Rocky Mountain National Park: Your Gateway to the Best Snowshoeing Colorado Awaits

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Snowshoeing Paradise: Exploring Rocky Mountain National Park Winter Trails

There's nothing quite like strapping on a pair of snowshoes and venturing into Rocky Mountain National Park in the winter. As someone who loves exploring the great outdoors, I can't think of a better way to experience the magic of this place than on a crisp, snowy day. The towering peaks take on a whole new beauty when blanketed in fresh powder, and the hush of the forest is so peaceful, you可an actually hear the snowflakes falling.

Whether you're a total snowshoeing newbie or a seasoned pro, Rocky has trails to suit every ability level. And let me tell you, the views from some of these higher elevation treks are just breathtaking! Imagine breaking out of the treeline to be greeted by a panorama of frosted alpine lakes and distant, snow-capped summits. It's straight out of a winter fairy tale.

In this blog post, I'll tell you all the things you need to know about Rocky Mountain snowshoe routes, plus tips on where to fuel up and insider insights to make your winter hike adventure unforgettable.

One of the best Colorado snowshoeing trails takes you by three lakes.

One of four Colorado National Parks, Rocky Mountain National Park has become a favorite winter hike destination for us. Many of the most popular trails along the Bear Lake Corridor are packed with tourists in summer months but nearly empty in the winter!

An easy day drive from Denver and Colorado Springs, Rocky Mountain National Park winter is balm to the winter weary gray skies soul!

We think Rocky Mountain is the best national park for winter adventures. Let’s get snowshoeing!

*Snowshoe trails in Colorado give you space to breath deep, combat SAD with outdoor activity and space to drink in the awe inspiring views!

Can You Snowshoe in Rocky Mountain National Park?

Of course! Rocky Mountain National Park winter months are some of the best ways to explore uber popular summer trails without contending with crowds.

Head to Rocky Mountain National Park for the best snowshoeing Colorado offers. Its trails give a variety of options for snowshoeing, ranging from easy walks around the lake shore to challenging treks up steep inclines, with awe inspiring views along the way.

Rocky Mountain National Park Longs Peak - one of Colorado’s famous 14ers

When Can You Snowshoe in Rocky Mountain National Park?

Snowshoeing Colorado trails in RMNP are at their best between December and May. As one of USA’s most visited National Parks, you have 365 days/year access to this phenomenal Colorado treasure.

A winter hike through Rocky Mountain National Park's Bear Lake Corridor trails offers a serene experience, a stark contrast to the crowded summer months. While the reservation system fills rapidly during the peak season, leaving trails brimming with people, these very same paths lie almost empty on weekdays in the winter. Taking a winter hike allows you to savor the park's natural beauty without the summer crowds, providing a tranquil escape amid the stunning Rocky Mountain landscapes.

What You Need to Know about Rocky Mountain National Park

Entry fee required

A valid entry fee or pass is required whenever entering the park. For current rates and fees, head to Rocky Mountain National Park website. *No cash. Only credit/debit cards.

*America the Beautiful National Park Pass allows access to Rocky Mountain National Park. For more details regarding reservations and fees, head to the Rocky Mountain National Park website.

Reservation Required *Dates and Times Vary

The reservation system for park entry has been variable lately. PLEASE MAKE SURE TO CHECK THE WEBSITE before heading out on your snowshoe Colorado adventure. Reservations will be required for various months.

Estes Park Entrance

The best snowshoeing trails in Colorado Rocky Mountain National Park lie within minutes of Estes Park. Many of these winter hikes originate in or around the Bear Lake Trailhead.

RMNP entrances are well marked, four main entrances in total. Some of the best snowshoeing Colorado trails are within minutes of the Estes Park entrance.

Directions to Estes Park Entrance - Beavers Meadow Entrance - Estes Park

An hour’s drive from Boulder and two hours from Denver, this is the most popular entrance. US36W towards Boulder. CO-7 W to Co Hwy 115.

PETs allowed *BUt not on trails

You can bring dogs into the park but they cannot be on trails with you.

Bear Lake Trailhead

Bear Lake Trailhead is one of the most popular snowshoeing destinations in Rocky Mountain National Park, with miles of trails and astounding views of pristine alpine lakes, towering peaks, and vibrant wildflowers come spring and summer.

Just 10 miles from the park entrance station in Estes Park, this trailhead is perfect for an introduction to snowshoe trekking no matter what your experience level.

Find plenty of parking at Bear Lake trailhead

Directions to Bear Lake TrailHead from Estes Park

Head south on Park Ln toward Virginia Dr. Take right onto E Elkhorn Ave. Left onto US-36 W/Moraine Ave. Turn left onto Bear Lake Rd

*INSIDER TIP! This is a very windy road. AWD or snow tires are best for winter in Rocky Mountain National Park. If winter driving stresses you out, go slow, pull over and allow others to pass.

Parking At Bear Lake Trailhead

A large parking lot with several drop toilets, there is ample parking spots.

The Best Easy Snowshoeing Trails in Colorado Rocky Mountain National Park

Bear Lake

Trail Length: 0.7 miles    Elevation Gain: 49 feet    Route Type: Loop     Difficulty: Easy

Bear Lake is one of the more popular trails in Rocky Mountain National Park and it’s easy to see why! Even through winter months, Bear Lake appears deceptively swimmable due to its crystal clear blue waters that draw visitors near year round! This less than one mile loop will take you around the entire perimeter of Bear Lake as you gaze upon towering mountain peaks while passing tranquil frozen lakesides.

Plan on 30 minutes or so to explore Bear Lake before heading out on adjoining trails for the best snowshoeing Colorado has to offer.

Taking in all the cold and beauty at Dream Lake

Bear Lake to Nymph Lake to Dream Lake

Mileage: 1.2 miles RT (0.6 miles to Nymph Lake, an additional 0.3 miles to Dream Lake) Elevation Gain: 262 feet Route: Out and Back

Park at Bear Lake Lot and use one of several toilets. Then head to the small wood cabin where volunteer rangers greet you. Discuss your plans with them. They will alert you to avalanche conditions and trails to try with appropriate skill levels and snowshoe goals.

Nymph Lake to Dream Lake is the perfect “I only have an hour or so” hike to refine your snowshoeing. A well marked trail with light elevation, beginner snowshoers can practice here, preparing for a longer snowshoe winter hike.

Snowshoeing Colorado trails to Dream Lake

Short on distance does not mean short on beauty!

The Nymph Lake trail starts to the left, right after you pass the volunteer ranger station at Bear Lake Parking Lot. Heading uphill along a pine studded forest, enjoy the quiet calmness snow spreads over nature.

This trail could be high with snow (as it was for us in January) requiring snowshoes. OR it might be well packed, getting by with spikes and trekking poles.

The trail up is steady but not steep, gaining only 262 feet in elevation gain. Halfway to Dream Lake, just past Nymph Lake you’ll arrive at gorgeous vista views.

NOTE! When you get to Nymph Lake, take a right or left. Both trails get you to Dream Lake. We hugged the right of Nymph Lake, begin the final climb toward Dream Lake. About 1 mile from Nymph Lake, the trail splits with marked signs for Dream Lake.

Approaching Dream Lake, expect tons of biting wind coming off the lake. We pulled out our neck gaiters, wrapped in layers as we stepped out on the frozen lake.

Several winter hikers were out on the frozen water “skating.” Not desiring any close encounters with cold water and ice, I chose to stay by the shoreline.

Directions to Trailhead: From Estes Park, take Highway 36 west and enter RMNP at the Beaver Meadows Entrance Station. Just after the pay station, turn left on Bear Lake Road. Follow the road for about 10 miles until it ends at the Bear Lake Trailhead.

Our snowshoe route from Bear Lake to Nymph Lake to Dream lake

ADD ON: EMERALD Lake

Continue from Dream Lake to Emerald Lake. Expect to huff and puff a bit more, heading uphill from Dream Lake. An easy lake to find, you’ll literally run right into the alpine Emerald Lake burrowed in a panoramic mountain bowl at the base of Hallett Peak.

Mileage: 3.2 miles from Bear Lake TH Elevation Gain: 707 feet Route: Out and Back

Moderate to Challenging Snowshoe Colorado Trail Add On -

Lake Haiyaha

Lake Haiyaha is one of the most beautiful lakes in Rocky Mountain National Park. A well traveled snowshoe Colorado trail, your reward to a rather hair raising hike is stunning views of Hallett Peak and Chaos Canyon.

INSIDER TIP! Before heading to Lake Haiyaha, check in with the rangers at Bear Lake TH about avalanche conditions in this area.

From Dream Lake, head north up the mountain. More of a social trail vs. establish trail, download a map and follow along until you come to a very defined trail. At this point, gird up with courage as you hike the mountain above a cliff. This area is known to have high avalanche danger.

The trail to Lake Haiyaha has a steep section where a slip of the snowshoe could result in a very long fall down.

Continue winding up the mountain, going through a snowfield with a steep drop off or heading straight up the mountain.

Spot a boulder field and you know Lake Haiyaha is nearby.

Mileage: 4 miles from Bear Lake TH Elevation Gain: 846 feet Route: Out and Back

Standing in the middle of Alberta Falls

Alberta Falls Trail

Mileage: 1.6 miles Elevation Gain: 232 feet Route: Out and Back

The Alberta Falls loop is perfect for those who want some great views without having to go on an intense excursion! This almost 2 mile snowshoe loop will take trekkers over landscape featuring cloud white meadows and snow sprinkled forests evergreens.

No matter what season you arrive during - summer or winter months - views along the way will make your experience even more magical!.

If you want just a bit more mileage (0.5 miles one way), park at the Bear Lake parking lot and head toward the bathrooms and ranger cabin. You can’t miss it!

The official route starts in the Glacier Gorge Parking Lot, right before Bear Lake Parking. Take the Glacier Gorge Trail about 1/8 mile before Bear Lake on the left. Head downhill for just a bit before making the steady climb uphill (gaining 232 feet in 0.8 miles).

While not a long hike, this climb is very similar to the elevation gain at Hanging Lake near Glenwood Springs.

Snowshoe across a simple wood bridge, passing the Glacier Gorge parking lot. *A smaller lot than Bear Lake, taking the trail from here cuts off a small bit of the hike. Personally I loved the downhill (and uphill on the way back) forested section from Bear Lake trailhead.

In summer months, this hike is packed with people eager to see the falls. In winter, it tends to be a waypoint to Mills Lake, Loch Vale and various other Colorado winter hiking trails in RMNP.

About halfway to Alberta Falls, you’ll come upon large red cliffs overlooking a canyon. Take a moment to stop and take in the beauty (and catch your breath).

INSIDER TIP! Be aware that easy hiking miles feel very different on snowshoes. Elevation on these trails can make them seem more difficult than the numbers imply, particularly as you gain feet within short distances. Go slow. Take breaks. Sip water. Fuel.

When you reach Alberta Falls, take a short detour and head down the rock into the river bed. Always be aware of thin ice, using trekking poles to feel out ice pack before you. Winter hikes give you fascinating perspectives that summer hiking does not. Channel your inner child and enjoy it!

RMNP winter months are magical, particularly in the Bear Creek Corridor. Swarming with tourists in the summer, winter in Rocky Mountain National Park around Bear Lake is light on people and heavy on unobstructed views.

Alberta Falls is an extremely popular summer hike. Enjoy the quiet solitude and beauty winter provides.

Mills Lake’s frozen beauty in winter in Rocky Mountain National Park

The Best Colorado Moderate Snowshoeing Trails in Rocky Mountain National Park

Loch Vale

*from Bear Lake Trailhead - Mileage: 5.9 miles Elevation Gain: 1,440 feet Route: Out and Back

For the best snowshoeing Colorado offers in Rocky Mountain National Park, look no further than Loch Vale and her adjoining trails.

Push further into Rocky Mountains National Park’s interior through deep woodlands along Loch Vale Trail. Plan for a day’s worth of effort laced between glorious mountains and avalanche valleys that transform into frozen waterfalls amid picturesque settings upon reaching the end of Tyndall Gorge.

Starting at Bear Lake TH (trailhead), head downhill to the left of the volunteer ranger cabin. The first 1/2 mile is downhill, making for a fun and easy snowshoe experience.

NOTE! You can start from Glacier Gorge Parking lot and avoid the 1/2 mile uphill on the way back. Taking this route save you a mile total.

*from Glacier Gorge Parking Lot - Mileage: 5.5 miles Elevation Gain: 1,056 feet Route: Out and Back

Snowshoe trail to Loch Vale

As with many snowshoe trails in Colorado Rocky Mountain National Park, this one connects to easier popular routes. In this case, head to Alberta Falls, keeping right once you pass the falls.

Winding uphill offers spectacular views of rock cliffs and mountain views. Take some time to stop and look around (and perhaps adjust your snowshoe bindings).

From Alberta Falls, you’ll reach a 3 way trail intersection about 1 1/2 miles in. Look for trail signs for Loch Vale to the right and MIlls Lake to the left.

Keep left as if you are headed to Mills Lake. Look for a very rustic (one log) bridge that takes you to Mills Lake.

If you continue straight, you’ll run parallel to Sky Pond Trail but will actually be snowshoeing over the top of the river that comes from the Loch. THIS ROUTE IS MAGICAL!

INSIDER TIP! You’ll hike below Sky Pond Trail in the river bed. Use trekking poles to keep balance.

The first 1/3 mile in the riverbed is relatively easy compared to the final 0.2 mile ascent to Loch Vale, an exceptionally steep traverse. The canyon views are outrageously gorgeous and worth all the uphill huffing and. puffing.

Once you get to Loch Vale, you have several snowshoe Colorado trail choices.

Option 1: Loch Vale to Mills Lake

From Loch Vale, go back down the riverbed, returning the way you came up. Once you get to the small one log bridge, head right to Mills and Jewel Lakes.

Mills Lake - a stunning display of beauty winter in Rocky Mountain National Park gives

The distance between Loch Vale and MIlls Lake is less than a mile. The views (and ice) at Mills Lake is 100% worth the detour.

Snowshoeing to Loch Vale is hard work, not gonna lie! The route to Mills Lake will feel like a piece of cake. In our opinion, Mills Lake has better views and more hiking options that Loch Vale.

We say do both!

Mileage: 7.02 miles Elevation Gain: 1,202 feet Route: Out and Back

*Trail Information is from Glacier Gorge Parking lot. Add an extra 0.5 miles if coming from Bear Lake TH

Option 2: SKY POND Trail to Bear Lake TH

After arriving at Loch Vale, look for a well marked Sky Pond Trail sign pointing you in the right direction. This is a wonderful option for new views on the way back. Instead of snowshoeing down the steep riverbed, you’ll switchback down the well marked snowshoe Colorado trail.

Option 3: Sky Pond Trail around Loch Vale to Lake of Glass/Sky Pond

Mileage: 9.4 miles from Bear Lake TH Elevation Gain: 1,1758 feet Route: Out and Back

Once you reach Loch vale, take Sky Pond Trail, heading west to snowshoe the entire perimeter of Loch Vale. Follow your downloaded map app and continue to Lake of Glass and Sky Pond.

Snowshoeing these three lakes in one day is a large undertaking. The hike up the falls is super slick. Depending on snowpack, consider snowshoes or traction with trekking poles.

Download the map of this route PRIOR to taking the hike. Not many snowshoe beyond the Loch so expect to break trail after Lake of Glass. All Trails has many great reviews of this winter hike - read up! Make sure to chat with the volunteer park rangers at Bear Lake before setting out on this snowshoe trail. Conditions change rapdily in this area, particularly as you climb to higher alpine lakes.

INSIDER TIP! Ski goggles are great for this hike, especially as you approach the lakes with howling wind and whipping snow.

Mileage: 8.7 miles Elevation Gain: 1,883 feet Route: Out and Back

Deer Mountain

Mileage: 6 miles Elevation Gain: 1,400 feet Route: Out and Back

This hidden gem is perfect for busy Rocky Mountain National Park weekends. In fact, the day we hiked Deer Mountain we had no intention of doing so. Our original plan was to hit up Bear Creek parking lot and hike to Bierstadt Lake. All plans went out the window when we and all of Colorado attempted parking there as well.

Deer Mountain is a moderate to difficult snowshoe/traction hike just beyond the Bear Lake Corridor.

Directions to Deer Mountain Trailhead: From Estes Park, follow Hwy 36 W past Beaver Mountain RMNP Entrance. Continue straight on this road until you reach the Deer Mountain TH, near the junction of Highway 36 and 34. Parking is limited. We ended up driving farther down and finding an small dirt patch to park.

The trailhead is well marked. Expect a steep first two miles, starting at 8,851’ and reaching 10,054’. We wore traction and used trekking poles the entire winter hike. The temperatures were in the 50s and the snow was melting fast. Had we come on a colder day after a snowstorm, we would have used our snowshoes (which we always carry with us in RMNP).

While those first 2 miles are challenging, mountain range views including stunning shots of Longs Peak give you ample opportunties to rest and take pictures.

The final 1/4 mile or so to the top levels out, offering expansive views of the park. Next time I’m bringing a pad to sit on! I was in awe of the huge mountain ranges surrounding us. We even had a little bird come over and sing to us for a bit.

As an out and back trail, you know exactly what to expect heading down. There were a few stretches with detours snowshoers had made through the trees. Super steep in parts but a whole lot of fun to head down.

Even on that super busy RMNP weekend day, we were among a handful of people exploring this trail. Well shaded in parts with views for days, I’m excited to come back here in the summer!

Final push to the summit of Deer Mountain

LOCAL TIP! Explore the Estes Park side of Rocky Mountain National Park in the winter. Not only will you avoid the reservation system and crowds, the unobstructed views at many of these lake hikes are simply stunning clothed in snow. For our favorite RMNP summer hikes, book a place in Grand Lake and plan at day or five to hike that area. Mount Ida is our favorite summer hike!

Estes Park Winter Snowshoe Trails

Gem Lake Trail and Lumpy Ridge Loop

Mileage: 3.4 miles Elevation Gain: 994 feet Route: Out and Back

Gem Lake trail is a popular and easy snowshoeing route that overlooks Estes Park in the Rocky Mountain National Park. This 3-mile out-and-back trail provides spectacular views of Longs Peak and other surrounding peaks. Additionally, the lake itself is surrounded by huge sandstone which provides ample picture opportunities.

A steady incline to the lake, expect to climb many stairs, traverse icy patches and possibly put on your snowshoes at the last 1/2 mile or so. Traction and poles are critical for keeping upright on this Estes Park winter trail.

Rest stop near Gem Lake overlooking Longs Peak

A very unique bathroom with stunning views of Longs Peak awaits you just before reaching Gem Lake. Take time to stop, look and take mental pictures of the scenery as you head up. You’ll need to look behind you for those views.

Trust us - the rest stops will be welcomed!

Gem Lake is surrounded by large cliffs. The day we visited, a rowdy group of young boys were enjoying sliding all over the ice.

Directions to Trailhead: Located just outside RMNP, drive on in, park and get hiking sans permit or payment. From Estes Park, get on Wonderview Ave, then slight right onto MacGregor Ave. Take a left onto Lumpy Ridge Rd for about .3 miles. Turn Left onto Gem Lake Trail, dead end into trailhead parking lot.

Snowshoe trails in Colorado RMNP from Lumpy Ridge TH to Gem Lake

INSIDER TIP! This is the PERFECT winter Estes park winter snowshoe trail because come summer, it’s packed with people. Take advantage of the cold and explore this awe inspiring area of Colorado.

Add on: Balanced rock

Explore new heights at this must-visit destination on the eastern side of Rocky Mountain National Park. Boasting stunning views of Longs Peak while giving you quiet moments winter hiking a forested stretch.

Follow trail directions to Gem Lake, wearing traction for most of the hike. Winter in Rocky Mountain National Park require snowshoes on the last bit of this trail. Most of the trail past Gem lake is through a forest, giving you wind relief. If you’re daring, step off the trail onto rocks to catch some mountain views.

Mileage: 7-8 miles *depends on GPS tracking Elevation Gain: 1,696 feet Route: Out and Back

What to Do in Estes Park in Winter

There are so many things to do in Estes Park in winter. Ice fishing in Rocky Mountain National Park is a great way to immerse yourself in this picturesque environment, while the outdoor enthusiast will certainly welcome mountaineering.

For those looking for an afternoon beer crawl, downtown Estes Park has an assortment of quaint pubs and shopping opportunities. No matter what type of activity you choose to partake in this winter season, Estes Park promises visitors a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Where to Stay in Estes Park

If you want to escape to the Rocky Mountains for some awe-inspiring winter hiking, look no further than Estes Park! This small town is nestled at the base of majestic Rocky Mountain National Park, giving you easy access to some of the best snowshoeing trails in Colorado - all just minutes away from its Beaver Meadows main gate.

After a day of exploring, you can enjoy some of Estes Park's finest breweries, coffeehouses and restaurants before retreating to your accommodation so you can rest up for more outdoor fun!

Whether visiting from far away or living nearby, Estes Park is sure to provide an unbeatable winter retreat.

Rent a second level condo with hot tub mountain views. Better yet, book a log cabin complete with a game room and hot tub for those winter nights of fun! Embrace winter in the Rocky Mountains, staying in a renovated 1800s cabin within walking distance of downtown.

The turkey club is amazing at Birds Nest.

Favorite Places to Grab a Bite in Estes Park

We book lodging with a kitchen to keep costs down. Buying groceries for breakfast and lunch gives you a bigger budget for dinner out.

There are so many amazing restaurants in Estes Park to explore.

Three of our favorite ones are kind to the wallet without sacrificing any flavor.

Birds Nest

The perfect place to stop before or after your snowshoe Colorado hike in RMNP, this place has some of the best coffee and sandwiches in the area. Green juice, smoothies, coffee beverages along with homemade sandwiches and pizzas.

1221 High Drive, Estes Park, CO

Mama Rose’s

All that snowshoeing can build up a hearty appetite. Nip it in the bud with Italian comfort food! Home cooking never tasted so good!

338 W Elkhorn Ave, Estes Park, CO

Antonio’s

Pop in and order to go (or stay) New York style pizza. Wood-fired crust with tons of topping options, get a side order of wings. We dare you to eat it all!

1560 Big Thompson Ave, Estes Park, CO

Penelope’s Old Time Burgers

Opened in 1984, Penelope's has been serving up some of the best burgers in Estes Park. They offer made-to-order burgers with fresh-cut potato fries, allowing you to enjoy a myriad of options when it comes to "decorating" your burger.

229 W Elkhorn Ave, Estes Park, CO

Life Saving Tips for Snowshoeing Trails in Colorado

When snowshoeing trails in Colorado, there are many things to consider for attire, gear and supplies.

For icy trails, traction gives you confidence to hike in winter in Rocky Mountain National Park

Where to snowshoe in Colorado is as important as what to wear, bring, look out and prepare for. Colorado winter hiking doesn’t have to be full of surprises if you keep in mind a few things.

WEAR SEVERAL LAYERS OF CLOTHING on snowshoe trails in Colorado

Choose clothing made from colder weather-appropriate fabrics to stay warm while navigating snowshoe trails.

WEAR WATERPROOF GAITERS OR SNOW PANTS

Keeping your legs warm and dry helps you stay out longer in winter in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Have the right footwear for wintery slippery situations

Traction is great when there isn’t much snow but a lot of ice. Avoid slipping with traction such as spikes or YakTrax. Parts of these snowshoe trails in Colorado Rocky Mountain National Park have little to no snow in spots, making snowshoes challenging to navigate. However, they are often very icy.

osprey backpacks

Our favorite Osprey backpacks for snowshoeing trails in Colorado

INSIDER TIP! Strap on snowshoes to your pack (on the outside) and start with traction. Bring trekking poles for balance, avoiding post hole situations.

Pack and Carry Winter Essentials

Pack your backpack with essential gear for a day hike. Include items like snacks, water, sun protection, navigation tools, and a medical kit.

I's important to choose the right backpack. Osprey is one of the top names when it comes to quality hiking packs, with their Packfinder tool helping you find a perfect fit.

Between 24 and 36 liters is ideal for snowy treks, so look for a pack within that size range. With the right bag, your Colorado snowshoeing trip will be an all-day experience you won't forget!

Carrying extra layers, water, and fuel prevents emergency situations. On especially cold days in winter at Rocky Mountain National Park, wearing a heated vest keeps you toasty warm.

INSIDER TIP! On snowshoe trails in Colorado, always carry supplies for an unexpected overnight. That includes an emergency blanket, food/water, and lightweight quilt.

CARRY THE RIGHT GEAR on your snowshoeing adventure in Colorado

Essential outdoor gear can make or break your snowshoe Colorado vacation (or hike). For hot, cold and all weather in between, be ready for Colorado’s four seasons in a day weather.

A well packed daypack keeps everything easily accessible and organized. Pack your day pack and start your Colorado adventure!

CHECK THE WEATHER

Winter in the Rocky Mountains can switch in a minute, sunny and then gusting winds whipping. Rocky Mountain National Park avalanche risk, snow levels, and trail conditions are always changing. Consult nps.gov/ROMO before you leave.

hydrating on the trail

Water break on a snowshoe trail in Colorado

KNOW WARNING SIGNS OF HYPOTHERMIA

Uncontrolled shivering, slow/slurred speech, memory lapses, lack of coordination, stumbling and drowsiness should be tell tale signs to get help fast.

LOOK UP on snowshoeing trails in COlorado

Be aware of falling trees or branches. Practice extra careful around dead trees when its windy or just after a snowstorm.

KNOW POTENTIAL ALTITUDE WARNING SIGNS

Many of the best snowshoeing Colorado trails have elevation gains, often starting at 9,000 feet. Hikers coming from sea level often experience altitude side effects while hiking in Estes Park and the Rocky Mountain National Park.

Beginner hikers and advanced trekkers alike can have adverse reactions to Colorado’s high altitude hikes.

INSIDER TIP! Hydrate often. This keeps headaches at bay. If you have a water reservoir, take frequent sips to keep your water tubing from freezing.

MAKE SURE YOUR CAR IS READY FOR WINTER driving in Rocky Mountain National Park

We saw several cars spin out on the road to Bear Lake, hazards flashing as they frantically tried to navigate the icy patches on the windy roads. Rocky Mountain National Park requires all wheel or 4WD vehicles OR two wheel cards have snow or all weather tires.

CELL PHONE service is extremely limited throughout the park. Don’t rely on your cell to phone in help.

KNOW YOUR LIMITS AND BE PREPARED.

For more tips, download our Winter Hikers Checklist below.

Take the guesswork out of what to bring and wear with CoHH handy dandy Colorado Winter Hikers Checklist. Both FREEBIES are a great way to ensure you have all the necessary items for a successful snowshoeing experience!

Let’s Talk!

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Melodie Monberg