Best Colorado Hikes for the Winter

By Daniela Bueso

Tellus Brand Ambassador and Mesoamerica Program Director at 
Trees, Water & People

For some, winter months mean staying home with a warm blanket, hot beverage and a good book or movie.

For those who are like me, winter is an ideal time for adventures. And there’s no place better than Colorado to get out and play in the snow and no sustainable outdoor gear better than Tellus! 

For eight years now, I’ve been fortunate to live in Colorado, and grateful to be able to enjoy the beauty of the Rockies. Especially the diverse activities you can do during all four seasons. Coming from Miami, Florida, most of my activities were water and marine related like snorkeling, kayaking, swimming and going to the beach. Here in Colorado, I get to satisfy my love of nature with new hobbies in one of the most amazing outdoor playgrounds in the country. My main Colorado hobbies are running (road or trail) and climbing which I can do every season, but they are a little limiting during the winter months. 

So, what are some other options?

Most Coloradoans fill their winter cup by going skiing and snowboarding, but for me, having a wide variety of activities such as winter hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are ideal. And that is the beauty of this place, no matter how old, active, or enthusiastic you are, there is always an activity that fits your interests! Why not try out some new ones and see which ones fill your cup?

Winter can limit our mobility and our access to roads and trails. For those seeking adventure during the winter months, there are plenty of National and State parks near Denver and Fort Collins that are definitely worth the visit. As well as other incredible mountain towns like Silverthorne, Fairplay, Nederland, Leadville, Frisco and Steamboat that have an active culture, great food and breathtaking views. One of my favorite things to do during the winter is rent a cabin for a few days and enjoy the outdoor activities around it like snowshoeing and hiking.

As a sustainable clothing brand Ambassador, I have worn Tellus recycled outdoor gear during all four seasons, and it has performed beyond my needs and expectations. Depending on the weather, my go-to pieces are:

Every piece of recycled outdoor gear keeps me comfortable, warm and cozy during all of my outdoor activities across every season.

It’s also important to me that what I’m wearing is ethical outdoor gear made with recycled materials using sustainable manufacturing processes in worker-friendly factories. What really makes me happy about Tellus apparel is that 100% of net profits go to non-profit organizations that are working to protect our planet and people. Also, Tellus founders Joe and Melissa are humble, generous, kind-hearted people who want to make a difference, so the investment in Tellus gear is more than worth it!

Here are some of my top places to visit and hike during the winter months or all-year round!

•    Rocky Mountain National Park: Emerald Lake Trail, Sky Pond

•    State Forest State Park: American Lakes Trail, Lake Agnes, Mount Richthofen Trail

•    Zimmerman Lake: (snowshoeing)

•    Silverthorne: (snowshoeing and cross-country skiing)

For more recommendations for “Best Hikes for the Winter in Colorado” you can also use the All Trails App and search Colorado Winter Hikes to find other top places for winter hikes in Colorado, including:

Bear Lake to Dream Lake
Location: Rocky Mountain National Park
Distance: 2.2 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
This popular hike in Rocky Mountain National Park offers stunning alpine views with relatively little effort. Starting at Bear Lake, the trail winds through snow-covered forests to the shimmering, frozen Dream Lake. Strap on snowshoes or microspikes for added traction on icy sections, and don’t forget your camera to capture the snowy peaks surrounding you.

 

 

Chautauqua Park – Royal Arch Trail
Location: Boulder, CO
Distance: 3.4 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
A favorite year-round, the Royal Arch Trail in Chautauqua Park becomes a winter paradise when the snow falls. The ascent is steep and rocky, so traction devices are a must, but the breathtaking view of the snow-covered Boulder Valley from the natural rock arch is worth the effort.

 

 

Emerald Lake Trail
Location: Rocky Mountain National Park
Distance: 3.5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
For those wanting to extend their hike, continue past Dream Lake to Emerald Lake. The trail is well-maintained in winter and offers jaw-dropping views of Flattop Mountain. With the snow blanketing the landscape, this trail feels like stepping into a winter postcard.

 

 

Meyer Ranch Park
Location: Morrison, CO
Distance: 3–6 miles depending on the loop
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Just a short drive from Denver, Meyer Ranch Park offers peaceful trails through forests of ponderosa pines. The Lodgepole Loop and Sunny Aspen Trail are particularly lovely in the winter. It’s a great spot for families or those new to winter hiking.

 

 

Rabbit Ears Pass – West Summit Trail
Location: Steamboat Springs, CO
Distance: 3–6 miles depending on the loop
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Rabbit Ears Pass is a haven for winter enthusiasts. The West Summit Trail is perfect for snowshoers and cross-country skiers, offering expansive views of the Yampa Valley and the iconic Rabbit Ears rock formation. The gentle slopes make it accessible for hikers of all skill levels.

 

 

Brainard Lake Recreation Area – Long Lake Trail
Location: Ward, CO
Distance: 5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
This area is a snowshoer’s dream. The trail to Long Lake winds through quiet, snowy forests and opens up to breathtaking views of the Indian Peaks Wilderness. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as moose and elk are often spotted in the area during winter.

 

 

Tips for Winter Hiking in Colorado

• Dress in layers: Wear moisture-wicking base layers, insulated mid-layers, and a waterproof outer shell.
  
• Check the weather: Before heading out, look at the forecast and trail conditions.
  
• Use proper gear: Bring microspikes, snowshoes, or trekking poles, depending on the trail.
  
• Start early: Daylight hours are shorter in winter, so plan to finish your hike before dark.
  
• Stay hydrated and fueled: Even in the cold, staying hydrated and energized is crucial.
  
• Know your limits: Choose trails that match your experience and fitness level.
  

SHOP NOW

Colorado’s winter trails offer beauty and solitude that can’t be matched. Whether you seek a serene stroll or a challenging trek, these hikes provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy the snowy outdoors. So, gear up, stay safe and embrace the magic of winter hiking!