One of the nicest things about Colorado is that it has four distinct seasons, each one has something amazing to offer individuals who love the great outdoors. When winter strikes, it’s a fantastic idea to pay the Centennial State a visit to experience snowshoeing like no other!
Denver is the capital city of Colorado, and there’s no need for you to drive for several hours away from it just to have the snowshoeing adventure of your wildest dreams. That’s because there are lots of wonderful trails near Denver that are perfect for a snowshoeing aficionado like you! So without further ado, let’s take a quick look at 10 of the best snowshoeing areas near Denver:
Contents
Crater Lakes
If you love snowshoeing and trout fishing, then consider paying Crater Lakes a visit. It’s highly recommended for those who are new to snowshoeing as its 6-mile trail is highly manageable for beginners.
Golden Gate Canyon State Park
Another wonderful place near Denver that’s suitable for newcomers in the world of snowshoeing is Golden Gate Canyon State Park as most of the available trails (amounting to more than 35 miles) are relatively flat.
Dillon Nature Preserve
Especially on a clear day, consider snowshoeing at Dillon Nature Preserve — other than being highly accessible from Denver, it offers leisurely trails and gives you a wonderful view of Buffalo Mountain.
Buffalo Mountain
Speaking of which, Buffalo Mountain is suited for snowshoers with plenty of experience and are looking for some challenge as its covers 13 miles of terrain and over 3,000 feet of elevation gain!
Loch Vale
If you’re not afraid of the elements, then you should never leave Colorado without trying one of the snowshoeing trails at Loch Vale. At 10,000 feet you will surely enjoy its snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes.
Berthoud Pass
Here’s another location that will certainly satisfy the adrenaline junkie in you: Berthoud Pass. Thanks to its high elevation, you will surely have an unforgettable snowshoeing experience.
Squaw Mountain
Thinking about spending the night near Denver? Then devote some snowshoeing time at Squaw Mountain because near its summit are overnight accommodations that can be booked in advance.
Echo Lake Park
What’s so nice about Echo Lake Park is that it’s a place where newbies and professionals can gather because it offers trails that will surely leave both types of snowshoers satisfied.
Sallie Barber Mine
A lot of those who are into snowshoeing love Sallie Barber Mine for two reasons. First, much of the old mining site is still accessible. Second, it’s a fantastic place for snowshoeing families to explore.
Silver Dollar Lake
Can’t wait to spot some wintertime animals while snowshoeing? Then make sure to pay Silver Dollar Lake a Visit — keep your eyes peeled and you might see elk, moose, mountain goats and bighorn sheep!
The Takeaway
There is never a shortage of fantastic trails near Denver, and it doesn’t matter if you have never tried snowshoeing before or you’ve been doing it all your life!