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
Denver
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.
Vail
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
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
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.
Aspen
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
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.