March 11, 2018 by Mulberry Maids
Northern Colorado is great for so many reasons – even in winter there is so much to do and explore! Read on for 5 worthy winter destinations and activities within an hour from Fort Collins.
1 – Snowshoeing in Rocky Mountain National Park
Notchtop Mountain – a great destination for snowshoeing.
The options for snowshoeing in the park are endless. Very popular, but incredibly scenic, is a snowshoe up to the majestic Emerald Lake. Surround yourself in the ancient glacial valley, but don’t forget your extra layers. Temperatures can be chilly, even in spring, and the winds always do a number in the park! Stop in the park visitor center to chat with a ranger for more information on current conditions, and other areas to explore.
2 – Cross country skiing at Cameron Pass
Cameron Pass holds skiable snow through June. From beginner to expert, there is something for everyone. An excellent place to start is cross country skiing on the Michigan Ditch Road from the top of Cameron Pass. This road winds through the snow covered trees, and offers great views of the Park Range and the Never Summer Range inside of Rocky Mountain National Park. Refer here for a map of cross country ski trails in the area.
3 – Local hiking in Soapstone Prairie
Bison in Soapstone Prairie.
Located an hour north of Ft. Collins, Soapstone Prairie Natural Area boats 50 miles of hiking and biking trails. Keep an eye out for buffalo and ferrets, as you wind through the open plains and through small canyons. Please note, this natural area is closed from December to February.
4 – Skiing at Snowy Range Ski Area
Skip the I-70 traffic jam! Take a cruise up 287 to the Medicine Bow mountains to enjoy the quiet family friendly ski area of Snowy Range. Open through April 8, there is still plenty of time to enjoy some resort laps in the sun!
5 – Marvel at the Pawnee Buttes in the snow
Catch them on a snowy day, and let the mystic of the Eastern Plains of Colorado overtake you. Bring your camera, and try to catch sunrise or sunset on a crisp snowy day.