Winter Activities in Rocky Mountain National Park

A person hiking up a snow covered mountain with the sun behind them.

As the first flakes of snow start to fall in the high country, Rocky Mountain National Park turns into a winter wonderland. The chilly conditions drive many casual tourists away, leaving ample room for the real winter enthusiasts to roam around the park and take advantage of the open space and fresh packs.

There's so much to do this winter in Rocky Mountain National Park, so make sure you check off a few of these before the winter season ends:

Snowshoeing

If you can hike, you can snowshoe. All you need is some outerwear, boots, and snowshoes, and you're ready to go. You can even grab some poles for extra stability. Experience many of the same trails you'd traverse in the summertime through this family-friendly winter outing.

Check out this guide to some of the best snowshoeing trails on the west side of the park in the Kawuneeche Valley.

Cross-Country Ski

Deeper snow and ideal terrain make the west side the best place in the Park for cross-country skiing. Glide through valleys and meadows using your skis and poles, enjoying the scenery of Rocky Mountain National Park at your own pace.

Check out Grand County's best cross-country skiing and snowshoeing outfitters.

Ranger-Led Programs

The Park Rangers of Rocky Mountain National Park are a great resource for knowledge and love to help visitors make the most of their experience. Ranger-Led Programs take place in the park year-round, but some previously held winter classes sound too good to miss: Ski the Wilderness in Winter, Beginner Snowshoe, Intermediate Snowshoe, and more.

Discover which Ranger-Led Programs are being offered this winter season.

Wildlife Watching

Bundle up, grab your camera and binoculars, and get ready to see moose and more this winter. Where exactly you'll spot wildlife, or when, is unpredictable, but the best place to see moose is along the Colorado River on the west side of the park. Look for elk and deer in open meadows at dawn and dusk. Birding is also a popular activity, so keep your eyes and ears ready.

Stop by the Kawuneeche Visitor Center and get up-to-date suggestions on where to spot wildlife from Park Rangers.

REMEMBER

Bundle up, stay as dry as possible, visit the Colorado Department of Transportation's site for current road conditions, and follow all signage posted in the Park. And most importantly, enjoy the winter months on the grand side of Rocky Mountain National Park.