For many, winter is their favorite time of year to visit Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP). The park is less crowded and for those who are prepared, winter is an enchanting time to explore the scenic beauty of the southern Rocky Mountains. Weather and snow conditions permitting, RMNP will be offering a variety of ranger-led walks, talks and activities this winter. Winter ranger-led programs are available on both the east and west sides of the park through mid-March.
Programs Offered on the East Side of RMNP Include:
East Side RMNP - Kid-Friendly Snowshoe Walks
Step into the basics and learn what snowshoeing is all about! These beginner walks are perfect for the whole family. Snow and weather conditions permitting, these programs will take place on Saturdays at 2 p.m. and they are 1-hour in length.
No previous snowshoe experience is needed. Beginner snowshoe walks are free to attend (park entrance fees are required). Space is limited and advanced reservations are required. Reservations open seven days ahead of a scheduled snowshoe walk. For additional details and to register, visit https://rmconservancy.org/rmnpsnowshoe/
East Side RMNP - Snowshoe Hikes
Enjoy an afternoon of winter exploration! Snowshoe hikes travel through hilly, uneven, snow-covered meadows and forest areas within RMNP at elevations ranging from 9,400-9,700 feet above sea level. Snowshoe hikes are up to 2-hours long. During this hike, participants will learn about plants and wildlife that call Rocky home. Snowshoe hikes are for participants ages 8 and older.
Snowshoe hikes are moderately strenuous and participants should be in good physical condition. Participants must have a baseline fitness level that allows them to snowshoe approximately one mile over hilly terrain at high elevation. One mile of snowshoeing is more strenuous than a typical hike. Programs take place at higher elevations and may not be suitable for people sensitive to altitude.
Beginning on January 27, east side snowshoe hikes will take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 12:30 p.m. RMNP’s snowshoe hikes are very popular and fill quickly. Advanced reservations are required. Reservations open seven days ahead of a scheduled snowshoe hike. For additional details and to register, visit
https://rmconservancy.org/rmnpsnowshoe/
To Participate in an East Side Snowshoe Program, What Do I Need to Bring?
All participants must bring their own snowshoes or rent snowshoes outside of the park. Snowshoe rentals are not available inside RMNP. For your comfort and safety, appropriate clothing is essential. Recommended items include waterproof winter jacket, snow pants, warm socks, waterproof boots, gloves/mittens, a hat, and sunglasses or goggles. Other essential items include water and sunscreen. Hiking poles are helpful.
Discover Something New at RockyLAB!
Pop into RockyLAB and dive into hands-on fun! Beginning on January 23, come to Fall River Visitor Center on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays any time from 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. and explore short science and nature activities. Participants can stay as long as they choose. These activities are perfect for the whole family. All materials will be provided and children must be accompanied by an adult. What will you discover? Example activities include dissecting an owl pellet, creating your own ranger station, learning about animal adaptations, and exploring snow science.
Programs Offered on the West Side of RMNP this Winter Include: West Side Kid-Friendly Snowshoe Walks
Join a park ranger for an easy, kid-friendly snowshoe walk and learn the basics of snowshoeing! These beginner snowshoe walks are fun for the whole family. These snowshoe walks take place on Fridays at 1:30 p.m. and are great for participants ages 5 and older. On west-side snowshoe walks, snowshoes are provided. For your comfort and safety, all participants must wear appropriate winter clothing, including waterproof boots. Advanced reservations are required. To make a reservation, call 970-627-3471.
West Side Snowshoe Hikes
Join a park ranger for an afternoon adventure! Snowshoe hikes are considered moderate and travel through hilly, uneven, snow-covered meadows and forest area. Snowshoe hikes take place on Saturdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. This program is for participants ages 8 and older. On west-side snowshoe walks, snowshoes are provided. For your comfort and safety, all participants must wear appropriate winter clothing, including waterproof boots.
Advanced reservations are required. To make a reservation, call 970-627-3471.
To see a list of all available programs and activities RMNP is offering this winter, visit the park online at
https://go.nps.gov/romo/winter-programs or on the NPS App. These programs and activities are made possible by the Rocky Mountain Conservancy.
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