From the snow-draped Rocky Mountains to its prairie grasslands, mesmerising mesas, and soaring dunes, Colorado’s extraordinary landscapes command attention, while its vibrant cities are thriving hubs of culture and history. Whatever the season, this stunning state is an adventure-packed playground for families. But come winter, Colorado grabs you by the parka and pulls you into its icy embrace.
Its mountains lure the adventurous to carve fresh powder, while its historic Wild West towns – once home to outlaws and pioneers – trade gunfights for twinkling lights and timber chalets straight out of a snow globe. Skiers carve up fresh tracks, snowshoers seek serenity, and families sled until their cheeks ache from smiling before curling up fireside in rustic mountain lodges. Whether you’re after luxury or looking to lose yourself in the wild, Colorado in winter has room for everyone.
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Skiing and snowboarding in Colorado with kids

Telluride. Photo by Thomas Kelley on Unsplash
When it comes to things to do in winter in Colorado with kids, skiing and snowboarding has to be top of the list. And with 41 ski resorts, you’ll find options for every skill level and preference, ensuring that everyone can experience the magic of winter in this alpine haven. Here are a few family favourites…
Vail Ski Resort
Vail Ski Resort is for people who need their slopes to come with a side of slay. The luxurious resort spans 5,317 acres (2,149 hectares) and offers 195 runs with 31 lifts, meaning you could spend an entire ski season here without hitting the same run twice. The terrain varies from tame groomers to steep, powder-filled bowls, so it’s got something for everyone, whether you’re a beginner or someone who thinks skiing should involve a near-death experience. But let’s be honest, one doesn’t do Vail for skiing alone. The European-style village, complete with swanky après-ski bars and restaurants and the kind of shopping that could bankrupt a small country, will make you feel like you’re in a Bond film. Better yet, for frequent skiers, Vail is part of the Epic Pass.
Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort
Majestic mountain views frame a vibrant parade of the determined, the daring, and the unapologetically overdressed at Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort. Covering 5,500 acres (2,223 hectares), Aspen Snowmass is a playground for the rich and famous with four mountains on which to frolic – Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass – each offering a mix of gentle slopes and death-defying descents. Snowmass stands out for its family-friendly atmosphere, featuring wide, gentle slopes and beginner-friendly terrain, and the Snowmass Ski & Snowboard School, which offers tailored lessons for young skiers. For experienced skiers, Aspen Snowmass has everything from groomed runs to terrain parks, plus ski-in/ski-out access. When you need a break from all the fresh powder, kids will enjoy snowshoeing, dog sledding, or heading to the Aspen Recreation Center for ice skating, climbing, and water slides. Aspen Snowmass is part of the Ikon Pass.
Breckenridge Ski Resort
Breckenridge, or “Breck”, is a place where old-school frontier grit meets some seriously world-class skiing. Nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, this historic town’s 2,900 acres (1,174 hectares) of terrain, 187 runs, and 34 lifts mean you can explore everything from mellow greens to challenging moguls, steep chutes, and epic bowls. But don’t be fooled into thinking it’s all about the slopes; there’s so much more to do here, like sledding, ice skating, snowshoeing, or taking a ride on the Breckenridge Trolley, which feels straight out of an old Western film — only with less horse poop and more families chatting about their plans for the day. The town itself is a true relic of the old mining days, with Victorian storefronts that once housed gold rush traders and saloon brawlers, now home to boutiques, ski shops, restaurants, and bars. Breck offers accommodation options that range from cosy cabins that feel like they were made for families to larger lodges with views that’ll make you drop your phone just to take it all in. Like Vail, Breck is part of the Epic Pass
Telluride Ski Resort
Telluride is what happens when you take a remote Colorado mountain town, slap on a pair of ski boots, and throw in some five-star service. A perfect destination for families, Telluride offers both world-class skiing and a charming small-town atmosphere with dramatic mountain views and a pedestrian-friendly main street. The resorts 2,000 acres (809 hectares) of terrain includes plenty of beginner and intermediate slopes, making it ideal for families to ski together. The Telluride Ski & Snowboard School provides lessons tailored to kids, with fun programs designed to teach them skills while ensuring a great time on the slopes. The Telluride Ice Rink is a favourite in winter, as is snowshoeing, snow biking, and the free gondola ride between Telluride and Mountain Village. Telluride is also part of the Epic Pass.
Park City Mountain Resort
Park City Mountain Resort is a top destination for families, offering a wide range of activities for kids of all ages. With over 7,300 acres (2,954 hectares) of terrain, Park City Mountain Resort is the largest ski area in the US, but it’s also known for its kid-friendly vibe. For younger skiers and beginners, there are plenty of gentle slopes and beginner terrain to explore. The Park City Ski & Snowboard School provides tailored lessons for kids, from toddlers to teens, ensuring they get a solid start on the slopes. Off the slopes, families can enjoy activities like snow tubing, ice skating, and the Park City Alpine Slide. The Kid’s Adventure Zone at Canyons Village is perfect for younger kids, featuring games and activities, and Park City is home to the Park City Museum and Utah Olympic Park, where kids can learn about Olympic history. Park city is part of the Epic Pass.
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort
Jackson Hole offers a thrilling, family-friendly experience that mixes the rugged beauty of the wilderness with plenty of fun activities for kids of all ages. With 2,500 acres (1,012 hectares) of terrain, 133 runs, and 12 lifts, this resort has something for everyone, including families looking for a bit of adventure. While Jackson Hole is famous for its challenging double black diamonds, there are plenty of gentle slopes and beginner-friendly terrain for younger skiers and snowboarders. The resort also offers the Mountain Sports School, where kids can take lessons tailored to their skill level. Beyond skiing, Jackson’s family-friendly vibe ensures there’s no shortage of fun, whether you’re on the slopes, ice skating, dog sledding, and snowshoeing. There are two towns with accomodation, shopping and restaurants at both. The mountain has Teton Village at its base, while the town of Jackson is 20 minutes away Jackson Hole is on the Ikon Pass.
Beaver Creek Ski Resort
Spanning 1,800 acres (728 hectares), Beaver Creek’s 150 runs range from family-friendly blues to steeper blacks. But the vibe here is as big a draw as the insane snow. Heated sidewalks, ski valets, and cookies served every afternoon are just a few of the perks that make this place a five-star experience. The Beaver Creek Children’s Ski School is celebrated for offering tailored programs for young skiers and snowboarders. Families can also enjoy the Beaver Creek Ice Rink, Tubing Hill, and regular events like outdoor movie nights. Dining is also family-centric, with several restaurants offering kid-friendly menus and cosy settings to unwind after a day on the slopes. Beaver Creak is on the Epic Pass.
Winter Park Resort
Originally designed as a family-friendly escape for Denver’s skiers, Winter Park Resort is now a sprawling, snow-covered beast with 3,078 acres (1,246 hectares) of skiable terrain, two terrain parks, 23 lifts (including 1 gondola and 18 chairlifts), and 166 runs. Split into seven distinct areas, it’s a dream for intermediates seeking miles of groomed runs. But worry not – if you’re new to the mountain or just want a refresher, there’s a free two-hour mountain orientation tour to get your bearings. For families, Winter Park delivers on both adventure and convenience. Kids can channel their inner snow ninja at Fireberry Glade, weaving between trees, or take on the banked turns at Dilly Dally Alley. And for the little ones in ski school? They’re equipped with GPS trackers so you can follow their every move in real-time – because let’s be honest, knowing how many runs they did is part of the fun, even if you’re silently comparing it to your own stats. Die-hard skiers and snowboarders can also benefit from the Ikon Pass, which offers access to some of the best mountains in the world.
Steamboat Springs
Purgatory Resort
Forget the glitz of Aspen or Vail. At Purgatory Resort, just 25 miles (40 km) from Durango, families will find 1,600 acres (647 hectares) of terrain perfect for every skill level, from gentle beginner slopes to thrilling tree runs for the adventurous. Kids will love the Ski & Ride School, and parents will appreciate the relaxed, welcoming vibe. Après-ski, head to Purgy’s Slopeside Restaurant for nachos the whole family can share, or venture into Durango for a meal at one of its family-friendly restaurants. Time your visit to Durango during the holiday season for a magical family experience. The famous “Polar Express” train ride, operated by The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad brings Chris Van Allsburg’s beloved tale to life. Kids (and nostalgic adults) will delight in the journey to the “North Pole,” complete with hot chocolate, cookies, and a visit from Santa himself.
Slip through the snow on a sleigh ride

Sleigh Ride. Photo by Andrea Stark on Unsplash
The soft jingle of bells filling the air and the weight of a wool blanket tucked around you as you’re whisked through a snow-covered wonderland on a slow, rhythmic sleigh ride is one of those magical moments that will carve itself into your memory, and there’s nowhere as magical as Colorado to enjoy one.
From Golden Horseshoe’s cosy cocoa rides in Breckenridge, where Belgian draft horses pull you through snow-draped trees, to Steamboat’s Haymaker Sleigh Ride Dinner, where a four-course feast greets you after a Wild West sunset ride, this is a winter experience you’ll talk about long after the fire’s gone out.
Snowshoeing in winter in Colorado with kids

Snowshoeing. Image © Aleney de Winter
Colorado offers a variety of snowshoeing trails that cater to families of all skill levels. At Brainard Lake Recreation Area, a 2-mile trek leads you to a serene lake with plenty of moose sightings. Mueller State Park features trails for all levels, including a 2.2-mile beginner route and a 7-mile challenge for advanced snowshoers. Golden Gate Canyon State Park offers gentle trails like Horseshoe Trail, ideal for beginners, as well as the more challenging scenic Mule Deer Loop for those who prefer a workout with a view. Echo Lake at Mount Evans is also perfect for beginners, offering easy trails with stunning mountain views. And the trails of Rocky Mountain National Park offer a variety of ranger-led snowshoe walks suited to all ages and skill levels. The Bear Lake Trail, for instance, is an easy 0.6-mile loop that takes you through a winter wonderland, surrounded by towering peaks and snow-covered forests. Just don’t forget to reward the kids with a steaming hot cocoa afterwards.
Try ice climbing in Colorado with (older) kids

Girl ice climbing in Ouray. Photo by Kyle King on Pexels
Feeling brave? One of the coolest (literally) things to do in winter in Colorado with kids lis ice climbing. For families looking to add a little adventure to their winter getaway, the Ouray Ice Park is a must-visit. This outdoor park is one of the world’s premier ice climbing destinations, where beginners and experienced climbers alike can scale frozen waterfalls with the guidance of expert instructors. Kids do need to be supervised to be safe, and it’s recommended to hire a guide service like Base Camp Ouray or San Juan Mountain Guides.
Explore epic parks in Colorado in winter with kids

Colorado National Monument. Photo by Intricate Explorer on Pexels
Colorado’s national parks offer a diverse array of landscapes, from towering mountain peaks and deep canyons to ancient cliff dwellings and desert mesas. Whether you’re exploring the rugged terrain of the Rockies or stepping back in time at ancient ruins, these parks provide endless opportunities for adventure and discovery year-round.
Rocky Mountain National Park
A place of soaring mountain peaks and pristine high-altitude lakes, where elk roam and moose lounge in lakes. You’re more likely to bump into a mountain goat than another person in Rocky Mountain National Park. Winter brings deep snows to the west side of the park, but lighter snowfall on the east (Estes Park) side often leaves low-elevation trails open for winter hiking, with several perfect for little legs.
Colorado National Monument
When the colder weather hits, Colorado National Monument, located near Grand Junction, transforms into a serene winter landscape, though many trails become inaccessible due to snow and icy conditions. However, some shorter hiking routes close to the Visitor Centre, such as the Alcove Nature Trail, Canyon Rim Trail, and Otto’s Trail, are ideal for eager winter hikers when the elements allow. If you’d prefer to keep the little ones warm and dry, you can enjoy stunning vistas from the comfort of your car on the Rim Rock Drive, a scenic route that remains open in winter, offering views of towering rock spires, deep canyons, and the Grand Valley dusted in snow. Little wildlife enthusiasts should keep their eyes peeled for bighorn sheep and golden eagles, which are more active in the colder months. Be sure to take the kids to the nearby Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center for hands-on fossil exhibits and learning about prehistoric life.
Pike National Forest and Pikes Peak
Just outside Colorado Springs, Pikes Peak towers at 14,115 feet, offering jaw-dropping views and year-round adventures. Drive the winding Pikes Peak Highway to the summit, hike the challenging Barr Trail, or enjoy seasonal snowshoeing and wildlife spotting. One of the most-visited mountaintops anywhere in the world, don’t miss the summit’s visitor centre for its famous high-altitude doughnuts made hot and fresh each day.
Garden of the Gods
A striking natural wonder near Colorado Springs, the Garden of the Gods features towering red sandstone formations with Pikes Peak as the backdrop. In winter, snow dusts the towering red sandstone formations, and trails are quieter. Family-friendly trails include the Perkins Central Garden Trail, a 1.5-mile (2.4 km) paved loop, perfect for strollers and young kids, and the Siamese Twins Trail, a gentle 1-mile (1.6 km) hike featuring a rock window framing Pikes Peak. Wildlife like deer and birds are more visible, and the Visitor and Nature Center provides educational exhibits and panoramic views of the wintery landscape.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison
While Colorado National Monument may be known as the state’s “Grand Canyon,” the extraordinarily steep cliffs, roaring rapids, and craggy spires of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison kind of give it a raised middle finger when it comes to the title – especially when dusted in snow. In winter, park rangers offer geology talks and guided snowshoe programs among the oaks and open meadows and along the canyon rim. It’s also a designated International Dark Sky Park, along with 13 others in Colorado, ensuring little star spotters are in for a treat.
Royal Gorge Bridge & Park
Royal Gorge Park is home to one of the world’s highest suspension bridges, hanging nearly 1,000 feet above the Arkansas River. Thrill-seekers can zip line over the canyon, scale its cliffs on the Via Ferrata, or experience the heart-racing Skycoaster. For something slower-paced, take the scenic Royal Gorge Route Railroad and soak in the views of this stunning natural marvel.
Mesa Verde National Park
Mesa Verde is a UNESCO World Heritage site home to over 600 cliff dwellings, carved into the steep rock faces by the Ancestral Puebloans over 800 years ago. In winter, the park offers a peaceful, snow-dusted landscape where visitors can explore ancient homes like Cliff Palace and Spruce Tree House. The quieter season provides a perfect opportunity to hike lower-elevation trails or take a guided tour to learn about the park’s fascinating history and culture.
Dinosaur National Monument
Dinosaur National Monument is known for its vast collection of fossilised dinosaur bones, with over 1,500 fossils visible in the Quarry Exhibit Hall. The park, straddling the Colorado-Utah border, also boasts dramatic landscapes of canyons, cliffs, and rivers. Winter transforms the monument into a tranquil, snow-covered escape, perfect for quiet hiking, snowshoeing, or exploring the rugged scenery without the crowds.
Red Rocks Canyon
And then there’s Red Rocks Canyon, which has its own special kind of magic in winter. The iconic amphitheatre, usually buzzing with concerts and events, sits quiet, its towering sandstone formations glowing even brighter against a cold, crisp blue sky. The hiking trails – like the Trading Post Loop—are quieter, too, letting you soak in the surreal scenery without the summer crowds.
Sink into a steaming hot spring in Colorado in winter

Glenwood Springs © Aleney de Winter
After a day on the slopes or hiking through snow-dusted forests, cheeks frosty from the biting cold, nothing beats soaking in a warm, mineral-rich hot spring surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
Glenwood Hot Springs Resort
A great place to start for families, Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, which boasts the world’s largest hot spring pool, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, offers a chance to unwind in a place that feels more like a sanctuary than a resort. The family-friendly vibe is a bonus – there’s even a sandy beach for the kids. But for the adults? The therapeutic pools are everything you need after a day of chasing powder.
The Springs Resort & Spa
The Springs Resort & Spa in Pagosa is great for families. This resort offers a variety of mineral pools with different temperatures, making it suitable for kids and adults alike. The pools are set in a beautiful natural environment, and the resort has a welcoming, relaxed vibe for families.
Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort
Located in Nathrop, Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort delivers natural hot springs with breathtaking views of the Collegiate Peaks. Family-friendly, with a range of pools for all ages, the resort has a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, and kids can enjoy the outdoor pools and even the creekside hot springs with snowflakes drifting around them as they soak in the warmth.
Urban activities in winter in Colorado with kids

© Photo by Colin Lloyd via Pexels
Colorado’s cities offer plenty of family-friendly activities in winter, blending outdoor fun with urban attractions. From ice skating and festive light displays to exploring museums and vibrant downtown areas, there’s no shortage of urban experiences for kids and families to enjoy in the colder months.
Denver with kids
The utlra cool Colorado capital is packed with exciting winter activities that make it the ideal city for family fun. Start your Denver family adventure at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, where IMAX films, dinosaur exhibits, and interactive displays will captivate kids and adults alike. For hands-on exploration, the Children’s Museum of Denver is a must-visit, where exhibits encourage children to discover, create, and learn through play. From skating to dazzling light displays, Denver offers an endless supply of family-friendly winter magic. The Blossoms of Light at the Denver Botanic Gardens transforms the space into a stunning winter spectacle, offering an enchanting stroll through illuminated pathways. Head to Skyline Park for ice skating fun, and when the holidays roll around, don’t miss Zoo Lights at the Denver Zoo, a dazzling display that lights up the animal exhibits with thousands of twinkling lights. For more festive cheer, the Denver Christkindl Market brings a European-style Christmas experience, complete with artisan gifts, food, and drinks.
Fort Collins with kids
The perfect blend of old-world charm and modern fun, Fort Collins is an exciting destination for families all year round. In winter, wander through Old Town, where cafes and quirky shops invite you to explore at your own pace, or for a unique twist, explore the city’s Art and Foodie Walks, where you can dive into Fort Collins’ vibrant art scene and culinary delights. Fort Collins Museum of Discovery is a must for families, for hands-on exhibits spark curiosity about wildlife, space, and local history. And for a dose of action, Fort Fun provides hours of fun for kids with its indoor go-karts, mini-golf, and laser tag. Don’t miss the Fort Collins Winter Farmers Market, the only one in northern Colorado, offering seasonal produce, local mushrooms, and delicious cheeses, and, if you’re visiting around the holidays, make sure to check out the festive Reindeer at The Bath Nursery Garden Center.
Boulder with kids
Located at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, in northern Colorado, the charming Colorado city of Boulder offers a fantastic combination of outdoor exploration and family-friendly fun, perfect for the colder months. Begin by wandering the Pearl Street Mall, where kids can watch street performers and enjoy the sparkling lights that fill the area with festive cheer. Then, head to Chautauqua Park for a scenic outdoor adventure, whether you’re hiking or playing in the snow. Indoor activities include catching an indie film at the Boulder Theater or engaging with the hands-on exhibits at the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art. If you’re looking for something to thrill wee space cadets, Fiske Planetarium offers family-friendly shows about the stars, science, and nature. Families can also enjoy the beloved annual performance of “The Nutcracker” ballet by the Boulder Ballet, accompanied by a live orchestra. And the holiday lights on Pearl Street are a must-see, transforming the area into a magical spectacle that captures the essence of the season.
Colorado Springs with kids
While known for its outdoor beauty, Colorado Springs also offers plenty of indoor activities for winter. The Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum provides an educational experience with interactive displays. And get your skate on at the Colorado Springs Ice Rink at The Broadmoor, where families can glide across the ice together. The Broadmoor, a celebrated historic resort since 1918, is renowned for its luxury and charm, offering a quintessential Colorado experience with its stunning architecture, world-class service, and festive seasonal activities, including a winter sleigh ride and the Broadmoor Kids Club that provides adventure-filled winter programs like falconry, zip lining, and fishing.
Glenwood Springs with kids
Glenwood Springs is a winter wonderland for families. Perched on a mountaintop, Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park offers an extraordinary mix of family-friendly experiences. Take the family up in the gondola for cave tours through the stunning Fairy Cave and Glenwood Cavern and a collection of wild (and mild) rides, including the Glenwood Canyon Flyer, which swings guests 1,300 feet above the canyon for breathtaking views. In the winter, the park’s charm is enhanced by snow-covered mountain vistas and the warmth of the park’s alpine atmosphere. A winter hike to Hanging Lake allows you to experience the frozen beauty of the falls. Afterwards, reheat your crew in the Glenwood Hot Springs, where natural thermal waters provide a year-round escape from the cold.
Leadville with kids
One for the extreme teams. Perched at a breathtaking 10,152 feet (3,094 metres), Leadville proudly holds the title of the highest incorporated city in North America. Once the heart of Colorado’s silver mining boom, this historic mountain town now blends its rich heritage with a vibrant, outdoorsy charm. Stroll along Harrison Avenue, where Victorian-era buildings house charming shops, restaurants, and museums. The National Mining Hall of Fame & Museum offers an immersive look into Leadville’s storied past, while the Tabor Opera House hosts live performances in a beautifully preserved 19th-century venue. But the real appeal of winter is fat biking, the perfect way to embrace Leadville’s snowy winters while trying something a little out of the ordinary. Designed with oversized, low-pressure tyres that glide over snow, fat bikes let you explore trails that would be off-limits to regular mountain bikes in winter.
Winter events in Colorado with kids

Steamboat Springs Winter Carnival. Image via Visit Steamboat Springs Facebook
Colorado in winter is alive with events that celebrate art, adrenaline, and adventure.
Christkindlmarket, Denver (November – December)
Embrace the festive spirit at Denver’s annual Christkindlmarket, a European-inspired market in Civic Center Park. Stroll among wooden stalls brimming with handcrafted gifts, savour traditional German treats like bratwurst and strudel, and warm up with a cup of glühwein.
Ullr Fest, Breckenridge (December)
Channel your inner Viking at this snow festival honouring Ullr, , the Norse god of snow. Highlights include quirky parades, a roaring bonfire, and an enthusiastic community call for more powder to blanket the slopes.
International Snow Sculpture Championships, Breckenridge (January)
Teams from around the globe carve towering blocks of snow into mesmerising sculptures. During Breckenridge’s International Snow Sculpture Championships. The free event blends artistry with engineering, leaving visitors in awe of the icy creations.
Winter X Games, Aspen (January)
Aspen becomes the epicentre of extreme sports as top athletes in freestyle skiing, snowboarding, and more showcase jaw-dropping tricks during the Winter X Games. The action-packed competition is only rivalled by the party atmosphere, featuring live music and vibrant crowds.
Pagosa Springs’ WinterFest (January)
The multi-day Pagosa Springs’ WinterFest brims with excitement, from the daring Penguin Plunge into the icy San Juan River to the Anything Goes Downhill Sled Race. Don’t miss the magical sight of hot-air balloons ascending over the snow-capped landscape.
UllrGrass Music & Beer Festival , Golden (January)
Don your faux fur and Viking horns to celebrate winter at this family-friendly music and beer festival in the scenic foothills of Golden. With bluegrass bands, costume contests, and an array of local food and craft vendors, it’s a spirited celebration of winter. The UllrGrass Music & Beer Festival supports the Coral Creek Kids Music Project and A Precious Child.
Steamboat Springs Winter Carnival (February)
Since 1914, Steamboat Springs has celebrated its Champagne Powder® with this iconic carnival. Expect a mix of quirky and athletic events, including ski-jumping competitions, dog sleds, and a night-time firework display that lights up the snowy skies.
WinterWonderGrass Festival Steamboat Springs (February)
Imagine sipping craft beer while stomping your boots to bluegrass tunes in a wintery setting. WinterWonderGrass brings together top-notch musicians, Colorado craft brews, and the undeniable charm of Steamboat Springs.
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