When the first snowflakes gently blanket the ground in Colorado, it heralds the arrival of a magical winter season. There’s lots to see but you can really treat yourself to luxury things to do in Colorado in winter especially.
While it’s undoubtedly a haven for skiers and snowboarders with its 28 ski resorts, Colorado offers many activities beyond the slopes that promise unforgettable winter experiences.
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Aerial Views
Colorado is a sight for sore eyes with its photo-worthy vistas. The mountain state is renowned for its breathtaking scenic beauty, featuring a diverse range of landscapes that make it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
While there are various ways to explore Colorado’s beauty, seeing it from a helicopter offers a unique and awe-inspiring perspective that allows you to witness the state’s diverse and awe-inspiring landscapes in a way that ground-based exploration simply cannot match.
Whether you’re interested in capturing stunning photographs, celebrating a special occasion, or simply immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Colorado, a helicopter tour provides a memorable and unparalleled experience.
And if you’re here to enjoy a luxurious getaway in Colorado anyway, you could treat yourself (and your travel company) to a private jet charter
Hot Springs: Soothing Bliss Amidst Snow-Capped Peaks
Imagine sinking into warm, mineral-rich waters as snow-capped peaks surround you after you touched down in Colorado.
Colorado boasts 29 hot springs, each with its unique charm. At Ouray Hot Springs Pool, you can unwind in the therapeutic waters while gazing at the majestic snow-covered peaks.
For a more adventurous experience, Orvis Hot Springs in Ridgway offers massaging waterfalls and lithium-water springs, renowned for enhancing relaxation.
Iron Mountain Hot Springs in Glenwood Springs boasts 16 pools of natural mineral waters, each with varying temperatures, ensuring the perfect soak. You can even book your stay onsite*.
If you are all about green and sustainable experiences in Colorado, try the Joyful Journey Hot Springs Spa in Moffat. You can stay in regular rooms or rent a yurt, tent or casita and take advantage of complimentary soaking in the three natural, chemical free artesian springs. There’s even a geodesic greenhouse.
Spa Treatment: Relax after a Busy Day
And when you are done exploring the outdoors in Colorado and getting active, you can wind down at the end of the day and recharge in a luxurious spa treatment. Get your sore muscles massaged, ease into hot baths and get your skin rehydrated with glorious tinctures.
There are a lot of wonderful spas in Colorado. A unique setting are the Yampah Vapor Caves in the in the hot springs area of Glenwood Springs. Using geothermal energy, the steam rooms get you to melt beautifully and feel absolutely boneless.
Ice Skating: Glide through a Winter Wonderland
Colorado offers a plethora of outdoor ice skating rinks for those who appreciate some old-fashioned winter fun.
If you prefer an urban setting, head to Old Town Square Rink in Fort Collins or the Downtown Denver Rink, which is nestled in lively pedestrian areas and is surrounded by charming shops and cafes.
After the exercise, you can give into your foodie cravings, people watch and generally live your best and most “main character” moments here. Really let that feeling of bliss from your ice skating endeavours sink in.
For a more mountainous experience, go to Evergreen Lake, a 40-acre ice rink just west of Denver,where you can skate and then warm up by the fireplace in the rink’s cozy hut.
Keystone, Breckenridge, Beaver Creek, Vail, Lake City, and Crested Butte are also popular destinations for Colorado ice skating enthusiasts.
Horse-Drawn Sleigh Rides: Create Nostalgic Moments
Wrapped in warm blankets, breathing crisp winter air, and serenaded by the gentle jingle of sleigh bells, Colorado sleigh rides are nothing short of magical. It’s the ultimate Christmas season activity that feels like nostalgia and childhood sprinkled with magic. And it’s for people of any age.
This is more of a quiet luxury experience, more about the feeling and comfort rather than overly flashy. It is more than just circling a track; it’s to create memories to cherish and share.
And you can also take your sweet time with it and really savour the moments. Some of the best places to enjoy these picturesque sleigh rides are on dude ranches, including those in Grand County and Steamboat Springs.
On top of all of that, these rides often include elegant dinners, local Colorado wines, lively conversations, roaring fires, and decadent desserts, making for an unforgettable and extravagant winter adventure.
Sledding and Tubing: Family-Friendly Fun in the Snow
Winter wouldn’t be complete without sledding and tubing adventures. Bundle up in cozy hats and mittens, then head for the hills, where you’ll find numerous sled- and tube-friendly terrains.
It’s hard not to burst into laughter as you zoom down the mountain, catching a bit of air as you glide over gentle bumps. Honestly, you don’t have to be a kid or bring them along to enjoy this winter pastime in Colorado. You never grow out of it being fun.
Some of the best hills for sledding and tubing are Vail, Keystone, Steamboat, Copper Mountain, Cuchara, and Fraser. Many destinations offer lifts and tow ropes to make the experience more enjoyable.
Ice Fishing: Tranquility on Frozen Lakes
Ice fishing in Colorado provides a serene experience beyond the thrill of catching fish. Winter anglers savor the peaceful rewards of the state’s tranquil landscapes.
Picture the early morning light shimmering off the frozen lake’s surface and the solitary animal prints tracking across the snow.
You can choose the primary route, drill a hole, set up a chair, and wait for the fish to bite.
Alternatively, for a more sophisticated experience, rent an ice-fishing cabin. This is the ultimate hermitting and social (media) detox experience.
Colorado’s frozen lakes provide the perfect backdrop for this serene and rewarding winter activity.
Dog Sledding: A Thrilling Winter Adventure
Picture the wind on your face, the eager barking of dogs as they speed along the snowy trail, and you at the helm shouting, “Mush!”
Dog sledding has become a popular winter adventure in Colorado, especially in snowy mountain towns like Snowmass, Breckenridge, Winter Park, Steamboat Springs, Telluride, and Vail.
It’s an exhilarating experience that allows you to connect with the region’s natural beauty while enjoying the company of these incredible sled dogs.
And they love to run and have quite the force behind them. Make sure you have a trained sledder with you and get a proper introduction into how to handle a dog sled, how to lean into bends, etc.
Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing
Backcountry trails lead to valleys blanketed in fluffy snow and peaceful stands of evergreen and aspen trees. The only sounds you’ll hear are chirping birds and your heartbeat.
Rocky Mountain National Park maintains dozens of these types of trails, and you can pick up a trail map from a ranger station or join a ranger-led group tour. Just make sure you’re all packed up for an outdoor trip and stay safe when camping.
The Brainard Lake area, west of Boulder, also offers an array of well-marked trails, as do the state’s many ski towns.
For experienced snowshoers and cross-country skiers, the state’s extensive backcountry hut system, known as the 10th Mountain Division, offers an opportunity to explore the wilderness while staying in rustic huts.
Snowmobiling in Colorado: A High-Speed Thrill
Snowmobiling combines the excitement of a high-speed ride with the breathtaking scenery of Colorado’s snowy alpine landscapes. And there’s no over excited dogs to reel in either.
With miles of trails in nearly every state region, you can find rental equipment and hit the trails. Some popular snowmobiling areas include Grand Lake, Winter Park, Leadville, Buena Vista, and South Fork.
It’s an activity that promises an adrenaline rush while immersing you in Colorado’s winter wonderland.
Ice Climbing: Scaling Frozen Waterfalls
While ice climbing isn’t for the faint of heart, Colorado offers numerous opportunities for this exhilarating winter sport. Many of the state’s waterfalls transform into frozen walls, providing challenging climbs for experienced ice climbers.
Ouray, often called the ice-climbing capital of the world, draws thousands of climbers each year to scale the imposing Ouray Ice Park and participate in the world-famous Ouray Ice Festival every January.
Other towns, such as Lake City, Vail, Grand Junction, Glenwood Springs, Redstone, Boulder, Telluride, and Silverton, are also popular among experienced ice climbers.
Conclusion
The luxury of Colorado’s snowy wonderland goes far beyond the ski slopes. From relaxing hot springs and exhilarating snowmobiling adventures to tranquil ice fishing and thrilling dog sledding rides, the state offers diverse activities to cater to every winter enthusiast.
Whether you’re seeking the serenity of snowshoeing, the adventure of ice climbing, or the picturesque charm of horse-drawn sleigh rides, Colorado’s winter landscape has something for everyone.
So, if you’re planning a cosy winter getaway and looking for the best things to do in Colorado during the colder months, rest assured that there’s a world of snow-filled adventures awaiting you in the Centennial State.
And if you really want to treat yourself, plan your ultra luxurious getaway to Colorado with these tips.
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