Many Estes Park fans know the ins-and-outs of winter-time in Estes Park, a snowshoe loop around Bear Lake, winter wildlife watching throughout the village or sledding at Hidden Valley. If you are looking for a new adventure, try one of these unique offerings - sure to take you off -the-beaten-path of winter adventure in Estes Park:
1. Inn to Inn on Snowshoes
Providing custom guided hiking tours since 1983, The Warming House debuts this new custom inn to inn snowshoe trek throughout Estes Park and surrounding areas staring this winter. Enjoy three nights in lodging, two days of private guided snowshoeing, with all the gear provided and a celebration gourmet dinner at the completion of the hike. Carry a light load, as The Warming House offers luggage transfer and transportation throughout the tour. Start your inn to inn adventure here.
2. Snow cat Tours
A true "hidden gem," Estes Park Outfitters offers the exclusive experience of a private mountain lodge and full service outfitters. The lodge is a unique getaway, tucked far amongst the forest and staffed with your own on-site chef. Private cross country, snowshoeing and backcountry skiing are right outside the door, with a guarantee that you have the wilderness all to yourself. The crown jewel of winter activities at Estes Park Outfitters are the enclosed snowcat tours. Go where the general public can not, on these unique guided excursions. Want to add a touch of romance? Include the wine and cheese customization package to your heated- snowcat experience. Learn more about the snowcat adventure here.
3. Wintertime Wonders Bus Tour
Looking to stay a bit warmer? On-Demand Bus Tours by The Rocky Mountain Conservancy gives riders a chance to experience wintertime in Rocky Mountain National Park from the comfort of a heated 12-passenger van or 14-passenger bus. Participants will learn about the cultural and natural history that shaped the landscape and will experience the serenity of areas such as the Alluvial Fan, Trail Ridge Road (to Many Parks Curve) and the Bear Lake corridor. No need to check a schedule, these comfort bus tours are offered on-demand only - you tell them when you would like to go! Please call 970-586-3262 for scheduling and pricing. Learn more about the Rocky Mountain Conservancy here.
4. Avalanche Education Class
Before setting off into the backcountry wilderness of Rocky Mountain National Park; prepare yourself with the necessary skills to make critical decisions in the snow covered terrain with an Avalanche Safety course from the Estes Park mountaineering company, Climbing Life Guides. Directed by veteran AMGA (American Mountain Guides Association) guide trainer and AIARE (American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education) educator, Eli Helmuth. This field-based course is a hands-on study of the avalanche phenomenon in Rocky Mountain National Park and prepares you to have the necessary skills to safely enjoy recreation in avalanche country. The three-day small group courses are a mix of classroom and field work, with state of the art and hands-on avalanche teaching methods. View more here.
5. National Park Photo Tour (with hot cocoa!)
Tour Rocky Mountain National Park in winter - hitting all the awesome viewpoints to capture the memories. The tour vehicle is clear on all sides, even the roof, allowing you to see the beauty at all angles. Don't worry about the cold - the vehicle is heated and blankets are provided, plus hot cocoa and snacks! Just don't spill with the excitement of spotting some wildlife. More info here.
