Most people don’t usually think of winter as the best time to visit a national park, especially the national parks in the higher parts of the country, but the cold-weather atmosphere can create phenomenal, less crowded experiences.
Rocky Mountain National Park is of course included in that grouping, and while much of the park might be pretty difficult to access when it gets cold, there are plenty of winter activities for snow and mountain lovers.
Free Ranger-Led Snowshoe Walks (park entrance fees still need to be paid) will begin for the winter on January 4, taking place on Saturdays & Sundays at 1 p.m.. These two hour tours take visitors through hilly, uneven, snow-covered meadows and mixed conifer forest areas in the park, ranging from 8,700-9,300 feet in elevation. No previous snowshoe experience is required, but the walk is considered moderately strenuous.
Reservations for the ranger-led walks can be made up to seven days in advance by calling 970-586-1513. A maximum of six people per group can sign up per walk, and participants must be 8 years or older.
New this winter, Rocky Mountain National Park is introducing Family-Friendly Snowshoes Walks for families with children under 5. These two hour walks will take place at 1 p.m. on February 7, 14, 21, and 28. Reservations are required and are expected to fill quick, so call 970-586-1513 if interested.
Snowshoes are provided for all of the ranger-led snowshoe walks, though participants should make sure they’re wearing the proper winter clothing to keep them warm. This includes waterproof winter jackets, snow pants, warm socks, waterproof boots, gloves or mittens, a hat, and sunglasses/goggles.
If snowshoeing isn’t quite your thing, Rocky Mountain National Park will also offer Ranger-led Cross-Country Ski Tours on Saturdays at 10 a.m. beginning on January 18 and, weather permitting, continuing until March 15. Reservations can once again be made by calling 970-586-1513.