Winter in Colorado isnβt a reason to stay insideβ¦ itβs an invitation. βοΈπ₯Ύ
From snow-dusted trails to quiet mountain moments, cold-weather hikes bring a whole new kind of magic. Fewer crowds, sparkling landscapes, and that crisp mountain air that makes every breath feel like a reset.
With the right layers and a little planning, winter hiking can be one of the most peaceful and rewarding ways to explore Coloradoβs great outdoors.
Cold-weather adventures offer perks you wonβt find in summer:
β¨ Quieter trails and fewer crowds
βοΈ Snow-covered scenery straight out of a postcard
π§ A mental reset that only nature can provide
πΎ Perfect conditions for kids who love snow play breaks
Plus, winter hikes donβt have to be long or intense to be memorable. A short trail with big views still counts as an adventure.
Staying warm makes all the difference:
Layers, layers, layers. Think moisture-wicking base, warm middle, weather-proof outer.
Warm boots with good traction.
Hats, gloves, and scarves are non-negotiable.
Toss hand warmers and snacks in your pack for bonus morale boosts. π
Not every trail is a winter trail, and thatβs okay.
Stick to well-traveled paths.
Check recent trail conditions before heading out.
Shorter hikes are perfect for families and beginners.
Always let someone know where youβre going.
Snowy strolls, forest paths, and scenic overlooks can be just as exciting as big summit goals.
Turn your hike into an experience:
Bring hot cocoa for a mid-trail treat β
Play βspot the animal tracksβ πΎ
Take photos of icy branches and snowy views πΈ
Let kids set the pace and call snack breaks
The goal isnβt miles. Itβs memories.
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1. Dream Lake & Emerald Lake (Rocky Mountain National Park)
A classic winter treat with panoramic snowy peaks and frozen lake beauty. Short to moderate miles with dramatic scenery that feels like a postcard come to life πΊπΈβ¨ β great views, gentle elevation. Erin Exploring+1
2. Mayflower Gulch Trail (Frisco area)
A peaceful winter escape with wide open views of Arctic-like peaks and old mining relics. Ideal for snowshoeing or hikers who want that fresh-snow feel underfoot. Raising Hikers+1
3. South Rim Trail (Roxborough State Park)
Red rock formations dusted in snow create a dramatic winter contrast. This oneβs perfect for families and kids exploring a snowy Colorado foothills wonderland. Raising Hikers
4. St. Maryβs Glacier Trail (near Idaho Springs)
Short, beautiful, and family-friendly. Youβll see a real glacier year-round, with sledding hills near the lake β bonus winter fun! βοΈβοΈ Raising Hikers
5. Lovell Gulch Trail (Woodland Park)
A local favorite in the Pikes Peak region β moderate, scenic, and peaceful through snow-covered forest and mountain views. Colorado Hikes and Hops
6. Chief Mountain & Sugarloaf Mountain (Near Denver/Boulder)
Short to moderate climbs with big panoramic views β worth the layers for sunrise or sunset outings. Erin Exploring
Idaho Springs Mining Trail Network β historic vibes with mountain views and plenty of trail options (good for customizing your distance). Idaho Springs RV Resort
Matthews/Winters Park Trails (Golden area) β great for lighter winter walks if mountain passes are snowy and heavy. Colorado.com
Before you go:
Dress in layers with warm base, middle, and shell layers. Colorado Hikes and Hops
Wear traction devices like microspikes if trails are icy. National Park Service
Check weather and avalanche forecasts for alpine areas. National Park Service
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(Short, scenic, snow-approved adventures)
π Garden of the Gods β Perkins Central Garden Trail
π Colorado Springs
π₯Ύ Distance: ~1.5 miles (loop options)
π§ Kid-Friendly Why:
Wide, paved paths = stroller & balance-bike friendly
Red rocks + snow = instant awe
Easy turn-around if kids get cold
π Buzzy Tip: Bring hot cocoa and do a βrock shapesβ scavenger hunt.
π Bear Creek Nature Center Loop
π West Colorado Springs
π₯Ύ Distance: 1β2 miles
π§ Kid-Friendly Why:
Creek views, bridges, and wildlife signs
Mostly flat and protected from wind
Bathrooms nearby (parents rejoice π½β¨)
π Lovell Gulch Trail
π Woodland Park
π₯Ύ Distance: ~3 miles (out & back, shorten as needed)
π§ Kid-Friendly Why:
Snowy forest = magical winter vibes
Wide trail, great for first snowshoe attempts
Animal tracks everywhere πΎ
π Buzzy Tip: Turn it into a βWho walked here?β animal-track game.
π Mueller State Park β School Pond Loop
π Divide
π₯Ύ Distance: ~1 mile
π§ Kid-Friendly Why:
Short, scenic, and peaceful
Frozen pond views
One of the best intro winter hikes for families
π Note: Park entry fee required.
π Castlewood Canyon β Inner Canyon Trail
π Franktown
π₯Ύ Distance: ~1.4 miles
π§ Kid-Friendly Why:
Cliffs, creek, and icy formations
Feels adventurous but still safe
Perfect for curious kids who love exploring
π Buzzy Tip: Bring binoculars for bird spotting.
π Ridgeline Open Space Trail
π Castle Rock
π₯Ύ Distance: Choose your own (flat options!)
π§ Kid-Friendly Why:
Smooth trails for little hikers
Open views and space to roam
Great for winter sunshine days
π South Valley Trail β Roxborough State Park
π Near Littleton
π₯Ύ Distance: ~2 miles
π§ Kid-Friendly Why:
Red rock formations dusted with snow
Wide paths, minimal elevation
Short loops = flexible plans
π St. Maryβs Glacier (with older kids)
π Idaho Springs
π₯Ύ Distance: ~1 mile
π§ Best For: Elementary & up
Why Kids Love It:
A real glacier π€―
Frozen lake + sledding hills nearby
β οΈ Tip: Traction devices strongly recommended.
βοΈ Snacks > miles
βοΈ Warm boots & dry socks
βοΈ Microspikes for icy days
βοΈ Let kids set the pace
βοΈ Stop before theyβre βover itβ
A short, happy hike always beats a long, grumpy one. π
Winter hiking with kids in Colorado doesnβt have to be extreme to be unforgettable. A snowy path, a thermos of cocoa, and time together outside can turn a simple walk into a core memory. βοΈπ