I absolutely love going on winter hikes in Colorado. Winter in Colorado is a magical and enchanting season. It gives visitors several opportunities to explore and experience the Centennial State’s natural beauty.
Colorado’s diverse landscape of snow-capped mountain peaks, alpine lakes, twisting canyons, and dry deserts means you can enjoy winter hiking in different terrains and admire unique vistas. Locals as well as visitors can get outside and experience winter in Colorado with these top hikes in the state.
There’s nothing I love more than to bundle up in layers and head off stomping into this unique winter wonderland – on some of the best winter hikes in Colorado! Here is an ultimate guide to the best winter hikes in Colorado to add to your bucket list.
Also Read: 30 Best Hiking Trails in Colorado for all seasons
Best Winter Hikes in Colorado
Colorado’s best winter hikes promise all kinds adventurers.
Take the kids on easy hikes across frozen glaciers. Enjoy ice climbing up a waterfall.
Plan a strenuous and daring climb up rocky faces and down rugged canyons. Scale the summits of snow-capped peaks.
Lace up your well-used hiking boots and breathe in the crisp mountain air as you venture out to explore the snow-covered terrain.
Here are our favorite trails in Colorado that are perfect for winter hiking.
Also Read: 20 Best Fall Hikes to see foliage in Colorado
Bear Lake Trail, Rocky Mountain National Park
Bear Lake, located in the Rocky Mountain National Park, is a perfect first wintre hike for beginners.
The lake is stunning and offers a crowded yet peaceful destination for snowshoeing.
The snowshoe trail around the lake measures a manageable 0.8 miles, making it easy enough for kids.
The trail is relatively flat with little elevation change and allows hikers to focus on the surrounding views with Hallet Peak in the background.
One of the unique experiences Bear Lake provides is the opportunity to stand on the frozen lake surface.
Underneath a clear blue winter sky, you can stand in the center of the iced-over lake – a surreal experience.
The trailhead is located on Bear Lake Road and parking here can be a nightmare during peak time.
Also Read: 18 Most Famous Peaks and 14ers in Colorado
Dream Lake Trail, Rocky Mountain National Park
Dream Lake trail, located inside Rocky Mountain National Park, is one of the best winter hiking trails in Colorado.
This is a 2 mile long easy winter hiking trail that’s perfect for snowshoeing or micro spikes in the winter.
The trail takes you past Nymph Lake, a small lake that blooms with lilies in the summer.
Eventually the trail will lead you to Dream Lake – a pretty lake surrounded by the stunning alpine scenery of the Rocky Mountains.
You will get up close with Hallet Peak and it is an incredible sight.
Snow blankets this part of the park in winter and creates an almost enchanted atmosphere that delights visitors.
You can enjoy views of wildlife, frozen ice sculptures along the lakeshores, and snow-capped mountains shimmering in the distance.
While the trail is clearly marked, it can be tricky to stay on trail after fresh snowfall, so be sure to bring a GPS and hike in groups.
The trailhead is also located at the Bear Lake.
Emerald Lake Trail, Rocky Mountain National Park
For a longer 3.6 miles round trip hike, you can continue on the Dream Lake trail all the way up to Emerald Lake.
From the shores of Emerald Lake, you can enjoy panoramic views of Tyndall Glacier, Hallet Peak, and Flattop Mountain.
The winds can get really bitter this deep into the wilderness, so be prepared for the extreme conditions when heading out.
The trail is located near Estes Park – the parking lot and trailhead is located along Bear Lake Road within the Rocky Mountain National Park.
Sprague Lake, Rocky Mountain National Park
Sprague lake is one of the easy winter hikes within the national park and is suitable for all ages and abilities.
This loop trail is 1 mile long and takes hikers to the edge of the lake and back, with a few stops along the way to admire the stunning scenery.
The views are breathtaking – you can see mountains on both sides reflecting on the still glassy surface of Sprague Lake.
The lake offers stunning views of the Continental Divide.
St. Mary’s Glacier, Idaho Springs
St. Mary’s Glacier, located near Idaho Springs, is a popular destination for those seeking winter hikes with an icy touch.
This 1.5-mile out-and-back trail takes you to a permanent snowfield, commonly referred to as a glacier.
Despite its brevity, the hike does involve a somewhat steep ascent, adding a degree of challenge to the experience.
Hikers are greeted by a spectacular view of the snowfield and the shimmering lake it feeds into, surrounded by a horizon of peaks.
Strapping on a pair of snowshoes, you can explore Saint Mary’s glacier itself.
Be prepared for the chill, as temperatures can drop due to the glacier’s presence.
Keep in mind, the popularity of this hike can lead to crowded conditions, particularly during weekends.
Perkins Central Garden Trail, Colorado Springs
If you do not like blistering cold and snow, then head to Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs.
This is one of Colorado’s top winter hiking destinations because of its milder winter and surreal rock formations.
Perkins Central Garden Trail is one of the most popular trails in Garden of Gods park – it measures 1.5 miles and takes you to Red Rock Canyon, Balanced Rock, and other sandstone formations.
This paved trail starts at the main parking lot and then continues into the unique landscape.
The trail winds through narrow canyons with towering stone spires on either side.
The trail is also popular with mountain bikers.
Also Read: How to Visit Garden of the Gods in winter
Discovery Challenger Trail, Winter Park
For a fun winter hike, consider the Discovery Challenger Trail in Arapaho National Forest near Winter Park, Colorado.
With a round-trip distance of 2 miles, the trail presents a moderate challenge to hikers, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced hikers.
The trail is often covered in a thick blanket of snow, which adds an element of excitement to the hike.
As you traverse the snow-covered trail, keep an eye out for local wildlife and take in the majestic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
The trail is well-marked and can be accessed from the Winter Park Resort, making it a convenient choice for a day hike.
Before embarking on your journey, ensure you’re well-prepared with appropriate winter hiking gear, such as snowshoes or micro spikes, and warm clothing to withstand the chilly winter temperatures.
Alderfer/Three Sisters Park Trail, Evergreen
Situated near the town of Evergreen, Alderfer/Three Sisters Park provides an excellent location for winter hikes in Colorado.
This park is home to a trail that spans a total of 6.9 miles.
This trail is known for its diverse terrain, from forested paths to open meadows, and impressive rock formations.
During winter, the landscape transforms into a snow-clad wonder, making the trail even more enjoyable for hikers.
It is also considered an excellent location for wildlife viewing, with many species often spotted along the trail.
The views of the surrounding mountains and the town of Evergreen from various points on the trail are quite stunning.
To reach the trailhead, winter hikers should head west from Denver on I-70, then take Exit 252 for Evergreen Parkway.
Follow the parkway for about 15 minutes, then turn right on Buffalo Park Road for the trailhead.
Tenderfoot Mountain, Dillon
Tenderfoot Mountain is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Summit County, near Dillon, Colorado.
This trail provides an exceptional snowshoeing experience in the winter.
Spanning approximately 11.5 miles, the Tenderfoot Mountain trail is a strenuous one.
It has an elevation gain of over 2400 feet.
It takes you through snow-dusted forests and wide-open meadows, offering stunning views of Lake Dillon, Gore Range, and the Tenmile Range.
The trail’s difficulty and steepness makes it a suitable choice for experienced hikers.
Even while testing your endurance, the trail promises breathtaking panoramic views from the summit – making it a worthwhile endeavor on a bright, clear winter day.
Don’t forget to pack a thermos of hot cocoa to enjoy as you take in the surrounding snow-capped peaks!
Canyon Rim Trail, Grand Junction
Canyon Rim Trail in Grand Junction offers a great winter hiking experience on the western slopes.
This 1.5 mile loop trail provides some of the most scenic views of the Colorado National Monument.
In the winter, the red sandstone monoliths are adorned with a dusting of snow, creating a stark and beautiful contrast against the backdrop of a clear blue sky.
The trail is well-marked and relatively flat, making it an excellent choice for hikers of all skill levels.
As you traverse the trail, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Grand Valley, the Book Cliffs, and the Colorado River.
The trailhead is conveniently located at the Saddlehorn Campground, within the national monument.
Despite the cold, the Canyon Rim Trail remains accessible throughout winter.
Be sure to dress warmly, and consider bringing a pair of binoculars for spotting wildlife.
Animas River Trail, Downtown Durango
Animas River Trail in Downtown Durango offers a unique urban hiking experience in Colorado during winter.
This trail, which stretches over 7 miles along the Animas River, is a relatively flat hike that provides stunning views of the surrounding snowy landscapes.
Unlike the high-altitude hikes, the Animas River Trail remains accessible throughout the year due to Durango’s milder winter weather.
As you hike or even bike this trail, expect to see local wildlife, the frozen Animas River, and the snow-dusted peaks of the San Juan Mountains.
The trail also passes through several of Durango’s parks, offering a chance to stop, rest and enjoy the scenery.
Conveniently located in the Durango city center, it’s an excellent choice for those wanting to enjoy a winter hike without venturing far into the backcountry.
Lost Lake Trail, Indian Peaks Wilderness
Located within the Indian Peaks Wilderness, the Lost Lake Trail is a popular winter hiking destination in Colorado.
This round-trip trail spans about 4 miles and is considered moderate in terms of difficulty.
The trail begins from the Hessie Trailhead and winds through beautiful snow-dusted forests with occasional open meadows.
Along the way, you will come across a frozen creek, old mining remnants, and the snow-covered Lost Lake – a sight to behold.
The trail also offers incredible views of the valley and the Indian Peaks.
The trail’s elevation gain of around 1,200 feet is gradual, making it manageable for most hikers.
Lost Lake Trail is also popular for backcountry skiing and you will come across several skiers on a crowded day.
However, the icy conditions in winter require proper gear such as micro-spikes or snowshoes.
Keep in mind to check the weather forecast before embarking on this hike, as the area is known for frequent afternoon snowstorms.
Despite the cold, the Lost Lake trail provides a beautiful winter hiking experience, with the peacefulness of the snow-blanketed wilderness and the stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
First and Second Flatiron, Boulder
Winter hiking on the First and Second Flatiron trail in Boulder, Colorado, presents a contrasting blend of challenge and beauty.
This trail, approximately 2.6 miles long, is frequently coated in a white blanket of snow during the winter months, adding an extra layer of fun and excitement.
The trail starts from the Chautauqua Park and swiftly ascends towards the iconic Flatirons, presenting a moderate level of difficulty.
As you climb, prepare to be mesmerized by the impressive views of Boulder and the snow-covered Front Range.
On reaching the top, the Flatirons’ striking rock formations contrasted against the clear blue winter sky is an awe-inspiring sight.
The ascent requires stable footing, so snowshoes or micro spikes are recommended, especially after fresh snowfall.
Golden Gate Canyon State Park
Golden Gate Canyon State Park is a perfect spot for winter hiking in Colorado.
It spreads over 12,000 acres of land, with more than 35 miles of well-marked trails.
The park’s altitude ranges from 7,600 to 10,400 feet, making the trails suitable for intermediate and advanced hikers.
Winter adds a magical touch to the park with its snow-capped trees and frosted trails, creating a beautiful contrast against Colorado’s blue sky.
Among the trails, the Raccoon Trail is a popular choice, with its 3.3-mile loop and an elevation gain of around 800 feet.
This hiking trail near Golden provides spectacular views of the Continental Divide and Elk Range.
Hikers can also explore the 4.9-mile Mountain Lion Trail, which takes you through dense forests and open meadows, further leading to a frozen mountain stream.
The silence of the park during winter months enhances the overall hiking experience.
Roxborough State Park
Located near Denver, the Roxborough State Park spans over 3,300 acres of land, featuring attractive geologic formations and a diverse range of wildlife.
In winter, the iconic red rocks and the surrounding landscape are often festooned with a layer of snow, creating a striking contrast against the sky.
The park, with over 8 miles of trails, accommodates hikers with various skill levels.
The Carpenter Peak Trail, a 6.4-mile round-trip trail, is one of the most beloved trails, granting splendid views of Denver and the Rocky Mountains.
The South Rim Loop Trail, another 3-mile round-trip trail, is perfect for those seeking a less strenuous hike with equally impressive views.
Despite the cold temperatures, Roxborough State Park remains a popular location for winter hikes, just don’t forget to dress warmly and use appropriate hiking gear!
Red Rocks Park, Morrison
Red Rocks Park in Morrison stands as a testament to the natural beauty of Colorado, even during winter.
This unique area, known for its striking geologic formations and natural amphitheater, is a favored destination for winter hiking.
Trails such as the Trading Post Trail, a 1.4-mile loop, provide fantastic views of the park’s distinctive red sandstone formations blanketed in snow.
The amphitheater itself is a sight to behold, particularly when its rows are coated in a layer of frost.
The park’s trails are suitable for hikers of different skill levels and remain accessible in winter months.
Remember to pack appropriate winter gear and stay vigilant for wildlife sightings as the park is home to a diverse range of animals.
Alberta Falls, RMNP
Alberta Falls, located in the Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP), is a fantastic destination for a winter hike.
This 1.7-mile round-trip trail is covered in a frosty blanket during the colder months and provides hikers with the unique experience of seeing the falls frozen solid.
The trail begins near Glacier Gorge Junction and continues through an impressive snow-covered forest, leading hikers to the frozen spectacle of the falls.
The sight of the icy waterfall against the backdrop of snow-dusted peaks is truly magnificent.
The trail has a moderate elevation gain, which can be a bit challenging but is generally manageable for most hikers.
Proper winter hiking gear, such as snowshoes or micro spikes, is strongly recommended.
Also Read: 17 Best Waterfall Hikes in Colorado
Great Sand Dunes National Park
Tired of the dense snow packed trails? Looking for a change from the frosty scenery?
Head to Great Sand Dunes National Park in Southern Colorado.
This unique National Park, which sprawls an impressive 30 square miles, features the tallest sand dune in North America.
What sets this park apart is its stark contrast from other winter hiking trails; instead of a blanket of snow, explore acres upon acres of rolling sand dunes surrounded by snowcapped mountains!
The sand’s temperature remains warm even during the winter months, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the view.
Popular trails include the Montville Trail, a 5-mile loop that takes you past the dunes and Medano Creek, and the Mosca Pass Trail, a 3-mile trek to an ancient lake nestled in between stunning mountain peaks.
Or climb to the top of Star Dune for the ultimate winter hiking experience!
Colorado Winter Trail Etiquette
Winter hiking is a different beast all-together than summer hiking in Colorado.
In winter, the weather conditions are hazardous and can cause immense harm if precautions are not followed prior to hiking.
And that’s why, it is extremely essential to follow winter trail etiquette so that everyone can stay safe while enjoying the outdoor areas.
Here are some things to follow before you head out this season on the best winter hikes in Colorado.
Leave No Trace
When setting off on a winter hike in Colorado, it’s not just about the journey or the destination, but also about respecting the environment and fellow hikers.
Adhering to ‘Leave No Trace’ principles is particularly important during winter.
Always pack out what you pack in, and avoid disturbing wildlife.
It’s common for animals to be foraging for food during the colder months, and unnecessary stress can deplete their energy reserves.
Stay on trail and give right of way
Regarding trail etiquette, remember to yield to uphill hikers as well as cross country skiing.
If you’re using snowshoes or spikes, avoid walking in the cross-country ski tracks.
Furthermore, it’s crucial not to venture off established trails, as this could damage the underlying vegetation, and it places you at a greater risk of getting lost.
Dress for the weather
As for precautions, always check the weather forecast before heading out, and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions.
Dress in layers and pack extra clothing, as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day.
Finally, ensure you have the necessary equipment for your hike, such as micro spikes or snowshoes.
Pack all essentials
Never underestimate the importance of bringing plenty of water and high-energy snacks.
While the cold may suppress your thirst, staying hydrated is essential.
It’s also a good idea to carry a map and compass, as trails can be harder to follow in the snow.
With these considerations in mind, you can experience the joys of winter hiking in Colorado, while preserving the natural beauty for others to enjoy.
With breathtaking views at every turn, Colorado’s gorgeous trails are perfect any time of year.
However, they really shine in winter – and are perfect to add to other Colorado winter activities such as skiing, snowshoeing, and snowboarding.
From sledding hills to snowshoe trails, there is a perfect winter hike in Colorado for all ages.
What are your top winter hikes in Colorado?
Did I miss any popular Colorado winter hiking destinations? Let me know below.