Winter’s Wild Side
Near Boulder

Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP)

The only word for RMNP during the wintertime? Majestic. At high elevations, deep snow and strong winds create ruggedly gorgeous alpine terrain that towers above. Lower elevations in the park are usually free of deep snow, and conditions for skiing and snowshoeing are best from January through March.

Winter activities: sledding; snowshoeing; cross-country skiing; winter camping; backcountry skiing; wildlife watching

Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing

Popular summer hiking trails like Bear Lake, Dream Lake and Emerald Lake transform into serene winter playgrounds for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. You can also go on a ranger-led snowshoe hike that leaves from the east or west side of the park. These tours are popular, so be sure to reserve in advance.

Sledding

Hidden Valley is a former ski hill with a gentle slope, ideal for sledding, and the only place to do so in the park. There are no facilities or rental shops inside RMNP. (BYO sled!) Boulder has numerous winter gear shops where you can rent sleds, snowshoes and skis beforehand. Please note that sleds with metal runners are not permitted.

Eldorado Canyon State Park

Locally known as “Eldo,” Eldorado Canyon State Park is an easy 20-minute straight shot from downtown Boulder. At a lower elevation than RMNP, it often stays dry, sunny, and hikeable, and snowshoes are not usually necessary. Winter is one of the ideal seasons for rock climbing in the park, and chances are that on a sunny, mild day you’ll see climbers scaling the sandstone walls in t-shirts.

Winter activities: winter hiking; snowshoeing; cross-country skiing; climbing; wildlife watching

Winter Hiking

Be aware of recent snow that could be packed on trails — shoe traction devices like spikes are always recommended to bring in case of sections of ice and snow, which are common. Fowler Trail is an easy, scenic winter walk that often stays drier than higher elevations. For a challenge, try Rattlesnake Gulch Loop for views of the Continental Divide. 

Cross-Country Skiing

When the snow is deep enough, the canyon’s trails offer a quiet escape for skiers, though conditions can vary. If you happen to be in town during one of our big snow days, you’re in luck. Hit Fowler Trail for gently sloping fun and beautiful river views.

Golden Gate Canyon State Park

About a 40-minute drive from downtown Boulder, Golden Gate Canyon SP is a true winter wonderland with 35 miles of trails and dense pine forests often draped in snow. Golden Gate is a cross-country skier’s and snowshoer’s paradise. Rustic cabins and yurts are available for rent year-round if you want to wake up to snowshoe or ski from your front door.

Winter activities: snowshoeing; cross-country skiing; winter camping; yurts and cabins; backcountry skiing; wildlife watching; ice fishing

Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing

Horseshoe Trail, Raccoon Trail Loop and Mule Deer Trail are recommended for tree-lined beauty and protection from wind. All park trails are open to snowshoe and ski during the winter, so feel free to explore wherever you are called.

Yurts and Cabins

Even if just for a day trip, booking an on-site yurt or cabin can add extra magic to your winter adventure. You can use it as a basecamp after a big day out on the trails or simply to spend the night in nature to unplug, roast s’mores and see the stars.

Panorama Point

Panorama Point in Golden Gate (about a 45-minute drive from Boulder) is a drive-up scenic overlook that offers one of the best winter views of the snow-capped Continental Divide.

Brainard Lake Recreation Area

Less than an hour from Boulder in the Indian Peaks Wilderness, Brainard Lake is the kind of winter wonderland skiers and snowshoers dream about. At a high elevation (over 10,000 feet!), this alpine environment offers a stark contrast to the often drier foothills. Brainard is a favorite local spot for snow sports enthusiasts. Go prepared for wind and much colder temperatures than in town.

Winter activities: Snowshoeing; cross-country skiing; winter hiking; wildlife watching

The Colorado Mountain Club Cabin

Adventurous winter lovers may consider a visit to Brainard Cabin, built by the Colorado Mountain Club in 1928. Located at 10,405 feet, the cabin is a three-mile challenging hike/snowshoe from the winter parking lot. On most winter weekends between 10am and 2:30pm the cabin is open for visitors to warm up and enjoy hot cocoa. If you visit the cabin, please sign the guest register and leave a $1 donation per person to help cover supplies. The cabin can also be reserved overnight for groups of up to 12. Learn more here.

Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing 

The winter closure of park roads creates a wide, stress-free path for skiers and snowshoers where you don't have to worry about technical terrain or narrow trails. You can find terrain of varying difficulty once you're in the park, but for a scenic, moderate loop, try Brainard Lake via Waldrop, Brainard Lake Cutoff, and CMC Ski Loop.

Bonus: St. Vrain State Park

For a mellow alternative to snow sports and higher elevations, try St. Vrain State Park, just 25 minutes northeast of Boulder. This park swaps jagged mountain peaks for tranquil ponds and cottonwood groves (although you'll still have mountain views on the horizon). It is a peaceful, flat, accessible state park for those who enjoy a slower pace and want a quiet day in nature.

A major hub for birders in colder months, St. Vrain is a known winter nesting site for bald eagles and diverse waterfowl. When the park's 10 ponds freeze over, it becomes a popular spot for ice fishing, and you'll see tents scattered across the ice. If you decide to venture out, be sure to check park reports for safe ice thickness, and you'll need a fishing license.

Winter activities: Birdwatching; walking; ice fishing; photography; camping