter Vacations

If you’re looking for fun in the snow, then you’ve got to check out this list of the best places to visit in Colorado in winter. From iconic national parks to quiet, pristine mountain towns, there’s a lot to explore!

Known as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park , Estes Park is one of the most perfect winter vacations in Colorado and is only a short drive (about an hour and a half) from Denver. Nothing beats RMNP for a snowshoeing adventure in Colorado , since many of the hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park are awesome on snowshoes. Don’t miss Dream Lake, which is definitely a bucket list hike in Colorado !

After spending a chilly day outside, you can warm up at one of the many excellent breweries, bars, and restaurants in the town of Estes Park . If you want to truly treat yourself, make sure to visit the rustic yet incredible Bird & Jim for a meal you’ll remember well past the winter.

What to do: Snowshoeing in RMNP, Backcountry Skiing, catch a sunrise at the Many Parks Overlook, Wine & Chocolate Festival

Where to stay: Winter is a little cold for camping in RMNP, so you could stay warm inside at the Stanley Hotel. But it’s the infamous inspiration for Stephen King’s The Shining , so you might get goosebumps from the ghosts!

If you’re looking for a city winter vacation in Colorado, head to Denver! You can explore downtown by checking out the Denver Art Museum and get a respite from the cold in the Botanic Gardens. Get active by ice skating at the rink in Skyline Park or check out one of the easy hikes near Denver . Then toast to one of the greatest Colorado winter vacations at a local brewery, like Cerebral Brewing or Crooked Stave.

Local Tip : Denver in winter can be quite mild or bitterly cold, so be sure to check the weather before you visit!

What to do: Ice skating, Visit museums, explore the Botanic Gardens, sample local brews, eat at top restaurants, visit one of the many ski resorts near Denver .

Where to stay: There are obviously tons of lodging options in Denver, from big hotel chains to little Airbnbs, but Hostel Fish is definitely the coolest spot to sleep. This fun and funky hostel make a great basecamp for your Colorado winter vacation since it’s centrally located downtown and is within walking distance of Union Station.

Winter Park

The namesake attraction is the Winter Park Resort, where you can hit the slopes from the bunny hills to black diamonds. As one of the classic places to enjoy winter in Colorado , you can easily spend several days in the area. Nearby Granby Ranch offers even more terrain for skiing. If you prefer a powered ride, you can try snowmobiling in Colorado or even go dog sledding!

What to do: Skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing at Devil’s Thumb Ranch, dog sledding at Snow Mountain Ranch

Where to stay: The Vasquez Creek Inn is a lovely place to lay your head and is located right downtown so you can easily walk to the shops and restaurants. It’s also a stop on the Winter Park shuttle.

One of the most popular things to do in Colorado besides ski is rock climb, and in Cañon City, you can climb all year round. Shelf Road is the place to climb during the winter in the Front Range, since the desert-like climate keeps the walls warm and sunny most of the time. 

And after a long day of climbing, you can soak your tired muscles in one of the nearby hot springs. Don’t forget to take a hike around the Royal Gorge too!

What to do: Rock climbing at Shelf Road, soak at Desert Reef Hot Springs, visit Royal Gorge Bridge & Park

Where to stay: At the Royal Gorge Cabins, you can stay cozy in the winter in a cabin complete with a fireplace. There are also some great Airbnb options in Cañon City, or you can camp at Shelf Road.

Breckenridge

If you’re into skiing, then Breckenridge in winter is where you want to be! With quick access to Keystone, Breckenridge Resort, Copper Mountain, and Arapahoe Basin there are plenty of slopes to choose from! You could spend at least a week just cruising around to different ski resorts.

If skiing isn’t your thing, you can check out the Breckenridge Ice Sculpture Festival in January, go for a snowy Breckenridge hike , or enjoy a vibrant mountain town. This kid-friendly destination has the most on offer out of all of the mountainous Colorado winter vacations on the list.

Local tip: Stay in nearby Silverton, Frisco, or Dillion for slightly more affordable accommodation.

What to do: Skiing, snowboarding, nordic skiing, snowshoeing the Sallie Barber Mine Trail, sledding at Carter Park or Country Boy Mine, ski biking at Keystone

Where to stay: Gravity Haus is a modern lodge which is definitely a splurge, but worth it for the Japanese bathhouse with soaking tubs and a sauna.

Known as the “Switzerland of America,” Ouray is a must-see place in Colorado in the winter and is a mecca for ice climbing. The Ouray Ice Park is a great place to get an introduction to the sport, and the pros visit Ouray in January every year for the Ouray Ice Festival. 

If you get the screaming barfies (read: numb arms), the Ouray Hot Springs or Orvis Hot Springs (clothing optional) will bring the feeling back into your frozen hands and body. Don’t forget to take a sunset drive along the Million Dollar Highway afterward!

There are plenty of other things to do in Ouray too, such as stay in a backcountry hut, go cross country skiing in Ironton, and more, making this one of the best weekend getaways from Denver .

What to do: Ice Climbing at Ouray Ice Park, Relax in some of the best hot springs in Colorado , scenic driving on the Million Dollar Highway, Box Canyon Falls, 

Where to stay: The Ouray Inn is a quirky little hotel to sleep in comfort, or you can go all in with the Switzerland theme at the Matterhorn Inn.

Yet another ski and snowboard-friendly destination along the I-70 corridor, Vail is a luxury town that’s focused on slopeside activities. From boutique shopping to unbelievable spas you can relax in style. 

Skiing not your thing? Don’t worry! Vail also happens to have some of the most incredible cross country skiing at the Vail Nordic Center. If you’re feeling adventurous you can take an ice climbing lesson with the Colorado Mountain School at one of the most iconic ice climbing areas in the country. Sleigh rides are a fun way to pass the time too!

What to do: Skiing, snowboarding, scenic gondola rides, snow tubing at Eagle’s Nest, sleigh rides at 4 Eagles Ranch, ice climbing, cross country skiing

Where to stay: Vail is quite the fancy mountain town, which is reflected in the upscale prices of most accommodations. But if you head to nearby Avon, you can stay at the cute Cohabit for a reasonable rate.

Colorado Springs

There are plenty of Colorado Springs activities that you can still enjoy even in the winter. The Springs doesn’t see as much snow like the higher-altitude locales, but what it lacks in the white stuff it makes up for in stunning red rocks and unique experiences. Home to the Air Force Academy and famous Broadmoor Resort let you enjoy a different side of Colorado. Don’t forget to go for a hike at Garden of the Gods!

What to do: Hike or climb in Garden of the Gods, visit Cave of the Winds, take a Jeep tour, check out the Colorado Wolf & Wildlife Center, walk the grounds of the Broadmoor, visit the Air Force Academy.

Where to stay: If you’re on a budget, check into the ColoRADo Adventure Hostel or upgrade to the bunkrooms or suites at Kinship Landing (you can even bring your own tent or hammock and set up on the Camp Deck).

Steamboat Springs

Okay, so I may have a personal bias here, but absolutely love Steamboat Springs. Home to some of the top tree skiing in the nation this family-friendly resort has a laid-back vibe and fewer crowds. 

Snowmobiling is another famous pastime, and one of the few places to safely rent your own sleds and head out into the wilderness. The food in town is absolutely amazing – definitely try O’Neil’s Tavern and Grill for an unexpected meal. Afterward, don’t forget to go for a relaxing soak in the Strawberry Hot Springs or splurge for a massage in a private grotto!

What to do: Soak in Strawberry Hot Springs, Tree Skiing, Ice Fishing, Ride the Mountain Coaster

Where to stay: To spend as much time as possible soaking in the hot springs, you can stay right at the Strawberry Park resort. Another good option is the vintage Rabbit Ears Motel along the Yampa River downtown.

Crested Butte

Another one of the top mountain towns in Colorado, Crested Butte is a must-see town. Nestled at the base of Crested Butte Resort, this tiny mountain town is packed to the brim with charm. Definitely grab a slice at Secret Stash after a day shredding it up on some of the toughest ski terrain in Colorado.

There are lots of incredible (and avalanche-safe) winter hikes right near town, making it one of the best places to try snowshoeing in Colorado. Go shopping along Main Street or try fat biking in the snow. 

What to do: Skiing, nordic skiing, fat biking, snowshoeing, rum tasting at Montanya Distillers

Where to stay: Although there are lots of free camping nearby, in the winter, you can hunker down at Purple Mountain, a friendly B&B featuring a hot tub and daily local craft beer tastings.

Located about 40 minutes from Crested Butte, this unassuming ranch town shows a different side of Colorado. As one of the topmost affordable Colorado winter vacations, Gunnison is worth a stop. Aside from having easy access to Crested Butte, you can also check out the South Rim of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. This incredible canyon system can be tough to navigate in the snow, but it’s a sight to behold with 1,700-foot-high walls with a thundering river below.

What to do: Snowshoe in the Black Canyon, Cross Country Ski South Rim Drive

Where to stay: Winter backcountry camping is allowed beyond Pulpit Rock Overlook in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, but be prepared for it to be bone-chillingly cold and wood fires are not permitted. You can stay warm at the welcoming Wanderlust Hostel, which offers communal rooms and small private rooms.

Grand Junction

One of the most under-rated winter vacations in Colorado, Grand Junction is actually pretty fantastic. In fact, I come here every winter. Lodging is beyond affordable. With a solid mix of red rock country (you may just think you’re in Moab), wine tasting, and even skiing nearby, you can get a taste of everything. And the best part? There are no crowds to be seen.

Local Tip : Check out a sunset in the Colorado National Monument. Dusted in snow, this red rock canyon system is unbelievable and home to some of the top Grand Junction hiking trails . 

What to do: Skiing & snowboarding at Powderhorn Resort, cross country skiing on the Grand Mesa, ice fishing in lakes & reservoirs, soak in the Orvis hot springs (day trip), driving and hiking in the Colorado National Monument, wine tasting in Palisade, mountain biking (coldly) in Fruita.

Where to stay: If you’re hardy enough to handle winter camping, there is lots of BLM land around for dispersed camping. If you prefer to sleep inside when the temps drop, try out the Hotel Maverick, a sleek spot on the campus of Colorado Mesa University.

A great winter getaway in Colorado if you want to experience both the Tenmile and Sawatch Ranges, Leadville is an excellent destination. Affordable AirBnBs and cute cabins make for a great home base to explore nearby Copper Mountain. Or you can spend your time fat biking the town’s bike trails and snowshoeing at the base of the Sawatch Range.

What to do: Skiing at Cooper Mountain, cross Country Ski at Tennessee Pass Nordic Center, attend the Ski Joring & Crystal Carnival Weekend

Where to stay: For a one-of-a-kind place to stay, head to the Slumberyard at Freight. Each of the unique cabins is named after one of Leadville’s legendary “women of the night.” You can also pitch your tent for winter camping at Twin Lakes or Turquoise Lake.

Buena Vista and Salida

These sister mountain towns make for one of the best places to visit in Colorado in winter if you don’t ski. With no ski resorts nearby, you don’t get bogged down with ski season pricing. In fact, the affordability of these destinations during the winter is certainly a huge plus.

In terms of what to do, you can embark on a dog sledding adventure, go snowmobiling, enjoy snowshoeing, and even driving to the top of Cottonwood Pass if the road is open. That’s if you even want to leave your cute accommodation (both towns have plenty of cozy cabins). Don’t forget to soak in the Princeton Hot Springs.

What to do: Snowmobiling on the Continental Divide, dog sledding in Monarch Park, soak in Mount Princeton Hot Springs

Where to stay: Enjoy the European stylings and adventure atmosphere at the Surf Hotel & Chateau along the river in downtown Buena Vista , or enjoy the on-site soaking pools at the Cottonwood Hot Springs Inn & Spa.

Another premiere luxury destination, this top winter vacay spot in Colorado features the quintessential mountain charm you’re looking for with plenty of luxurious accommodations, shops, and restaurants. In fact, some of the most expensive vacation rentals in the state can be found in the hills outside of Telluride.

Telluride Resort has several options for skiers and riders of all abilities. If you aren’t into slopeside activities, then head out for a scenic drive of the San Juan Scenic Byway, backcountry skin to a famous San Juan Hut, or go ice climbing.

Local Tip : Ouray is about an hour and a half drive, giving you more activity options.

What to do: Skiing & snowboarding, helicopter skiing, ice climbing at Bridal Veil Falls, skiing to the San Juan Huts, drive the San Juan Scenic Byway

Where to stay: Telluride is a pricey place to stay, but if you want to winter camp, you’ll find plenty of dispersed sites down any dirt road. Otherwise, check out nearby Ridgway for more budget-friendly accommodations, like the cool Basecamp 550 where you can spend the night in a tiny home.

Home to a few of Colorado’s top ski resorts , Aspen gets a lot of attention in the winter. In fact, this ritzy mountain town is often featured in movies and pop culture throughout the decades. Home to the winter X Games, this happening place features high-end luxury shopping, top fine dining, and even an art museum, and even a few nightclubs. You come to Aspen to be seen, and stay for the unbeatable views of the Maroon Bells.

What to do: Skiing & snowboarding at four resorts (Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, & Snowmass), enjoy Ullr Nights, take a snowcat to a special dinner, see the sunrise over the Maroon Bells.

Where to stay: The charming Tyrolean Lodge on Main Street is surprisingly affordable for Aspen, or you can splurge a little more at the Limelight Hotel Aspen or the Little Nell.

Don’t let its lower elevation fool you, Durango is still a wintery wonderland! Another great option for a winter getaway, this fun-filled town on the Western Slope has plenty on offer. Go for a sleigh ride, take a scenic train through the mountains, or enjoy a log cabin experience. You can even ski at Purgatory Resort if you’re up for some turns.

What to do: Skiing & snowboarding at Purgatory, ride the Polar Express on the Durango & Silverton Railroad, snowshoeing a section of the Colorado Trail, celebrate winter at the Snowdown Festival

Where to stay: Stay in a lovely log cabin along the Florida River at the O-Bar Cabins. You can borrow snowshoes to explore the property, then warm up at the outdoor fire ring and hot tub.

Pagosa Springs

Known for its hot springs and breweries, Pagosa Springs is an excellent spot for a Colorado winter vacation if you’re looking for some RnR. Opt for a snowmobiling adventure, or spend the day jumping from pool to pool at the Pagosa Hot Springs, The Springs Resort and Spa, Healing Waters Resort and Spa, or the Overlook Mineral Spring Spa. With so many places to soak you can unwind and feel the restorative energy of the mineral-rich waters. 

Local Tip: This hot spot is one of the best romantic getaways in Colorado thanks to the spa-friendly vibes and beautiful scenery.

What to do: Soak in Pagosa Hot Springs, ice skating on the River Center Ponds, ice fishing in Williams Creek Reservoir, cross country skiing at Pagosa Nordic Club

Where to stay: Motel SOCO is a vibrant place to stay in every way, from the retro decor to the lively atmosphere at the El Camino Lounge Bar & Patio, which features craft cocktails and year-round live music.

Additional Colorado Winter Vacations Resources

Visiting Colorado in the winter? Check out these handy resources:

• When is the best time to visit Colorado?
• Your Guide to Visiting Colorado Like a Local

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Meg Atteberry

Meg is a long-time Colorado local and outdoor industry professional. She's spent the last 15 years hiking, climbing, mountaineering, and canyoneering all over Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and Nevada in search of the best views. She's written for Outside Magazine, REI, Backpacker Magazine, and appeared on the Weather Channel.

Let’s connect!

Meg aka Fox is a 30-something who's born to explore. Toddler mom, queer, and neuro-spicy her favorite things to do are climb in the alpine and camp in the desert. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure.

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11 Fantastic Things To Do In Aspen, Colorado In The Winter

• Activities and Interests
• Destinations
• Seasonal Travel
• United States
• Winter Travel

Aspen is a glorious winter playground where the rich and famous hobnob with ski enthusiasts, both looking for excitement and an adventure-filled getaway. The beloved mountain town offers an abundance of snowy outdoor adventures and ample indoor coziness. 

Unique experiences and unparalleled scenery will make your Aspen getaway unforgettable. Four mountain complexes, breathtaking Rocky Mountain views, delectable culinary bites, and luxurious stays come together to make Aspen, Colorado, the winter vacation of your dreams.

Your Aspen experience can be super lux and upscale or fashionable ski-bum focused, depending on your travel style. Either way, you can hunt for the perfect stash, enjoy fabulous cuisine, and experience fun winter activities.

1. Snowmass

The Aspen/Snowmass ski complex, comprised of four ski areas, has everything you need for your ultimate winter getaway. From double black diamonds to beginner slopes, every skier and snowboarder will find their favorite run, backcountry bowl, or hidden stash.

Snowmass , Aspen’s most well-known ski area, offers 3,339 acres of skiable terrain and one of the biggest vertical drops in the United States , a whopping 4,406 feet. Imagine the excitement of traversing that downhill run. The rush of hitting a steep grade peppered with bumps will certainly get your adrenaline pumping. 

Snowmass has a few beginner trails to get your snow mojo up and running. However, the majority of the runs are geared toward intermediate and advanced skiers and boarders.

2. Aspen Mountain

Aspen Mountain — known as Ajax to the locals — is an intermediate and expert ski area with blue, black, and double black diamond trails for your skiing and snowboarding adventure. 

Ajax has spectacular views of the Rockies, runs right into downtown, and is a local favorite for lunchtime ski runs.

• 10 Must-See Family-Friendly Aspen Vacation Rentals

3. Aspen Highlands

At Aspen Highlands , you will find locals and visitors enjoying the mountain views and powdery snow this ski area is known for. The Highlands is perfect for intermediate and expert skiers and boarders looking for a challenge.

The trail map for Aspen Highlands lists four types of runs: blue (difficult), black diamond (very difficult), double black diamond (expert only), and E.T. double black biamond (insanity runs). As you can see, there are no beginner trails at Aspen Highlands. 

4. Buttermilk

Buttermilk is the best place for beginners in Aspen; many of Buttermilk’s trails are rated easy. If you are new to skiing, start your vacation here. Later, you can move on to an intermediate mountain to hone your skills. Buttermilk is the perfect family-friendly mountain.

5. First Tracks

Virgin powder untouched by skis awaits at Snowmass’s First Tracks . Skiers and snowboarders with solid skills are invited to join the staff in the first run of the day on select days of the week. Play at being an Aspen insider and be the first to cut tracks in the freshly groomed snow or fluffy, new powder. Experience the thrill of having the entire mountain mostly to yourself during your early-bird run. 

It is a unique treat to be out on this huge mountain enjoying the quiet beauty of a nearly solo run. Contact the Snowmass Ticket Pavilion to make a reservation.

6. Alpine Coaster

Have you ever wondered what riding down a luge would be like? Now’s your chance to get that feeling (with the dangerous aspect eliminated!). The Breathtaker Alpine Coaster allows you to experience the sensation of speeding down the track, banking tight curves, and watching the trees whistle by as you ride a tandem coaster car. The mile-long track gets you up to about 28 miles per hour — not quite a luge speed, but fast enough for a thrilling ride.

Ride the Breathtaker at night for an eerie, speedy adventure illuminated only by your coaster car light and the moon.

8. Snowshoe

Explore the Aspen/Snowmass area on foot with a guided snowshoe tour . Aspen Center For Environmental Studies’ naturalist guide will take you on a 2.5-mile trek through a peaceful winter wonderland setting while discussing the ecology of the area. It is a fun combination of exercise, education, and entertainment for skiers and non-skiers alike.

9. John Denver Sanctuary

The John Denver Sanctuary is a memorial to the legendary country singer, composer, and guitar player. His love for Colorado and the wide-open country was ever-present in his music. This small park is a tribute to Denver’s love for the natural world. It is a nice spot to stop and reflect upon the beauty of the gifts Mother Nature allows us to enjoy.

Breathe in a meditative breath and contemplate the glory of Denver’s beloved Rocky Mountains.

10. Maroon Bells

The Maroon Bells area is one of the most visited and hiked scenic areas in the White River National Forest. The picturesque Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak are two of Colorado’s 58 14ers (mountain peaks that exceed 14,000 feet). 

The Maroon Bells are a challenge to hike in the summer months, even for the most experienced climbers. In the winter, they are best viewed from a distance at Maroon Lake. The crystal-clear lake is accessible by Moon Creek Road. When the weather is good, you can drive up or take the shuttle; in the winter, you’ll need to get creative.

Cross-country skiing, snow biking, snowshoeing, or hiking with crampons will get you to Maroon Lake. If you want to ride, the T-Lazy-7 Ranch offers a Maroon Bells snowmobile tour. The 2-hour tour takes you through the breathtaking backwoods scenery of the White River area. Single and tandem snowmobiles are available, and driving instructions are provided.

11. Shopping

Enjoy a stroll through the downtown area, where you could easily dine, drink, and shop for days. Aspen’s understated elegance is evident everywhere, particularly in the storefronts. 

The epitome of elegance, the Prada Aspen , is only one of many luxury shops. For amazing deals, stop by The Little Bird , a consignment shop where you can find Gucci, Chanel, and other designer names to fill your closet. For the discerning shopper, Pitkin County Dry Goods carries casual clothing that makes an elegant statement.

Restaurants In Aspen

Apres-ski spots, fine dining, and cozy bars dot Aspen’s landscape. Whether you are enjoying an elegant sit-down dinner or a nosh at a mountain peak restaurant, Aspen restaurants offer amazing ambience and a great dining experience.

If you enjoy dive bars, you will love the Red Onion in downtown Aspen. Serving patrons since 1892, the Red Onion is a popular hangout for Aspen’s in-the-know crowd. You never know who you will run into; business insiders, celebrities, and athletes frequent this local hub. Grab a seat at the bar for some friendly conversation, a drink, and a yummy nosh.

Betula Aspen

Betula Aspen serves expertly crafted upscale cuisine. The rack of lamb with caponata, pine nuts, sun-dried tomatoes, and roasted garlic is heavenly. The pan-seared Colorado trout with artichokes, cauliflower, and pickled onions is a delightful rendition of a local catch.

Pro Tip: Ask for a seat on the porch for a luxuriously casual meal.

Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro

Warm, gooey, and oh-so yummy, raclette and fondue are fortifying after a morning on the slopes. At the Top of the Cloud Nine Lift in Aspen Highlands is Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro . This ski-in, ski-out lunch spot is a favorite stop for hungry skiers. Order several plates to share while you swap downhill run stories. It’s the perfect midday pick-me-up. On a clear day, you can dine with a breathtaking, mountain top view. 

Resorts In Aspen

Finding a place to stay in Aspen is easy, but deciding how you want to visit can be challenging. Options include ski-in, ski-out stays, downtown hotels, and private rentals.

The Little Nell

The Silver Queen Gondola on Aspen Mountain and downtown Aspen are both at your fingertips when you stay at The Little Nell . This five-star hotel offers fine dining at Element 47, as well as the Wine Academy program, spa services, and an amazing staff ready to serve you. The Little Nell will ensure your luxurious Aspen getaway is perfect.

Snowmass Ski-In, Ski-Out Properties

Snowmass offers a listing service where you can research and compare all of their ski-in, ski-out properties . With options like the modern Limelight Hotel Snowmass , you will find the perfect stay for your snowy vacation.

Pro Tip: Hop on the free shuttle from Snowmass to the city bus stop. From there, you can take a bus to downtown Aspen. Enjoy exploring the downtown area, and then ride back to Snowmass and leave the driving to them.

For more on Aspen/Snowmass, read:

• 16 Fantastic Things To Do In Snowmass, Colorado This Summer
• Everything You Need To Know About Hiking Maroon Bells In Colorado

After you enjoy your Aspen getaway, discover your next ski destination by learning about the other great ski resorts in Colorado for every level and interest .

Sandi loves writing about culture, cuisine, adult beverages, cruising, golf, skiing, road trips, hiking, New England, and photography. Traveling solo, with hubby Chris, or the entire Barrett clan there is always a story waiting to be told.

9 BEST Ski Resorts in Colorado for Beginners (RANKED!)

C olorado is a skier’s paradise! With dozens of ski resorts, many of which are ranked among the best in the world, Colorado stands out among other states as the ideal winter destination for those looking to plan a ski trip.

For beginners eager for their first foray into the sport of skiing, the state’s slopes present an ideal starting point. From gentle green runs that encourage confidence-building to beginner-friendly amenities, we’ve laid out the best ski resorts in Colorado for beginners. 

This guide ranks the best beginner ski resorts in Colorado based on mountain stats, and our personal experience skiing in Colorado as a family. 

Our experience skiing in Colorado as a family

As a family, we love to spend our winters skiing. We’ve skied all across the Rocky Mountains, from Big Sky, Montana to Jackson Hole, Wyoming and many of the great ski resorts in Utah and Colorado. 

Colorado is one of our favorite states to ski in, not only because it is convenient to get to by air, but because it has so many world-class ski resorts that are kid friendly for our family.

We have personally skied at most of the best ski resorts in Colorado for beginners and have ranked them according to our personal experience and the amount of beginner terrain available for novice skiers excited to carve their first tracks in the powdery Colorado snow.   

Map of the best Colorado ski resorts for beginners

One of the first things you’ll want to consider when planning your first ski trip to Colorado is the ease of access. While there are small airports in Vail, Aspen, and near Steamboat, for many of the resorts located in Summit County, you may need to fly with your skis into Denver and rent a car and drive or hire a private transfer . 

To access the resort of Telluride, you will likely fly into Montrose and drive or book a shuttle from there.

NEED TO UNDERSTAND THE TRAIL RATING SYSTEM? BRUSH UP ON YOUR SKIER LINGO AND COMMON SKI EXPRESSIONS .

The Best Ski Resorts in Colorado for Beginners and Families

After many years of skiing in Colorado and teaching our daughter to ski there, here are our rankings for the best ski resorts in Colorado for beginners and families.

9: Keystone

One of the easiest of the large resorts to get to, Keystone is one of the best ski resorts in Colorado for beginners who don’t want to travel too far from Denver for their ski trip. 

A popular resort for families, Keystone has over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain and is renowned for its wide variety of runs, ranging from gentle beginner greens to challenging trails that cater to seasoned skiers and snowboarders. 

At first glance when you look at the trail map , it doesn’t seem like Keystone would be a beginner’s mountain. Of its 135 runs only about 15 of them are rated green runs, which are considered the easiest ski runs on a mountain. But the resort has its benefits. 

For beginners looking to step up to the intermediate level, there are a lot of short blues that shoot off greens where you can try out your skills on a bit steeper terrain without feeling trapped on a long run you aren’t ready for. 

Apart from its skiing, the resort offers other family-friendly winter activities , including snow tubing, ice skating, and scenic sleigh rides, ensuring there’s plenty to do when you get off the mountain in the afternoon.

With a charming village at the base, visitors can indulge in a lively après-ski scene, with cozy restaurants, shops, and entertainment, making Keystone a well-rounded destination for families. 

Why Keystone is one of the Best Ski Resorts in Colorado for Beginners : Keystone offers a lot of activities besides skiing to keep families entertained and is also a great mountain to try out a short blue run for the first time when you are ready to level up in skiing.

Percent of mountain that is beginner terrain: 12%

Best runs for beginners: Schoolmarm, SilverSpoon, Scout

Where to stay in Keystone for families: Arapahoe Lodge

8: Telluride

The largest ski resort in the San Juan Mountains, Telluride is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts year round. Renowned for its challenging terrain and stunning alpine vistas, this world-class ski resort in southwest Colorado caters to both seasoned skiers and snowboarders as well as beginners looking to hone their skills. 

With over 2,000 acres of skiable terrain, visitors to Telluride in winter can explore a diverse range of slopes, from gentle groomed trails to nerve wracking chutes and glade runs. The mountain boasts 19 chair lifts and 148 named runs . Almost 25% of those runs are considered beginner trails, so whether you are teaching a toddler to ski or learning to ski as an adult, you’ll have plenty of terrain to explore without getting bored. 

Beyond its exceptional skiing and snowboarding offerings, Telluride is one of the best Christmas destinations in the United States , and has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. With locally owned shops and restaurants, and cozy lodges both in the town and on the mountain, Telluride is a renowned winter escape. 

Why Telluride is one of the Best Colorado Ski Resorts for Beginners: Telluride’s off-the-beaten-path location makes it far less crowded than some of the other great ski resorts in Colorado, which is a good thing for beginners who don’t have to worry about navigating runs that are packed with a lot of other skiers and snowboarders.

Percent of mountain that is beginner terrain: 25%

Best runs for beginners: Double Cabin, Meadows, Galloping Goose

Where to stay in Telluride for families: Hotel Columbia

7: Loveland

Loveland Ski Area is a great place to visit near Denver with toddlers or young children who are just learning to ski. 

Located near the town of Georgetown, just east of the Eisenhower Tunnel, this ski resort is actually renowned for its abundant natural snowfall – receiving an average of 326 inches of snow each year. 

With 1,800 acres of skiable terrain the ski area may be smaller than some of the other resorts in Summit County, but being only 53 miles from Denver, it makes for an easy day trip for those who want to ski for just one day. 

Loveland has 9 lifts, accessing 94 runs . Of those runs 13% are rated for beginners – making it one of the best ski resorts in Colorado for beginners who aren’t ready to spend more than a day or two on the mountain. 

Why Loveland is one of the Best Colorado Ski Resorts for Beginners: Its proximity to Denver makes Loveland one of the easiest ski areas to visit in Colorado. Green runs are also accessible from 6 of the 9 lifts at the ski area. 

Percent of mountain that is beginner terrain: 13%

Best runs for beginners: Take Off, All Smiles, Tango Road, Zig Zag

Where to stay in Loveland for families: Homewood Suites by Hilton

6: Aspen Snowmass

Aspen is one of the world’s best winter wonderlands , and it is known across the globe as a premier ski destination.

The area is home to four different ski mountains that range from mostly easy terrain geared toward beginner skiers at Buttermilk to mostly black diamond runs at AJAX.

Renowned not only for its glitzy après-ski scene but also for its remarkable appeal to families seeking a memorable winter vacation in Aspen with kids .

Beginner skiers should venture to Buttermilk or Snowmass.

Buttermilk is the easiest of the 4 mountains, with 35 percent of the resort accessible for beginners.

However, Snowmass is the largest of the resorts and the most popular for families due to the greater variety in terrain. It’s larger than the other three mountains combined, but only 5 percent of the 98 trails are considered beginner level greens. 

Off the slopes, Snowmass also offers great family friendly activities, like free ice skating and even free skate rentals, free S’mores every afternoon, plus snow tubing and a mountain coaster that kids and parents will love. 

Why Aspen-Snowmass is one of the Best Colorado Ski Resorts for Beginners: Aspen is a huge name in the skiing industry. Everyone has heard of it. And rightfully so. It’s a fantastic mountain.

While the mountain of Aspen is huge, it’s not exactly a great place to start skiing. While they do have some intermediate runs, Snowmass or Buttermilk are better known for their long intermediate runs and easier greens.

Buttermilk is the ideal mountain for starting out. Long greens for the beginner and not a lot of difficulty. Look at Snowmass as a place you go after conquering the greens.

Percent of mountain that is beginner terrain: 35% at Buttermilk

Best runs for beginners: Homestead Road (Buttermilk), Fanny Hill, Lunchline (Snowmass) 

Where to stay in Aspen for families: Limelight Hotel (Snowmass Village)

Vail is the largest ski resort in Colorado and skiing here is a Colorado Bucket List item for many winter enthusiasts.

Located in the White River National Forest, Vail is excellent for beginners venturing into the realm of skiing in Colorado simply because of how big the resort is and the variety it offers.

The resort spans 5,317 acres of terrain, nearly double some of the smaller resorts on our list. There are 32 lists, 195 trails – 18% of which are good for first timers and novice skiers. 

Often called the Disneyland of ski resorts, winter in Vail is a great place for a family ski trip – with dedicated learning zones, plenty of gentle slopes, top-notch instructional programs, and a great après scene that will keep families entertained after the mountain closes.

Families will enjoy the exhilarating alpine coaster, tubing lanes, ice skating or simply wandering through the charming village in the evening. 

Why Vail is one of the Best Colorado Ski Resorts for Beginners: Vail has it all. There’s a saying that if you don’t like Vail, then try golf. Vail really is the Disneyland of ski resorts. There are some great spots on the mountain for beginners, and you have plenty of options.

One thing to keep in mind is that because Vail is so large, it can feel intimidating trying to traverse the mountain from 1 green to the other. Fortunately, Vail has a great ski school that can cater to your level.

Percent of mountain that is beginner terrain: 18%

Best runs for beginners: Cub’s Way, Flap Jack, The Meadows

Where to stay in Vail for families: Tivoli Lodge

4: Copper Mountain

Copper Mountain is a popular ski resort among those who live in Denver and want to spend the day on the slopes without too much effort. 

Right off I70, and just 75 miles from Denver, Copper has 2,538 acres of skiable terrain and 24 chair lifts. Almost a quarter of the mountain (25%) is considered beginner terrain, giving first timers plenty of unintimidating and well-groomed slopes to try to conquer.

It isn’t just the mountain’s stats that make Copper one of the best ski resorts in Colorado for beginners, the village at the base has a cozy neighborhood atmosphere, and great amenities like an ice skating rink and a tubing hill for families. 

Why Copper is one of the Best Ski Resorts in Colorado for Beginners : A local favorite. Copper Mountain does the best job with separating the beginner skirts from the hard core, fast skier types.

Each part of the mountain caters to a specific type. One side is just for beginners, another part is for intermediates and another is for advanced. Copper offers very long runs that are gentle to those just getting started.

Percent of mountain that is beginner terrain: 24%

Best runs for beginners: Roundabout, High Point, Easy Feelin’

Where to stay in Copper for families: Cambria Hotel

3: Steamboat

Nestled in Yampa Valley in Northwest Colorado, Steamboat is known as “Ski Town USA”. This Colorado ski resort holds a well-deserved reputation for its welcoming atmosphere and great snow – coined champagne snow because it’s so smooth.

Of its 170 named runs, 14% are considered suitable for beginner skiing.

Steamboat also has a reputation for producing more Olympians than any other US town.

The resort has a great Ski and Ride School where you or your kids can take private or group lessons, making the learning process both enjoyable and safe. 

Aside from skiing at the 2,965 acre-sized resort, there are so many other things to do in Steamboat in winter , from ice skating to festivals, snowshoeing, and hot springs that further enrich the overall experience for families, solidifying Steamboat’s status as one of the best ski resorts in Colorado for beginners.

Why Steamboat is one of the Best Ski Resorts in Colorado for Beginners : This mountain is one of the more “gentle mountains” in Colorado. There’s not a lot of exposure which makes it less scary. Plus, long and gentle blues on the east side allow you to take your little one or new skier up top and away from the busy base area.

With the new gondola that takes you to the far east side now, you can go up and if it looks too intimidating, then you can easily ride back down safely.

Percent of mountain that is beginner terrain: 14%

Best runs for beginners: Stampede, Preview, Boulevard, Short Cut

Where to stay in Steamboat for families: Steamboat Grand

2: Winter Park

Winter Park, located in Fraser Valley earns its place as one of the best Colorado ski resorts for beginners for both its convenience and its terrain.

The only resort accessible by train from Denver, Winter Park is one of the easiest mountains to get if you don’t want to rent a car and drive.

With 3,081 skiable acres, it is also one of the largest resorts on our list.

Although only 8% of the 171 runs are green runs, Winter Park offers a welcoming environment for novices wanting to hone their skills.

Many of the green runs are clustered together, so for the first time skier, you can ski with confidence knowing you aren’t going to end up on a run that you aren’t prepared for.

Why Winter Park is one of the Best Colorado Ski Resorts for Beginners: Close to Denver and easy to get to on a sunny day. Winter Park is a good mountain that offers a lot of variability in terrain.

The beginner area is right at the base but also midway up the mountain. What makes this nice is that it pulls the beginners into a different part of the mountain that feels more like skiing. You’re away from the crowds and higher up, which gives you bigger views.

Most ski resorts have the beginners at the base and so you’re always looking up at the mountain. Winter Park lets you see all the terrain below while still learning on the greens. 

Percent of mountain that is beginner terrain: 8%

Best runs for beginners: Marmot Flats, Porcupine, Village Way

Where to stay in Winter Park for families: Fraser Crossing

1: Breckenridge

Rounding out our list of the best ski resorts in Colorado for beginners, Breckenridge and its 5 mountain peaks, 2,908 skiable acres, and 187 trails – is a great ski resort and mountain town in Colorado.

It stands as an exceptional choice for beginners thanks to its gentle slope that isn’t as steep or pitchy as many other ski resorts in the state.

Beginner skiing is mostly centered near the bottom of Peak 9. You’ll find 6 lifts and a couple of magic carpets servicing this peak, giving you plenty of variety to practice your new sport.   

Moreover, if visiting Breckenridge with kids , the town provides a range of family-friendly amenities, including picturesque sleigh rides, dog sledding, a mountain coaster, and snow cat tours.

Additionally, you’ll want to spend some time simply exploring this fun town filled with great shops and restaurants along historic Main Street. 

Just be sure to bundle up and make sure you pack all the essentials for going skiing the first time – With a base elevation at 9,600 feet, winters in Breckenridge are definitely cold.

Why Breckenridge is one of the Best Ski Resorts in Colorado for Beginners : A mountain loved by families. The runs are long and gentle and offer your family the ability to ski long runs together with little exposure.

The crowds can be big on weekends so try to plan your trip during the weekday. The terrain is fantastic for beginners with wide open greens that are easy to get to.

Percent of mountain that is beginner terrain: 11%

Best runs for beginners:  Frontier, Silverthorne, Lower Lehman

Where to stay in Breckenridge for families: Antlers Lodge

LOOKING FOR OTHER GREAT PLACES TO VISIT IN COLORADO? CHECK OUT THE HAUNTED STANLEY HOTEL IN ESTES PARK OR ICE CASTLES IN CRIPPLE CREEK

Do you have a question or comment about any of these best ski resorts in Colorado for beginners? We’d love to hear from you! Leave your thoughts in the comments below.

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Best places to visit in colorado.

Colorado's scenic terrain draws millions of travelers looking to get swept up in its natural splendor. With a bevy of cities and towns, each with its own unique outdoor offerings, cultural attractions, things to do and awe-inspiring landscapes, it may be difficult to choose the best place for your next vacation. U.S. News took into account a number of factors, including the variety of attractions, as well as the opinions of experts and travelers, to determine the best places to visit in Colorado. Have a favorite? Cast your vote below to help determine next year's list.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Glenwood springs, mesa verde national park, breckenridge, steamboat springs, pagosa springs, buena vista, black canyon of the gunnison national park, crested butte, great sand dunes national park and preserve, dinosaur national monument, colorado springs.

Take a trip to Rocky Mountain National Park to see for yourself why it is one of the most-visited national parks in the country. Hike among sky-high peaks or the park's 100-plus lakes, or swap your boots for a pair of skis or snowshoes in winter. If you'd rather explore from the comfort of your own vehicle, drive the scenic Trail Ridge Road (open seasonally) and feel on top of the world. At its highest point, the road reaches an elevation of more than 12,000 feet. What's more, this park is ideal for a camping adventure . But book early: A timed entry permit is required in the summer.

Colorado's most populous city is also its cultural hub. While you can go just about anywhere in Colorado to find outdoor adventures galore, in Denver you get the best of both worlds. The city is filled with top-notch museums, lively sports venues, prime shopping streets and an unmatched brewery scene. Meanwhile, just outside city limits, you'll enjoy easy access to the Rockies, as well as the photogenic Mount Evans Scenic Byway. For an unforgettable experience, catch a show at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre, a unique open-air concert venue with stunning views of Colorado's famous red rocks.

Telluride may not be large in size, but it is big on outdoor fun and adventure, which is why it's named one of the best small towns in the USA . Best known for its highly regarded ski slopes, Telluride offers 2,000-plus skiable acres and terrain suitable for everyone from beginners to experts. Meanwhile, hikers and cyclists flood the trails, paragliders soar through the air and festivalgoers attend the town's plethora of food-, music- and film-focused events during the warmer months. For some of Telluride's best panoramas, drive the San Juan Skyway or ride the gondola to Mountain Village.

Whether you are looking for an adventurous getaway in the Rocky Mountains or a luxurious spa vacation, this small town in northwestern Colorado fits the bill. Glenwood Springs visitors can soak up some rays while horseback riding, whitewater rafting or hiking the popular Hanging Lake Trail. If you'd like to take the thrills up a notch, make time for Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, which features cave tours, an alpine coaster and more. Later, soothe your aching muscles at one of the town's acclaimed spas, which utilize the region's natural hot springs in their treatments.

The former home of the Ancestral Pueblo people, Mesa Verde National Park contains about 5,000 of America's best-preserved archaeological sites, including 600 cliff dwellings. First-time visitors should prioritize the famous Cliff Palace, the largest cliff dwelling in North America. Many of the sites can only be accessed by ranger-led tours that may involve quite a bit of walking, climbing and, in some cases, crawling, so travelers should keep their physical health and limitations in mind before visiting. Still, the park's rich history makes the sometimes strenuous journeys well worth the effort.

Remnants of Breckenridge's history as a mining hub give the town a distinct aesthetic. The Rocky Mountains that serve as the town's backdrop, the Victorian-era architecture in the Historic District and the year-round festivals and events all contribute to the town's charm. Plus, the locale's thousands of acres of skiable terrain and the area's long ski season make Breckenridge a winter travel destination for the books. When the powder melts, the verdant vegetation that floods the trails make Breck (as locals call it) magical. What's more, the craft beer scene is an attraction in its own right.

Powder hounds take note: While it may not be as glamorous as some of its Colorado counterparts, Steamboat Springs is still an excellent destination for a ski vacation . After all, it maintains the nickname of Ski Town, USA. Here, travelers can take advantage of nearly 3,000 acres of skiable terrain covered in snow so light it's commonly called Champagne Powder snow. Steamboat Springs is equally impressive when it's dotted with wildflowers in spring and summer or brimming with foliage come fall. After a long day of hiking, biking or shredding powder, visitors can head to Strawberry Park Hot Springs to soothe aching muscles with a massage or a soak in a thermal pool.

Pagosa Springs' best-known attraction is – you guessed it – its renowned hot springs. Located along the banks of the San Juan River in southwestern Colorado, this small mountain town is home to the world's deepest geothermal hot spring, the Mother Spring aquifer, so it comes as no surprise that travelers flock here looking to soak their stress away. But this alluring Colorado destination has more to offer than just incredible hot springs. Here, travelers can participate in a range of outdoor activities, including mountain biking, hiking, skiing, rafting, horseback riding, fishing and more.  

Sitting in southwestern Colorado about 20 miles from the New Mexico border, Durango packs a punch for adventure travelers. Pastimes like hiking, mountain biking and skiing are popular here, and thrill-seekers won't want to miss a white-water rafting tour down the Animas River. Meanwhile, history buffs will love strolling through Durango's vibrant downtown, which boasts a variety of restaurants, art galleries and shops. Another must-do activity is riding the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Here, travelers can enjoy the breathtaking beauty of San Juan National Forest aboard an authentic steam locomotive.

With recreational activities galore and a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere, Buena Vista is one of Colorado's best under-the-radar travel destinations. Spend your time relaxing in Buena Vista's natural hot springs, which are some of the hottest in Colorado. Or, go for a drive along the Collegiate Peaks Scenic and Historic Byway for unforgettable mountain views. Meanwhile, if you want something more adventurous, Buena Vista is a great base for hiking 14ers (mountains exceeding 14,000 feet), and you can also try biking, off-roading or white-water rafting. Thanks to Buena Vista's valley location, these activities are typically available year-round.

Colorado's version of the Grand Canyon features some of the state's most stunning views. Carved by the Gunnison River millions of years ago, the Black Canyon's more than 2,000-foot depth has impressed spectators for centuries, including the Ute Tribe who once called the canyon home. Now, along with its incredible scenery, parkgoers can enjoy fishing in the Black Canyon's highly regarded waters, climbing its towering rock formations and hiking or skiing its impressive trails. At night, attention shifts from the rocks and river below to the sky above when visitors can stargaze in this International Dark Sky Park.

Known as both the last great Colorado ski town and the wildflower capital of Colorado, Crested Butte beckons to outdoorsy types year-round. In winter, skiers and snowboarders will find trails for all skill levels, though the town is most famous for its extreme terrain and steep slopes. When temperatures rise, visitors can trade in their skis or snowboards for mountain bikes to take advantage of Crested Butte's hundreds of miles of bike trails. Arrive in July to see the town burst with color and partake in the Crested Butte Wildflower Festival's activities.

Nestled against the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve offers a unique outdoor experience. Visitors can sled down the tallest sand dunes in North America or float down the park's stretch of Medano Creek. Hiking, fat biking and horseback riding are other fun ways to explore the area's diverse ecosystems. And at night, travelers can admire the unfiltered night sky while camping. Great Sand Dunes is open year-round, but keep in mind that winter can be chilly and summer can bring scorching sand and thunderstorms, so parkgoers should plan their trips accordingly.

If you're looking to splurge during ski season, Aspen is the place to be. This small town is conveniently tucked between four renowned ski spots – Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Buttermilk and Aspen Highlands – that offer quality slopes for all levels of skiers. Not only that, but the town features the crème de la crème of luxury resorts, a growing culinary reputation (the Food & Wine Classic in Aspen is held here every summer) and an après-ski scene so appealing it'll be pretty tough to leave.

This iconic European-style ski town is a popular haven for celebrities and winter sports enthusiasts. With thousands of acres of snowy trails spread across one of the largest single-mountain resorts in the country, Vail is known for its top-notch skiing and snowboarding. But there is more to the town than just its slopes. When the snow melts and the temperatures rise, Vail's Epic Discovery area invites visitors to engage in other outdoor activities like zip lining, rock climbing and mountain coaster rides. Those looking for less adrenaline-inducing entertainment should check out the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens and central Vail's boutiques.

Feel as if you've journeyed back in time during a visit to Dinosaur National Monument. Spread across Colorado and Utah, this protected area is known for its archaeological treasures. You won't find any dinosaur bones on the Colorado side, but budding archaeologists can test their skills by looking for small sea creature fossils on the Harpers Corner Trail. This side of the park is also a prime spot for outdoor activities like hiking, river rafting, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. For breathtaking views of the surrounding canyons, go for a spin on the Harpers Corner Scenic Drive.

Colorado Springs stands out from its mountainous counterparts because it's not a ski destination. But what the city lacks in slopes it more than makes up for in incredible hiking areas like Pikes Peak, the mountain that inspired Katharine Lee Bates to write "America the Beautiful," and magnificent natural landmarks like the Garden of the Gods. Mix that in with a good helping of small-town charm, delectable restaurants and a diverse array of attractions (including the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Training Center), and Colorado Springs has all the makings of a great vacation.

Although Boulder is Denver's slightly smaller neighbor, it is no less impressive. With both the Rocky Mountains and the Flatirons in the background, Boulder combines all of the relaxation of an outdoor escape with the energy of a city. Nature lovers will feel right at home while hiking and biking the city's trails or tubing down its stretch of Boulder Creek. Those looking for more urban entertainment can explore Boulder's beer trails or shop and dine at Pearl Street Mall's boutiques and restaurants.

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Colorado Bucket List: 25 Cool Places to Visit in Colorado

Alpine lakes, hot springs, mining towns, mountain towns, sand dunes, and 14ers: the sheer variety of travel destinations that make up any list of the best places to visit in Colorado is magnificent.

Known for its snowcapped peaks, national parks, hiking trails, skiing, and beyond, Colorado is, without a doubt, one of the coolest states to visit in the USA.

If you’re looking for some new Colorado vacation spots to add to your itinerary, this Colorado bucket list is for you.

Here are the coolest places in Colorado to visit!

Table of Contents

Colorado National Parks For Your Bucket List

Cool cities + small towns to visit in co, more of the best places to visit in colorado.

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Colorado is home to four stunning national parks to visit–and despite the Centennial State’s reputation for its incredible Rocky Mountain landscapes, each park is incredibly unique and well worth a visit!

Rocky Mountain National Park

Welcoming more than 3 million visitors each year, Rocky Mountain National Park is not only the state’s most popular national park, it’s easily one of the top places to visit in Colorado as a whole!

From snowcapped mountains to alpine lakes, and from challenging hikes to relaxing scenic drives, Rocky Mountain National Park has options for all kinds of travelers–the only thing you truly need to justify a visit is an appreciation for alpine beauty.

Some of the most popular things to do in RMNP include visiting Bear Lake, hiking to Emerald Lake and Dream Lake, driving the beautiful Trail Ridge Road, and checking out Old Fall River Road (either by car or by foot depending on the season).

If you’re visiting in winter, don’t worry, much of the park is still accessible–just be prepared to lace up your cross country skis to visit some of the most popular lakes!

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

From Megan of Red Around the World

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park  is an often-overlooked national park in Gunnison, Colorado–but if you add it to your list of beautiful places in Colorado to visit, there’s no doubt that you’ll be blown away.

It is one of the deepest canyons in North America at 8,043 feet deep.  It’s hard to imagine that, even when you’re there looking at it.  It’s easiest to visit the South Rim just outside of Gunnison which is also where you can access the river at the bottom of the canyon.

There is also access to the North Rim which is perfect if you want to get away from the already meager crowds. 

Keep in mind that though the two rims look close to each other on a map, they’re a couple hours worth of driving apart.

While the park isn’t bursting with hiking trails, there are quite a few to choose from and just as many amazing viewpoints to stop at. 

Keep your eyes peeled for bears while you’re exploring the park.  

Even if you just have a couple of hours, it’s totally worth visiting.  Most of the trails are short, under three miles round-trip. 

The Oak Flat Loop Trail is great for people looking to hike below the rim but not all the way to the river.  It’s two miles round-trip and can be narrow in some places, so be careful. 

Also make sure to drive down to the river, even if just for the experience.

Mesa Verde National Park

From James of Parks Collecting

Mesa Verde National Park  is home to 600 cliff dwellings. 

The Ancient Puebloans built their villages in overhangs in the side of steep cliffs and climbed down from above, using hand and footholds carved directly into the cliff. 

Today, you can see many of them from overlooks at the top of the mesa and see some of them up close on guided tours.  Bear in mind that you need to climb down ladders or steep steps to visit them.

The cliff dwellings are truly incredible to see.  Highlights include Cliff Palace (the largest), Long House, and Balcony House (where you need to crawl through a very narrow tunnel to exit).

Each year, some of the other dwellings are also opened up to small group visits, with a ranger as a guide.  You need to hike to these, and often climb down the original hand and footholds (with the help of modern-day chains to make it safer). 

Whether you see the cliff dwellings from overlooks, on a guided tour, or a small group back-country hike, you are sure to be fascinated by them.

Great Sand Dunes National Park

From Rai of A Rai of Light

Great Sand Dunes National Park, found in the Saguache and Alamosa Counties of southern Colorado, encompasses more than 100,000 acres of open-air adventure.

The fascination not only lies with the tallest sand dunes in North America, but also the surrounding landscape that features forests, snow-capped mountains, and rivers.

There is so much to do that 3 days is the minimum number of days to spend in and around the surrounding area. Top sights in the preserve include High Dune, Zapata Falls, Medano Pass.

Sandboarding is a popular activity and should not be missed. Other activities worth trying include sledding, horseback riding, and hiking to catch a beautiful sunrise .

The park is always open and no reservations are required. However, the best time to visit is during spring and fall.

The closest town is Mosca, but the park is easily reached from any major city as the San Luis Valley Airport is a mere 45-minute drive from the park’s entrance.

Known as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, the charming small town of Estes Park easily ranks among the best places to visit in Colorado.

With its beautiful downtown (don’t miss a chance to stroll along the riverwalk!), its huge prevalance of elk living in and around the town, its beautiful lake, and the world-class nature of nearby hiking opportunities, Estes Park belongs on any Colorado bucket list.

While in Estes Park, be sure to stop by the historic Park Theatre, consider a whitewater rafting trip, go for a scenic drive, check out one of the town’s breweries, and pay a visit to the beautiful Stanley Hotel, which inspired Stephen King’s The Shining.

Even if you don’t check in, the hotel is still worth a peak!

And, of course, the main attraction lies just outside of town: no trip to Estes Park is complete without plenty of time spent in Rocky Mountain National Park!

Where to Stay in Estes Park

• Mountain Shadows Resort: Get into the rustic feel with these incredible cottages in Estes Park. Cottages have private terraces, hot tubs and wooden 4-poster beds.
• Hotel Estes : These fabulous pet friendly cabins are close to Rocky Mountain National Park with mountain views, great facilities such as an outdoor swimming pool for those warmer months.

Crested Butte

From Martina + Jurgen of PlacesofJuma

Crested Butte in the Rocky Mountains is probably one of the most recommended places to visit in Colorado.

It is famous as a ski resort and is also considered to be the capital of wildflowers, making Crested Butte a fantastic year-round travel destination in Colorado.

In winter, the challenging ski slopes attract the best skiers and snowboarders. The cross-country ski trails, which are located around the city, add a special beauty to the unique landscape.

In the warm months, mountain bikers and hikers come to experience the unique nature of the region and the splendor of the flowers.

But not only is the surrounding nature gorgeous, but the town is also pretty too!

Crested Butte is an extremely pedestrian-friendly town, and walking around, you will discover picturesque historical buildings, great restaurants, and plenty of mountain views.

We also recommend a visit in July, when the famous Crested Butte Wildflower Festival takes place.

Where to Stay in Crested Butte

• Nordic Inn: This comfortable hotel is a great place to rest after exploring. There is a Great Room with complimentary games and views over Mt. Crested Butte, there is also a large hot tub to enjoy. Rooms are spacious and really cosy.
• Public House Lofts: As the name suggests these rooms are over a really great bar called Public House, perfectly located for getting home quickly at the end of the evening! The rooms are modern, comfortable and really well designed. Definitely a great spot to stay in Crested Butte.

Colorado’s capital city is arguably one of the trendiest and fastest-growing cities in the country–and given that Denver offers a fantastic array of things to do while also being located within proximity of epic mountain hikes, it’s no surprise.

Known for its breweries, parks, and proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park as well as popular mountain towns like Boulder and Estes Park, Denver makes a fantastic weekend getaway destination .

While you’re in Denver, consider catching a game at Coor’s Field, seeing a show at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre, strolling down the 16th Street Mall, stopping by Larimer Square, and–of course–hitting up a few of those popular breweries.

If you’re looking to add some museum-hopping to your Denver itinerary , the city also has you covered, from classics like the Denver Art Museum to more unique options like the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum.

Steamboat Springs

From Liz of Peanuts or Pretzels

Steamboat Springs might be a popular ski town in Colorado and home to many former Olympians, but a visit here can feel less like your typical Colorado ski resort vacation and more like an adventure.

This is a town with a vibrant local community, humorous traditions, and lively Western history.

A four-season destination, there’s plenty of things to do year-round in Steamboat. But for many, winter is the most magical time.

Winter sports are everywhere, not just the main ski resort.

The locals even have their own hill in the center of town and during the Winter Carnival each February, the town comes alive with ski contests (complete with light-up costumes and fireworks), outdoor concerts, sculptures, and parades where horses pull thrill-seekers on skis over jumps right through the middle of town!

After all of that winter fun, take a soothing dip in one of the  hot springs around town , such as Strawberry Hot Springs, a local favorite for its natural scenery tucked back in a canyon. 

Where to Stay in Steamboat Springs

• For a premium place to stay, book into the Sheraton Steamboat Resort Villas . This is a classic excellent quality large hotels with all the facilities you would expect. Guaranteed great stay
• Chalet Val d’Isere is also a fabulous option but with more of a homely vibe. There are just a few rooms and it is a classic ski lodge style cabin complete with plenty of cozy features.

Breckenridge

From Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler

Consistently ranked among the best places to visit in Colorado, Breckenridge is a charming town in the heart of the Rockies with non-stop activities and scenic beauty.

Visit the craft breweries and fabulous restaurants in this town surrounded by mountain peaks. Breckenridge chefs feature local farm-to-table ingredients. In Breckenridge’s historic district you can learn the story of this old mining town.

Breckenridge is famous for its world-class cross country and alpine skiing, making it one of the most classic Colorado vacation spots. The Breckenridge ski resort boasts 5 mountains and 187 trails.

In the summer you will find wildflowers as you hike into an alpine meadow or a cascading waterfall. In fall, the blazing colors of the aspens are spectacular.

Breckenridge is an outdoor enthusiast’s mecca. Rafting, ziplining, fly fishing, and biking are a few of the outdoor adventures to try. Hikers will love the hundreds of nearby trails.

Don’t miss a chance to take the free gondola ride up into the mountains. It’s not unusual to see moose or a bald eagle from your vantage point high above the meadows.

Where to Stay in Breckenridge

• The Ranahan: These aparthotel suites are perfect for your stay in Breckenridge. Each room has its own kitchenette but the hotel also has great on site facilities including a fabulous bar and outside fire pit area.
• Mountain Valley Lodge : A great Marriott resort with all the expected facilities, rooms are really spacious and all have great views of the mountains. There is also an onsite spa, swimming pool and ski storage.

Glenwood Springs

From Mark of Summer Camp Hub

Glenwood Springs is a city right by the Rocky Mountains famous for being home to some of the best hot springs in Colorado .

It’s renowned as an excellent Colorado vacation spot for just about everyone, including families and would-be adventurers. 

If you’re looking to soak in hot springs, you need to visit Iron Mountain Hot Springs. There are 16 hot springs you can enjoy while getting a scenic view of the Rocky Mountains.

If you’re looking to go hiking, then the Glenwood Canyon is readily available with hikes like the Grizzly Creek and the Hanging Lake. 

There are also plenty of other outdoor thrilling activities you can do like paragliding and rafting.

If you’re visiting as a family, there are plenty of outdoor kid-friendly activities children can participate in.

With such a huge opportunity for children to receive an outdoor education, it’s no surprise that there are numerous summer camps in the state  and city. 

Apart from outdoor adventures to partake in, be sure to visit the famous comedy shows that go on at the Glenwood Vaudeville Revue.

Where to Stay in Glenwood Springs

• Glenwood Springs B&B: Fancy staying in a piece of history? This quaint B&B is over 100 years old and is exceptionally well maintained. Many of the rooms have deep claw-foot bathtubs and if that isn’t enough water for you there is a huge jacuzzi for guests.
• Hanging Lake Inn: For something more classic this Inn is a great option. Facilities are fresh and modern, and there is a lovely porch area with views of the hills.

Manitou Springs

From Melissa of Navigation Junkie

Manitou Springs is a historic city located just outside of Colorado Springs with roots tracing back to the Pikes Peak gold rush.

It is the perfect Colorado bucket list destination for some small-town charm, natural beauty, culture, and fun!

A visit to Manitou Springs would not be complete without taking a  self-guided walking tour of the springs. There are eight springs in total along a 1.4-mile trail through town, each with its own unique mineral content.

The Manitou Cliff Dwellings, authentic relocated Pueblos, is another must-visit spot in Manitou Springs.

For some more hiking, climb the Incline near Pikes Peak for some stunning views, or if you prefer not to hike, drive the Pikes Peak Highway to the summit.

After a long day of exploring, find plenty of food and bar options in downtown Manitou Springs.

If traveling with kids, be sure to check out the world-famous Penny Arcade for games, kiddie rides, and prizes! And finally stop in at Pike’s Peak Ice Cream for some tasty treats and ice cream! 

Where to Stay in Manitou Springs

• Cliff House: Looking like something out of a fairy story this fabulous hotel has wonderful old-world charm, pretty views, and some rooms even have working fireplaces!
• Magnuson Grand : For more of a classic modern hotel this is a great option. The facilities are lovely and there are mountain views throughout. It is also minutes away from the waterfalls and Garden of the Gods.

From Daria of The Discovery Nut

Telluride is a small but mighty town with colorful mining history and unparalleled landscapes that draw visitors from all over the country. 

Tucked away in the box canyon in San Juan Mountains in southwest Colorado, Telluride is definitely an exclusive destination as it’s not easy to get to. It takes about 5-6 hours from Denver to get here, and the local airport doesn’t have big commercial flights. 

Telluride is a scenic destination that is renowned for its year-round outdoor opportunities, gorgeous nature, and a vibrant art scene, so it’s not just skiing that brings so many people here (Although Telluride does have some great slopes). 

Telluride also offers some of the best hiking trails in Colorado from the iconic Blue Lakes a short drive away to Jud Wiebe Memorial Trail that can be accessed from downtown Telluride.

For an amazing experience, take a free gondola between Telluride and Mountain Village from where you can get a panoramic view of the San Juan Mountains. 

Visitors also enjoy an ice rink at Hotel Madeline or get a tour of the area to learn about its history of silver mining.

Downtown Telluride is home to a big art scene with several galleries and you can easily participate in one of the organized tours. 

Where to Stay in Telluride

• Mountain Lodge: This classic chalet style aparthotel offers wonderful fully equipped, spacious apartments. It is nestled in the mountains and has onsite spa facilities and a great restaurant.
• The Bivvi Hostel: Don’t let the hostel name fool you! The facilities here are excellent are there is more to offer than crowded dorm-rooms. Private rooms are spacious and have private bathrooms. Shared facilities onsite feature billiards, a hot tub, garden and pretty terrace.

From Jess of I’m Jess Traveling

Vail, Colorado is one of the best places to visit in the state.  Known for its world-class ski runs and luxurious accommodations, Vail is a sought-after destination worldwide. 

You can travel to Vail year-round but the best time to visit Vail is in the winter.  With over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain, Vail Ski Resort is not only one of the biggest in the United States but it’s also extremely popular. 

From the legendary back bowls to the bunny hill, Vail mountain offers something for every ability level. 

Vail Village is full of boutique shops, fun bars, and tasty restaurants.  One of the best bars in Vail Village is Vendetta’s.  Come here for a fun environment, apres drinks, and cheap pizza.  

If you are looking for more of an intimate dining experience reserve a table at one of the several on-mountain restaurants like Game Creek. 

Whatever it is that peaks your interest, Vail, Colorado is a Colorado travel destination for the whole family to enjoy.  

Where to Stay in Vail

• Lodge at Lionscreek: The location for this hotel is perfect, it is right next to the transit point for the ski lifts. Ski equipment is also available for rental on site if you don’t bring your own. The facilities are excellent, rooms have views over Gore Creek and are all private apartment style with their own kitchen facilities, some of the larger ones also have beautiful dining spaces in case you want to host!
• Tivoli Lodge: For a hotel set up this is a great option, rooms are fabulous and quite large. The hotel itself is a few meters away from several slope and ski lifts, it also has an onsite cocktail lounge for après-ski!

Pagosa Springs

From Agnes of The Van Escape

Pagosa Springs is a town picturesquely situated on the San Juan River in the southwestern part of Colorado.

It is worth adding it to the  road trip itinerary, especially when you plan also visit Durango and Great Sand Dunes National Park. Pagosa Springs will be the perfect stop for a longer break on the US-160W route.

The town is famous for its magnificent thermal springs, thanks to which it owes its name. In Ute, “pagosah” means “healing waters.” Pagosa is the home of the world’s deepest geothermal hot spring.

So, the best thing you can do in this town is soaked up the hot springs and relax.

The mineral-rich waters fill the baths at The Springs Resort & Spa, The Overlook Hot Springs, and Healing Waters Resort & Spa. Each of them is open to the public.

In addition to the hot springs resorts, there are interesting and picturesque hiking trails around Pagosa Springs. You can admire fabulous waterfalls like Treasure Falls or Piedra Falls. Moreover, rafting and kayaking trips are popular on the San Juan River.

Where to Stay in Pagosa Springs

• The Nightingale Motel: Well located with pretty views and excellent rooms, complete with private balcony. There is also an onsite bar to refresh after visiting the hot springs.
• For a homely self contained option the Fireside Cabins are fabulous. Decor is in keeping with the mountain theme and the kitchens are well equipped with everything you need.

Colorado Springs

From Jenny of Limitless Hiker

Spend a weekend or even a long weekend exploring Colorado Springs . It’s the perfect amount of time to experience the highlights of this small town in Colorado.

Colorado Springs is well known for its Manitou Springs Incline which gains nearly 2,000 feet of elevation over less than 1 mile. Whether you’re looking for a tough workout to start training for Colorado 14ers (14,000-foot mountains), or just want to challenge yourself, this incline trail is a must.

Colorado Springs is also known for the beautiful Garden of the Gods park.

The Garden of the Gods is known for its bright orange rock formations. It’s a popular spot among rock climbers or you can spend some time biking around or even hiking around.

Next on the list of must-see places in Colorado Springs is Pikes Peak. Which is the only 14er in this area. You have the option of hiking to the top, which is 26.2 miles round trip with around 7,500 feet of elevation gain, or you could also hike one way and have someone pick you up at the top. The other alternative is to drive to the top. 

After you’ve had a good workout from all of that hiking, head over to the SunWater Spa and soak in their hot springs. This is a rewarding treat after a hard workout.

Where to Stay in Colorado Springs

• The Lodge at Flying Horse is a stunning option for your stay in Colorado Springs. The resort is a European-style 18-hole golf course with views across the grounds and incredible facilities.
• To stay in the heart of Downtown book into Kinship Landing . Rooms are clean and stylish, and if you are on a budget they have great dorm rooms available.

From Ankita of My Travelling Stilettos

Nestled in the Roaring Fork Valley in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, Aspen is the most famous ski resort town in the US and one of the best vacation spots in Colorado.

Long snowy winters thanks to the elevation of 8000 ft and proximity of four world-renowned Ski Resorts made it the favorite ski destination for celebrities and private citizens alike.

It is situated 200 miles away from Denver and can be reached easily by road.

Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice skating, snowmobiling, sledding are the most popular activities to do in the winter.

Not an adventure junkie? Explore Aspen town.

Visit Wheeler Opera House and Hotel Jerom, catch glimpses of annual film and music festivals or experience a fine dining meal from the plethora of world-class restaurants.

Spring and falls are the ideal time to take mountain gondola rides to the top of Elks Mountains and enjoy breathtaking views along the way.

Aspen has many hiking and mountain biking trails to enjoy when it is not snowing.

Where to Stay in Aspen

• Limelight Hotel is a superb option in Aspen, and great value for money. There is a hot tub, outdoor pool and a rooftop terrace to enjoy in warmer months. Rooms are spacious and many include kitchenettes.
• The W also has a fabulous hotel here in Aspen with all the top range facilities you would expect. Rooms are excellent with luxury details, such as fluffy bathrobes and towels. There are also bikes available for free use should you want to explore Aspen on wheels.

Grand Junction

From Trijit of Budget Travel Buff

Looking to get beyond Colorado’s famous ski towns and find some  cheaper places in Colorado to visit that are still worthy of a Colorado bucket list? Look no further than Grand Junction.

Located at the confluence of the Gunnison and Colorado rivers, Grand Junction is such a beautiful place that offers everything from natural scenic views to Colorado adventures without burning a hole in your pocket.

It is just a short drive away from Utah and around 245 miles away from Denver. Not only for outdoor adventures but this popular Colorado town is also known as Colorado’s Wine County as it is home to many wineries.

From exploring historic downtown to wine tasting and hiking nearby trails, you will find plenty of things to do in Grand Junction.

Discover Grand Junction’s historic downtown district which is filled with varieties of mixed art galleries, sculptures, local boutiques, restaurants, and breweries.

Next, visit the Colorado National Monument, where you just may think that you’ve been transporated to the rocky landscape of southern Utah.

Located just a short drive from downtown, these natural stunning landscapes of red rock formations will leave you awestruck.

Grand Junction is also a great place for wine lovers. If you visit this place in summer or spring, don’t miss a wine tasting tour. Enjoy the views of the vineyards while sipping on some of the best quality wines.

Where to Stay in Grand Junction

• Castle Creek Manor: A lovely B&B with a friendly homely vibe and mountain views. Some rooms have balconies, perfect for taking in the fresh air.
• Grand River Inn: With spacious rooms and rustic decor this is a lovely choice for Grand Junction

From Krystianna of Delightfully Denver

One of the most underrated places to visit in Colorado is the town of Golden!

This town has deep-rooted wild west vibes and is home to some amazing attractions that you won’t want to miss when visiting this state. Plus,  one day in Golden  is all you need.

Even though Denver is home to Coors Field, Golden is actually where Coors Brewery is located.

The brewery hosts tours for the public, and you can even catch a shuttle bus from downtown Golden to easily get there if you’re traveling without a car.

Golden is also one of the best towns near Denver for hiking. There are a few mountains to hike here, including Lookout Mountain and Table Mountain, and both are equally great.

Downtown Golden is lovely too. There’s a huge “Welcome to Golden” sign that gets decorated for the holidays. You can find a bunch of local shops and restaurants throughout downtown Golden like Woody’s Wood Fired Pizza.

If you’re wondering where to go in Colorado and want to visit a small western town, Golden is the perfect place!

Where to Stay in Golden

• Table Mountain Inn: With mountain views and rustic decor this is a great place to stay in Golden
• The Silk Pincushion: As expected with such a quirky name this adorable hotel is a charming place to stay in Golden, perfect for a home style welcome.

From Corritta of It’s a Family Thing

One of the best-kept secrets of Colorado is Canon City. I know you may be wondering what makes this one of the best places in Colorado, and that’s the Royal Gorge Bridge.

Only an hour away from Colorado Springs, Canon City is a small town with a big bridge. The Royal Gorge Bridge is the highest suspended bridge in the United States. The bridge is over 900 feet above the Arkansas River.

It is a sight to see and even more amazing to walk. Along with walking across the over 1200 footbridge, you can also ride the gondola across the gorge, zipline, or fly on the royal rush sky coaster.

As if that wasn’t enough, you can head down to the gorge and enjoy a train ride along the Arkansas River. You can relax and have dinner while learning more about Canon City.

If you are up for an adventure, you can raft on the Arkansas River. Take of the waters while taking in the beautiful scenic views.

In the spring, you can enjoy the music and blossom festival, which is a celebration of the upcoming cherry and apple crop.

Canon City is the perfect small-town with diners, shops, boutiques, and few traffic lights. Be sure to stop at Julian’s Taco Shop downtown; you won’t regret it.

Where to Stay in Canon City

• Hampton Inn: For good simple accommodation this is a great choice in Canon City. It is also walking distance to Royal Gorge Bridge.

From Dymphe of Dym Abroad

Aurora is one of the best places in Colorado. You find the city to the east of Denver.

There are lots of great things to do and see in the city of Aurora. For example, there are a lot of outdoor activities and there is beautiful nature.

One of the best things to do in Aurora is going to Cherry Creek State Park. This is a beautiful park with lots of places with water. It is the perfect place for a relaxing walk while seeing the Rocky Mountains in the background.

Another great thing about Cherry Greek State Park is that there are many water activities. Besides that, another great thing to do in Aurora is visiting the Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum. This is a very interesting museum to visit.

Also, you should go to Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre. This is a very large outdoor amphitheater where many events throughout the year take place.

Where to Stay in Aurora

• Woolley’s Classic Suites : With old-world touches and mountain views this is a great option for your stay in Aurora.

Mount Evans

From Allison of She Dreams of Alpine

If standing on the summit of a 14er is on your Colorado bucket list, don’t miss a trip to Mount Evans.

You can reach the 14,265-foot summit of this mountain in multiple ways, so you get to decide how hard you want to work to get to the top.

Mount Evans is located about 60 miles west of Denver, along Mount Evans Scenic Byway (aka Highway 5), which is the highest paved road in the whole country.

You can actually drive it straight to the top with only a short stroll to the true summit from the parking lot.

For the extra bragging rights and experience of hiking a 14er , pull off earlier on the road and park at Summit Lake trailhead.

From there, hike approximately 4.5 miles round trip (with 2300 feet of elevation gain) to get to the summit of Mount Evans.

If you prefer pedal power, you can bike to the summit as well.

Be aware that the road to the trailhead and summit is closed in winter, so plan to visit Mount Evans in spring, summer, or fall.

Where to Stay in Mount Evans

• The Ranahan: These aparthotel suites are perfect for your stay in nearby Breckenridge. Each room has its own kitchenette but the hotel also has great on site facilities including a fabulous bar and outside fire pit area.

From Jesal of Tourist to Travellers

Grand Lake Colorado, the largest natural lake in Colorado is a picturesque sight with snow-capped mountains and a breathtaking backdrop of the wild Rocky Mountains, and it ranks among the best Colorado vacation spots!

At 8300 feet above sea level, the scenery is unmatched and the sprawling greenery is soothing to one’s eyes.

It’s also an ideal basecamp for the adventure seeker.

While visiting Grand Lake, be sure to take a scenic walk along the lakeshore, relax on the beach, take a few hikes to enjoy the scenery, and keep an eye out for wildlife.

You could hire a cozy cabin in the woods and spend some time with your loved ones.

If you’re visiting this beautiful place in Colorado during winter, consider trying out skiing or snowboarding during your trip.

Where to Stay in Grand Lake

• Grand Lake Townhome : This fully equipped self-catered holiday home is great for small groups or a couple if you want plenty of space! There is a wonderful deck with great views, it is even known to spot Moose right in front.
• Grand Lake Lodge: For catered options with the same cabin feel is this lodge right in Rocky Mountain National Park. There is also a hot tub and pool available to use.

Willow Lakes

From Meg of Fox in the Forest

Willow Lakes in Colorado brings the drama of the Colorado Gore Range to life.

If you’re up for a challenging hike that makes up for every drop of sweat with fantastic scenery, this is definitely one of the best places in Colorado to please your adventurous soul!

Known for its rugged trails, fantastic mountain views, and jaw-dropping views of alpine lakes (one which is backdropped by an impressive series of gendarmes, the Zodiac Spires), Willow Lakes will greet you every step of the way with yet another wonderful view (usually better than the last!).

Another highlight? The entire trail is lined with flowers, which makes it one of the best  wildflower hikes in Colorado !

One of the coolest things to do at Willow Lakes (aside from dropping your jaw to the ground at the scenery) is camping in one of the most beautiful places to visit in Colorado.

Where to Stay in Willow Lakes

There are several campsites along the last mile of the trail. Few things in life are as amazing as spending a night under the stars here!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

5 thoughts on “Colorado Bucket List: 25 Cool Places to Visit in Colorado”

There is a flaw in this article, Grand Lake is a very nice small mountain town. And yes there is a lake called Grand Lake, but the big lake is called Lake Granby.

Not a flaw. Lake Granby is man-made. The article states that Grand Lake is the largest natural lake in CO, which is in fact, true.

I can’t believe Ouray wasn’t on the list.

Tourist from back east has visited Ouray several times. Great area to visit, hike and view mountains. Definitely an oversite! Friendly. Great camping nearby Norman and Linda

This brings back memories. Thank you so much.

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• 7 Breathtaking Towns to Visit in Colorado

Colorado is a breathtaking state, offering a rich playground for adventurers, photographers, and wildlife lovers, with some of the nation's most diverse landscapes, highest peaks, and sparkling lakes. This is a place to make unforgettable memories. Lake City, known for outdoor recreation along Lake San Cristobal in remote Hinsdale County, is nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountain Range. It offers Haute Route yurts for a cozy overnight stay in the wilderness under a celestial sky.

Ouray, often called the "Switzerland of America," replicates a Swiss village, surrounded by 12,000 to 13,000-foot peaks and waterfalls in a high alpine valley. It also serves as an entrance to the stunning Cascade Falls Park. Cortez is home to Puebloan heritage and acts as a gateway to iconic natural and historical wonders like Mesa Verde National Park, which also offers some of the darkest, star-filled skies in the state.

Carbondale, another beautiful town, is set in a broad valley beneath the towering Mt. Sopris. Recognized by National Geographic Adventure Magazine for its adventure appeal, it offers a variety of activities for all types of travelers. Whether you seek outdoor excitement or relaxation, with an average of 295 days of sunshine and low humidity, this town feels like a happy place where every breath brings you clean mountain air. The northern terminus of the West Elk Loop Scenic and Historic Byway provides plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and scenic drives where the scenery leaves you breathless.

Cold but mild winters attract skiers and snowshoers to Carbondale's slopes and trails, while the warm summers are perfect for camping and activities like summiting Mt. Sopris. The charming downtown, through which the Crystal River flows, has great foodie spots like Village Smithy Restaurant and White House Pizza. Sopris Park, a popular spot for picnics, and Mushroom Rock, a scenic hiking spot, are other attractions. Additionally, Mountain Fair, an art and music festival, draws up to 20,000 visitors over three days during the last week of July. The Wild West Rodeo, a source of western family fun and entertainment, offers concessions every Thursday night throughout the summer.

The small, high-country desert town of Cortez offers an idyllic setting in the midst of its natural surroundings, inspiring adventures that attract true outdoorsmen. From McElmo Creek, a tributary of the San Juan River, to the nearby Ute Mountain, these landscapes are dotted with archaeological sites like Yucca House National Monument, where visitors can explore ancient Pueblo ruins near the mountain. Hawkins Preserve is a popular hiking area with local fauna and distant peaks often covered in snow. Don't miss the Notah-Dineh Company and Museum, a fascinating art gallery with various mediums, including quilts. Downtown, you can visit the Farm Bistro and Lounging Lizard for a bite, as well as the Cortez Cultural Center for local history and culture.

The enchantment continues at Mesa Verde National Park, minutes southeast of town, which was a sacred site for Ancestral Puebloans for over 700 years. This UNESCO World Heritage Site blends history with nature, offering visitors a glimpse into ancient Pueblo communities and cultural insights. Explore ancient dwellings like Far View House, Step House, and Cliff Palace, and follow scenic trails along the majestic mesas to see ancient markings. As an International Dark Sky Park, Mesa Verde offers incredible stargazing opportunities in some of the darkest skies in the country.

Crested Butte

Originally a quaint mining town in 1880, Crested Butte is now known as "Colorado's Last Great Ski Town." It's surrounded by the Elk Mountains, providing breathtaking views and a wide range of outdoor activities. As a registered national historic district, it retains a unique charm while also housing the Crested Butte Mountain Resort, catering to both skiers and snowboarders with its thousand-plus acres of terrain. The town is also a popular spot for Nordic skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing, with summer activities following the wildflower blooms in spring.

Though somewhat remote, Crested Butte attracts visitors for its vibrant festivals, like the Crested Butte Wildflower Festival and the Crested Butte Music Festival. The town offers 750 miles of biking trails, alpine forests for hiking, and pristine rivers, lakes, and streams for fishing, kayaking, and whitewater rafting. Its unique geography provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor experiences. Downtown, there are several museums, coffee houses, and restaurants serving international cuisine. Check out the Sherpa Café for Nepalese food, visit Rainbow Park with its charming gazebo, and take the kids to the Trailhead Children's Museum for some family-friendly fun.

Located in the most remote part of Hinsdale County in the lower 48 states, Lake City is accessible via the Silver Thread Scenic Byway, which leads into the heart of the San Juan Mountain Range. This picturesque town provides year-round outdoor adventures and scenic relaxation against a stunning backdrop. Just off the byway, you'll find North Clear Creek Falls, one of Colorado's most photographed waterfalls, along with four other cascades in the area. Nearby, the spectacular San Cristobal Lake offers an ideal spot for a family vacation in the summer or a refreshing stop on a road trip. The town itself has a unique mountain culture with historic roots, including ties to the Ute Indians and the mining era, best explored along the Alpine Loop Backcountry Byway. Along with the snow-capped peaks and seasonal flowers, you can visit nearby ghost towns, old mining sites, and the neighboring towns of Ouray and Silverton.

In the winter, Lake City is home to the largest groomed network of snowmobile trails in Colorado. It also features a new ice-climbing park with 15 routes and some of the best cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails. Haute Route yurts offer a cozy and unique lodging option for those looking for a wild stay. In the summer, the area's five 14,000-foot peaks (14ers) and twenty 13,000-foot peaks (13ers) attract avid hikers, while others enjoy fishing and boating at Lake San Cristobal. The town's National Historic District provides dining, lodging, and shopping options that make it easy to enjoy a vacation while soaking in the local culture and heritage.

Known as the "Switzerland of America," Ouray is a breathtaking town nestled among 12,000 to 13,000-foot peaks. This high alpine valley offers a variety of natural landscapes and wonders to explore, including cascading waterfalls right through town. Box Cañon Falls, where thousands of gallons of water spill each minute, and Cascade Falls, which can be seen from various points in town, are two notable highlights. The Cascade Falls Park is perfect for easy hikes with stunning views.

Ouray's mining history is evident in its architecture, museums, historic sites, and saloons. The trail to the Chief Ouray Mine offers an advanced hike to a former lead-zinc mine, with a bonus of the picturesque Upper Cascade Falls along the way. In winter, Ouray transforms into a charming Swiss-inspired village with snow-covered peaks and unique activities like ice climbing at the Ouray Ice Park, the largest public ice-climbing park in the world. This park overlooks the cozy town nestled under a blanket of snow.

Flanked by the Sangre de Cristo mountain range to the east and the San Juan range to the west, Saguache is a breathtaking high-country town that serves as the northern gateway to the San Luis Valley in south-central Colorado. Located at 7,800 feet above sea level, the rugged Sangre de Cristo Mountains create a fantastic backdrop for adventures like camping in the Saguache area. Tourists can pitch a tent under some of the darkest, star-studded skies in Colorado, enhancing the serene landscape that provides a truly scenic setting.

With wildlife roaming freely, visitors can enjoy a variety of trails for biking, horseback riding, and hiking, ranging from gentle greenways for easy strolls to rugged mountain hikes. Nearby fishing streams add to the outdoor activities available. Attracting photographers, romantics, and hammock enthusiasts, Saguache is also home to some of the state's most peaceful hot springs, perfect for daytime soaking or nighttime relaxation. It's an excellent way to unwind after a day trip to the nearby Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. The nearby town of Crestone is known for the Karma Thegsum Tashi Gomang monastery, adding to the area's spiritual and cultural significance.

Vail is renowned worldwide as a winter playground for affluent skiers, but its appeal extends beyond the slopes to its luxurious bars and vibrant nightlife. While some might avoid Vail's more upscale atmosphere for smaller, quaint towns, the perception of large crowds is often exaggerated, and Vail's charm is understated. Despite its popularity, Vail offers a unique experience in the Rockies, comparable to Aspen, with stunning nature and unique geography taking center stage. The Vail ski resort, one of the largest in the nation, provides over 195 runs for world-class skiing, including secluded trails, family-friendly runs, and areas with fresh snow.

The town itself is a magnificent recreation of a Swiss or Austrian ski village, featuring beautiful European architecture and a distinct atmosphere that exudes a different culture. From dining to shopping, the nightlife is top-notch, even for a quick escape to unwind and enjoy yourself. Just two hours west of Denver along I-70, this Rocky Mountain town is a mecca for skiing and also offers spectacular summer landscapes with easy trails, longer treks like the hike to Gore Lake, and biking on the ski hills. There's rarely a queue for the scenic gondola ride, offering a bird's-eye view of the town, and you can savor hearty local cuisine at the Slope Room at Gravity Haus, a contemporary mountain lodge. The Root and Flower is a great spot to enjoy a drink with locals, while Cohabit in Avon provides an affordable place to stay for your visit.

In Colorado, the Centennial State, there is no shortage of breathtaking views. These charming towns offer access to epic outdoor adventures amidst unforgettable sights and experiences, featuring diverse wildlife and scenic byways. Vail's après-ski entertainment is as exciting as you've heard, with some of the best ski slopes in the nation. In summer, Vail offers a relatively serene atmosphere for gondola rides and leisurely dinners without the crowds.

Crested Butte, nestled in the captivating Rockies, celebrates its natural bounty with skiing, springtime wildflowers, and lush hiking trails in the foothills. Whether you're seeking a secluded escape or thrilling outdoor activities, these Colorado destinations offer a chance to connect with local culture and heritage against a backdrop of breathtaking scenery.

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Heading to a Red Rocks show in Colorado this year? Here are some things that are different at the venue

By Jesse Sarles

Updated on: April 19, 2024 / 9:44 AM MDT / CBS Colorado

If you're heading to Red Rocks Amphitheatre  in Colorado to see a concert this year, be ready for some changes. The venue's management says they completed a "whirlwind" of improvement projects over the winter months.

Some of the performers on  the calendar at Red Rocks this year include Heart, Dierks Bentley, Illenium, Nas, Brandi Carlile, Jason Isbell, Mitski, Vampire Weekend, The String Cheese Incident, James Taylor, Sarah McLachlan and Diana Ross.  

Here's a look at some of the changes at what is widely viewed as the top outdoor concert venue in the United States . This is the 83rd concert season for Red Rocks.

The return of the Red Rocks dining experience

Ship Rock Grille in the visitors center of Red Rocks Amphitheatre is tentatively scheduled to open back up to visitors at the end of May. It follows extensive renovations that kept the restaurant closed last year.

The kitchen was also overhauled and electric induction cooktops were installed.

Upgraded restrooms

Some bathrooms at Red Rocks Amphitheatre have been remodeled and more will be remodeled in upcoming years. The freshly remodeled ones include the bathrooms on the north end of the venue. A new family restroom was also added in the visitors center.

"Our dedicated crews have been working over the winter to make these improvements happen in a condensed timeframe," Red Rocks managers said in a statement last month. "We hope that these completed projects and those that will be finished soon improve upon the one-of-a-kind experience of seeing a show at Red Rocks."  

Improvements made to areas outside the venue

New curbs and gutters were added on Trading Post Road as part of the venue's stormwater management system. That area now also has a new sidewalk, and a new sandstone staircase now connects Trading Post Road with the Lower South parking lots.

The Upper South Lot is getting several new features, including a shelter structure and two new accessible restrooms. People who park there will also get better access to the shuttle bus that gets people around to different parts of the venue.

Several ramps in the venue have also been adjusted to be compliant with current Americans with Disabilities Act standards.

Top Circle lot improvements

The parking spaces usually fill up quickly at the Top Circle lot at Red Rocks, but those lucky enough to get a space there have a nice, easy option for getting in and out of the upper section of the venue.

This year, people who park in that lot, folks who get dropped off by limos or those who pass through it on their way up from the Upper North Lot will also notice a few changes.

The lighting is being enhanced. The area also now has "more approachable slopes and curbs."

Jesse Sarles manages the content and operations for CBSColorado.com. He writes articles about Colorado news and sports in and around the Denver area.

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News & features, winter center, news / live updates, live: cleanup begins after tornadoes, severe weather risk to linger through the weekend.

Tornadoes and damaging thunderstorms blasting across the central United States, and will continue to threaten lives and property in more than a dozen states through the weekend.

Updated Apr. 27, 2024 9:10 PM PDT

Cleanup begins after tornadoes, severe weather risk to linger through the weekend

By Monica Danielle, AccuWeather Managing Editor

Apr. 27, 2024 9:00 PM PDT

Two women help carry a friend's belongings out of their damaged home after a tornado passed through the area in Bennington, Neb., Friday, April 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Josh Funk)

Residents spent Saturday sifting through what was left of their homes after a powerful tornado ripped through suburban Omaha, Nebraska on Friday, including the hard-hit town of Elkhorn.

People pick through the rubble of a house that was leveled in Elkhorn, Neb., on Saturday, April 27. Residents began sifting through the rubble after a tornado plowed through suburban Omaha, demolishing homes and businesses as it moved for miles through farmland and into subdivisions. (AP Photo/Nick Ingram)

The massive twister destroyed homes and businesses as it moved for miles through neighborhoods and fields before tearing through Minden, Iowa. Incredibly, no deaths have been reported.

Cleanup began for many parts of Oklahoma, Kansas and Nebraska after tornadic severe storms blasted the region on April 26-27.

Tens of millions from central Texas to eastern Nebraska and Iowa will be at risk once again  from Sunday to Sunday night. Two moderate risk zones are being highlighted around cities like  Omaha , Nebraska, and  Little Rock , Arkansas, as places where the chances for robust storms is greater.

Localized damaging wind gusts of 55-65 mph will be possible with peak winds up to the AccuWeather Local StormMax™ of 75 mph. Other s evere weather risks such as hail, intense downpours and isolated tornadoes are also a possibility.

Residents should stay vigilant when the risk for severe weather lasts into the overnight hours . Potent thunderstorms hidden under the cover of darkness, especially when there is an isolated tornado threat, can pose a greater risk to lives.

Tornado-producing storms erupt from Texas to Iowa

By Brian Lada, AccuWeather meteorologist

Apr. 27, 2024 5:19 PM PDT

The next round of severe thunderstorms is well underway with s trong storms capable of producing tornadoes rumbling from northern Texas to southern Iowa  across an area spanning more than 700 miles.  The most intense storms are likely in Oklahoma and northern Texas, where three potent storms are ongoing . Each storm has a history of producing tornadoes. People in and around Wichita Falls, Texas, and Oklahoma City should monitor these storms closely, as well as any more that develop, as  the atmosphere in this region is primed to spin up intense, potentially long-tracked twisters through Saturday evening.

A snapshot of the radar around Oklahoma at 4 p.m. CDT on April 27, 2024. The two storms west of Witchita Falls, Texas, and the storm west of Oklahoma City were capable to producing tornadoes. (AccuWeather)

Storm chaser shows tennis-ball sized hail while tracking storms

Apr. 27, 2024 5:11 PM PDT

AccuWeather’s Tony Laubach reports from a hailstorm in Oklahoma and discusses the severe weather outlook for the rest of the weekend.

AccuWeather meteorologist Tony Laubach encountered  baseball-sized hail during a “pretty hefty hailstorm”  in Tonkawa, Oklahoma, about 100 miles north of Oklahoma City. “The hail was enough to wreck windshields, mine included,” Laubach said during a live report on the  AccuWeather Network  where he revealed his cracked windshield.

(Credit: Tony Laubach)

After seeing a number of people stopping their cars under overpasses, Laubach also reminded people not to do that. 

While it may seem like a good idea to seek shelter from hail under an overpass, it puts other motorists at risk because you’re blocking traffic as you wait for the storm to pass, preventing others from getting out of harm’s way. It reduces visibility for others and increases the potential for a bad accident.

If you encounter hail while driving, slow down and turn on your flashers. If you need to stop, make sure you pull all the way off the road.

'Particularly Dangerous Situation' Tornado Watch issued

By Jesse Ferrell, social media producer and meteorologist

Apr. 27, 2024 1:58 PM PDT

NOAA's Storm Prediction Center issued a rare "particularly dangerous situation" Tornado Watch for parts of Texas and Oklahoma early Saturday afternoon, saying that a few intense tornadoes are likely. The last PDS Tornado Watch was issued on March 31, 2023. Several tornado warnings had also been issued by lunch time CDT but no tornadoes had been reported yet.

Severe weather watches for northern Texas and Oklahoma on the afternoon of April 27, 2024. A "PDS" Tornado Watch is shown in bright red.

On Thursday, AccuWeather meteorologists marked another rare 'high' risk area for severe weather from south-central Oklahoma to east-central Kansas and the western border of Missouri for Saturday, outlining the area with the best prospects for destructive, widespread and dangerous storms.

VIDEO: Stunning destruction in Elkhorn, Nebraska shows power of tornado

Apr. 27, 2024 12:34 PM PDT

Destruction in Elkhorn, Nebraska, a suburb of Omaha, in the wake of a massive tornado that tore through yesterday. pic.twitter.com/JxOAG3ryMD — AccuWeather (@accuweather) April 27, 2024

New video reveals the absolute devastation in hard-hit Elkhorn, Nebraska, a suburb of Omaha, in the wake of a  massive tornado that tore through  yesterday. Crews spent much of the night searching for anyone trapped or injured, local authorities said . Incredibly, no deaths have been reported.

Elkhorn resident Jason Sunday described the tornado as a “freight train,”  affiliate KETV  reported.

“We saw it coming from the southwest, and when it got too close for comfort, we headed downstairs quickly. We were in the downstairs bathtub, and it was just like the movie said, it was like a freight train,” Sunday told  KETV . “And you knew the roof was coming off because that was a loud pop and sucking motion. It was pretty scary.” The tornado caused severe damage to the Sunday family’s dream home to which they had just moved last month.

“We’re thankful to be alive. We’re very thankful,” Sunday added.

More than 35 million people brace for another round of violent storms on Saturday

AccuWeather’s Tony Laubach recalls several of the tornadoes he chased on April 26 and discusses the potential for more through the weekend.

Following a catastrophic day filled with tornadoes and intense storms across the Plains, AccuWeather meteorologists warn that the  pattern on Saturday can pose eerily similar threats .

At least 11 states will be within the danger zone for severe thunderstorms bringing large hail, flash flooding and tornadoes into Saturday night .

Similar to Friday, AccuWeather meteorologists have marked another rare ‘high’ risk for severe weather from south-central Oklahoma to east-central Kansas and the western border of Missouri for Saturday , outlining the area with the highest prospects for destructive, widespread, and dangerous storms.

The risk for severe storms through Saturday night will span roughly 1,400 miles across a chunk of the Central U.S., home to over 35 million people.  Potent thunderstorms can begin to ramp up by the midday and afternoon hours for many locations .

“With such a volatile atmospheric setup favoring severe thunderstorms and tornadoes, AccuWeather meteorologists remain concerned that a second tornado outbreak in as many days may occur [into] Saturday night, which  may once again include some particularly intense or long-track tornadoes,”  AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jon Porter said.

WATCH: Tornadoes captured on camera from Texas to Iowa

Apr. 27, 2024 9:26 AM PDT

Tornadoes were captured on camera from Texas to Iowa on April 26 as severe storms raced across the Midwest, damaging airports, knocking out power and leaving communities in ruins . As of Saturday morning, about  27,000 customers  in northeast Texas were without power

This compilation video shows the severe weather recording in several states including supercells, lightning, tornadoes and their destructive aftermath.

From Texas to Nebraska to Iowa, multiple tornadoes carved a trail of damage on April 26.

Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen released a  statement   saying he extends his deepest prayers to all those impacted by the storms.

“I have ordered that state resources be made available to assist with the emergency response and to support local first responders as they assess the damage. Nebraskans are tough, resilient people, and our neighbors and communities will rally around affected families and businesses to assist them. Nebraskans are no strangers to severe weather and, as they have countless times before, Nebraskans will help Nebraskans to rebuild. ”

Drone footage shows scope of tornado devastation in Iowa

Apr. 27, 2024 8:43 AM PDT

A large tornado ripped through the town of Minden, Iowa, causing extensive damage to property on April 26.

Tornadoes carved several paths of destruction across the midwest on Friday , destroying hundreds of homes and other buildings, many around Omaha, Nebraska.  This drone footage shows the scope of destruction a massive twister left behind in the city of Minden, Iowa.

An enormous tornado devastated Minden, Iowa, on Friday, prompting Governor Reynolds to declare a disaster emergency for Pottawattamie County. pic.twitter.com/EX8T5gEI30 — AccuWeather (@accuweather) April 27, 2024

The small city, located about 30 miles northeast of Omaha, was heavily damaged. “Approximately 40 homes, maybe 50, were destroyed, gas leaks, wires down, a lot of debris. So it’s a very dangerous area. We have shut off the entrance to the city , except for the people that live here,” Jeff Theulen with the Pottawattamie County Sheriff’s Office told 6 News . “Obviously, they’re trying to take care of their houses and our thoughts and prayers are with them.”

Theulen said rescue crews pulled many people from damaged and destroyed homes Friday evening. As of Saturday morning, there were  several reports of injuries but no immediate deaths . However, the danger is not over, AccuWeather  forecasters warn another round of volatile storms is expected  Saturday afternoon and evening .

Planes tossed and destroyed at Eppley Airfield, Nebraska

Apr. 26, 2024 8:40 PM PDT

Eppley Airfield in Omaha, Nebraska, released a statement Friday evening saying that a tornado had touched down and the airport was closed for an hour while passengers were in storm shelters. There were no reports of injuries, but several buildings and many planes were destroyed, according to photos and videos posted on X.

More on the destruction at the Eppley Airfield (OMA), Omaha, Nebraska after a massive tornado hit the premises and the area. Eppley Airport says, Passenger terminal was unaffected while a number of buildings and properties of General Aviation terminal sustained damage. Video… pic.twitter.com/69eO2mChFU — FL360aero (@fl360aero) April 27, 2024

Over 75 tornado reports Friday, mostly in Nebraska and Iowa

Apr. 26, 2024 8:33 PM PDT

Over 75 tornado reports have come in today from spotters as of 7:30 PM CDT, mostly in Nebraska and Iowa.

Many reports were likely the same tornado or supercell thunderstorm, as there have been several long-tracking storms.

Over 85 tornado warnings were issued, including some lasting more than 3 hours in which Tornado Emergency Warnings were in effect.

Catastrophic destruction: Emergency crews in Elkhorn, Nebraska checking damaged houses

Apr. 26, 2024 7:08 PM PDT

Photos and videos of catastrophic damage are emerging on social media, showing utter destruction in Elkhorn, Nebraska , a suburb of Omaha, in the wake of a massive tornado that tore through.

Video shows the scary moments as a massive tornado spins toward the town of Elkhorn, Nebraska, on April 26.

The Red Cross has set up an emergency shelter for Elkhorn-area residents, according to the Omaha Police Department. Douglas County authorities report a reunification center is being established at Elkhorn Middle School for parents whose students were held during earlier tornado warnings, according to 6 News WOWT.

During a media briefing at 6:30 p.m. CDT, Omaha police and fire officials say they have extra officers going door-to-door helping people from houses that were "flattened" by the tornado , but no serious injuries or fatalities have been reported. Police say they think media reports regarding warnings helped reduce injuries.

Firefighters work to clear a home damaged by a tornado northwest of Omaha, Nebraska, on Friday, April 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Margery A. Beck)

Fire Chief Kathy Bossman said damage is also reported in other Nebraska towns, including Arbor Village, Arbor View, and Waterloo. "Right now, we are beginning detailed searches of those neighborhoods; we're going to be looking at each property."

The drone-assisted search will take place overnight and possibly into tomorrow.

A destroyed home is seen northwest of Omaha, Neb., after a storm tore through the area on Friday, April 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Margery A. Beck)

A destroyed house is seen northwest of Omaha, Nebraska, after storms swept through the area on Friday, April 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Margery A. Beck)

Debris is seen from a destroyed home northwest of Omaha, Nebraska, after a storm tore through the area on Friday, April 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Margery A. Beck)

"Challenges include power outages; we have power lines down, we have gas leaks, we have unstable structures, we have trees that are down," Chief Bossman said.

The Omaha Police Department tweeted it has established a command center and additional officers are being brought in to assist with 911 calls citywide. Officers are asking everyone to avoid the Elkhorn area “as emergency personnel are assisting those in the path of the tornado.”

As of 7:30 p.m. CDT, poweroutage.us is reporting 7,000 customers are without power in Nebraska.

Another perspective: Tornado rips across Nebraska freeway

Apr. 26, 2024 5:47 PM PDT

Drivers on Interstate 80 got an incredibly scary view of a powerful tornado  on the afternoon of April 26. Officials urged residents in eastern Nebraska to seek shelter “immediately” as massive tornadoes moved through the Lincoln and Omaha metro areas 

Drivers on Interstate 80 got an incredibly scary view of a powerful tornado on the afternoon of April 26.

You can track the severe weather on  AccuWeather’s weather radar . AccuWeather meteorologist Brian Lada has been monitoring the radar throughout the afternoon and said a tornado northwest of Omaha was a “menace on radar” with  a debris ball that appeared to be over a mile wide .

Radar showing a supercell thunderstorm with tornado debris ball moving northwest of Omaha, Nebraska on April 26, 2024.

A debris ball, technically known as a  tornadic debris signature  ( TDS ), is an area of high reflectivity on weather radar caused by a tornado lofting debris into the air.

Storm chaser captures jaw-dropping footage of wedge tornado crossing I-80 in Nebraska

Apr. 26, 2024 4:57 PM PDT

Storm chaser Aaron Jayjack captured this video near Lincoln, Nebraska, on April 26 as a violent tornado tore across a highway, leaving at least one tractor trailer on its side.

Storm chaser Aaron Jayjack was uniquely positioned to record this stunning footage of a massive wedge tornado crossing Interstate 80 in Nebraska Friday afternoon.  “VIOLENT tornado just crossed the Interstate 80 Lincoln, NE,”  he tweeted .

You can see the powerful twister flinging debris across the interstate as motorists attempt to navigate the treacherous roadway. At one point during the video, Jayjack shouts, “Oh, somebody got hit!” 

At least one tractor-trailer was tossed on its side by the intense wind. No word yet on injuries. The Nebraska Department of Transportation caught a different view of the massive twister.

A tornado near Interstate 80 in Lincoln, Nebraska, on April 26, 2024. (Nebraska Department of Transportation)

Wedge tornadoes are the most destructive  and catastrophic tornadoes and can grow to be over a mile in diameter.

Storm chaser captures tall rope tornado tearing across Nebraska field

“Wow!!! What a tornado  just north of Ravenna, Nebraska, this Friday at 12:32 p.m. CDT,” storm chaser Brandon Montgomery  tweeted  after recording this footage. “Incredible experience!”

Storm chaser Brandon Montgomery followed a tall rope tornado as it tore across a field in Ravenna, Nebraska, on April 26.

Ravenna is about 175 miles west of  Omaha , which is  one of the major metro areas that are very close to or within the high-risk area  into Friday night  along with  Kansas City , Missouri; and  Des Moines , Iowa.

Rope tornadoes, named after their long, thin appearance, are the  smallest type of tornado and can be short-lived, lasting just a few minutes but can be just the start of the evolution of a twister. Don’t be fooled by their size!  Even a thin rope tornado can cause damage, although the path of destruction tends to be narrow  compared to other kinds of whirlwinds.

Storm chaser intercepts large tornado in Nebraska

Apr. 26, 2024 2:39 PM PDT

One of the first tornadoes of the day touched down in central Nebraska , and AccuWeather Storm Chaser and Meteorologist Tony Laubach was on the scene.  Laubach came within a few hundred yards of a large tornado near Elba, Nebraska , as it crossed the road in front of him. Watch the heart-pounding video below:

Meteorologist Tony Laubach got up close with a tornado as it crossed a highway in Elba, Nebraska, on April 26.

New tornado watch issued where strongest storms are expected

Apr. 26, 2024 2:06 PM PDT

There is a  high risk of tornadoes, powerful winds and large hail  in part of the central United States today, according to AccuWeather meteorologists, and intense storms are in short order.  A new tornado watch has been issued for eastern Nebraska and western Iowa  in the area where the strongest storms of the day are expected.  A tornado has already been reported  from a storm about 150 miles west of Omaha, Nebraska, according to storm chasers in the area.

A tornado watch is also in effect for northeastern Texas  and part of southeastern Oklahoma where locally severe storms have been rumbling since late Friday morning.  People who are under a tornado watch should remain vigilant and seek shelter if a tornado warning is issued.

'Tornado on the ground': Multiple supercells move over Kansas

Apr. 26, 2024 12:01 PM PDT

Stormchaser Ben McHone captured this  ominous footage of multiple supercells moving across northwest Kansas producing heavy rain, hail and the formation of a ‘needle tornado’  on Thursday afternoon.

Multiple supercells moved across northwest Kansas producing heavy rain, hail and formation of a needle tornado on April 25.

A needle tornado is another name for a  rope tornado  which is the smallest type of tornado and named for its long, thin appearance.

On the thunderstorm spectrum,  supercells are the least common type of thunderstorm.  What makes a supercell unique from all other thunderstorm types is that  it contains a deep and persistent rotating updraft called a mesocyclone.

Supercells have a high propensity to produce severe weather , including damaging winds, very large hail, and even violet tornadoes.

Violent storms likely into Friday night

Apr. 26, 2024 11:16 AM PDT

“ There could be more than a dozen tornadoes spawned from Friday afternoon to Friday night alone ,” AccuWeather Chief On-Air Meteorologist Bernie Rayno said. “Into Friday night, the areas most likely to be strewn with intense, discrete thunderstorms -- the type that often produces strong tornadoes -- extends from northeastern Kansas and northwestern Missouri to southeastern Nebraska and southern and central Iowa.”

Major metro areas that are very close to or within the high-risk area into Friday night include  Kansas City , Missouri;  Omaha , Nebraska; and  Des Moines , Iowa.  The AccuWeather Local StormMax™  straight-line wind gust  is 80 mph into Friday night  and is stronger than that of the minimum threshold for a hurricane (74 mph).

People in the severe weather threat zones each day and night are encouraged to  pay attention to the weather, take alerts and warnings seriously and have a plan of action  in place in case violent conditions become imminent. A method to receive audible alerts when sleeping is strongly advised

Thursday’s storms seen from space

Apr. 26, 2024 9:19 AM PDT

High resolution imagery of severe storms erupting tonight across the Central Plains. pic.twitter.com/S6GqdUuKba — CIRA (@CIRA_CSU) April 26, 2024

As severe weather erupted over the Plains on Thursday afternoon, NOAA’s GOES-EAST weather satellite was keeping a close eye on the evolving situation. The satellite was focused on  eastern Colorado, western Kansas, and southern Nebraska, where the strongest storms of the day rumbled to life . There were around  70 reports of large hail from storms in this area, including chunks of ice as large as tennis balls.

Storm chaser nearing 500,000 miles in pursuit of storms, twisters

Apr. 26, 2024 7:39 AM PDT

The miles can add up fast for folks who drive across the country to capture footage of tornadoes and severe thunderstorms, and one storm chaser is closing in on a monumental benchmark. “ I am making my way to half a million storm-chasing miles, ” AccuWeather Meteorologist and Storm Chaser Tony Laubach said.  So far this year, Laubach has logged 5,448 miles , and he will add to that in the coming days as he hunts down dangerous storms across the central United States. Laubach said that  hitting the 500,000-mile mark has been a long-standing goal for his storm-chasing career  and he might finally reach the benchmark later this year.

Blue shelf cloud moves over Arkansas

Apr. 25, 2024 9:23 PM PDT

Heavy rain and hail hit Little Rock, Arkansas, as this shelf cloud passed through the area.

An incredible timelapse of a shelf cloud with blue hues was recorded in Little Rock, Arkansas Thursday afternoon. Flooding was also reported from the storms.

Shelf clouds often form at the leading edge of strong winds  flowing down and outward from a storm.  It is not uncommon for thunderstorms to contain blue or green tinted clouds , but there is no direct correlation to the severity of the storm.

Storm chaser wraps up a day of tracking severe weather, gets ready for tomorrow

AccuWeather meteorologist and storm chaser Tony Laubach is  wrapping up a day of tracking severe weather across Kansas  and is headed east to get set up for tomorrow. AccuWeather Prime’s Melissa Constanzer caught up with Laubach as he traveled through Quinter, Kansas.

“It has been more of a hail day today,”  Laubach said. “Most of the hail we saw was anywhere between nickel and quarter-sized. We had  hail reports in Kansas as big as two-and-a-half inches , that would be tennis ball-sized hail. ”

In the video below, Laubach explains why there was more hail than tornadoes:

Severe thunderstorms produced prolific hail across parts of the Plains on April 25, but cold air undercut the threat for tornadoes.

Tennis-ball-sized hail pelts the Plains

Apr. 25, 2024 8:50 PM PDT

Storm spotters reported  hail as large as 2.5 inches in diameter (about the size of a tennis ball)  near Russell Springs, Kansas, earlier Thursday evening, with 2-inch-diameter hail near Syracuse and Colby, Kansas.  Wind gusts also spiked to 70 mph  at a weather station near Sharon Springs, Kansas.

Hail as large as 4.5 inches in diameter  fell in the Carolinas last weekend.  A hailstone that fell in Vivian, South Dakota, on July 23, 2010 ,  holds the United States' record for largest hail size with  a diameter of 8 inches  and heaviest weight at 1.94 pounds.

Severe weather to escalate on Friday

Apr. 25, 2024 7:59 PM PDT

Thursday is just the start of an extended severe weather event across the central United States . AccuWeather meteorologists say there is a high threat of severe thunderstorms on Friday and Friday night, the second-highest level on AccuWeather’s severe weather index.

Approximately 38 million people could face thunderstorms, the strongest of which may spin up tornadoes and unleash large hail and damaging winds.

Additional rounds of severe weather are in the forecast through the weekend , with some areas at risk of being hit multiple times.

Landspout touches down in Colorado

Apr. 25, 2024 6:34 PM PDT

A landspout tornado touches down in Akron, Colorado as another funnel cloud spins above it.

A landspout tornado touched down today near Akron, Colorado,  while another funnel cloud spun nearby. The landspout was on the ground for only five minutes.  Landspouts start as a column of spinning air near the ground  and aren't always connected to a severe thunderstorm, whereas tornadoes are spawned in a rotating thunderstorm and move down to the ground.

Tornado watches issued as storms erupt

Apr. 25, 2024 6:18 PM PDT

Severe thunderstorms are rumbling over the Plains with  two tornado watches in effect  from eastern Colorado and southern Nebraska to the Texas Panhandle.  One thunderstorm in northwestern Kansas has already produced a tornado , according to a storm chaser in the area. Thunderstorms may become more widespread into Thursday night over the region, with additional watches possible. Three preliminary tornadoes have been reported across the entire region as of 5:10 p.m. CDT.

Tornado watches in the central United States as of 5 p.m. CDT on April 25, 2024. (AccuWeather)

A tornado watch means that weather conditions are prime for severe thunderstorms to develop and spin up twisters. Meanwhile,  a tornado warning means that a tornado is imminent or is happening  and that people in the path of the storm should seek shelter.

Calm before the storm

Apr. 25, 2024 3:03 PM PDT

A clear sky over Colby, Kansas, an area where tornado-producing thunderstorms are possible later Thursday afternoon. (AccuWeather/Tony Laubach)

Storm chasers are in position ahead of an outburst of thunderstorms expected to erupt over part of the Plains later Thursday afternoon.  AccuWeather Meteorologist and Storm Chaser Tony Laubach is in Colby, Kansas , located in the northwest part of the state, and is sitting under a sunny sky with a few patches of clouds.  A much different scene is foreseen to unfold over the region in a few hours, including the potential for tornadoes.

In-depth look at the severe weather threat

Apr. 25, 2024 1:07 PM PDT

AccuWeather Severe Weather Expert Guy Pearson joined Chief Meteorologist Bernie Rayno to talk about the forthcoming severe weather outbreak over the United States,  explaining why the threat of damaging thunderstorms will unfold over several days.  Watch the interview below:

The Plains and Midwest regions of the United States face a weekend of dangerous severe weather including the risk of tornadoes starting on Friday.

Types of tornadoes that may touch down through the weekend

Apr. 25, 2024 11:56 AM PDT

Tornadoes come in all shapes and sizes, but meteorologists can classify each one based on distinct features.  The smallest type of twister is a rope tornado , named after its long, thin appearance. It is one of the most common types of tornadoes and can be short-lived, but  some evolve into larger, more powerful twisters.

A large tornado spinning near Morton, Texas, on May 23, 2022. (Marcus Diaz via Storyful)

Wedge tornadoes are the largest type of tornadoes and can be over a mile wide . Some of the most intense tornadoes in history were wedge tornadoes, including the EF5 that leveled Joplin, Missouri, in 2011.  Click here to see more types of twisters that occur over the United States.

Severe weather outbreak to commence Thursday afternoon

Apr. 25, 2024 10:19 AM PDT

The first round of a multiday severe weather event is about to unfold over the central United States with  each day through the weekend bringing the risk of damaging winds, hail and tornadoe s. On Thursday, the severe weather threat will extend from northern Texas to eastern Wyoming, with  thunderstorms expected to erupt late Thursday afternoon.  The strongest storms are likely from the Texas Panhandle through western Kansas.

An even higher risk of severe weather is in the offing at the end of the week as the next round of thunderstorms unfolds. “ I think the worst days for severe weather, specifically tornadoes, is going to be [Friday] and then on Saturday ,” AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Bernie Rayno said.  Click here for a full breakdown of the impending severe weather outbreak.

How to stay alert when severe weather nears

By AccuWeather staff

Apr. 25, 2024 8:17 AM PDT

Knowing when  severe weather is approaching can be life-saving information , especially during a severe weather outbreak, like what is unfolding over the South Wednesday. One of the easiest ways to receive severe weather alerts, such as tornado warnings, is by  having the free AccuWeather App on your smartphone .   Unlock advanced, hyperlocal severe weather alerts when you  subscribe to Premium+  on the  AccuWeather app , which also provides an ad-free experience. AccuWeather Alerts™ are prompted by our expert meteorologists who monitor and analyze dangerous weather risks 24/7 to keep you and your family safer. These custom alerts can provide critical time to seek shelter before damaging weather moves into the area . Watching the AccuWeather Network and monitoring  AccuWeather’s website  are two other ways to stay updated with the latest weather information.

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