Colorado can easily be considered one of the most popular states for winter activities and cozy retreats, so whipping up this list wasn’t too much of a challenge. There are a wide variety of ski resorts spread throughout the mountains, but you’ll also find picturesque towns without skiing that offer an infinite amount of snow fun. So maybe you want to go to a ski resort and glide over freshly fallen powder all day while finishing up with a frothy brew and light snacks, or maybe the city is calling—these are the top winter destinations in Colorado.
Denver
Denver could be considered the Colorado hub, central to all the cool things to explore in both nature and the city. This could be your home base for other things and places, but keep in mind winter roads can get dicey. Luckily, the city offers a plow-tracking service, allowing residents and visitors to keep track of which roads have been plowed. But you don’t have to leave Denver to experience its top attractions, including museums, art, historic sites, and gourmet restaurants.
Durango
Durango has an enriching southwestern influence that is reflected in both its landscape, which has been featured in many films, and within its flavorful foods. Get out and really soak in the native wildlife and nature preserves. Relax in a designated hot spring, sure to beat any spa experience, and learn about the influence the railroad industry has had here.
Telluride
Telluride is a picture-perfect mountain town that is perfect in winter with a downtown that is backed up against snow-capped mountains. You probably have heard of its world-class ski resort, which is a huge influence when it comes to attracting folks out here for the winter. But one doesn’t have to be into shredding powder to enjoy numerous snow activities. Hop aboard a dog-drawn sleigh, cruise the terrain via a speeding snowmobile, or just enjoy a peaceful ice skating session.
Aspen
Aspen is a high-end ski town that definitely requires some splurging to experience. But you only live once, right? Aspen Mountain, Snowmass Mountain, Aspen Highlands Mountain, and Buttermilk Mountain offer both straightforward and complex runs, while après and luxe lodging await at the end of a long day. But alas, there are places to eat and stay on a budget. The Aspen Public House has hearty eats for reasonably-friendly prices, and St. Moritz Lodge offers cozy rooms for an affordable rate.
Estes Park
Estes Park is a magical place full of wildlife viewing opportunities and rustic lodging fitting to the naturalistic area. Downtown is small yet efficiently equipped. But if you are coming out to this slice of paradise, focus mostly on nature. And a note to Stephen King fans, it may be of interest to you that the Stanley Hotel, known in The Shining film as the Overlook, resides here and is fully operational. Guests can even opt to stay in a haunted suite.
Breckenridge
Breckenridge may be known for its ski resort mostly, but its well-preserved historic buildings date back to the 1800s. Just walking around this colorful town with enveloping mountains alone makes the trip special. Ride a scenic gondola to fully appreciate the beauty of this resort area, and dive into the variation of artisan eats at Hearthstone. However, Amazing Grace is a small, snug spot to grab breakfast or lunch too.
Pagosa Springs
Pagosa Springs definitely has some sweet ski spots nearby, but this town is prime for wintering because it offers hot springs, river views, and ancient ruins. As far as snowy activities go, travelers can dog sled, ice skate, and zip downhills in tubes or sleds. Cozy sleigh rides are also a major trip highlight. The San Juan Mountain area has excellent fishing opportunities, and in the cold months, you can drill into the frozen waters to ice fish.
Boulder
Boulder, Colorado is quaint, scenic, and full of life. While lots of snow falls around here every year, indoor flavor adventures, like eating a legendary burger at the Dark Horse or warming up with a toasty beverage at Dushanbe Teahouse provide refuge from the cold. Of course, with all of that white stuff, it would be a shame to miss out on prime sledding or a visually breathtaking snowshoe walk. And the Pearl Street Mall is a four-block pedestrian mall that’s excellent for those who may need to make a quick dash out of the cold into a cute store.
Crested Butte
Whether winter, summer, fall, or spring, Crested Butte has something to offer, from biking, hiking, skiing, Nordic skiing, wildflower viewing, and fishing. You’ll want to spend the majority of your time in the wide-open nature of the Rocky Mountain escape. Elk Mountain Lodge is an affordable place to stay, and it’s very close to the ski resort and restaurants. Soak in the hot tub to ease sore muscles after a day on the slopes, and take advantage of the free breakfast!
Fort Collins
Fort Collins is more affordable than just about anywhere else in the state, and everything has a polished old feel to it. Folks bike through the precious downtown area, which also sees an above-average amount of snow through the winter. But the brewery scene of 20-ish local craft brands adds another level of taste bud complexity to your trip.
