Best Winter Hikes Colorado Offers - a Local’s Fav 5!
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Embrace A Local's Favorite 5 Best Winter Hikes Colorado Shares
Winter can be a tricky time for many of us hikers. After experiencing the stunning summer months of wildflower viewing, alpine lake dipping and bagging 14ers, the switch to winter can feel abrupt and downright depressing.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a thing and it can take all the stuffing out of the well oiled hiking machine you’ve become.
It dawned on me a few years ago that hiking Colorado winter months might be the solution to my own SAD journey. For years I’d enjoy hiking the best Colorado trails only to hit a wall when Daylight Savings arrived. I’d find myself on the couch, immersed in wine and bread, unable to motivate myself to get up and out the door.
One day I said “ENOUGH!” I bought some good winter gear along with my now favorite wool gloves and just started hiking. Sure, it was cold outside but with some warm layers and good waterproof hiking boots, I felt toasty warm.
The best part? Trails I’d hiked all summer long took on a whole new light. Funny how a little snow, less leaves and even less people can change an entire experience.
And yes, some of the best winter hikes Colorado offers are just minutes from Colorado Springs and Denver. You don’t have to go far to step into the serene and quiet space hiking Colorado winter months gives.
PRO TIP! If you’re struggling with SAD, make sure to contact a doctor. You don’t need to just suffer through it. I’ve found getting outdoors and practicing yoga and hiking has significantly helped me.
These six hikes near Colorado Springs, Colorado are my all-time favorites, like a well-worn hiking shoe – comfortable and dependable. Over the past 25 years, I've returned to these beloved winter hikes Colorado Springs has. With varying lengths, these Colorado trails and open spaces are perfect for a day's adventure.
Table of Contents
La Deux Reservoirs | Palmer lake
Mount Esther | Green Mountain Falls
Lovell Gulch | Woodland Park
Limbaugh Canyon | Monument
Muscoco and Pull Out 16 |North cheyenne canyon
Dawson Butte Ranch Open Space | Larkspur
BONUS HIKE! Florissant Fossil Beds Loop | FLorissant
Best Winter Hikes Colorado | Did you know
Palmer Reservoirs - La Deux Reservoirs to Ice Creek and Swank Trails | Palmer Lake
Mileage: 4 m. Elevation: ~1000’ Route: Loop
The Palmer Reservoirs are about a 15 minute drive north of Colorado Springs in the sleepy town of Palmer Lake. Known for their Yule Log tradition, lighting of the Christmas Star and summer fun on Palmer Lake, this quiet suburb town near Colorado Springs boasts some of the most spectacular winter hikes Colorado has!
There are many Colorado winter hiking trails in this area but keep in mind you do need to pay for parking ($5 - credit cards only) and pups have to stay home. Bring your dog and you could be out $800. They are serious up there!
The La Deux/Ice Creek/Swank trails are not for winter walks. Start at the parking lot, taking either the wide gravel rode to the first reservoir or the side trail along the river. Both are easy to spot.
Starting along the La Deux Reservoir trail, download the Ice Creek Trail to Swank Trails for where the turn off happens. You’ll hike to the first reservoir, a steep incline that will get your heart pumping those first several feet. Make sure to bring spikes and have trekking poles handy just in case the snow covers ice. In heavy snow months (usually February and early March), you might need to wear snowshoes.
At the end of the first reservoir begin looking for a trail to the right. It is a bit tricky to spot but with a downloaded map, you should be fine. I first found this route from the Pocket Pals map of the area. These waterproof maps include many trails not included on the big name map apps like All Trails.
Buy a waterproof tear-resistant map from Pocket Pals Trail Maps. While not marked with official trail signs, these set of winter hiking trails are fairly easy to spot. A beloved locals area to hike year round, it’s not likely you’ll need to forge a trail. Many hike this area year round so tracks in the snow are usually obvious.
I love meandering through this area of the forest, taking in vistas of large pancake rocks, vast aspen groves and glimpses of the reservoirs. Truly a winter hike Colorado can brag about, spending a few hours exploring this area is magical.
Check out the map of trails I’ve often taken for this winter hike. This route - from the 1st reservoir to Ice Cave Creek Trail to Swank Trail and back puts you around 4 miles and just under 1000 feet elevation gain. Plan on 2 hours at a moderate pace. With so many connector trails in this area, you can stay out all day, exploring this area.
Once you’ve logged some miles and built up an appetite, hit up O’Malley’s, a locals favorite pub in nearby Palmer Lake.
O’Malley’s | Palmer Lake
104 CO-105, Palmer Lake, CO 80133
Be part of the Palmer Lake locals scene and make a stop at O’Malley’s. Yep, just like the name sounds, it’s an Irish themed pub with great beer choices and even better food options. Pull up a seat and sit a spell - you’ve earned it after that winter hike Colorado dishes out with such delight!
Not sure to what to get with so many choices? We love the fried pickles and prime rib sandwich. As for ales…you can’t go wrong with Elephant Rock IPA and Blue Moon - both Colorado made brews.
Mount Esther | Green Mountain Falls Area
Mileage: 6.58 m. Elevation Gain: 1,457’ Route: Out and Back
Getting to Mount Esther can be a feat. Make sure to download the map and follow the instructions. You’ll wind up a paved road through neighborhoods, thinking there is NO WAY this leads to a trailhead. Keep following the road!
At the last sharp turn to the left, within feet of the trailhead, you’ll see a very small dirt pull out in front of a few trees. Three cars at most fit in this micro mini parking spot.
If that area is full, you’ll need to drive on for a spot to park along the road or head back down and hoof it up on feet. I’ve never been to this trailhead when I couldn’t find parking.
This is a winter hike Colorado locals love which usually means less traffic and people.
Once you’ve parked, look across the street into the trees. In the winter, these wood steps are often covered with snow and you’ll be dependent on looking for the upright trail sign.
Hiking winter trails like Mount Esther require spikes or Yaktrax. The first mile is quite steep, switch backing you up the mountain.
Once you reach the top, look for the Ring the Peak trail sign. You can head either way and go as long as you want. The current Ring the Peak trail is around 63 miles.
The map of this hike shows our favorite way to travel these winter trails - so head to the right. In the fall, the aspen groves are particularly stunning. In winter months, the hike is quiet except for the crunching of snow under your feet.
NOTE! For the full mileage we hiked and listed above, add on the trail to Crystal Reservoir. All Trails does not have the full trail we took and listed here.
COTREX has the trails marked. Download the area and head toward Crystal Reservoir.
Once you’ve hiked up the easement, start heading downhill among a large aspen grove toward the staging area for snow removal equipment.
There’re be a small building and lots of heavy tractors in the area. Off in the distance you’ll see Pikes Peak and a large dam.
The video highlights the road you take after walking through the staging area.
Once you hit the main road towards the dam, keep right and go up and over the hill to the paved road. You’ll see Crystal Reservoir across the street.
Cross over the road and explore Crystal Reservoir. Long drop toilets (with toilet paper) are available for use. Hike down the well marked trail to the reservoir water edge and soak in the stunning views of Pikes Peak.
LOCAL TIP! Add an extra day and tackle Manitou Springs Incline hike. This well known 1 vertical mile hike is hard. In winter months, less tourists show up making it a great way to enjoy the views without constantly stepping aside for over ambitious “incliners.”
For that after hike libation, stick around Colorado Springs or head 15 minutes north to Divide, Colorado for a visit to Paradox Beer Company.
Paradox beer company | Divide
10 Buffalo Ct, Divide, CO 80814
With a patio and yard games for a sunny winter day, Paradox Beer Company is a great spot to sit a spell after working up a sweat hiking winter trails Colorado style! Grab a flight or two along with some tasty food. Wood fired pizza? YES! Wings? YEP! Tacos? 100%
Lovell Gulch Trail | Woodland Park
Mileage: 6.73 m. Elevation Gain: 1,053’ Route: Out and Back
Lovell Gulch trail is the perfect hike for those who want to take winter walks and snow hikes. Moderate terrain with gentle up and down inclines except for a few steep doozies along the way, this snow hike is just minutes from downtown Woodland Park.
Solo winter hiking feels safe as you wander along neighborhood fences and hear their chickens cluck away. But give yourself a few minutes and you’ll find yourself in the middle of the forest, inhaling pine rich scent and taking in fantastic mountain views.
Known in the Colorado running community as a great training trail, we’ve found Lovell Gulch to be on the of the best winter hikes Colorado Springs area has. I’ve been on this trail every season and can say - it’s a winner all the time.
Keep in mind this is a mostly forested trail with glimpses of mountains along the way. If you want all mountain views, head to Buena Vista or make hiking in Breckenridge the destination.
With ample parking at the trailhead, make sure to look for where to turn once you get to Woodland Park. If you’ve driven past the turn off lane towards Rampart Reservoir, you’ve gone too far. A small barn style building marks the dirt road to the trailhead.
Dogs are welcome on leash.
This is a perfect all seasons hike for those exploring Colorado trails. Aspen trees intersperse with many dense pine woods. In some areas, you’ll walk along electricity easements which gives a wide trail to hike on. Pending snowfall, you might need to carry snowshoes and hiking poles for the deeper areas along the trail. Usually spikes work fine!
LOCAL TIP! For the past few years, a mama moose and her baby have made this trail their home. Hiking Colorado winter months shouldn’t be an issue. However, any time you see wild animals in their home, step away. For moose, be very quiet. They have poor eyesight but excellent hearing.
This area of Colorado is superb for hiking Colorado winter months. Check out our other favorite snowshoe hikes near Colorado Springs. I’m particularly partial to Pancake Rocks because of the steep uphill hike the first bit of the trail. It’s a great trail to get warm right away!
After doing one of the best winter hikes Colorado Divide has, get yourself a brew at 110 Reserve or Peak View BBQ. Both have a menu to fill your rumbling tummy while offering several brews to choose from.
110 reserve | Woodland Park
110 W Midland Ave, Woodland Park, CO 80866
No matter the season, you can sit indoors or outdoors. Make sure to get an order of artichoke dip along with a flight of beer. Dogs are welcome anytime. If you have a sweet tooth, grab two forks and share a slice of chocolate cake.
People rave about the views and we agree, it doesn’t get much better drinking a local brew with the mountains in sight.
Peak View BBQ and Taproom | Woodland Park
1139 E. US Hwy. 24, Woodland Park, CO 80863
Peak View remodeled an old Burger King and we can tell you, you’re in for a treat at this local eatery. How about them Texas Twinkies? If beer isn’t your thing, we won’t judge. Wink! Grab the jalapeno margarita with a side of sweet potato fries.
Limbaugh Canyon and Mount Herman via Pack Trail #715 | Monument
Mileage: 8.2 mile Elevation Gain: 2,322 feet Route: Loop
I found this hiking area after moving back to Colorado in 2012. Having spent a few years in Florida, I was struggling with Colorado winter. It felt insanely cold, and dark.
We lived on the north end of Colorado Springs and friends suggested hiking in Monument. Little did I know that this area would become a favorite year round Colorado hiking destination.
Head just north of Colorado Springs to the charming town of Monument, Colorado, and plan an hour to explore the darling downtown shops after a fantastic Colorado hiking winter adventure, or indulge in a full day of exploration.
This region of Colorado Springs boasts a plethora of hiking trails, catering to a wide range of preferences. Whether you're seeking short and sweet trails suitable for families or challenging, steep climbs for all-day hikers, you'll find them here!
Some of the best winter hikes Colorado has to offer in the area are nestled around Mount Hermon, a popular hiking spot for youth and outdoor enthusiasts alike. We especially like the connector trails that encircle this majestic mountain.
Keep in mind that you'll need spikes in the winter months and potentially snowshoes, as Monument, located along the Palmer Divide, receives a considerably higher amount of snowfall compared to Colorado Springs.
A well marked road leads you to a rather large trailhead parking lot near Monument Rock. As there are several hikes from this area, make sure to download the All Trails map (link in map) to avoid more mileage. Hey, if you want to just wander around, feel free to add more miles to your day hike.
The beginning of this trail is rather exposed so you probably won’t need spikes. Once you get into the canyon, expect a fair amount of snow and ice when hiking Colorado winter months.
LOCAL TIP! Grab a bungee cord and strap your spikes to your daypack. The Osprey Sirrus backpack we both use has many clips to attach items. If you’re afraid the spikes will tear up the pack, wrap them in a ziplock bag first.
Limbaugh Canyon is a particularly favorite area of Tanya’s and rightly so! Summer months along the canyon floor river are cool and lush. Fall brings you bright color from the changing aspens and scrub oak. In winter months, the pine trees give off a pungent aroma that you’ll wish candle companies could replicate.
Consider adding the Raspberry Mountain out and back trail for more miles and some stunning views of Pikes Peak. While there is not a summit per se for Raspberry, look for a large cairn and small metal box to sign and date your visit.
Bask in the gorgeous sunlight of the area, drinking in the quiet solitude you’re bound to find as you take these winter walks.
Trails End Taproom | Monument
252 Front St, Monument, CO 80132
This taproom gives you the chance to try dozens of brews with the flip of a handle. Literally. Give them your credit card and ID and start drinking. Pour your own brews in any size you like. Trails End is the perfect place to sample those beers you think you’d like.
Pikes Peak Brewing Company | Monument
1756 Lake Woodmoor Dr, Monument, CO 80132
Pikes Peak Brewing Company in Monument is a a local’s paradise with a lit beer garden and outdoor games. Large vats of beer brew as you enter the storefront. Head out back for a year round patio experience or stay toasty warm in the winter with indoor taste testing. No matter where you sit, enjoy a single malt or IPA.
Pull Out 16 to Muscoco to Bruin to Columbine and Gold Camp Loop | North Cheyenne Canyon Park
Mileage: 6.76 m. Elevation Gain: 1,493’ Route: Loop
As newlyweds, my husband, Matt worked for an outdoor outfitters. They’d spend hours rock repelling in North Cheyenne Canyon. While I heard a lot about this massive park in southern Colorado Springs, I didn’t visit until our kids had field trips to the area.
One trip and I was hooked.
Waterfalls and mountain streams along with peak summits and sensational Pikes Peak views made me realize what I’d been missing.
I frequent North Cheyenne Canyon weekly, making my way to the 7 Bridges trail and exploring beyond, uncovering numerous wonderful destinations. From the captivating ruins of Loud's Cabins to the serene meditation spot at Kineo, this area offers a rich tapestry of nature and enticing winter hikes in Colorado.
Our discovery of the Pull Out 16 hike was purely serendipitous. During the summer months, parking in North Cheyenne Canyon can be a challenging feat, with spaces filling up rapidly. On this particular day, arriving around 10 am, we struggled to find a parking spot, but fate led us to Pull Out 16, and our adventure began.
The trail commences with a downhill stretch, so remember that the return trip involves an uphill climb. Just before reaching St. Helen's Falls, you'll encounter the main paved road. Cross it and promptly spot trail signs for Mount Muscoco.
The trail map picture guides you along the less-trodden path, offering steep inclines but fewer fellow hikers.
PRO TIP! Upon reaching the paved road, head up the street to access porta-potties for a convenient pit stop.
Throughout most of this hike, you'll find ample coverage from towering pine trees and aspens. A line of scrub oak helps shield you from the wind's chill.
It's worth noting that in North Cheyenne Canyon, most trails are welcoming to both hikers and bikers, so sharing the trail is encouraged.
You can shorten or lengthen this loop pending weather and time. The brilliance of North Cheyenne Canyon Park is the plethora of trails to so many gorgeous locations.
There are so many amazing breweries near North Cheyenne Canyon Park. After a day of winter walks in the park, trek to Cerberus Brewery for some chef specials.
Known for their beer gardens with wood fire pits, check out the extensive menu for a hearty meal.
Cerberus Brewery | Downtown Colorado Springs
702 W Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80905
Look for fun and innovative food fare like salmon po boy, brisket grilled cheese, and cauliflower wings. Expect to pay a bit more for the food but we think it’s worth it!
Dawson Butte Ranch Open Space | Larkspur
Mileage: 5 m. Elevation Gain: 449’ Route: Loop
We first found Dawson Butte Ranch looking for senior photo spots for our son.
While we ended up on the south side of town at North Cheyenne Canyon with its Pikes Peak views and trendy tunnel picture spots, Dawson Butte Ranch has become a favorite fall/winter destination.
While it takes a bit of time to find the trailhead (download All Trails directions and use Google Maps), its worth it!
You’ll share some of the trails with horses but don’t worry. There are wide tracks, often through meadows so plenty of room to move on over.
Dawson Mountain is a flat topped mountain in the middle of 828 acres. Old bridle paths with horse jumps remain scattered around the area. This 5 mile loop is well marked with picnic tables and resting benches throughout the hike.
A very easy hike with meandering up and down hills, Dawson Butte Ranch is the perfect place to take new to Colorado hikers, families and people on the quest for a spot of nature without a whole lot of work.
Plan on 90 minutes to 2 hours for this hike. If you want more hiking before heading home, head to Castlewood Canyon for more winter hikes near Colorado Springs.
Castlewood Canyon is a state park. Plan on paying fees or getting in free with your Colorado State Park pass or license plates.
A new favorite hop after hiking is Hops and Vines in Larkspur. While technically a store, it’s a great place for liquid delight before heading to the next thing.
Hops and Vines | Larkspur
8993 Spruce Mountain Rd, Larkspur, CO 80118
Don’t pass Hops and Vines by! What looks like a small gas station sits a great little liquor store with unique drinks. CBD drinks, adult strawberry lemonade, and local beer - head here for the perfect after hike drink.
BONUS HIKE! Florissant Fossil Beds Loop | Florissant
Mileage: 7.5 m. Elevation Gain: 971’ Route: Loop
When we arrived at Florissant Fossil National Monument on a cold February day, we had not idea the history we’d uncover as we hiked our way around the park.
The inner loop trails are short and sweet, perfect for those wanting to steep in history.
We wanted to soak in the sunny but cold Colorado winter day and boy did Florissant deliver.
PRO TIP! Cash in on your America the Beautiful National Parks pass for a free pass to adventure, or keep your eyes peeled for those elusive free days posted online.
Don't miss the visitor center, where you'll find some surprisingly pristine, flushable toilets (a modern-day luxury not to be taken for granted). Strike up a chat with the ranger, who's sure to spill the beans on their favorite park trails.
While you're at it, meander through the inner loop, eyeballing the Big Stump and diving into the intriguing connection between this park and Disneyland.
But enough talk; it's time to get winter hiking! Along the way, Mother Nature graces you with jaw-dropping vistas of mountain ranges, each tagged with informative signs to satisfy your inner geographer.
The signage game here is top-notch, doling out generous doses of history and geographical tidbits.
Trail markers? You won't need a magnifying glass to spot them – they're like neon signs for hikers. If you're feeling tech-savvy, you can snag the map in the picture for our tried-and-true favorite hike.
Or, if you're in the mood for some spontaneous winter walks, just lace up your boots and follow your adventurous spirit.
Notably, the Florissant Fossil National Monument features remarkably well-preserved homesteads that you can explore, complete with vintage ranch equipment.
While this hike is enjoyable year-round, the beauty of aspen meadows adds an extra layer of enchantment to this Colorado gem, making it one of the best winter hikes in Colorado.
It’s a bit of a drive to Florissant from Colorado Springs. Plan on 45 minutes or so for this beautiful drive. Before heading back to the Springs, make a stop at Funky Town Brewery for a bite and brew.
Funky Town Brewery | FLORISSANT
37 Costello Ave, Florissant, CO 80816
With professionally trained chefs, expect leveled up food at Funky Town Brewery. Think homemade sauces on homemade rolls for sandwiches. Or avocado fries and some amazing beer selections. Yep, you can’t go wrong with Funky Town Brewery.
Best Snowshoeing Hikes Colorado Has
As you get more comfortable with winter hiking, consider the world of snowshoe hiking – where shoes become snowshoes and trails turn into winter wonderlands! Discover the best winter hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park, just a snowball's throw away from Colorado Springs.
Whether you follow your mood or your snowshoes, Colorado is your snowy canvas, ready to be explored. From within an hour of Colorado Springs to the farthest reaches of the state, your snowshoe hikes are limited only by your sense of adventure.
Colorado Winter Hikes | Did You Know?
Do people hike in Colorado in the winter?
While this might seem like a silly question for you hard core hikers, many do wonder if Colorado trails are accessible during winter months. Yes, hiking Colorado winter months is doable, just make sure to do your research.
Not all trailheads are accessible, particularly the high mountain passes that create picture perfect moments. Now there are the crazy hikers out there who tackle and bag 14ers year round.
However, unless you’re a hiking pro with some solid winter hiking experience under your belt, leave those high elevation hikes for summer months.
Can you hike in Colorado year round?
Some of the best Colorado trails are hard to get to in winter months. That said, there are always trails to find the best Colorado hike. In Colorado Springs, take on some short and easy hikes for fresh air fun.
Some of our best state parks have many hikes from one trailhead, giving you tons of chances to explore the area no matter the season.
Check out our tried and true best Colorado winter hiking tips and hiking solo best practices. One of the biggest delights hiking winter months is solitude. Prepare and plan and you should be grand!
What should I wear hiking colorado trails in winter?
Hiking Colorado winter months is 100% amazing if you have the right gear and abide by a few basic safety practices.
As someone who grew up in Africa, I didn’t see snow until I landed in Chicago. I loved the amazing city life but man winters there were rough!
If like me, you don’t know much about winter hiking in Colorado, head on over to our top tips for winter hiking in Colorado. In a nutshell, learn the 5 C’s of survival, wear the right clothes, pack extra supplies and let people know where you’re going.
Avalanche safety
Don’t forget to learn a bit about avalanches. While you don’t have to worry about shifting snow on these six favorite winter hikes in Colorado Springs, any time you head into deep snow and mountainous areas, you should know what to watch out for!
How do I prepare for hiking in the winter?
Wool is your friend along with lightweight breathable and waterproof layers. We created the Colorado capsule wardrobe to help alleviate the dreaded “Oh crap, I forgot” moments.
This easy to use checklist can make Colorado winter hiking downright fantastic!
is Colorado Springs worth visiting in the winter?
If you’re considering a Colorado vacation, you might wonder As a local whose lived here over 25 years, I give a resounding YES with two thumbs up.
There is so much to do in the second largest city in the state. Whethere you’re planning that Colorado Springs family vacation or stopping by on the way to one of our favorite ski towns, check out over 50 things to do with family in Colorado Springs.
PS. If you’re traveling solo, there’s plenty to do too!
The Craft Beer Scene
And let's not overlook Colorado Springs' incredible craft beer scene! With numerous homegrown, award-winning breweries in town, we're practically a beer lover's paradise. There are so many, in fact, that we dedicated an entire blog post to help you navigate where to point your Uber driver! Most of these spots are dog-friendly, and food trucks are a common sight.
Whether you prefer a bustling beer garden with live music or the charm of an old school building, our breweries have it all. Cheers to good times and even better brews!
So there you have it, our fantastic six hidden gems in the world of best winter hikes Colorado Springs has!
These trails, handpicked by a proud local, promise to whisk you away on unforgettable adventures. From the mesmerizing vistas to the solitude of snowy landscapes, you're in for a treat.
Now, it's your turn to lace up those boots, grab your favorite trail mix, and make your mark on these winter wonderlands.
With fewer crowds and more breathtaking moments, these best winter hikes Colorado has to offer are your gateway to a unique and spirited journey.
Happy hiking!