Snowy Adventures Ahead: 7 Colorado Winter Hikes You Can’t Miss
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7 Stunning Colorado Winter Hikes in Colorado Springs!
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 Colorado winter hikes can feel abrupt and downright depressing.
A few years ago, I realized winter hikes in Colorado Springs might be the cure for my seasonal slump. Every year, I’d love the trails—until Daylight Savings hit. Then? Couch, wine, bread, zero motivation.
One day, I’d had enough. I grabbed winter gear (including my now-favorite wool gloves) and hit the trail.
Cold? Sure. But with warm layers and waterproof boots, I felt great.
The best part? Trails I knew by heart felt brand new—snow-dusted, quiet, almost magical. That’s when I discovered some of the best hiking spots in Colorado Springs shine in winter.
Here are seven of my favorite hiking spots in Colorado Springs. With varying lengths, these trails and open spaces are perfect for a day's adventure.
PRO TIP! If you’re struggling with SAD, make sure to contact a doctor. You don’t need to just suffer through it.
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
Florissant Fossil Beds Loop | FLorissant
Best Winter Hikes Colorado | Did you know
Colorado winter hikes in Palmer Lake are eerily magical.
Palmer Reservoirs - La Deux Reservoirs to Ice Creek and Swank Trails | Palmer Lake
Mileage: 4 miles 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 best winter hikes in Colorado Springs!
Colorado winter hikes often takes you to frozen lakes like the Palmer Reservoirs.
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!
HOW TO GET THERE: Exit at CO-105 from Interstate 25 and head west to through Monument towards the foothills. The Palmer Lake Reservoir trailhead is just off Old Carriage Road in Palmer Lake.
HEADS UP: There is NO PARKING allowed on Walnut or Lovers Lane. Violators of parking restrictions or requirements will be ticketed. Surveillance is installed.
However, you can find Free public parking Hwy 105 near the town’s ball field.
WHERE TO START: To reach the La Deux/Ice Creek/Swank trails, start at the parking lot Take either the wide gravel rode to the first reservoir or the side trail along the river. Both are easy to spot.
Begin along the trail 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.
NOTE! In heavy snow months (usually February and early March), you might need to wear snowshoes.
Hike along the La Deux Reservoir trail and have your map downloaded and watch for the turn off for Ice Creek Trail to Swank Trails happens just after the first reservoir.
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.
Palmer Lake Reservoirs is a favorite locals' spot and one of the best hikes in Colorado Springs year-round.
In February and March, it's also perfect for Colorado Springs snowshoeing. No need to forge a trail—this area stays well-traveled, with snow-packed paths making the route easy to follow.
Colorado Winter Hikes Quick Take| Palmer Lake Reservoirs Trail
Distance: 4 miles
Elevation: ~1,000 ft
Route: Reservoir → Ice Cave Creek → Swank Trail
Features: Aspen groves, pancake rocks, snow-dusted reservoirs
Difficulty: Easy to moderate, peaceful winter vibes
Bonus: Plenty of connector trails to explore
Why it’s awesome: One of the best hiking spots in Colorado Springs for a quiet, magical winter hike!
Afterward, warm up with a bite at O’Malley’s, a local favorite in Palmer Lake.
O’Malley’s | Palmer Lake
104 CO-105, Palmer Lake, CO 80133
After hitting one of the best hiking spots in Colorado Springs, dive into the local scene at O’Malley’s. This Irish-themed pub offers great beers and even better food. Relax and enjoy—after that winter hike, you’ve earned it! Not sure what to pick? Try the fried pickles and prime rib sandwich. For a brew, you can't go wrong with Elephant Rock IPA or Blue Moon, both made right here in Colorado.
View of Pikes Peak from Crystal Reservoir - this is the turn around point for the Mount Esther hike
Mount Esther | Green Mountain Falls Area
Mileage: 6.58 miles Elevation Gain: 1,457’ Route: Out and Back
Mount Esther trailhead sign in the fall - it’s well hidden.
HOW TO GET THERE: Getting to Mount Esther can be a feat. Located in Green Mountain Falls, a small little town just past Manitou Springs off Hwy 24, this sleepy town has some of the best Colorado winter hikes.
Punch in “9385 Mountain Rd, Cascade, CO 80809” into your map app and off you go!
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!
WHERE TO START: 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. *In winter months, I’ve never been to this trailhead when I couldn’t find parking.
Once you’ve parked, look across the street into the trees. If it’s been snowing, these wood steps are often covered and you’ll be dependent on looking for the upright trail sign.
Hiking Colorado winter trails on Pikes Peak
HEADS UP! For some of the best winter hikes in Colorado Springs 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.
My favorite way to travel this winter trail is heading 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. However, COTREX has the trails marked. Download the area and head toward Crystal Reservoir.
ADD ON HIKE TO 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! For a challenge, tackle the Manitou Springs Incline, one of the best hikes in Colorado Springs. It’s tough, but with fewer tourists in winter, you can enjoy the views without constant interruptions.
Colorado Winter Hikes Quick Take| Mount Esther
Distance: 4 miles (add Crystal Reservoir for full hike)
Elevation: ~1,000 ft
Route: Reservoir → Ice Cave Creek → Swank Trail → Crystal Reservoir
Features: Aspen groves, snow-dusted reservoirs, Pikes Peak views
Difficulty: Easy to moderate, peaceful winter vibes
Bonus: Connector trails, well-marked route to Crystal Reservoir
Why it’s awesome: One of the best Colorado winter hikes to see Pikes Peak, Crystal Reservoir, stunning aspen groves, great inclines and meandering meadows.
Add-On Hike: Head downhill to the snow removal area, follow the road to Crystal Reservoir, and enjoy stunning Pikes Peak views.
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%
HIking Colorado winter means waterproof boots, spikes, trekking poles and a great attitude!
Lovell Gulch Trail | Woodland Park
Mileage: 6.73 miles Elevation Gain: 1,053’ Route: Out and Back/Loop
Lovell Gulch Trail is one of the best hiking places in Colorado Springs for winter walks and Colorado winter hikes. With moderate terrain and gentle inclines, it’s a great snow hike just minutes from downtown Woodland Park.
Solo winter hiking feels safe here, as you pass neighborhood fences and hear chickens cluck. But soon, you'll be surrounded by forest, inhaling the pine-rich air and soaking in stunning mountain views.
Pikes Peak mountain views from Lovell Gulch trail in the fall
HOW TO GET THERE: Take HWY 24 toward Woodland Park. Trailhead is off Rampart Range Road. 2400 Rampart Range Rd, Woodland Park, CO 80863
WHERE TO START: 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.
Lovell Gulch is one of my favorite hiking spots in Colorado Springs—I’ve hiked this trail every season, and it never disappoints. Known in the Colorado running community as a fantastic training spot, I’ve found it to be one of the best winter hikes in Colorado Springs area. Whether it's covered in snow or blanketed in summer wildflowers, it’s always a winner!
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.
Lovell Gulch is one of the best winter hikes near Colorado Springs, Colorado.
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. Colorado winter hikes in this area 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 entire area has some of the best winter hikes in Colorado. 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!
As an out and back with a loop in the middle, it is a well marked trail. Enjoy some solid uphills followed by tree lined downhills. Winter hikes in Colorado areas like this are perfect as the mud and gravel is covered by snow for most of the season.
Download your map and remember, cell phone coverage in this area is extremely limited.
Colorado Winter Hikes Quick Take| Lovell Gulch
Distance: 6.73 miles
Elevation: ~1000 ft
Route: Lovell Gulch Trail
Features: Snow-covered trails, pine forests, mountain views
Difficulty: Moderate with gentle uphills, some steep sections
Bonus: Well-marked trail, peaceful solo hiking
Why it’s awesome: Moose frequent the area, and the hills and well-marked trail make it a perfect spot for running or Colorado Springs snowshoeing.
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.
Stunning views of PIkes Peak and surrounding mountains from the summit of Mount Herman
Limbaugh Canyon and Mount Herman via Pack Trail #715 | Monument
Mileage: 8.2 miles Elevation Gain: 2,322’ Route: Loop
HOW TO GET THERE: From I 25, get off at Monument exit and through town towards Monument Rock.
Red Rocks Rd. Trailhead Parking Monument, CO 80132
*There are two large lots along the road for parking. No bathrooms.
WHERE TO START: 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 to avoid more mileage.
Winter hiking here is a true Colorado winter hikes experience, with more snow than downtown Colorado Springs thanks to its spot along the Palmer Divide.
Spikes are a must, and snowshoes might come in handy.
The trail starts exposed, so you won’t need traction right away, but once you hit the canyon, expect snow and ice.
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.
Head counterclockwise for a long hill climb. Clockwise will get you warmed up real quick!
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.
Colorado Winter Hikes Quick Take| Mount Herman #715
Distance: 8.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,322 ft
Route: Loop
Features: Snow-covered trails, pine forests, canyon views
Difficulty: Moderate with steady climbs, some steep sections
Why it’s awesome: One of the best Colorado winter hikes, this trail gets more snow than downtown Colorado Springs, making it perfect for a scenic winter adventure. Well-marked and varied terrain keeps things interesting!
I found this gem after moving back to Colorado in 2012, struggling to adjust to winter after two years in Florida. A friend suggested hiking in Monument, and it quickly became one of my favorite hiking places in Colorado Springs year-round.
Just north of the city, Monument offers scenic trails plus a charming downtown—perfect for a post-hike coffee or a full day of exploring!
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.
Related Links:
Limbaugh Canyon – One of the best hikes in Colorado Springs, offering cool summer shade, vibrant fall colors, and fragrant pines in winter.
Raspberry Mountain – Another standout among the best hikes in Colorado Springs, with stunning Pikes Peak views and a unique trail register to sign.
North Cheyenne Canyon Park is home to the best hikes in Colorado Springs with incredible mountain views.
Pull Out 16 to Muscoco to Bruin to Columbine and Gold Camp Loop | North Cheyenne Canyon Park
Mileage: 6.76 miles Elevation Gain: 1,493’ Route: Loop
Winter hikes in Colorado North Cheyenne Park are filled with sun and snow.
HOW TO GET THERE: The Seven Bridges Trailhead in North Cheyenne Canyon Park is easily accessible via West Cheyenne Road when there’s no construction.
Alternate route: Take exit 141 on Hwy 24, turn left on 21st Street, then right onto Argus Blvd, passing Bear Creek Nature Center. Turn left onto Gold Camp Road (370).
Expect 4 miles of rough gravel road, passing through two tunnels before reaching the parking lot.
WHERE TO START: The Pull Out 16 trail is just past the main Seven Bridges Trailhead lot, with space for only 2-3 cars. It offers a quieter alternative when the main lot is full.
The winter trails Colorado North Cheyenne Canyon park is usually covered in snow and ice. Prepare accordingly.
From the pull out, look to your right for a small trail. You’ll head downhill along switchbacks (note the uphill return!). The shaded trail makes it a perfect option for hiking with dogs. Meander along the well marked gravel trail to the bottom of the hill.
As you approach St. Helen’s Falls, cross the road and follow signs for Mount Muscoco. For a quieter Colorado winter hike, this is one of the best Colorado winter hikes—especially on weekdays when the crowds are thinner.
The views from Mount Muscoco are delightful, with more trail options for longer spur hikes in this area.
The Mount Muscoco trail offers a steady uphill climb, making it a moderate challenge with stunning 360-degree views at the top, and some light scrambling at the end. It’s a great family-friendly hike, suitable for elementary-aged kids, and dogs on leashes, with the option to add Mount Cutler on the way back
PRO TIP! In North Cheyenne Canyon, you’ll share trails with bikers, so be mindful of passing them while enjoying the shade of pines and aspens. It’s a great way to appreciate the sights together!
You can customize your loop based on time and weather—North Cheyenne Canyon offers a variety of trails leading to stunning locations.
Colorado Winter Hikes Quick Take| Pull Out 16
Distance: 6.76 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,493 ft
Route: Loop with Out & Back
Features: Snow-covered trails, pine forests, canyon views
Difficulty: Moderate with steady climbs, some steep sections
Why it’s awesome: This hike offers a peaceful retreat, showcasing beautiful canyon views, snow-dusted pine forests, and the tranquility of North Cheyenne Canyon. Ideal Colorado winter hike, especially on weekdays when the crowds are thinner. The shaded trail also makes it a great option for hiking with dogs.
After your Colorado Springs winter hike, reward yourself with a stop at Cerberus Brewery, just a short trek away. Enjoy their beer garden with wood fire pits and an extensive menu of hearty meals, perfect after a day of hiking.
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!
North Cheyenne Canyon Park
When we first moved to Colorado Springs, my husband, Matt, was already familiar with North Cheyenne Canyon from his rock climbing days.
I didn’t explore it until our kids had field trips here—and I quickly became hooked. *Great family friendly hikes in this area!
With waterfalls, mountain streams, and stunning Pikes Peak views, this park is one of the best hiking spots in Colorado Springs. It’s a favorite of mine, especially for the iconic 7 Bridges Trail, but there are plenty of hidden gems like Loud’s Cabins ruins and Kineo’s meditation spot.
Winter hikes Colorado Larkspur area has are easy going beautiful ways to be outdoors.
Dawson Butte Ranch Open Space | Larkspur
Mileage: 5 miles Elevation Gain: 449’ Route: Loop
HOW TO GET THERE: I 25 to County Line. 105 W to Tomah. Trailhead will be on your left.
WHERE TO START: The harder way is to go clockwise from the parking lot, where you'll face a downhill section followed by a gradual uphill climb. If you're looking for an easier nature hike, head counterclockwise from the parking lot for a gentler route.
Well marked trail signs are easy to read no matter the season.
Dawson Butte Ranch is a go-to spot for winter hikes in Colorado. While the trailhead can be a bit tricky to find (use All Trails and Google Maps), it’s definitely worth it!
Some trails are shared with horses, but there’s plenty of space to move over as you walk through wide meadows. A retired working ranch, there are wide open dirt trails along with some tree lined tracks.
Dawson Mountain, a flat-topped peak in the heart of 828 acres, features old bridle paths and scattered horse jumps.
This 5-mile loop is well-marked and includes picnic tables and benches for a rest along the way.
Dawson Butte Ranch is ideal for winter hikes in Colorado, offering a very easy hike with meandering hills and wide meadows.
Its flat terrain makes it perfect for a winter trail run or a family-friendly hike.
This spot is great for those new to Colorado or anyone looking for a peaceful nature escape without a strenuous climb.
Plan for about 90 minutes to 2 hours to complete the loop. For more winter hikes near Colorado Springs, head to Castlewood Canyon, a state park with additional trails.
Don't forget to opt in for the Colorado State Park pass when renewing your vehicle tags to enjoy free entrance, or bring your pass to skip the fee at the entrance.
Colorado Winter Hikes Quick Take| dawson open space
Colorado winter hiking doesn’t need to be hard. Enjoy Dawson Butte’s 5 mile loop.
Distance: 5 miles
Elevation Gain: 449 ft
Route: Loop
Features: Easy, flat terrain with meandering hills, wide meadows, picnic tables, resting benches, and shared trails with horses.
Difficulty: An easy, family-friendly hike, perfect for winter trail running.
Why it’s awesome: Old working ranch with well marked trails and aged buildings
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.
Florissant Fossil Beds Loop | Florissant
Mileage: 7.5 miles Elevation Gain: 971’ Route: Loop
HOW TO GET THERE: I 25 to HWY 24 W to Twin Rocks Road to Teller County Road
WHERE TO START: Park at the main lot at the Visitor’s Center. Most hikes start and end here.
On a chilly February day, we arrived at Florissant Fossil National Monument, unaware of the rich history we’d uncover on our hike.
The short inner loop trails are perfect for those eager to steep in history, making this one of the best Colorado winter hikes. We soaked in the sunny, crisp day, and Florissant certainly delivered.
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.
2025 UPDATE! Due to federal layoffs impacting the National Park Service, Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument in Teller County announced that, effective immediately, it will be closed on Mondays and Tuesdays "due to a lack of staffing," following nationwide firings aimed at reducing the size of government under an executive order signed by President Donald Trump.
Colorado winter hikes in Florissant have mild weather and cool sites.
When it comes to Colorado winter hikes, Florissant Fossil National Monument delivers a unique experience with a mix of history, nature, and jaw-dropping views.
Don’t miss the visitor center, where you’ll find modern flushable toilets and a friendly ranger eager to share trail recommendations. Take the inner loop to explore highlights like the Big Stump and learn about the park’s unexpected connection to Disneyland.
As you hike, Mother Nature treats you to stunning vistas of mountain ranges, all complemented by informative signage and easy-to-spot trail markers.
Checking out the park’s largest petrified redwood tree stump.
Along the way, you’ll pass preserved homesteads with vintage ranch equipment, adding a fascinating historical element to your adventure.
The aspen meadows here are especially enchanting in winter, making this one of the best winter hikes in Colorado.
Highlights include walking past a sod house, an intact farm with old-fashioned equipment, and seeing fossilized trees along the trail—perfect for a memorable Colorado winter outing.
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.
Colorado Winter Hikes Quick Take| Florissant fossil Monument
Distance: 7.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 971 ft
Route: Loop
Features: Super cool geological finds, pioneer history artifacts, meadows and great views
Difficulty: An easy, family-friendly hike.
Why it’s awesome: Old working ranch with well marked trails and aged buildings
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.
More Colorado winter hikes to explore in Rocky Mountain National Park.
SNOWSHOEING in Colorado Springs
As you get more comfortable with winter hiking, consider the world of snowshoe hiking – where shoes become snowshoes and trails turn into winter wonderlands!
Best Winter Hikes in Colorado - Rocky Mountain National Park: Just a snowball's throw away from Colorado Springs, discover some of the best winter hikes the state has to offer.
Endless Winter Adventures: Whether you follow your mood or your snowshoes, Colorado is your snowy canvas, with snowshoe hikes limited only by your sense of adventure. We share our favorite trails for snowshoeing in Colorado Springs.
Whether you follow your mood or your snowshoes, Colorado is your snowy canvas, ready to be explored.
Hiking winter is easy peasy once you employ a few winter tips!
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 I was, you don’t know much about winter hiking in Colorado Springs, 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. For each season, we’ve created a short checklist of what to bring and wear on the best hikes in Colorado. Simple reminders help alleviate the “Oh crap, I forgot” moments.
CLICK BELOW FOR YOUR FREEBIE! This easy to use checklist can make Colorado winter hiking downright fantastic!
Winter hiking in Colorado requires layers and laughter!
is Colorado Springs worth visiting in the winter?
As a local with over 26 years of experience, I give it a resounding YES—two thumbs up! Winter in Colorado offers more than just beginner skiing. Whether you’re on a family vacation or passing through on your way to a ski town, there’s so much to do in the state’s second-largest city.
And don't worry if you're traveling solo or with kids—there’s plenty for you too! Check out over 50 family-friendly activities in Colorado Springs.
A cold brew after hitting one of the best winter hikes Colorado Springs has is always a win!
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—7 must-visit trails for the best winter hikes in Colorado Springs! These spots offer the perfect blend of winter beauty and adventure, waiting for you to explore.
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.
Hiking Colorado winter months is bliss!
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 in Colorado Springs are your gateway to a unique and spirited journey.
Happy hiking!