The allure of fresh powder is undeniable, but the reality of bumper-to-bumper I-70 ski traffic can quickly turn a dream day into a frustrating nightmare. Thankfully Colorado has a wealth of incredible winter recreation opportunities that don’t involve the crowded slopes. If you can embrace these alternative ways to play in Colorado’s winter wonderland, you’ll be amazed at what you can discover when you venture off the beaten path.
For those who crave the crisp mountain air and stunning snowy vistas without the highway headaches, here’s a list of five other ways to recreate near Denver this fall and winter.
1. Snowshoeing: Your Ticket to Tranquil Trails
If you can walk, you can snowshoe! This accessible and incredibly rewarding activity is perfect for exploring serene, snow-covered landscapes. Wander through a hushed forest with the only sound the gentle crunch of snow beneath your feet. It’s a fantastic way to get your heart rate up and soak in the winter scenery at your own pace.
If you’ve never been snowshoeing, Colorado Mountain Club has free classes January through March. They’ll teach you what you need to know and take you out on easier guided trips. The benefit of starting with a class is that you can meet other people at your level and connect later to go on more challenging treks.
Recommended Destination: Explore the quiet beauty of Golden Gate Canyon State Park, which offers numerous scenic, non-I-70-dependent trails.
2. Indoor Climbing: Scale New Heights
When the weather outside is frightful, but your adventurous spirit is still burning bright, head indoors for some rock climbing! Colorado boasts an impressive array of world-class climbing gyms perfect for beginners and seasoned climbers alike. From bouldering walls to towering lead climbing routes, these facilities offer a challenging full-body workout, a vibrant community, and a chance to hone your skills in a controlled environment. It’s a fantastic way to stay active, build strength, and conquer new “summits” without battling the elements or highway traffic.
Recommended Destination: There are quite a few good climbing gyms in the Denver area, and most of them offer day passes if you want to go check them out. Take one of their classes or go to a climb night for beginners to meet other people also interested in learning how to climb.
3. Cross-Country Skiing: A Full-Body Winter Workout
For those seeking a bit more glide and a fantastic full-body workout, cross-country skiing is an excellent alternative to downhill. Unlike its lift-served counterpart, cross-country or Nordic skiing allows you to explore vast networks of groomed trails or break your own path through untracked snow. The rhythm of gliding through snow-dusted meadows surrounded by towering peaks is an experience not to be missed.
You can rent the equipment you need from local shops and learn the basics from groups like Colorado Mountain Club before heading out on the trails.
Recommended Destination: Head up to Eldora Mountain Resort’s Nordic Center near Nederland. It’s easily accessible from the Denver area via US-36 and CO-119, avoiding the I-70 congestion entirely.
4. Winter Hiking: Experience the Quiet Majesty
Don’t hang up your hiking boots just because there’s snow on the ground! Winter hiking offers a unique perspective on your favorite trails. With fewer crowds and the landscape transformed by a blanket of white, familiar paths take on a new, magical quality. Always be prepared with appropriate layers, traction devices like microspikes, and plenty of water. Groups like Colorado Mountain Club lead numerous hikes year-round for all experience levels, providing a safe and social way to explore snowy trails.
Recommended Destination: Mount Falcon and White Ranch Park are two great Jeffco Open Space Parks that offer accessible and beautiful winter hiking without the need to drive far up the interstate.
5. Backcountry Skiing/Splitboarding: Earn Your Turns
For the more experienced and adventurous, backcountry skiing or splitboarding offers the ultimate escape from resort crowds and a truly exhilarating experience. Earning your turns by skinning up pristine slopes before descending through untouched powder is incredibly rewarding. This activity requires significant training, avalanche awareness, and proper gear, but the solitude and unparalleled beauty are worth the effort for those prepared. It’s a challenging but incredibly fulfilling way to experience Colorado’s wild winter heart.
Again, the Colorado Mountain Club offers courses and guided trips specifically for backcountry enthusiasts, emphasizing safety and skill development.
Recommended Destination: Butler Gulch near Winter Park is a popular Front Range spot that often avoids the worst I-70 traffic by taking US-40 over Berthoud Pass (though you should always check mountain pass conditions before heading out).
This season, when the urge to get outside strikes, remember that you have fantastic options beyond the I-70 corridor. Explore a new trail, embrace a classic activity, and discover the peaceful, adventurous side of Colorado winter. You might just find your new favorite way to recreate.
If you’re looking for people to explore with, check out Colorado Mountain Club. They have hundreds of guided trips, schools and courses, or one-day classes where you can learn how to recreate responsibly and safely in Colorado’s great outdoors. Don’t miss their Info Night at the CMC Basecamp in Golden on October 22nd.