Rocky Mountain National Park in the Winter
Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park in the winter provides visitors with the same reasons they like to visit any other time of year; beautiful scenery, viewing wildlife, and outdoor activities. But winter offers a different way to experience these things in a much more unique way. Discover here why you should visit Rocky Mountain National Park in the winter.
Winter’s wildlife
A lot of the wildlife you witness in the fall and summer months are just as abundant in winter. See everything from elk, mule deer, coyotes, and even moose. But Rocky Mountain National Wildlife isn’t just seen on the ground. Be sure to also look high in the sky for red-tailed hawks or even great-horned owls.
Snowshoeing: winter’s version of hiking
Rocky Mountain National Park is known for its extensive trail system that guides visitors throughout the park but fret not, you can still discover these trails in the winter! Trails in the winter can be accessed using traction devices like TakTrax on your shoes or snowshoes. Snowshoeing is a fairly easy sport to learn. It’s simply hiking but in the snow. If you’re a beginner, be sure to read up on our Snowshoeing for Beginners blog.
The most popular areas to snowshoe, particularly for beginners, is at Bear Lake, Glacier Gorge, Glacier Basin Campground area, Wild Basin, and Hidden Valley.
Sledding in Hidden Valley
Hidden Valley in Rocky Mountain National Park is a well-known sledding area, in fact, it is the only sledding area still allowed inside the park. What used to be a ski area years ago is now a modern-day sled park, suited for all ages and skill levels. Amenities include a warming hut, picnic benches, restroom facilities, and a sled rental if you don’t have your own to bring.
Cross-country ski
Strap on a pair of backcountry Nordic skis and explore snow-laden terrain inside the park. Break your own trail on the west side of the park where there is deeper snow and much flatter terrain with ski friendly valleys or head to the east side for a bit more of a challenge with climbs to higher elevations.
Read here for more on cross-country skiing near Estes Park.
Stay at Rocky Mountain Resorts
Located just minutes from Rocky Mountain National Park, Rocky Mountain Resorts is the perfect choice for visiting the park this winter. With affordable rates, a variety of vacation rentals, and all the modern amenities of home you can’t go wrong! Whatever your reasons for visiting Estes Park, make Rocky Mountain Resorts your home away from home and book your stay with us today!
