5 Things to do in Estes Park in Winter
Winter in Estes Park invites you to slow down and enjoy the mountains. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend or a family getaway, you can fill your days with outdoor adventures and leave plenty of time to relax.
If you’re looking for things to do in Estes Park this winter, here are our top 5:
1. Explore Rocky Mountain National Park
Trade summer hiking boots for waterproof winter boots and discover a different side of Rocky Mountain National Park. The Bear Lake area offers beautiful winter scenery, though trails can be snowy and icy. Depending on conditions, you may need traction devices or snowshoes.
For a first outing, consider hiring a local guiding outfit like Kirks Mountain Adventures who can help select a route suited to your experience.
2. Go Sledding at Hidden Valley
For a family activity that delivers plenty of laughs, head to Hidden Valley when snow conditions allow. This designated sledding hill is the only place in Rocky Mountain National Park where sledding is permitted.
Bring your own sled and snow gear or rent it in town at Kirks Mountain Adventures or Estes Park Mountain Shop and be ready to walk uphill between rides – there are no lifts at the hill.
3. Watch for Winter Wildlife
Keep your binoculars handy! Elk, mule deer, and coyotes are among the animals you might spot during a winter visit. Watching wildlife against a snowy mountain backdrop can be a highlight of the trip. Give animals plenty of space and use a zoom lens for closer photographs.
Offering tours since 2007, Yellow Wood Guiding is one of our favorite ways to enhance your winter wildlife watching!
4. Spend an Afternoon Downtown
Browse the shops along Elkhorn Avenue, choose a sweet treat, and duck into a café for something warm. Downtown Estes Park makes a pleasant change of pace after a morning outdoors.
During the holiday season, festive lights add another reason to linger into the evening.
5. Make Time to Do Less
Some of the best winter moments don’t require an itinerary. Book a cabin with a fireplace, choose lodging with a private hot tub, or settle into a comfortable chair with a book and a mountain view.
Follow an afternoon outside with a leisurely dinner and an early night – or another hour by the fire.
Hot Tip: If you go to our Lodging page, you can highlight features like “fireplace”, “hot tub”, or “pet friendly” on the left-hand side to find your match for YOUR perfect winter lodging. You can also check out our Winter Specials page for deals of the season.