9 Ways to Enjoy the Rocky Mountains in the Winter

Hello followers! We are always searching for new incentives to bring people to the Estes Park area during the dreaded winter up here. Or at least people believe it's that way! We think it's a {{beautiful}} time of year to take advantage of all the winter activities in Estes Park! So we have come up with a perfect list to get these ideas flowing to convince you to get on up here and enjoy the Rocky Mountains. Here are 9 whole ways to enjoy it!

1. Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing can be a very easy activity to learn and gives you a new way of exploring the snowy mountainous areas. Rocky Mountain National Park offers ranger-led snowshoe ecology walks at various skill-levels.  The walks are about two hours long and require reservations if interested. Give it a shot! It could become a new-found hobby for you and your friends and family!

2. Cross-Country Skiing

Ski the Wilderness in Winter is a ranger-led cross-country ski tour. Participants ski and learn about the Kawuneeche Valley. This event also requires reservations. I think this is something we would even like to try here at the Black Canyon Inn! Great idea!

3. Camping 

It might be cold... but who doesn't like to camp?! Moraine Park Campground is open all year with a fee of $18 per site per night. There is no charge in the winter for backcountry camping as well. OR, if you're thinking it might be too cold, give us a call at Black Canyon Inn and book one of our rustic condo's to rent instead! 

4. Sledding

Hidden Valley slopes in RMNP is a great winter opportunity for families to come and enjoy the snow.  The slopes have been contoured for safety and there is a warming hut open on weekends. Visitors can also use this as a base location for people who would like to backcountry ski, snowboard or snowshoe.

5. Full Moon Walks

You can take in the beauty of nature at night on a Full Moon Walk. These walks are offered on the east side of the park on Jan. 23rd, Feb. 22nd, and March 23rd. Make reservations by calling (970)586-1223. What an awesome idea!

6. Animal Watching

This is an obvious winter activity must-do. Elk, coyotes, deer, snowshoe hares, and other wildlife are active in the winter time.  Take your camera and get some winter wildlife photo's to share with us!

7. Hiking

Trails with lower elevations are best for winter hiking. There are many trails to choose from in the park so get to it!

8. Ice Climbing

If you want to take on a new challenge, why not try something very new like ice climbing. One of the popular locations in RMNP is Hidden Falls.

9. Estes Park (Duh!)

Before heading into the park, explore Estes Park! There are many restaurants, shops, and the beautiful Black Canyon Inn located just a half mile from the downtown area. Come check us out! We would love to show you around our secluded property.