Winter Adventures: Skiing, Snowboarding, and Cozy Cabins in Colorado
Just a short drive northwest from Denver, Winter Park Resort perches amid the Fraser Valley, boasting one of Colorado’s most beloved ski destinations. Roughly 90 minutes from the city, this sprawling mountain offers over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, making it ideal for all levels. The Mary Jane territory is legendary for its challenging moguls and deep powder, while beginners can start on the gentle slopes of Parsenn Bowl. What truly sets Winter Park apart is its blend of expansive alpine bowls and dense, tree-lined runs, creating a diverse landscape that keeps every skier and snowboarder engaged across the season. Visiting on a clear winter morning offers spectacular views of the Continental Divide dusted in fresh snow, a scene that magically blends adventure with serene mountain beauty.
Further south, just under three hours from Denver, Crested Butte stands as a charming former mining town turned winter sports haven. The Crested Butte Mountain Resort is famed for its steep chutes and expert-level terrain, often referred to as the “last great ski town” for its authentic vibe and wild mountains. Skiers eager to test their mettle can take on runs like Gold Link and the North Face, while those seeking a leisurely pace enjoy the gentle cruiser runs on the east side. Beyond the slopes, the town itself offers vibrant arts and eclectic dining, creating a cozy post-ski atmosphere. The late afternoon light casting long shadows over the Elk Mountain range turns the valley into a painter’s palette, ideal for snowshoe hikes or simply winding down after a day on the lifts.
Nestled deep in southwest Colorado, Durango Ski Resort sits just 25 minutes from the historic town of Durango. This smaller resort charms visitors with its intimate feel and spectacular views of the San Juan Mountains. Its runs are known for wide-open groomers and uncrowded slopes, perfect for families and those new to skiing or snowboarding. The Silverton Loop trail provides a scenic, moderate adventure through groves of aspens that shimmer gold before winter’s full grip, offering a peaceful contrast to the adrenaline of the slopes. Springtime visitors find particularly pleasant conditions here, with sunny days and soft snow making the experience comfortable and unforgettable.
For those who prefer to immerse themselves in winter’s hush away from the bustling resorts, the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness near Aspen, about 10 miles southwest of the city, offers sublime backcountry skiing and snowshoeing. The Maroon Bells Scenic Area is famous for its iconic twin peaks reflecting on the icy waters of Maroon Lake, a view considered one of the most photographed in North America. Adventurous visitors can try the Crater Lake trail, a moderately challenging 3.6-mile loop that rewards with panoramic vistas of the surrounding jagged peaks and frozen alpine lakes. Early winter mornings when the sun hits the Bells through frosted pines create a magical, almost ethereal atmosphere, perfect for quiet reflection or photography.
On the other side of the state, Steamboat Springs, about three hours northwest of Denver, is synonymous with “champagne powder” snow. Steamboat Ski Resort is renowned for its consistent dry snow, extensive tree skiing, and a strong Western cowboy heritage that permeates the town. The Sunshine Express lift whisks visitors to some of the most scenic and accessible runs, including the beginner-friendly Sunshine trail and the more challenging expert terrain in Outback Bowl. When the sun sets, the town’s hot springs offer an irresistible way to relax aching muscles, particularly the Old Town Hot Springs pools that provide a warm contrast to the crisp mountain air. Winter evenings here often see the glow of lantern-lit streets, adding to the town’s cozy and welcoming charm.
For a different kind of winter retreat, the mountain town of Estes Park near Rocky Mountain National Park, about 90 minutes north of Boulder, invites visitors to cozy up in rustic cabins with breathtaking views. Estes Park is the gateway to winter wildlife viewing and gentle hikes through snow-dusted forests. The Bear Lake Trailhead is a favorite winter stroll, a relatively easy one-mile loop around a frozen alpine lake framed by towering peaks. The chance to spot elk grazing quietly in the snowfields or watch the morning light illuminate Longs Peak brings a quiet magic to the season. Evening fireside at one of the town’s many cabin lodges, with handcrafted wood interiors and stone fireplaces, grants an authentic mountain escape that’s both warm and peaceful.
East of Colorado Springs lies the historic mining town of Cripple Creek, roughly two hours from Denver, where winter skiing meets old-world charm. The Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad offers a scenic winter ride that highlights the rugged beauty of the Gold Camp Road area and snow-covered mesas. Nearby, the Butte 66 ski area caters to families and beginners with its manageable slopes and friendly atmosphere. What makes Cripple Creek special is its blend of winter sports with rich history—visitors can explore preserved gold rush-era buildings or catch a show at the Butte Opera House after a day on the snow. Clear winter nights reveal stargazing opportunities that feel boundless in this high desert mountain enclave.
In the heart of the San Juan Mountains, Telluride, about six hours southwest of Denver, charms visitors with its blend of dramatic cliffs, deep powder, and a historic downtown atmosphere. Telluride Ski Resort’s gondola connects the town to the ski slopes above, offering a unique way to access world-class runs while enjoying sweeping views of the valley below. The Bridal Veil Falls trail, accessible via snowshoe or cross-country ski in winter, leads to Colorado’s tallest free-falling waterfall, transformed into a frozen ice climbing playground in colder months. The town’s blend of Victorian architecture and modern mountain luxury, combined with its commitment to outdoor adventure, makes it a singular winter destination. Clear, crisp winter mornings reveal a spectacular sunlight glow over the jagged peaks that surround Telluride, making early risers especially rewarded.
Together, these destinations showcase Colorado’s spectacular winter personality—from adrenaline-fueled ski descents to tranquil moments by a fireside cabin. Each place offers a distinctive piece of the state’s snowy magic, inviting visitors to discover snowfields that rally skiers and snowboarders, cozy hideaways that inspire a slower pace, and mountain towns steeped in history and warmth. Whether carving down the slopes of Winter Park or soaking in hot springs after a day in Steamboat, the spirit of Colorado’s winter adventure pulses through every snowy valley and timbered lodge.