Don't Let Winter Freeze Your Fun - Warm Up with Colorado Snowshoeing!
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11 Colorado Snowshoeing Hikes That Will Take Your Breath Away - And Help You Catch It Again!
If you're craving an adventure in the snowy wilderness of Colorado, it's time to strap on some snowshoes and hit the trails.
With endless options for snowshoe hikes in Colorado Springs and nearby areas, you can explore the state's most popular warm-weather trails in a winter wonderland.
Not only is it a fun way to stay fit in the cold months, but it also provides a magical experience as you trek through snow-covered trails.
Strap on those snowshoes, grab your trekking poles, and get ready to explore some of Colorado's most popular warm-weather trails in a whole new way!
There’s no way you'll want to miss these Colorado Springs snowshoeing adventures! Discover the beauty of the snow-covered landscapes while burning more calories than walking or running at the same pace.
Bring friends for a social activity or take a meditative solo trek. Snowshoeing in Colorado is a simple outdoor skill- if you can walk, you can snowshoe.
Some of Colorado’s best snowshoeing trails are just minutes from Colorado Springs.
Teller County, about 25 minutes south of Colorado Springs, has easy and moderate trails for the snowshoe novice as well as steep inclines for the athlete in training.
SNOWSHOEING COLORADO FAQs
what is snowshoeing?
Snowshoeing in Colorado is a great way to channel your inner snowbeast and explore the wilderness.
And the best part? No need to buy expensive lift tickets or worry about shredding your knees on steep slopes. Just strap on your snowshoes and trek through the winter wonderland at your own pace.
Plus, if you're lucky, you might even spot some wildlife along the way, like a sneaky snowshoe hare or a majestic elk. So, grab your snowshoes and get ready for a magical journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Colorado.
Rent or buy snowshoes?
MSR Evo Trail 22 Snowshoe
To snowshoe, you need snowshoes. Renting snowshoes is relatively inexpensive (budget between $30-$50/day) and easy to find. Local mountain ski shops often carry snowshoes. If you have time, reserve a pair at REI and other large outdoor stores who typically charge per day.
Or consider purchasing a pair for your regular hikes. Entry level snowshoes begin around $30. As you do more snow exploration, consider buying your own pair.
PRO TIP! Rent snowshoes for a few hikes, choosing different styles and brands each time. You will quickly determine what style works well for you.
Once you’ve honed in on your favorite snowshoe, purchase them out of season for the best winter clearance price. Most winter gear is marked down in March/early April.
At COHH, we are fans of the MSR EVO snowshoe. It’s a durable shoe, highly rated by amataur hikers, has a long hiking life and a reasonable purchase price of $140.
For more snowshoe options and reviews, head to Outside Pursuits for their reviews.
REI SNOWSHOE RENTAL
Ready to give your feet a workout they'll never forget? Then head on over to REI and rent some of those oversized tennis rackets you strap to your feet. For a fee of around $30-$50 per day, you too can stomp around the mountain like a yeti on a mission.
And don't worry if you're a beginner – the staff will gladly teach you how to not fall over.
Renting snowshoes is like borrowing your neighbor's lawnmower - it's cheaper and you don't have to worry about it taking up space in your garage. Plus, if you rent, you can switch up your snowshoe style every time you hit the trails - it's like having a shoe closet for your feet!
And let's be real, if you're only snowshoeing a few times a year, buying a pair is like investing in a unicorn - it's cool, but not exactly practical.
WHAT TO TAKE ON A COLORADO SNOWSHOEING HIKE
Trekking Poles
No matter the hike, trekking poles hold you up. When walking in snow, trekking poles are non negotiable, pushing you uphill or keeping you upright for those downhill portions. Hiking poles are the perfect versatile year round piece of gear.
We are big fans of Black Diamond lightweight, durable adjustable poles.
Pop on over to the gift guide for a full review of two CoHH trekking pole favorites!
Gaiters
Snow pants are the mullet of winter fashion - all business up top and a party down below. And while they may keep your legs warm, they can make you feel like you're walking in a sauna. That's why when it comes to snowshoeing, gaiters are where it's at.
Not only do they keep snow out of your boots, but they also allow your legs to breathe so you can stay cool and comfortable. Plus, they make you look like a total snowshoeing pro.
Outdoor Research (OR) makes a knee length waterproof gaiter that velcros in front with a under boot strap, creating a waterfree no slip zone.
Hiking Boots
Waterproof boots are key to a warm and problem free snowshoe hike. Melody wears her Salomon X Ultra 3 Gore-Tex, a low-rise water-resistant lightweight hiking shoe with great traction.
Or like Tanya, lace up your high top Asolo Drifter waterproof boots, stabilizing your ankles.
No matter the type of snowshoe you buy or rent, it’s an easy and quick process to insert your hiking boots into the snowshoes, getting you on the trail in minutes.
RELATED LINK: Hiking Shoes or Boots? Use this step by step guide to determine what hiking shoes or boots are perfect for you.
Day Pack
Get ready to layer up, folks! The weather in Colorado can be as unpredictable as your ex's behavior. One moment you're basking in the warm sun, and the next you're shivering in the cold wind. But fear not, we've got you covered!
We've written a whole guide on how to pack the perfect day pack for snowshoeing Colorado. So grab your pack and let's hit the trails!
Download your FREE Daypack Hiking Checklist for a stress free day!
FINDING THE BEST DAY PACK
Need to find the ideal daypack for your upcoming Colorado escapade? Don't sweat it, just take the Osprey PackFinder quiz! It's like a Buzzfeed quiz, but instead of telling you which Disney Princess you are, it helps you find the best backpack based on your answers to a few simple questions.
And let's be real, having the right daypack is way more important than knowing whether you're more of a Belle or a Jasmine. So take the quiz, get the pack, and hit the trails with confidence!
We love our Osprey Stratos daypacks, taking them on hikes year round. Melody uses hers as a carry on for those On the Road trips to destinations in the USA and abroad.
Snacks and Water
When you strap on your snowshoes, you're in for a wild ride. The miles feel longer, the terrain is unpredictable, and the trails can be harder to follow than a cryptic crossword puzzle.
And don't even get us started on the importance of electrolytes when hiking at altitude! You'll expend more energy and need to replenish regularly.
That's why we recommend carrying a water reservoir, like the Camelbak insulated reservoir. It keeps your hands free for trekking poles while also providing easy access to hydration, so you can focus on the stunning winter wonderland around you.
Of course wearing the right winter gear makes all the difference for maintaining comfort on long snowshoe hikes. Crack the code on winter hiking and snowshoeing with these Colorado winter hiking tips. We share our tried and true winter secrets along with our favorite pieces of gear. From the warmest mittens to wearing heated vests, don’t suffer. Read up and stay warm!
WINTER HIKING TIPS are key to making a fun day a safe day!
From Hot Cocoa to Hand Warmers: The Colorado Snowshoeing Checklist You Can't Ignore
THE FIVE MUST DO’S!
search and rescue’s Essentials
Search and Rescue (SAR) recommends these items are always in your pack, no matter the season. Even if you plan a quick 2-hour hike, don’t be caught without the basics.
Lightweight, space efficient items like a fire starter, mylar emergency blanket and first aid kit are lightweight add peace of mind to the just in case moments. We carry the a recyclable emergency blanket in our daypacks at all times. These very lightweight blankets save on environmental waste for those just in case moments.
Weather Check
Any basic weather app can show you radar for the area you plan to hike. Look for incoming storms, snowfall and shifts in temperature. If you are planning a more remote Colorado snowshoe hike, always check for avalanche danger.
Frequent changes in weather and irregular snowfall can make any mountainous area susceptible to avalanches. A simple check on the weather, glance at radar and basic knowledge of the area could make all the difference for your hike.
Trails
When it comes to sharing the trail with cross country skiers during your Colorado snowshoeing adventure, remember: don't be a snow-hog! Here's your guide to Colorado trail etiquette.
Step Aside for Skiers: When you see a skier approaching from behind, step off to the side of the trail and let them pass. This will prevent any collisions and keep everyone happy.
Stay in Control: Make sure you are always in control of your snowshoes and stay on the designated trail. This will help you avoid accidentally colliding with any skiers or fellow snowshoers.
Keep it Down: If you're listening to music or chatting with friends, keep the volume low so you can hear approaching skiers and give them ample time to pass.
Share the Trail: Remember that cross country skiers and snowshoers share the trail, so be courteous and respectful. A smile or wave can go a long way in making everyone's day a little brighter.
Get all the important details about post holes and multi-use trails from the experts.
Dogs
Don't let your furry friend leave a "surprise" for the next snowshoer - pack some bags and pick up after your pup. And make sure to check if your four-legged companion is allowed on the trail beforehand. A day of snowshoeing should be memorable for the right reasons, not because Fido left a present for the next hiker!
Leave a trace
This is the one exception to the “leave no trace” clause. Make sure someone knows where you are headed. In the case of an unexpected turned ankle, wildlife encounter or a simple navigational error, you want to make sure someone knows where you are.
CoHH Tip! When hiking, leave a printed copy of your route under your car seat. Make sure at least one person knows your hiking plans and expected time home.
Beginner Snowshoe Trails Near Colorado Springs
The best beginner snowshoe trails near Colorado Springs are in Divide, Colorado. Twenty minutes from south Colorado Springs, off Hwy 24 are dozens of long and short hiking trails with beautiful mountain views, towering pine trees and whispering aspens.
Whether this is your first time on a Colorado snowshoeing trail or you’re an expert at managing those snowshoes, each of these hikes promise adventure, peace, and beauty just minutes from Colorado Springs.
An easy day trip, check out these free beginner short hikes to all day intermediate treks in Teller County.
The Crags
Distance: 4.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 820 feet
Route: Out and back
In winter months, with the added hike to the trailhead (TH), plan on 4 miles to top and 4 miles down, 8 miles roundtrip. You cannot park at the TH and will need to walk about a mile up hill.
A relatively up and down trail, this beginner trail boasts giant rock formations alongside the trails. A wide-open meadow about a ½ mile into the hike helps the snowshoe newbie get the hang of a wider leg stride.
GETTING THERE: Take Hwy 24 to CO- 67 S. Turn off for Crags Campground. Follow road to Mennonite Camp where you turn right. Parking is off the Crags road to your left.
PRO TIP! Park just beyond the Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp before the gate.
Lovell Gulch Trail
Distance: 5.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 918 feet
Route: Loop
The trailhead sign says dogs can be off leash if they have strong recall. Be aware that people have differences of opinions regarding their dog’s ability to respond off leash.
If your pet is skittish, leave them home on this hike.This meandering pine laden loop hike takes you into the mountains with the feel of remoteness without the actuality of being remote. Consider taking the trail counterclockwise, giving you a great downhill for the way back.
You’ll experience the beautiful quiet of the forest with an unexpected grand view of Pikes Peak mountain.
GETTING THERE: Take I 25 to US-24 Hwy through Woodland Park. Continue to Co Rd 22, turning right on S. Baldwin Street. Continue on CO Rd 22/Rampart Range Rd for 1.5 miles. The TH will be on the left.
Intermediate Hikes For the All Day Colorado Snowshoeing Adventurer
Rampart Reservoir
Distance: Trail apps vary from 13.2 - 15 miles
Elevation Gain: 928 elevation gain
Route: Loop
This trail is long but has relatively low elevation gain and losses. You hike around the entire Rampart Reservoir. Created in 1969, this body of water is created by a 230 feet high, 3400-foot-long dam storing 13 billion gallons of Colorado Springs water.
Stocked with fish, fishing via a permit is allowed as is wakeless boating.
The lake was formed where 12 different streams flowed into W Monument Creek. There are hills at each of these junctions on the trail, making for a kinetic experience.
PRO TIP! Bikers tend to go clockwise. Hike counterclockwise. Make sure to find trail 700 at north end of dam to continue around the lake.
GETTING THERE: Take Hwy24W, turning right at McDonalds (Baldwin Road) in Woodland Park. This becomes Rampart Range Road. Follow signs to Rampart Reservoir.
Did you know that Colorado’s running community hosts the Pony Express race each fall, taking the runners on this entire loop. Instead of a medal, you get a horseshoe at the end!
Horsethief Falls
Distance: 6.7 miles
Elevation Gain: 1837 feet
Route: Out and back
As the name claims, this is a waterfall hike, flowing in warmer months and frozen in winter.
You’ll start with a relatively steep first mile. Just when you are done with the hill, you arrive at a small intersection in the woods with a sign and split trail. Straight ahead is the falls. Head to the right (north), and in about two miles you’ll arrive at Pancake Rocks.
Extend the hike and trek to Pancake Rocks before backtracking to visit Horsethief Falls.
GETTING THERE: The trailhead is located off Hwy 67 between Cripple Creek and Divide. When you see an old railroad blocked off tunnel, you’re almost there.
Anne-Marie Falls
Distance: 3.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 623 feet
Route: Loop
You’ll start at the same TH as the Crags hike. This hike’s trail starts at very end of Crags road.
This short but steep destination hike offers stunning views at the top of the trail. Start at the small parking lot area with trail marker 704 to your right. With two options for snowshoeing, you can stay on the familiar Ring the Peak trail or follow old roads on former private property.
On descent, backtrack to valley to get back to main trail. Go downhill (right) until you come to a metal gate. Go left to main road.
GETTING THERE: Take I 25 to US24W. Continue on CO-67 S towards Divide, turning left on CO-67 S to stay on CO-67 S. Turn left on Teller Co Rd 62, arriving at the trailhead.
PRO TIP! Either route requires focused attention to the trail. Downloading the trail map on an app such as All Trails Pro or COTREX (Colorado Trail Explorer) allows for a smooth and stress free snowshoe hike.
COTREX has area trails for free. Downside of the app, in our opinion, is the lack of elevation lines.
Raspberry Mountain via Ring the Peak Trail
Distance: 5.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,013 feet
Route: Out and Back
At just under 6 miles, this snowshoe trek takes you through the Pike National Forest. You’ll start the hike with steep switchbacks. Go slow and steady. You’ll be climbing for a fair bit.
Once you arrive at the meadow, you’ll be shaded by forest for a bit. Turn right on the forest road after crossing a creek. Turn left, getting off Ring the Peak Trail. It is a steady uphill to the summit.
You're rewarded with views of The Crags, Pikes Peak and Catamount Reservoirs at the top! Budget some extra time hanging out at the summit.
GETTING THERE: Take Hwy 24 to CO- 67 S. Turn off for Crags Campground. Follow road to Mennonite Camp where you turn right. Parking is off the Crags road to your left.
PRO TIP! When it comes to snowshoeing in Colorado, there are two things you can count on: amazing views and freezing temperatures. So, why not warm yourself up with a thermos of hot tea? Fill your favorite insulated water bottle with a hot beverage. Not only will it give you a boost of warmth, but it will also give you an excuse to stop and take in those picture-perfect summit views.
Mt Esther
Distance: 4.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,548 feet
Route: Out and back
Getting there: Take US-24 W, exiting at the traffic light at Cascade. Take Fountain Ave, keeping right at Pikes Peak Hwy. Drive 1 ½ miles on Chipita Park road. Turn left Picabo Rd., keeping left on mountain road. Trail head is on the right at the intersection of Mtn Rd and Picabo Rd.
There is very limited parking (3 cars, 4 at best)!
The hike starts from Chipita Park with a steady uphill switchback climb. You’ll pop out at a mountain meadow. Turn right and continue to Crystal Creek Reservoir.
The marker for Mt Esther is an embedded plaque in a boulder on the ground surrounded by trees. Only about 5 people fit comfortably at the summit
This is a great hike for getting in a challenging vertical feet workout.
PRO TIP! To get to summit, at the high point of the dirt path, take the social trail to the left.
Sentinel Point
Distance: 8 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,732 feet
Route: Out and back
Summit is 12,527 feet
The hike starts at Horsethief Park Trailhead off CO Route 67. As with Horsethief Falls trail, you’ll have a steady uphill hike for the first mile or so.
When you arrive at the split trail, head LEFT, following Forest Trail 704. At the edge of the long meadow, follow a cairned trail uphill to a boulder field.
The cairns (rocks stacked on top of each other) are visible on this forest trail. Once you arrive in the boulder field you’ll most likely will need to break your own trail. Keep you downloaded map close as you scramble up the summit of this mountain.
Breathtaking 360 views of Telluride and El Paso County await you.
GETTING THERE: Take Hwy-24 W to Divide. Turn south on Hwy-67. Around 9 miles, the road will pass an old tunnel. Parking is just past the tunnel. It comes up quick so slow down around the curve.
Looking for more nearby hikes?
Mueller State Park
Check out these three great snowshoe trails in the park.
Outlook Ridge (4.3 miles), Elk Meadow to Peak View (2.2 miles), Rock Pond (7.4 miles)
Getting there: Take Hwy 24 to CO67 at Divide. Turn left and follow to the park entrance.
$9/car day pass
PRO TIP! Colorado car registration just got even better! It now includes a state park annual pass, giving you access to 42 state parks for a year from the date of purchase. And don't forget to check out Colorado's interactive map of all the parks you can explore with your pass. Check out Colorado’s interactive map of all parks available with your state park annual pass.
RELATED LINK: Mueller State Park is like a winter wonderland filled with countless trails perfect for snowshoeing in Colorado. It's so easy, even a Yeti could do it!
Bull Park trail
Distance: 5.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,020 feet
Route: Out and Back
GETTING THERE: Begin at Old Stage road (west of Broadmoor). Start your odometer at 0 and drive 19.6 miles. 4WD recommended. At the intersection by cabins, turn right onto forest road 376. Drive 3.2 miles to gate. Park before the gate. Hike the jeep road that goes left across a stream.
While summer hiking isn't ideal on this ATV and dirt bike road, winter snowshoeing is where it's at. Jeeps are prohibited on this trail during the snowy season. The trail is named after the meadow where bull elk congregate each year.
Looking for a snowshoe trail with picturesque views of aspen trees? Look no further than Elk Meadow to Peak View. This 2.2-mile trail is a winter wonderland that is perfect for snowshoeing. Although the trail doesn't have a summit view, the valley view is worth the trek.
Rock Pond trail is a 7.4-mile snowshoeing trail that offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. The trail winds through dense forests and open meadows, making it a great spot for wildlife viewing. The trailhead starts at the Grouse Mountain parking lot and is a great option for those looking for a longer snowshoeing adventure.
Nearby Leadville & Rocky Mountain National Park Snowshoeing Adventures
Looking for some more snowshoeing adventures in Colorado? Discover the best winter hikes in Leadville and snowshoeing in Rocky Mountain National Park for more winter adventure in Colorado.
Leadville boasts breathtaking views of the mountains and some of the best powder for snowshoeing. And in Rocky Mountain National Park, you'll find endless opportunities to explore snowy landscapes and wildlife. So, whether you're a seasoned snowshoer or a beginner, there's always something new to discover in the beautiful snow-covered wilderness of Colorado.
Hungry from all that snowshoeing?
Donut Mill
310 W Midland Ave, Woodland Park, CO 80863 719-687-9793
Some like sweets after a hike. We say any time is a good time for a donut. The Donut Mill is a Woodland Park landmark since 1983.
Just off Hwy 24, stop by for donuts to go. We are partial to the cinnamon roll, which is the size of your head. Starting at just under a $1`, pick out a few and take them with you snowshoeing!
BierWerks Brewery
121 E Midland Ave, Woodland Park, CO 80863
Interested in a cold brew after that snowshoe jaunt? Check out BierWerks Brewery. Several European beers on tap as well as a full food menu.
RELATED LINK: Colorado Springs breweries are like the X-Men of the beer world - each one has its unique superpower. From the hoppy heroics of Bristol Brewing Company to the malt madness of Phantom Canyon, you'll find no shortage of suds to sample. Our Colorado Springs Brewery Guide tells you where to go to get the best local craft beers in the area!
We hope this list has inspired you to get out and explore the best of Colorado snowshoeing. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, there's a trail out there for you. So bundle up, grab your snowshoes, and hit the winter wonderland that is Colorado. And don't forget to let us know about your favorite snowshoeing Colorado spots in the comments below!
