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Winter in Colorado transforms the landscape into a snowy paradise, and there’s no better way to enjoy it than through hiking.

From easy, scenic trails near Denver to challenging mountain adventures, Colorado offers something for every hiker.

Best Colorado Winter Hikes

Having hiked many of these trails myself, here are my favorites that I always recommend for a great winter hiking experience.

1. Bear Lake Trail

One of my favorite snowy trails is Bear Lake Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park!

It is a great option for beginners who want to try a winter hike in Colorado.

Situated in Rocky Mountain National Park, this easy, 0.7-mile scenic hike loops you around a frozen lake.

The short distance makes it perfect for those new to hiking.

This trail is so beautiful in winter, with snow dusting the trees and the lake glistening under the sun.

I always find it peaceful, whether snowshoeing or just taking a quiet walk.

2. Mount Sniktau

If you’re looking for a winter hike in Dillon with spectacular mountain views, Mount Sniktau near Dillon is a must.

This moderate hike is one of Colorado’s 13ers, meaning it sits at an impressive 13,000 feet in elevation.

While it’s a challenging hike, it is manageable for most skill levels. Just make sure to check the weather beforehand and make sure that the snow is packed down.

It can get windy at the summit, so bundle up! The views are worth it.

If you’re looking for a great winter hike in Colorado, Mount Sniktau is a must. The views from the summit are amazing, offering some of the best panoramic scenes you can get.

Want to know more about my winter hike here? Read A Winter Hiking Guide To Mount Sniktau: One Of Colorado’s 13ers!

3. Emerald Lake Trail

Looking for a slightly more challenging winter hike in Rocky Mountain National Park? Try Emerald Lake.

Which is another favorite of mine in Rocky Mountain National Park.

I love this trail so much, I have hiked it at least ten times!

The trail is moderate in difficulty, but the views of the lake surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks make the trek worth every step.

It’s one of the park’s most iconic spots, so make sure to start early so you can get parking.

The trail is normally packed down due to how popular it is. , making it a great option for a winter snowshoeing adventure.

I love hiking this trail in the winter, and it’s always one of the highlights of my season.

4. Golden Gate Canyon State Park

One of my top hidden gems for winter hiking is Golden Gate Canyon State Park, located near Golden.

With over 35 miles of trails, it offers a great variety of options for winter hiking in Colorado.

From easy snowshoeing trails to more challenging routes.

The park is known for its snow-capped mountain views, and because it’s less crowded than other destinations, I always feel like I’m escaping into a winter wonderland.

It’s the perfect place for those looking for family-friendly winter hikes near Denver.

If you are visiting in the fall, you have to hike my favorite trail. Hike The Raccoon Trail in Golden Gate Canyon State Park This Fall!

5. Brainard Lake Recreation Area

Brainard Lake Recreation Area is one of my favorite spots for stunning views and great winter snowshoeing.

In the winter, the gates at the main entrance close, so I usually add a little extra mileage to my hike.

A lot of people choose to take the Brainard Lake Winter Road, which takes you straight to the lake. It’s definitely worth it for the winter scenery!

For a more challenging hike, continue on to Lake Isabelle.

This gorgeous 11.0-mile out-and-back trail is a lot of mileage, but you don’t have to do the entire thing.

Simply snowshoe as far as you’d like, then turn back. Be mindful of the shorter daylight hours during winter.

6. Jim Creek Trail

Jim Creek Trail near Winter Park is an incredible snowshoeing trail that offers a peaceful, remote winter experience.

This trail is slightly more off the beaten path, so it’s ideal for anyone looking to avoid the crowds while enjoying a serene forest.

The trail is an out-and-back route, and in winter.

It’s especially picturesque with snow-dusted trees lining the path and Jim Creek flowing alongside you.

It’s a hidden gem, perfect for those who want to explore the beauty of Colorado’s wilderness in winter.

7. Mount Sanitas

Head over to Boulder to hike Mount Sanitas!

Mount Sanitas is a moderate yet rewarding hike, making it a great challenge in winter.

The 3.2-mile loop trail near Boulder, Colorado,is one of my favorite hikes!

While it’s a bit more strenuous, the panoramic views of Boulder from the summit, combined with the winter landscape below, make it well worth the effort.

Enjoy the snow-covered foothills and rugged terrain to provide a true winter adventure.

This trail is one of the best winter hikes in Colorado, especially for those who enjoy a good challenge.

8. Mayflower Gulch

One of my all-time favorite winter hikes is Mayflower Gulch in Breckenridge.

This 6.4-mile out-and-back hike is a true winter wonderland, with views of towering peaks, expansive valleys, and snow-covered forests.

The gorgeous alpine meadows and historic mining cabins add to the adventure.

Making it not only a beautiful winter hike but also a chance to explore some Colorado history.

Whether you’re snowshoeing or hiking, Mayflower Gulch offers an incredible winter experience.

9. Crystal Lakes

Another gem in Breckenridge is the Crystal Lakes Trail, which provides stunning views of snow-covered peaks and serene forest landscapes.

The 8.5-mile trail offers moderate difficulty, making it perfect for winter hikers looking for a bit of a challenge.

The lake itself is often frozen over in winter, adding to the winter magic of the area.

This is one of the best winter hikes in Breckenridge, and it’s a spot I always look forward to revisiting during snowy months.

10. El Dorado Canyon State Park

For an accessible yet rewarding winter hike, El Dorado Canyon State Park is one of my favorites.

The Rattlesnake Gulch Trail offers spectacular views of the canyon and surrounding rock formations.

The 3.7-mile trail is moderately easy and especially beautiful in winter when the cliffs are dusted with snow.

The area is less crowded than some of the more well-known parks in Colorado, so it’s an ideal spot for anyone looking for a peaceful winter hike with stunning scenery.

When I went, I was one of only two people there, making it my own personal getaway.

El Dorado Canyon is a hidden gem and one of the best winter hiking destinations near Boulder.

11. Saint Mary’s Glacier

Located in Idaho Springs, Saint Mary’s Glacier is one of my favorite winter hikes.

While this trail can be enjoyed year-round, winter makes it even more magical.

Not only is it a short drive from downtown, but it also transforms into a stunning winter wonderland!

The trail is only 1.6 miles and brings you to the famous Saint Mary’s Glacier.

Despite its name, it’s technically not a true glacier but rather a large patch of snow that lasts year-round, fed by seasonal snowfall.

It’s one of my favorite winter hiking trails near Denver!

Explore More of Colorado!

Winter hiking in Colorado offers a chance to explore some of the state’s most beautiful and serene landscapes.

Whether you’re looking for an easy, family-friendly trail or a challenging winter adventure, there’s a hike for everyone.

I have done so many hikes in Colorado!

Read all about The Best Summer Hikes In Colorado With Views.

Visiting in the fall? The Best Fall Hikes In Colorado For Leaf Peeping.

Spend some time at Hanging Lake In Colorado: Your Ultimate Hiking Guide.

Want more of my favorite spots? Read all of my Colorado Travel Guides here.