Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) in winter is truly something to see. When the snow is flying, Estes Park is both a winter wonderland and an outdoor lover’s dream. If you love snow or have always wanted to experience it, here’s what you can look forward to at The Ridgeline Hotel® Estes Park.
Winter in Rocky Mountain National Park is magical. Wildside 4×4 offers a few options for guided tours with various “wild factors”. The common thread with each? Unforgettable winter experiences.
Hidden Valley Ski Area opened in 1955 with ski lifts up and down the mountain. It’s a local favorite for anyone who is hitting the slopes, just 10 miles from Estes Park. Due to competition with countless Colorado ski resorts, the lifts closed in 1991. But the mountain remains! Sliding down the slopes is still at the top of the list for winter visitors and the area has become home to one of America’s greatest sledding hills. The terrain is open for backcountry access, so skiers and snowboarders can have a heyday. The unplowed road makes for an ideal uphill route on snowshoes (which you can rent at the front desk), and the views become more stunning the higher you go.
Feeling bold? Courses range from avalanche training to skiing/split board and ice climbing courses.
Weather permitting, you can ice skate every day during the season. That usually means early December to early February. Open to the public, there’s a charge for adults and older kids but children six and under can skate for free.
Ice fishing is super cool. Just sit back and let the fish come to you. It’s allowed on all open-fishing lakes and ponds in Rocky Mountain National Park. Plus, fly hatches occur into January and February. A fishing license and hand-augers are required.
Bring the whole family and dive into the fun in our spacious indoor heated pool, where the temperature is always perfect no matter what the weather is like. Enjoy family-friendly, “dive-in” movies shown on our 180-inch projector screen.
Beer lovers are sure to enjoy Estes Park Brewery, Lumpy Ridge, Rock Cut, and Avant Garde Aleworks, which are a few of the local favorites.
The winery tasting room offers samples of Snowy Peaks’ award-winning, handcrafted wines, along with wines from some of Colorado’s best boutique wineries.
Located in the heart of Estes Park, Elements of Touch Wellness Spa has been treating guests since 1992. In addition to massage and spa services, it offers relaxing couples treatments, Pilates, and group yoga.
There is no shortage of things to do in downtown Estes Park in winter. Whether it’s shopping at Trendz, following your sweet tooth to The Old Fashioned Candy Store or the 87-year-old Taffy Shop, catching a movie at America’s oldest operating single house movie theater or visiting one of the many art galleries in town.
Winter is spellbinding, high up in the Rockies. Book your winter escapade today!
