Catch a sunrise at Sprague Lake or go ice climbing. If it's snowing, AWD or snow tires may be required. Which could be a lot of fun too, and you wouldn't have to worry about driving. 5 Tips for a Successful Colorado Winter Vacation with a Baby! You don't want the vehicle to come in the way of fun. Would love to know for our return trip in the future Escape the mundane days of winter and head to the mountains for a weekend yurt getaway! Kidtopia Headquarters is located next to the Dercum ice skating rink in River Run Village. I cannot recommend any hikes there that are kid friendly but the views sure are great and it is fun to stroll around the pass. Where: 15 minutes outside of Canon City, Colorado. Our goal is to enjoy winter without skiing - make snowmen, play in the snow, go tubing, see the top of a mountain. Unfortunately it was an activity we didnt get to try because we ran out of time but based on reviews seemed like a fun thing to do outside of skiing. If you are looking for a fun family activity that doesnt require ski boots, be sure to double check that your condo or VRBO/Homeaway comes with heated pools. So while planning the itinerary for this winter vacation, I was in need of activities to do other than ski. You can also take a train to and from the town from Denver. On Saturdays, starting at 4pm, Ripperoos Parade makes its way through River Run Village and ends with free cookies and hot cider at the Dercum Ice Rink. Where: Denver Botanical Gardens Downtown Denver, Cost: $21 for non-members $19 for members, Related: 32 Things to Do in Denver You Cant Miss. Instead of staying stuck at home, head out on a weekend getaway to one of Colorados best mountain towns. Heres 12 things to do in Keystone Colorado other than ski. Walkthrough mesmerizing, interactive light shows. Cost: Varies. This is an absolute must for any babies winter. We take the kids (now 3 and 5) to Georgetown in early December for the Christmas market plus Santa train ride and it's a massive hit! If youd like to get into nature, but dont want to venture far from Denver, consider a day trip to Boulder. Afterward, you can shop at Pearl Street or opt to visit the Fiske Planetarium for a well-rounded day of wintery fun. Spend the day snowshoeing to Emerald Lake, soaking up the views of Notchtop and Hallett Peak. It has all the same activities, and the gondola. Typically, the non-ski resort towns of Colorado have great prices for lodging in the winter. One of the most scenic places in Colorado, Glenwood Springs offers up some of the best things to do in Colorado in winter if you dont ski. No matter what place or destination I drag my family to, you can best bet, Ill be dragging them to the highest point of that location on every-single-trip. Glide your way through wintery trails with cross-country ski lessons. Cost: Free to walk the grounds and see the gingerbread displays. We didnt get to try this one out mainly because I forgot to make a reservation. But you can take another Gondola and get to Northpeak. Ive spent the better part of 12 winters here in Colorado. How much are Gondola tickets? If you do go, let me know your thoughts in the comments below! Will would sit in the middle of the tube with James on his lap. A few amazing places to ice fish in Colorado include: Cost: $450 for two people on a 6-hour trip. They farm or make the ice themselves and it is a more controlled environment than ice climbing in the backcountry. Cost: $31 for adults, $22 for children under 15. Something you might look into for something to do in Keystone Colorado other than ski. Now you can ride along with a dog sled team in Winter Park, Colorado. Open year-round, you can enjoy this thrill ride any time of year, but winter is extra special as the snowy scenes fly past. Access to the fort is free with a valid season pass, lift ticket, or scenic ticket. Local Tip: There are lots of things to do in Breckenridge during winter if you dont ski! Cost: $60 for a half-day, or $80 for the day. Because I want you to make the most of the snowy season. Where: State Forest State Park or one of the many 10th Mountain Division huts. Wink, wink. Ultimate Insiders Guide to Ice Skating in Breckenridge (and Nearby). Avid sport climbers will also want to check out the climbing at Shelf Road nearby. One in River Run Village and a much larger one in Lakeside Village. Ouray Ice Park and the Vail Valley offer world-class ice climbing opportunities for beginners and experts alike. Timing Looking to go the weekend after Thanksgiving (around Dec 7-8). Keystone will start making snow early season so there will be snow on at least a handful of runs and on top of Dercum mountain. Head out on a scenic drive near Denver for some wintery magic, then post up at one of the many amazing Denver eateries (the Source, Cherry Creek, and Larimer Square have excellent dining options). Follow along for tips on cutting travel costs with points and miles plus detailed destination guides and itineraries. How busy should I expect it to be on the weekdays and weekend? Where: Snowmass Mall and Base Village at Snowmass Aspen, ColoradoCost: Free to watch! Snow in early December can be anything from abundant to almost none, and maybe a few trails open at Keystone on manmade snow. Id also suggest that if what you want is a winter wonderland type feel and don't care about downhill skiing, Yellowstone in the winter is incredible. I'm Lauren! Snowmobile tours take you through wintery trails and lead to stunning vistas of the famous Rabbit Ears Pass. Pro Tip: Be prepared to hike out your trash. The Crested Butte Mountain Bike Association is a great place to get your feet wet with the sport. Air Travel with Kids during a Pandemic: What to expect plus tips to limit exposure. This is a great activity for the entire family. Where: Dog Sled Rides of Winter ParkCost: $195 per person. Strawberry Hot Springs in Steamboat. They have little bitty snowshoes for kids. Go to loveland pass and walk around there. Where: There are many amazing winter hiking trails in Colorado. One of my favorite things about River Run Village in Keystone Colorado are the red wagons. Learn what it means to go brap brap with a snowmobiling tour in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Be sure to bring hand warmers, extra jackets, and toe warmers. I don't know when it opens but kids sure seem to enjoy it. Theres plenty of things to do in Colorado if you dont ski. Plan is to go Thursday - Monday or Wednesday- Sunday. I really just depends on the weather, and it's super unpredictable. James could stare for hours at the skaters. There are lots of hiking trails in the Keystone area. Cost: free to hike, $28 to enter the park and extra money for the Skycoaster and zipline. But luckily our cabin also came with access to a heated pool. Vacation planning enthusiast, wife of an amazing husband who is willing to succumb to my every wanderlust need. Ill let you know how well it works. Pack the essentials and hike in a couple of short miles to the Never Summer Nordic yurts in State Forest State Park. And mom to the cutest little boy (5) and girl (4). Discover Which Colorado Mountain Town is right for you. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure. It was perfect for a daytime activity with a little one. This crazy, yet super fun sport is an excellent way to see frozen waterfalls up close and personal. Beginners can enjoy an array of groomed trails, while experts will have literally limitless terrain to explore. There are other places like Breckenridge, Frisco, or Silverthorne that will have more for you to do. You dont need to bring the kitchen sink, definitely ask what the yurt provides prior to heading out. Perfect for families or date night, this fun-filled ride will have you smiling and laughing your way down the mountain. My description of you would be anything but lazy. The hope is to be able to play in the snow. At the park, youll find the Royal Gorge Bridge (free), a via Ferrata, Skycoaster, gondola, and much more. Local Tip: As a beginner snowshoer, make sure you understand avalanche risks. Let me know . Think you cant ride a bike in winter? I will try to answer some of these questions: Ski tickets are $120 to $140 for Adult early season. With its unique landscape and quaint towns, the western slope is one of the best places to visit in Colorado in winter. We stayed at the Willowswhich had an amazing view plus access to a heated pool. Just 2.5 hours south of Denver youll find Canon City and the Royal Gorge. Taking a ride on a motor-powered sled is one of the most thrilling things to do in Colorado in the winter. They shoot them from the top of Dercum Mountain. I feel like that's about the time of year if goes from barren dirt covered hillsides to winter wonderland. Youll get plenty of solitude, and have access to some of the best things to do in Colorado in winter without paying ski resort prices. But this year, being 8 months pregnant and bringing along our toddler, I knew our annual ski trip was going to be much different. Where: Boulder, CO just 40 minutes from Denver. Luckily for Will, the highest location came via gondola rather than by foot this time. Fill free to leave a comment below. Winter is prime time here in the Centennial State and you dont need to ski to enjoy the fluffy white snow! For a wintery wonderland without much effort, take a ride on the Georgetown Loop Railroad. If you haven't driven much in the snow, AWD definitely won't hurt, but realize that it does't make you stop any faster! We are flexible around that time, but dont want to push back another weekend. Press J to jump to the feed. This high-end, all-inclusive resort property is a long-coveted establishment that goes all out for Christmas. We loved it so much we actually hiked this trail on 2 different days. If wanting to vacation a lot means you're lazy, then call me Lazy Lauren. Mostly due to the higher altitude. Once upon a time, I used to ski and snowboard. Keystone is really built around skiing. Your source for Colorado snow sports information. Take the gondola to the top and play on the slides, climbing nets, tunnels and castle towers. This allows you on the gondola up to the top of Dercum Mountain where there is a restaurant as well as access to another gondola that takes you to another part of the mountain with more scenic views. Bring plenty of tasty snacks and some fun games to play. Thanks, sounds risky at that time of year. Should I have any preference on arrival/departure days? Booking Tips for a (Mostly) Stress-Free Family Ski Vacation. Spend a afternoon in Vail ski area. How is the snow typically this time of year? Hire a guide or take a lesson and learn how to top-rope ice safely. None of us have been to Colorado in the snow, and Keystone seemed to be the most family friendly for that. If you are like me, simply chilling by the fire with a glass of wine and a view of a snow covered mountain out the window is all I need to have a great time. Whatever you end up doing, Colorado is awesome, and we love living here. My wife, daughter, and I spend a lot of time there, but we ski a lot. Try a new outdoor sport this winter and climb some ice. Start the morning off with a crisp hike on the Flatirons Vista Trail one of Boulders best hikes. You can head to an escape room, catch a show on Colfax, or visit the Denver Art Museum for the day. Packing a hot thermos of soup is also a real treat. And they also had loads of activities for adults and little ones that didnt require skis. I think with the right expectations (by that, I mean, knowing it may be one of the more expensive meals of your vacation) it could be fun for the whole family. Its free entry for all ages. You can scope out the lights downtown during the holiday season or try your luck at the Glenwood Escape Room. No, Im not talking about Denvers favorite 21-plus recreation pastime. Plenty of chill hiking options everywhere in Summit County. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year. Although he did go skiing one day, this list helped fill the hours on the rest of the days of our non-ski-cation. The best part, its free to visit! It has more consistent snow as well. Ice fishing is arguably one of the biggest Colorado past times. Needed to get a critique on my plans, as the wife and I have never been to a Colorado winter resort. Avalanche danger is a real threat. On i70 it is now in effect permanently from September through May. Also if you are just going to the top of the mountain for views then the best views are from Outback which you cannot get to without skiing/boarding. Be sure to check out Mayflower Gulch (outside of Copper Mountain), Herman Gulch (right before Loveland Pass on I-70), Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park, and the Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail. If you dont want to hit the slopes, consider checking out one of the Colorado mountain towns that dont have a ski resort. For a snow vacation you are definitely taking a risk that early in the season. It seemed that Keystone Resort prided themselves as Colorados kid-friendliest resort. In this guide, youll find expert, local advice. There is a free gondola in Breckenridge from parking to base. For other ideas, you might look into booking a sleigh ride. I have been using an app called hopper. It tries to predict future airfares and alerts you to purchase a ticket or to wait. We tested out the Nordic Center on our first day in Keystone Colorado. Have fun!! You may want to consider Winter Park. She'd rather be dirty than done up. Heres the link to all Kidtopia activities in Keystone Colorado along with schedule information. You take 2 gondolas to get to the top where they serve fondue and a 4 course meal and have live entertainment. Skip the crowds (and oppressive heat) with a visit to the Colorado National Monument along the Western Slope. Thanks for following! If not it's no big deal. It's a short trip from all of those over to any of the ski areas if you want ride up to the top of a mountain for some cool views. It has got a really beautiful ski village. Keystone offers these excursions too as well as snow shoeing through designated trails in the mountains. Dog sledding is one of the most fun-filled things to do in Colorado in winter. Would I even expect much snow on the ground in early December? Most huts require an advanced reservation, but others are available on a first-come, first-served basis. We travel often using credit card points and miles. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Nordic Center has snow tubing for all ages including babies and toddlers. For bigger kids you can head to Adventure Point in River Run Village that has snow tubing as well as other fun activities with steeper hills. There are separate areas for skating depending on your activity. A few awesome activities to check out include: You can still have a ton of fun visiting Colorado in the winter even if you dont ski or snowboard. Keep in mind clothing is optional after dark. When: November 7th 29th, December 1 Jan 3. I have not driven in snow much. Learn about the sport and see these amazing animals in action. Thanks Nancy! That will still be very early season so not likely busy, but it will be noticeably busier on the weekends. Looks like we might miss it by a weekend. Where: Evergreen Lake House ParkCost: $7 to skate and $7 to rent skates. This high-flying ride is an awesome winter activity in Colorado. This condo was my first choice, but was unfortunately booked for the days we needed. From what it is worth I have snowboarded every year on Thanksgiving so you will definitely see snow in the mountains. things to do in Breckenridge during winter, things to do in Rocky Mountain National Park during winter, guiding services that offer classes in the park, The best things to do in Colorado in winter, Family-friendly winter activities in Colorado, Free things to do in Colorado this winter, See the Blossoms of Light at the Denver Botanical Gardens. Im a sucker for views. Anyone can use them at no charge. Skip the long lift lines and go adventure tubing at Keystones Mountaintop Snow Park. Colorado is a great place to visit any time of year. You will need AWD or snow / mud tires legally if the traction law is in effect on I-70. Soak in the incredible Iron Mountain Hot Springs after you spend the morning snowshoeing to Hanging Lake. There are plenty of jaw-dropping hot springs in Colorado from Glenwood Springs to Steamboat Springs. There are traction laws in Colorado. Seriously, its an amazing sight to behold. If you do tubing at Keystone it comes with a ride up the gondola because their tubing is at the top of the mountain. Learn in a controlled environment and make a swift move towards nordic skiing. Seeing one of the best lakes in Colorado amongst a dreamy winter landscape is a must-do. If you aren't dead set on Keystone; Dillon, Frisco, Silverthorne or anywhere around there should be much much cheaper. I thoroughly enjoy reading your travel blog and thank you for taking the time to help the rest of us. At one of the best weekend getaways from Denver, youll love spending a couple of days nestled up in Estes Park. Cost: Snowshoe rentals run at about $20 per day, $25 if you need poles (recommended). Being a spectator is even more fun. Since it was Christmas, they were having a special night time festival where the fort was lit up with Christmas lights. Where: Vail Nordic CenterCost: Prices vary but rentals run from $25 to $30 per day, plus a $15 day pass. Pro Tip: Ice climbing is COLD (and wet)! We were lucky enough to stay at the Willows in Lakeside Village where ice skating was just outside our front door. Be sure to check out the many Grand Junction hikes in the area to get up close and personal with these landscapes. If not, what time of year gets more consistent? While researching mountain towns in Colorado, I came across Keystone. At night, the grounds come alive with beautiful light decorations, outdoor fireplaces complete with s mores and hot cocoa. There are hundreds of them scattered about the village providing parents a more fun and easier option of hauling their kids and ski equipment around. If you arent sure, avoid any trails that go through avalanche terrain or stick to flat areas that dont cross under any steep hills. If youre into adrenaline rushes, then ice climbing is one of the best things to do in Colorado in winter besides ski. Worried about the cold? Feel the wind in your hair as you travel by horse-drawn carriage on this magical wintery ride. As one of the best things to do in Colorado in winter, fat biking should be at the top of your list. The site doesnt say. Did someone say romantic? #la, Highly recommend visiting this island if youre, Vacation mode . Pro Tip: Layer up to stay warm over winter. Be prepared for the local and current conditions as you head to your hut and dont bite off more travel time than you can chew! If not, what time of year could we expect to have consistent snow? Shout out to all, And thats a wrap! It didnt seem like there was much of a cost savings with the included stuff from booking through Keystone. Interact and walk through the icy marvels! The weather can be wild in Colorado. Would any of those towns have snow on the ground around then? How much is what varies year to year. Dont worry! Glenwood Springs attractions offer a great way to get out of town and enjoy some wintery fun. As such, Ive been all over the state. Colorado is home to some incredible winter hiking trails. Where: Colorado National Monument between Grand Junction and Fruita, ColoradoCost: $15 or free with a national parks pass, Related: Expert Tips for Hiking in the Desert. Does the snow fort really only open on 12/15? Enjoy a ride with Santa at the helm as you make your way through a fun-filled light festival complete with synchronized music. Where: Two Below Zero in Frisco, ColoradoCost: $89 including dinner. Going to book through AirBnB or a rental company rather than through Keystone. For a real icy treat, head to the International Snow Sculpture Championships. Where: The best place to learn is the Ouray Ice Park. Head to Evergreen Park for the worlds largest Zamboni-groomed outdoor ice rink. Right now one of the ways James lets us know he is excited is by yelling Bah!! You can go to one of the many nordic centers around summit county. So our tubing fun was cut short. On Saturday night we visited the top of Dercum Mountain to explore the worlds largest Snow fort! Historical snowfall charts show some snow having fallen typically by this time. If youre renting a car, be sure youre following the law! Again, there is always a chance of a snowstorm anytime October - June, so IMO yes to the car question. There is also a Frisco adventure park with tubing hill which might be worth checking out. Click here for my full disclosure statement. The snow fort is open daily from 9am to 4pm all throughout the ski season. Definitely rent a 4WD or AWD. And it was an awesome experience! Another two activities we didnt attempt but worth mentioning. Cost: Varies, but plan on spending between $350 $500 including lodging for the weekend. Where: Strawberry Park Hot Springs in Steamboat SpringsCost: $10, children are $5. Click here for my post on 5 Tips for a Successful Colorado Winter Vacation with a Baby! I appreciate any tips! Where: Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park in Glenwood Springs. Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. For hiking it'll more likely be snowshoeing. There are plenty of evening events such as indoor crafting at a paint and sip or head to one of Denvers climbing gyms and learn the ropes. Heres a link for more info. Der Fondue Chessel is a Bavarian Beer Hall/Restaurant at the top of the mountain in Keystone Colorado. Is that the case, or could I save a good bit? Keep in mind some of the attractions may be limited if the weather is poor. Not to mention, well cover: Not a skier? I want to provide encouragement and inspiration for the parents out there that hesitate to travel with their young children! Other than tubing and the nordic center there's really not a whole lot for non-skiiers. Yes, I have heard of Hopper, but have yet to try it out! Head into the main lobby and up the stairs to see one of the most impressive gingerbread displays on the planet. Heres a look at guiding services that offer classes in the park. Go for a scenic sunset drive, or head out for hike among the sandstone giants. Curious more at the base, but also if we take the gondola up and/or go tubing. As a local, Ive got the inside scoop on the best things to do in Colorado in winter besides ski. Hey Y'all! But it's a way more interesting town. My husband and I just returned from a mini Christmas Vacation with our 14-month-old son in Keystone Colorado. Also, not the best idea to fak, Click here for my full disclosure statement. Where: All over the Colorado Rockies.Cost: Varies depending on the hut, but generally not too expensive. Afterward, head to the Dushanbe Teahouse. One of my favorite day trips from Denver is to head down to Canon City. Where: Crested Butte must-visit trails: Town Ranch, Rec Path or Riverbend Connector trails. Frisco has tubing, or you can easily drive to Keystone or Copper. After a fun-filled day of activity, head to a nearby hot spring for a relaxing soak. Dont miss out on winters in Colorado. Would any of those towns have snow on the ground? These towns come to life in winter with plenty of shopping, eating, and outdoor fun! From Honeymoon Island to Cala, The Lazy River at Weekee Wachee Springs On the day that Will went skiing, James and I met him around lunch time at the top of the mountain using our foot pass (under age 2 is free). How important is getting an AWD rental coming from Denver airport? I'm planning a family trip to Keystone for snow fun but not skiing. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. Another random idea is Estes Park. ! Hes 14 months oldwhat do you expect? Its one of the best places to visit in Colorado in winter. They also handed out free hot chocolate and cookies along with pictures with Santa inside the summit mountain restaurant next to the fort. Keystone, along with many other mountain towns in Colorado offer Scenic horse drawn Sleigh Rides. But one we particularly loved was in Dillon, just minutes outside of Keystone Colorado. It came equipped with a heated pool, 2 hot tubs, a spa, a wading pool for babies, and an indoor childrens play area. Denver is an excellent place to snuggle up and enjoy winter. (Some activities are geared more towards babies and kids than others. The winter lodges open Dec 15. You could do that ride for fun and spend sometime in the town of Frisco. You can rent bikes from various establishments. Ive lived in Colorado for over 13 years. A family of 4 exploring the world using points and miles. Photos, snow reports, rideshares, and secret stashes. Unfortunately this was also the day James was adjusting to the altitude along with having a bad reaction to the sunscreen I just put on him. Winter mountain traffic, especially near ski areas, is a real thing. Many will also have spa amenities (music to a pregnant girls ears). Im not even a huge fan of winter the cold just gets to me. Check out Sapphire Point Overlook for an awesome view and a short hike with mountain views and lake views. Will and I have done a snow mobile excursion before.just in another Colorado ski town. Plan plenty of extra time to get to the airport, especially if youre driving on a Saturday, Sunday or holiday.
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