7 Winter Hikes Near Colorado Springs (and Where to Grab a Beer After)

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Winter Hikes Near Colorado Springs: 7 Snowy Trails Locals Love

Seven winter hikes near Colorado Springs I come back to every year, with what to wear, when to bring spikes, and where to warm up after.

Winter can be a tricky time for us hikers. After a summer of wildflowers, alpine lake dips and bagging 14ers, the switch to winter hiking can feel abrupt and downright depressing.

I grew up in Nigeria, Liberia, Kenya and Ethiopia, and I didn’t see snow until I landed in Chicago. Cold and I took a while to become friends.

Even after nearly 30 years in Colorado Springs, my pattern was the same. I’d love the trails all fall, and then the clocks fell back. Then? Couch, wine, bread, zero motivation.

One day, I’d had enough. I grabbed my winter gear and hit the trail.

Cold? Sure. But with warm layers and waterproof boots, I felt great.

The best part? Trails I knew by heart felt brand new. Snow dusted, quiet and all mine.

These are the seven I come back to every winter, from easy reservoir loops to steep climbs with Pikes Peak views. Each one ends with a warm meal and a cold beer or a hot coffee, because that’s the deal I make with myself.

A gentle note: If winter feels heavier than a slump, it could be seasonal affective disorder. Talk to your doctor. You don’t have to just push through it.

Trail Miles Gain Difficulty Traction Dogs Drive Post Hike Stop
Dawson Butte Ranch 5 449 ft Easy Spikes after storms On leash 45 min Hops and Vines
Florissant Fossil Beds 7.5 971 ft Easy Spikes after storms Not on trails 1 hr Funky Town Brewery
Palmer Lake Reservoirs 4 1,000 ft Easy to moderate Spikes; snowshoes Feb and March No dogs 30 min O'Malley's
Lovell Gulch 6.73 1,053 ft Moderate Spikes; snowshoes after big storms On leash 40 min 110 Reserve or Peak View BBQ
Muscoco Loop (Pull Out 16) 6.76 1,493 ft Moderate Spikes On leash 20 min Cerberus Brewing
Mount Esther 6.58 1,457 ft Moderate Spikes required On leash 35 min Paradox Beer Company
Limbaugh Canyon and Mount Herman 8.2 2,322 ft Moderate to hard Spikes a must; snowshoes possible On leash 30 min Trails End Taproom or Goat Patch Monument

Drive times are approximate from downtown Colorado Springs. Winter conditions change fast, so check recent trail reports before you go.

Table of Contents

Palmer Lake Reservoirs | Palmer Lake

Mount Esther | Green Mountain Falls

Lovell Gulch | Woodland Park

Limbaugh Canyon and Mount Herman | Monument

Mount Muscoco Loop | North Cheyenne Canyon

Dawson Butte Ranch | Larkspur

Florissant Fossil Beds | Florissant

What to Wear Winter Hiking

Colorado Winter Hiking FAQ

Colorado winter hikes in Palmer Lake are eerily magical.

Palmer Lake Reservoirs

Distance: 4 miles
Elevation Gain: ~1,000 ft
Route: Loop (Reservoir → Ice Cave Creek → Swank Trail)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Traction: Spikes; snowshoes in February and March
Dogs: Not allowed
Features: Aspen groves, pancake rocks, snow dusted reservoirs
Why it’s awesome: Frozen reservoirs, quiet aspen groves and plenty of connector trails to explore, just 30 minutes north of town.

The Palmer Reservoirs are about a 20 minute drive north of Colorado Springs in the sleepy town of Palmer Lake.

Known for their Yule Log tradition, lighting of the Christmas Star and summer fun on Palmer Lake, this quiet suburb town near Colorado Springs boasts some of the best winter hikes in Colorado Springs!

The first Palmer Lake reservoir, frozen and quiet in midwinter.

There are many Colorado winter hiking trails in this area but keep in mind you do need to pay for parking ($5 - credit cards only) and pups have to stay home.

HOW TO GET THERE: Exit at CO-105 from Interstate 25 and head west to through Monument towards the foothills. The Palmer Lake Reservoir trailhead is just off Old Carriage Road in Palmer Lake.

HEADS UP: There is NO PARKING allowed on Walnut or Lovers Lane. Violators of parking restrictions or requirements will be ticketed. Surveillance is installed.

Free overflow parking is on Lower Glenway Street at the baseball field, about a half mile away.

WHERE TO START: To reach the La Deux/Ice Creek/Swank trails, start at the parking lot. Take either the wide gravel road to the first reservoir or the side trail along the river. Both are easy to spot.

Begin along the trail to the first reservoir, a steep incline that will get your heart pumping those first several feet.

Make sure to bring spikes and have trekking poles handy just in case the snow covers ice. My new favorites are the MSR DynaLock Ascent Carbon poles.

They’re featherlight and fold down small enough to clip to my pack when I don’t need them.

NOTE! In heavy snow months (usually February and early March), you might need snowshoes. Find more of my favorite snowshoe hikes near Colorado Springs.

Hike along the La Deux Reservoir trail and have your map downloaded and watch for the turn off for Ice Creek Trail to Swank Trails happens just after the first reservoir.

At the end of the first reservoir begin looking for a trail to the right. It is a bit tricky to spot but with a downloaded map, you should be fine.

I first found this route from the Pocket Pals map of the area. These waterproof maps include many trails not included on the big name map apps like All Trails.

Palmer Lake Reservoirs is a favorite locals' spot and one of the best hikes in Colorado Springs year-round.

In February and March, it's also perfect for Colorado Springs snowshoeing. No need to forge a trail—this area stays well-traveled, with snow-packed paths making the route easy to follow.

La Deux Reservoirs to Ice Creek to Swank Trails Loop

Before you go: Download the loop on AllTrails before you leave the house. The Ice Cave Creek turnoff is easy to miss, and an offline map makes it simple.

O’Malley’s | Palmer Lake

104 CO-105, Palmer Lake, CO 80133

After hitting a snowy hike, dive into the local scene at O’Malley’s. This Irish-themed pub offers great beers and even better food. Relax and enjoy—after that winter hike, you’ve earned it! Not sure what to pick? Try the fried pickles and prime rib sandwich. For a brew, you can't go wrong with Elephant Rock IPA or Blue Moon, both made right here in Colorado.

View of Pikes Peak from Crystal Reservoir - this is the turn around point for the Mount Esther hike

Mount Esther

Distance: 6.58 miles (with the Crystal Reservoir add on)
Elevation Gain: 1,457 ft
Route: Out and Back (Mount Esther Trail → Ring the Peak → Crystal Reservoir)
Difficulty: Moderate, with a steep first mile of switchbacks
Traction: Spikes required
Dogs: On leash
Features: Aspen groves, Pikes Peak views, Crystal Reservoir
Why it’s awesome: Big Pikes Peak views at Crystal Reservoir, aspen groves and a quiet stretch of Ring the Peak.
Bonus: Long drop toilets (with toilet paper!) at Crystal Reservoir

Mount Esther trail hiking.

HOW TO GET THERE: Getting to Mount Esther can be a feat. Located in Green Mountain Falls, a small little town just past Manitou Springs off Hwy 24, this sleepy town has some of the best Colorado winter hikes.

Punch in “9385 Mountain Rd, Cascade, CO 80809” into your map app and off you go!

Make sure to download the map and follow the instructions. You’ll wind up a paved road through neighborhoods, thinking there is NO WAY this leads to a trailhead. Keep following the road!

WHERE TO START: At the last sharp turn to the left, within feet of the trailhead, you’ll see a very small dirt pull out in front of a few trees. Three cars at most fit in this micro mini parking spot.

If that area is full, you’ll need to drive on for a spot to park along the road or head back down and hoof it up on feet. *In winter months, I’ve never been to this trailhead when I couldn’t find parking.

Once you’ve parked, look across the street into the trees. If it’s been snowing, these wood steps are often covered and you’ll be dependent on looking for the upright trail sign.

Hiking Colorado winter trails on Pikes Peak

HEADS UP! For some of the best winter hikes in Colorado Springs like Mount Esther require spikes or Yaktrax. The first mile is quite steep, switch backing you up the mountain.

Once you reach the top, look for the Ring the Peak trail sign. You can head either way and go as long as you want. The current Ring the Peak trail is around 63 miles.

My favorite way to travel this winter trail is heading to the right. In the fall, the aspen groves are particularly stunning. In winter months, the hike is quiet except for the crunching of snow under your feet.

NOTE! For the full mileage we hiked and listed above, add on the trail to Crystal Reservoir. All Trails does not have the full trail we took and listed here. However, COTREX has the trails marked. Download the area and head toward Crystal Reservoir.

ADD ON HIKE TO CRYSTAL RESERVOIR

Once you’ve hiked up the easement, start heading downhill among a large aspen grove toward the staging area for snow removal equipment.

There is a small building and lots of heavy tractors in the area. Off in the distance you’ll see Pikes Peak and a large dam.

The video highlights the road you take after walking through the staging area.

Once you hit the main road towards the dam, keep right and go up and over the hill to the paved road. You’ll see Crystal Reservoir across the street.

Cross over the road and explore Crystal Reservoir. Long drop toilets (with toilet paper) are available for use. Hike down the well marked trail to the reservoir water edge and soak in the stunning views of Pikes Peak.

NEARBY: Want a real leg burner? Winter is the quietest season on the Manitou Incline, with fewer crowds and the same big views.

Before you go: AllTrails doesn’t show the full route to Crystal Reservoir, so download the area in the free COTREX app instead. It has every trail marked, and you’ll lose cell service on the climb.

Paradox beer company | Divide

10 Buffalo Ct, Divide, CO 80814

With a patio and yard games for a sunny winter day, Paradox Beer Company is a great spot to sit a spell after working up a sweat hiking winter trails Colorado style! Grab a flight or two along with some tasty food. Wood fired pizza? YES! Wings? YEP! Tacos? 100%

Hiking Colorado winter means waterproof boots, spikes, trekking poles and a great attitude!

Quick Take: Lovell Gulch Trail

Distance: 6.73 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,053 ft
Route: Out and Back with a loop
Difficulty: Moderate, with gentle uphills and a few steep sections
Traction: Spikes; snowshoes after big storms
Dogs: On leash
Features: Pine forest, aspen stands, Pikes Peak views
Why it’s awesome: Moose country, steady hills and a well marked trail just minutes from downtown Woodland Park.

Lovell Gulch Trail is one of the best hiking places in Colorado Springs for winter walks and Colorado winter hikes. With moderate terrain and gentle inclines, it’s a great snow hike just minutes from downtown Woodland Park.

Solo winter hiking feels safe here, as you pass neighborhood fences and hear chickens cluck. But soon, you'll be surrounded by forest, inhaling the pine-rich air and soaking in stunning mountain views.

Pikes Peak mountain views from Lovell Gulch trail in early winter before our first snowfall

HOW TO GET THERE: Take HWY 24 toward Woodland Park. Trailhead is off Rampart Range Road. 2400 Rampart Range Rd, Woodland Park, CO 80863

WHERE TO START: With ample parking at the trailhead, make sure to look for where to turn once you get to Woodland Park. If you’ve driven past the turn off lane towards Rampart Reservoir, you’ve gone too far. A small barn style building marks the dirt road to the trailhead.

Lovell Gulch is one of my favorite hiking spots in Colorado Springs. I’ve hiked this trail every season, and it never disappoints. Known in the Colorado running community as a fantastic training spot, I’ve found it to be one of the best winter hikes in Colorado Springs area. Whether it's covered in snow or blanketed in summer wildflowers, it’s always a winner!

Keep in mind this is a mostly forested trail with glimpses of mountains along the way. If you want all mountain views, head to Buena Vista or make hiking in Breckenridge the destination.

Lovell Gulch is one of the best winter hikes near Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Dogs are welcome on leash.

This is a perfect all seasons hike for those exploring Colorado trails. Aspen trees intersperse with many dense pine woods. In some areas, you’ll walk along electricity easements which gives a wide trail to hike on.

Pending snowfall, you might need to carry snowshoes and hiking poles for the deeper areas along the trail. Usually spikes work fine!

LOCAL TIP! For the past few years, a mama moose and her baby have made this trail their home. Colorado winter hikes in this area shouldn’t be an issue. However, any time you see wild animals in their home, step away. *For moose, be very quiet. They have poor eyesight but excellent hearing.

As an out and back with a loop in the middle, it is a well marked trail. Enjoy some solid uphills followed by tree lined downhills. Winter hikes in Colorado areas like this are perfect as the mud and gravel is covered by snow for most of the season.

Download your map and remember, cell phone coverage in this area is extremely limited.

Nearby: Got snowshoes? Pancake Rocks and more of our favorite snowshoe hikes are just up the road. I’m particularly partial to Pancake Rocks because of the steep uphill hike the first bit of the trail. It’s a great trail to get warm right away!

Before you go: Save the Lovell Gulch map on AllTrails for offline use. Cell coverage out here is extremely limited.

Lovell Gulch Hiking Trail


110 reserve | Woodland Park

110 W Midland Ave, Woodland Park, CO 80866

No matter the season, you can sit indoors or outdoors. Make sure to get an order of artichoke dip along with a flight of beer. Dogs are welcome anytime. If you have a sweet tooth, grab two forks and share a slice of chocolate cake.

People rave about the views and we agree, it doesn’t get much better drinking a local brew with the mountains in sight.

Peak View BBQ and Taproom | Woodland Park

1139 E. US Hwy. 24, Woodland Park, CO 80863

Peak View remodeled an old Burger King and we can tell you, you’re in for a treat at this local eatery. How about them Texas Twinkies? If beer isn’t your thing, we won’t judge. Wink! Grab the jalapeno margarita with a side of sweet potato fries.

Stunning views of PIkes Peak and surrounding mountains from the summit of Mount Herman

Quick Take: Limbaugh Canyon and Mount Herman via Pack Trail #715 | Monument

Distance: 8.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,322 ft
Route: Loop
Difficulty: Moderate to hard, with steady climbs
Traction: Spikes a must; snowshoes possible
Dogs: On leash
Features: Snowy canyon, pine forest, Pikes Peak views from the summit
Why it’s awesome: It sits on the Palmer Divide, so it holds more snow than town. A true winter hike close to home.

HOW TO GET THERE: From I 25, get off at Monument exit and through town towards Monument Rock.

Red Rocks Rd. Trailhead Parking Monument, CO 80132

*There are two large lots along the road for parking. No bathrooms.

WHERE TO START: A well marked road leads you to a rather large trailhead parking lot near Monument Rock. As there are several hikes from this area, make sure to download the All Trails map to avoid more mileage.

Winter hiking here is a true Colorado winter hikes experience, with more snow than downtown Colorado Springs thanks to its spot along the Palmer Divide.

Spikes are a must, and after a big storm my MSR EVO snowshoes earn their spot on my pack.

The trail starts exposed, so you won’t need traction right away, but once you hit the canyon, expect snow and ice.

The beginning of this trail is rather exposed so you probably won’t need spikes. Once you get into the canyon, expect a fair amount of snow and ice when hiking Colorado winter months.

Head counterclockwise for a long hill climb. Clockwise will get you warmed up real quick!

LOCAL TIP! Grab a bungee cord and strap your spikes to your daypack. The Osprey Sirrus backpack we both use has many clips to attach items. If you’re afraid the spikes will tear up the pack, wrap them in a ziplock bag first.

Before you go: Several trails leave from this trailhead, so download the Limbaugh Canyon loop on AllTrails to keep from adding bonus miles.

Trails End Taproom | Monument

252 Front St, Monument, CO 80132

This taproom gives you the chance to try dozens of brews with the flip of a handle. Literally. Give them your credit card and ID and start drinking. Pour your own brews in any size you like. Trails End is the perfect place to sample those beers you think you’d like.

Goat Patch | Monument

1756 Lake Woodmoor Dr, Monument, CO 80132

Pikes Peak Brewing Company in Monument was purchased by Goat Patch in early January 2026. Still a local’s paradise with a lit beer garden and outdoor games, food trucks have joined the beer scene. Head out back for a year round patio experience or stay toasty warm in the winter with indoor taste testing. No matter where you sit, enjoy a single malt or IPA.

Related Links:

  • Limbaugh Canyon – One of the best hikes in Colorado Springs, offering cool summer shade, vibrant fall colors, and fragrant pines in winter.

  • Raspberry Mountain – Another standout among the best hikes in Colorado Springs, with stunning Pikes Peak views and a unique trail register to sign.

North Cheyenne Canyon Park is home to the best hikes in Colorado Springs with incredible mountain views.

Quick Take: Mount Muscoco

Distance: 6.76 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,493 ft
Route: Loop with an out and back to the summit
Difficulty: Moderate, with light scrambling at the top
Traction: Spikes
Dogs: On leash
Features: Canyon views, snowy pines, 360 degree summit views
Why it’s awesome: Quieter than Seven Bridges, with sweeping views from the top of Mount Muscoco. Go on a weekday for the trail to yourself.

Winter hikes in Colorado North Cheyenne Park are filled with sun and snow.

HOW TO GET THERE: The Seven Bridges Trailhead in North Cheyenne Canyon Park is easily accessible via West Cheyenne Road when there’s no construction.

Alternate route: Take exit 141 on Hwy 24, turn left on 21st Street, then right onto Argus Blvd, passing Bear Creek Nature Center. Turn left onto Gold Camp Road (370).

Expect 4 miles of rough gravel road, passing through two tunnels before reaching the parking lot.

WHERE TO START: The Pull Out 16 trail is just past the main Seven Bridges Trailhead lot, with space for only 2-3 cars. It offers a quieter alternative when the main lot is full.

North Cheyenne Canyon trails hold snow and ice most of the winter, so pack your spikes.

From the pull out, look to your right for a small trail. You’ll head downhill along switchbacks (note the uphill return!). The shaded trail makes it a perfect option for hiking with dogs. Meander along the well marked gravel trail to the bottom of the hill.

As you approach St. Helen’s Falls, cross the road and follow signs for Mount Muscoco. For a quieter Colorado winter hike, this is one of the best Colorado winter hikes—especially on weekdays when the crowds are thinner.

The views from Mount Muscoco are delightful, with more trail options for longer spur hikes in this area.

The Mount Muscoco trail offers a steady uphill climb, making it a moderate challenge with stunning 360-degree views at the top, and some light scrambling at the end. It’s a great family-friendly hike, suitable for elementary-aged kids, and dogs on leashes, with the option to add Mount Cutler on the way back

PRO TIP! In North Cheyenne Canyon, you’ll share trails with bikers, so be mindful of passing them while enjoying the shade of pines and aspens. It’s a great way to appreciate the sights together!

You can customize your loop based on time and weather—North Cheyenne Canyon offers a variety of trails leading to stunning locations.

Nearby: Short on time? The Seven Bridges Trail starts from the same area and crosses the creek again and again. Bring spikes; it gets icy.

Before you go: North Cheyenne Canyon is a web of connecting trails. Download the area in the free COTREX app so you can build your loop and find your way back to Pull Out 16.

Cerberus Brewery | Downtown Colorado Springs

702 W Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80905

Look for fun and innovative food fare like salmon po boy, brisket grilled cheese, and cauliflower wings. Expect to pay a bit more for the food but we think it’s worth it!

North Cheyenne Canyon Park

When we first moved to Colorado Springs, my husband, Matt, was already familiar with North Cheyenne Canyon from his rock climbing days.

I didn’t explore it until our kids had field trips here—and I quickly became hooked. *Great family friendly hikes in this area!

With waterfalls, mountain streams, and stunning Pikes Peak views, this park is a favorite of mine, especially for the iconic 7 Bridges Trail. There are plenty of hidden gems like Loud’s Cabins ruins and Kineo’s meditation spot.

Gentle hills and wide meadows on the Dawson Butte loop, an easy winter win.

Quick Take: Dawson Butte Ranch Open Space | Larkspur

Distance: 5 miles
Elevation Gain: 449 ft
Route: Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Traction: Spikes after storms
Dogs: On leash
Features: Wide meadows, ponderosa forest, picnic tables and benches; trails shared with horses
Why it’s awesome: A retired working ranch with wide trails and big meadows, an easy win on a cold day.

HOW TO GET THERE: I 25 to County Line. 105 W to Tomah. Trailhead will be on your left.

WHERE TO START: The harder way is to go clockwise from the parking lot, where you'll face a downhill section followed by a gradual uphill climb. If you're looking for an easier nature hike, head counterclockwise from the parking lot for a gentler route.

Well marked trail signs are easy to read no matter the season.

Dawson Butte Ranch is a go-to spot for winter hikes in Colorado. While the trailhead can be a bit tricky to find (use All Trails and Google Maps), it’s definitely worth it!

Some trails are shared with horses, but there’s plenty of space to move over as you walk through wide meadows. A retired working ranch, there are wide open dirt trails along with some tree lined tracks.

Dawson Mountain, a flat-topped peak in the heart of 828 acres, features old bridle paths and scattered horse jumps.

This 5-mile loop is well-marked and includes picnic tables and benches for a rest along the way.

Dawson Butte Ranch is ideal for winter hikes in Colorado, offering a very easy hike with meandering hills and wide meadows.

Its flat terrain makes it perfect for a winter trail run or a family-friendly hike.

This spot is great for those new to Colorado or anyone looking for a peaceful nature escape without a strenuous climb.

Plan for about 90 minutes to 2 hours to complete the loop.

Nearby: Want canyon views? Castlewood Canyon State Park is about 40 minutes north. Don't forget to opt in for the Colorado State Park pass when renewing your vehicle tags to enjoy free entrance, or bring your pass to skip the fee at the entrance.

Before you go: The trailhead is a little tricky to find, so save the Dawson Butte loop on AllTrails and pull up directions before you lose signal.

Colorado winter hiking doesn’t need to be hard. Enjoy Dawson Butte’s 5 mile loop.

Hops and Vines | Larkspur

8993 Spruce Mountain Rd, Larkspur, CO 80118

Don’t pass Hops and Vines by! What looks like a small gas station sits a great little liquor store with unique drinks. CBD drinks, adult strawberry lemonade, and local beer - head here for the perfect after hike drink.

Quick Take: Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument

Distance: 7.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 971 ft
Route: Loop
Difficulty: Easy
Traction: Spikes after storms
Dogs: Not allowed on trails
Features: Petrified redwood stumps, pioneer homesteads, aspen meadows
Why it’s awesome: Petrified redwood stumps, pioneer homesteads and wide open aspen meadows, all on easy, well marked trails with a warm visitor center at the start.

HOW TO GET THERE: I 25 to HWY 24 W to Twin Rocks Road to Teller County Road

WHERE TO START: Park at the main lot at the Visitor’s Center. Most hikes start and end here.

On a chilly February day, we arrived at Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument unaware of the rich history we’d uncover on our hike.

The short inner loop trails are perfect for those eager to steep in history, making this one of the best Colorado winter hikes. We soaked in the sunny, crisp day, and Florissant certainly delivered.

PRO TIP! Cash in on your America the Beautiful National Parks pass for a free pass to adventure, or keep your eyes peeled for those elusive free days posted online.

WINTER HOURS! During winter, the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument visitor center is closed Mondays and Tuesdays. The trails and parking lots stay open, and the foyer is unlocked with restrooms, water and trail maps.

The front desk, museum and park store are closed those two days, so if you want to talk trails with a ranger or browse the exhibits, plan your visit for Wednesday through Sunday. Check current hours before you go.

Colorado winter hikes in Florissant have mild weather and cool sites.

Don’t miss the visitor center, where you’ll find modern flushable toilets and a friendly ranger eager to share trail recommendations.

Take the inner loop to explore highlights like the Big Stump and learn about the park’s unexpected connection to Disneyland.

As you hike, enjoy stunning vistas of mountain ranges with informative signage and easy-to-spot trail markers.

Checking out the park’s largest petrified redwood tree stump.

Along the way, you’ll pass preserved homesteads with vintage ranch equipment, adding a fascinating historical element to your adventure.

The aspen meadows here are especially enchanting in winter, making this one of the best winter hikes in Colorado.

Highlights include walking past a sod house, an intact farm with old-fashioned equipment, and seeing fossilized trees along the trail—perfect for a memorable Colorado winter outing.

Notably, the Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument features remarkably well-preserved homesteads that you can explore, complete with vintage ranch equipment.

Make a day of it: Rita the Rock Planter, the giant troll outside Victor, is under an hour south. Follow the birdhouses from downtown to find her, then add the Vindicator Valley Trail for a walk through mining history.

Before you go: Download our loop on AllTrails, or grab the official park trail map from the National Park Service. Paper maps are also in the visitor center foyer, even on Mondays and Tuesdays.

The loop we pieced together at Florissant on a sunny February day.

Funky Town Brewery | FLORISSANT

37 Costello Ave, Florissant, CO 80816

Funky Town brews its beer right inside Iron Tree Table & Taps, so that's the name you'll see when you pull up.

With professionally trained chefs, expect leveled up food: homemade sauces on homemade rolls, avocado fries and a solid lineup of house beers. After a cold morning among the fossils, it's exactly what you want.

Avalanche safety

While you don't have to worry about shifting snow on these seven winter hikes near Colorado Springs, any time you head into deep snow and mountainous areas, you should know what to watch out for!

Colorado winter hikes tips

What to Bring | winter hikes in Colorado

What should I wear hiking colorado trails in winter?

Hiking Colorado winter months is 100% amazing if you have the right gear and abide by a few basic safety practices.

As someone who grew up in Africa, I didn’t see snow until I landed in Chicago. I loved the amazing city life but man winters there were rough!

If like I was, you don’t know much about winter hiking in Colorado Springs, head on over to our top tips for winter hiking in Colorado. In a nutshell, learn the 5 C’s of survival, wear the right clothes, pack extra supplies and let people know where you’re going.

Wool is your friend along with lightweight breathable and waterproof layers. For each season, we’ve created a short checklist of what to bring and wear on the best hikes in Colorado. Simple reminders help alleviate the “Oh crap, I forgot” moments.

CLICK BELOW FOR YOUR FREEBIE! This easy to use checklist can make Colorado winter hiking downright fantastic!

Winter hiking in Colorado requires layers and laughter!

Colorado Winter Hiking FAQ

Can you hike in Colorado in the winter?

While this might seem like a silly question for you hard core hikers, many do wonder if Colorado trails are accessible during winter months. Yes, hiking Colorado winter months is doable, just make sure to do your research.

Not all trailheads are accessible, particularly the high mountain passes that create picture perfect moments. Now there are the crazy hikers out there who tackle and bag 14ers year round.

However, unless you’re a hiking pro with some solid winter hiking experience under your belt, leave those high elevation hikes for summer months.

Do I need microspikes or snowshoes?

For most winter hikes near Colorado Springs, microspikes are enough. Packed snow and ice are the norm, not deep powder. Save snowshoes for big storms and for the snowier trails along the Palmer Divide, like Limbaugh Canyon and Palmer Lake, usually in February and March. Here’s how I choose the right spikes for Colorado trails.

What’s the best time of day to hike in winter?

Start late morning. By 10 or 11, the sun has warmed things up and softened the ice, and you’ll still have plenty of daylight. Winter sunsets come early, so plan to be back at the car by 4.

What are the easiest winter hikes near Colorado Springs?

Dawson Butte Ranch and Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument are both gentle, well marked loops with wide trails. For something shorter, check out our short and easy hikes in Colorado Springs.

Can I bring my dog?

On most of these, yes, on leash. Two exceptions: no dogs at all at the Palmer Lake Reservoirs, and no dogs on the trails at Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument Check the comparison table at the top for each trail.

Is it safe to hike alone in winter?

It can be, with a little extra planning. Tell someone your route and return time, download your map offline, and pack an extra layer even on sunny days. Read our hiking solo tips before you go.

Do I need to drink as much water in winter?

Yes. Dry air and altitude dehydrate you fast, and you still sweat under all those layers. An insulated bottle keeps water from freezing, and electrolytes help more than water alone.

What if I see a moose?

Give it plenty of space and back away quietly. Moose look calm but can charge, especially a mama with her calf. We’ve seen them on Lovell Gulch, so stay alert in that area.

Do these trails cost anything?

Palmer Lake charges $5 to park (card only). Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument has an entrance fee, and an America the Beautiful pass covers it. The rest are free to park.

What else is there to do in Colorado Springs in winter?

Plenty. Holiday lights, cozy coffee shops and festive events fill the season. See our Colorado Springs Christmas guide and our favorite coffee shops in Colorado Springs.

is Colorado Springs worth visiting in the winter?

As a local with nearly 30 years.experience, I give it a resounding YES—two thumbs up! Winter in Colorado offers more than just beginner skiing. Whether you’re on a family vacation or passing through on your way to a ski town, there’s so much to do in the state’s second-largest city.

And don't worry if you're traveling solo or with kids—there’s plenty for you too! Check out over 50 family-friendly activities in Colorado Springs.

Can you hike in Colorado year round?

Some of the best Colorado trails are hard to get to in winter months. That said, there are always trails to find the best Colorado hike. In Colorado Springs, take on some short and easy hikes for fresh air fun.

Some of our best state parks have many hikes from one trailhead, giving you tons of chances to explore the area no matter the season.

Check out our tried and true best Colorado winter hiking tips and hiking solo best practices. One of the biggest delights hiking winter months is solitude. Prepare and plan and you should be grand!

Where should I eat or drink after a winter hike?

Every hike above ends with a favorite warm-up spot nearby. Closer to town, I usually reach for a hot latte first, so here are my favorite coffee shops in Colorado Springs. When you’re ready for a pint, our Colorado Springs brewery guide covers the homegrown spots worth the stop.

Keep Exploring This Winter

Once you’ve got winter hiking down, there’s a whole season of snowy fun waiting.

Snow packed trail, tall pines and nobody else around. This is why I hike in winter.

With fewer crowds and more breathtaking moments, these are some of the best winter hikes in Colorado Springs.

Happy hiking!

Melodie Monberg