Winter in Denver, Colorado definitely means fun in the snow – but there are plenty of things to do in addition to ice skating, tubing, skiing, and snowboarding. Whether you hit the slopes, explore the outdoors, or experience Denver’s art scene, Denver is a great destination for winter fun.
From ice sports and hot springs to gardens and festivals, there is plenty to keep you and your family entertained. Here is our list of the best winter activities in Denver, including skiing and so much more!
Here are the most popular winter activities in Denver, all making use of the snow and ice that blankets the area:
There are three great parks for snowshoeing within an hour of Denver. Golden Gate Canyon State Park is just 31 miles from Denver. They offer a downloadable map of their 14 trails totaling over 35 miles. The Horseshoe Trail is 3.8 miles to Frazer Meadow and back, and it is great for beginning snowshoers.
Forty-five miles from Denver, you will find Saint Mary’s Glacier. There is a 1.9 mile out and back trail that offers beautiful views of Saint Mary’s Lake. Bring $5 cash with you for their parking fee.
Echo Lake Park has some of the most picturesque views. Visitors can enjoy the 1.3-mile loop around the lake at Mount Evans. For the more experienced snowshoers, check out the 8-mile out-and-back hike on the Chicago Lakes Trail.
For snowshoe rentals, we recommend Outdoors Geek in Denver. They offer adult and kid-sized snowshoe rentals and hiking poles.
Millions of skiers hit the slopes in Denver, CO every year. One of the reasons Denver is one of the best ski towns is because of its extended ski season, beginning as early as October and extending to as late as July. Locals love Eldora and Loveland Ski Area for their proximity to Denver, as well as the variety of terrain and trails available at both ski areas.
Big Bear Ice Arena, located between Denver and Aurora, is open for public skating (all experience levels) and freestyle skating (experienced skaters only). Big Bear has an online schedule for skate times and tickets may be purchased there as well. Skate rentals are available.
Whether you get technical with electronic fish locators or stick with the basics of using several bait types, Colorado offers amazing ice fishing possibilities. The main ice fishing season in Denver is December through late February, giving anglers the chance to catch numerous species of fish like salmon, trout, and perch.
Chatfield Reservoir is the closest fishing hole to Denver, just 45 minutes south. Chatfield Reservoir is 1,100 acres of fishing fun where anglers can catch rainbow trout, yellow perch, walleye, crappie, and bluegill. Colorado Parks and Wildlife regularly stock the lake with trout and other species for great year-round fishing.
For supplies, we recommend local bait shop Angler’s All in Littleton. Don’t forget to purchase your Colorado Fishing License before heading out to catch a big one!
Snow and ice sports not your speed? Check out these fun things to do in Denver besides skiing and snowboarding:
Here’s how to combine two of the best winter activities in Denver: take a 3-mile hike down Hot Springs Trail to Strawberry Parks Hot Springs. Relax, unwind, and warm up in the natural springs, which rarely dip below 102 degrees. Surrounded by wildflowers, Strawberry Parks Hot Springs offers a peaceful atmosphere while maintaining nature’s beauty.
On-site massages are available to help you fully relax and embrace the experience. The springs are family-friendly during the day and adults-only at night. Book your hot springs visit and massage in advance.
The Denver Botanic Gardens is a 23-acre park located in Denver with numerous theme gardens to explore. During the winter months, the Botanic Gardens come to life with Blossoms of Light. The York Street Gardens are transformed into a twinkling winter wonderland with giant balls of light and the garden’s lush greenery and trees wrapped in decor.
Holiday snacks and warm beverages are available at the Hive Garden Bistro on-site. There are also accommodations if you’d like to host your holiday party or pop the question at Blossoms of Light. This event runs from mid-November through mid-January and is closed for Thanksgiving and Christmas days. Tickets must be purchased in advance online.
Known as the Mile High City, Denver dedicates a day to all things beer during the Mile High Beer Festival in February. This winter festival in Denver features craft brews from 30 + local breweries, from porters and IPAs to ciders and even spirits, for you to sample and purchase your favorites.
Looking for a place to stay in Denver Colorado? Uptown Suites offers two convenient locations near Denver: Centennial and Westminster. These locations feature fully-furnished, apartment-style suites with in-room kitchens and plenty of space for the whole family. When your winter plans bring you to Denver, book your stay with Uptown Suites for affordable, convenient accommodations near the area’s best skiing, ice skating, and other fun winter activities.