13 Bucket List Things to Do in Winter in Estes Park
Winter is coming to Estes Park and we’ve rounded up the top activities that’ll have you falling in love with the snowy season. Get ready to tick off some serious bucket list items; Estes Park is waiting to show you its winter best!
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1. Sledding at Hidden Valley Snow Play Area
Channel your inner snow bunny at Hidden Valley, the only sanctioned sledding spot in Rocky Mountain National Park.
This former ski resort has been transformed into a winter playground that’s perfect for sledding, tubing, and general snow shenanigans. The gentle slopes are perfect whether you’re a speed demon or more of a slow-and-steady type.
When your cheeks are rosy and your toes are chilly, warm up in the rustic hut. It’s like your own private snow fort, but with heating.
Insider Tip: Don’t forget to bring your own sled. The park doesn’t provide rentals, so come prepared or you’ll be watching from the sidelines.
2. Snowshoe to Dream Lake
Strap on some snowshoes and trek to the Instagram-worthy Dream Lake. This 2-mile round trip takes you through snow-dusted pines and icy cascades.
Your reward? Spectacular views of Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain mirrored in the frozen lake.
The trail starts at the Bear Lake parking lot in Rocky Mountain National Park. Keep your eyes peeled for winter wildlife like ptarmigans and snowshoe hares.
Insider Tip: Pack a thermos of hot cocoa spiked with peppermint schnapps for an extra festive treat at the lake.
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3. Ice Climb at Hidden Falls
Get your ice axe on and tackle the frozen cascades of Hidden Falls in the Wild Basin area of Rocky Mountain National Park. This popular ice climbing spot offers routes for both newbies and seasoned ice warriors.
Insider Tip: Book a guided trip with Colorado Mountain School. They’ll provide all the gear and expertise you need, so you can focus on looking cool in your helmet selfies.
4. Sip Craft Cocktails at The Stanley Hotel
Warm up your insides at the iconic Stanley Hotel’s Whiskey Bar. This swanky spot offers over 1,200 different whiskeys, making it the largest selection in Colorado.
Sip on a perfectly crafted Old Fashioned while channeling your inner Jack Torrance (minus the axe-wielding, of course).
The bar’s cozy atmosphere and mountain views are the perfect backdrop for your winter evening Instagram story.
Insider Tip: Try the “Redrum Punch” cocktail for a twist on a classic.
5. Cross-Country Ski at Sprague Lake
Glide across the frozen surface of Sprague Lake on cross-country skis. This flat, 0.9-mile loop is perfect for beginners and offers stunning views of the Continental Divide. Keep an eye out for winter wildlife like elk and bighorn sheep.
Insider Tip: Rent skis from Estes Park Mountain Shop. They’ll show you all the secret spots and help you look less like Bambi on ice.
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6. Winter Spa Day at The Estes Park Resort
Treat yourself to a day of pampering at The Estes Park Resort’s spa. After all that outdoor adventuring, your muscles deserve some TLC.
Book the “Winter Wonderland” package, which includes a hot stone massage, peppermint foot scrub, and a steaming cup of mulled wine.
Insider Tip: Book a room with a hot tub and soak up those mountain views. There’s nothing quite like soaking in steamy water while surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
7. Go on a Winter Wildlife Safari
Embark on a guided wildlife tour to spot Estes Park’s furry residents in their winter habitats. Keep your eyes peeled for majestic elk, playful coyotes, and maybe even a mountain lion if you’re lucky.
Your guide will share fascinating facts about the animals’ winter survival strategies, like how elk can grow up to an inch of new hair every day!
Insider Tip: Opt for a sunrise tour for the best chance of spotting active wildlife. Plus, the early morning light makes for killer photos.
8. Snowmobile Through Roosevelt National Forest
Rev up your engines and zoom through the snowy trails of Roosevelt National Forest on a snowmobile. Feel the rush of cold air on your face as you navigate winding paths and open meadows.
Insider Tip: Book a tour with Estes Park Outfitters for access to exclusive backcountry trails and stunning viewpoints that’ll make your GoPro footage look like a professional nature documentary.
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9. Attend a Winter Astronomy Program
Gaze at the stars during a ranger-led astronomy program in Rocky Mountain National Park. The minimal light pollution make for perfect stargazing conditions.
Learn about constellations, planets, and maybe even spot the Northern Lights if you’re extra lucky.
Insider Tip: Bring hand warmers and download a stargazing app like Star Walk 2 beforehand.
10. Ice Skate on Lake Estes
Lace up your skates and glide across the frozen surface of Lake Estes. This outdoor rink offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, making you feel like you’re skating through a winter postcard.
11. Snowcat Tour
Hop aboard a cozy snowcat for a thrilling ride to a luxurious backcountry cabin where you can warm yourself by a fire. It’s the perfect blend of adventure and luxury.
Insider Tip: Book the Snowcat Tour with Estes Park Outfitters.
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12. Try Ice Fishing on Lily Lake
Test your patience (and cold tolerance) with some ice fishing on Lily Lake. Drill a hole in the ice, drop your line, and wait for the trout to bite.
There’s a high chance of becoming a human popsicle. But hey, the bragging rights of catching your own dinner are totally worth it.
Insider Tip: Rent gear from Kirks Flyshop. They’ll show you all the best spots and make sure you don’t end up taking an unexpected polar plunge!
13. Craft Beer Tasting at Rock Cut Brewing Company
Warm up from the inside out with a flight of locally brewed beers at Rock Cut Brewing Company.
This cozy taproom offers a rotating selection of unique brews, from crisp lagers to hearty stouts perfect for winter sipping. Try their “Powder Day” IPA for a taste of Colorado in a glass.
