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Moonlit strolls, enchanting mountain dining experiences, powder-filled educational jaunts through the high country—there are so many fun ways to experience winter in Colorado on snowshoes. Not only is snowshoeing one of the most approachable, budget-friendly, cold-weather pursuits, it’s also a great group activity and accessible to people of all ages and skill level. So break out your snowshoes (or rent some) and explore Colorado’s stunning natural beauty this winter.
The Magic Meadows Yurt Dinner Experience in Crested Butte
Hosted by the Crested Butte Nordic Center, this annual upscale dinner takes place in the cozy Magic Meadows Yurt, located along the Slate River just a few miles outside of town. Snowshoers and nordic skiers are guided by a well-lit path along one mile of groomed trail from the Peanut Lake Trailhead. Inside, guests can enjoy locally sourced cocktails, beer and wine, live music, and a five-course Colorado-inspired dinner prepared by chef Tim Egelhoff. The experience is offered on Sundays through mid-March.
Cost: Tickets are $135 per person and include equipment rentals, trail passes, transportation, dinner, libations and gratuity.
Moonlight Snowshoe Dinners with the Frisco Nordic Center
On January 20 and February 17, snowshoers can join the staff at the Frisco Nordic Center for a moonlight excursion that ends with tasty refreshments and treats at the FoodHedz World Cafe. During the leisurely 1.5-mile trek, guests can learn more about the local terrain while working up an appetite.
Cost: $65 per person; includes rentals, beverage of choice, light appetizers, and a guided tour
Moonlit Snowshoe Tour and Dinner at Steamboat Ski Resort
The mountains in and around Steamboat are a sight to see when freshly dusted in snow. Learn all about the ski town’s surrounding landscape and history of the Yampa Valley on a guided nighttime snowshoe tour on Mount Werner. The tour spans over an hour and ends with a delicious dinner at Hazie’s—a contemporary on-mountain steak and seafood restaurant with exceptional views. Tours are available every Friday and Saturday evening through early April.
Cost: $95 per person. Pricing includes guide, snowshoes, gondola ride, snowshoe tour, dinner, and tax and gratuity.
Ashcroft Snowshoe Tour with the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies
Aspen, perhaps Colorado’s most famous ski mecca, offers boatloads of cold weather outdoor activities—but snowshoers are in for a treat with the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies Ashcroft Snowshoe Tour. This half-day exploration of the historic Ashcroft ghost town is led by a naturalist guide, who will teach guests all about animal tracking, bird life, and sub-alpine ecology.
Cost: $100 per person. Tours are offered daily and cost includes a four-hour guided tour, snowshoe rental and Ashcroft trail pass. A gourmet lunch prepared by the Pine Creek Cookhouse can be purchased at an additional cost.
Moonlight Snowshoe Tours at Copper Mountain Resort
Watch the full moon rise over Copper Mountain during one of the resort’s free moonlight snowshoe tours offered this winter. Tours are led by a volunteer ranger from Friends of the Dillon Ranger District. Each tour departs from Copper’s West Village and lasts approximately three hours. Bring your own snowshoes, or rent a pair onsite, and spend an evening chasing the moon in Summit County.
Cost: Free; reservations required. Morning and afternoon snowshoe tours are also offered. Call for details on 2019 dates.