These Snowshoeing Trails Lead to Some of Colorado's Most Stunning Vistas
Take it slow and enjoy the view on these Colorado snowshoeing trails.
Spring may be teasing us down here in the Mile High, but there’s plenty of time left for winter adventuring in the Rockies. Colorado snowshoeing is a popular pastime, especially those looking for something a little easier—or level—than downhill skiing or snowboarding. The best part is you don’t have to travel far to find some excellent opportunities for snowshoeing in Colorado; many frozen waterfalls, alpine lakes, and stunning mountain views await via relatively easy and quick Colorado trails. However, straying from the official trail onto fresh, untouched powder and deep snow is part of the unique allure of snowshoeing. Below are some of the best snowshoeing spots within two hours of Denver.
Nederland, Colorado
Distance from Denver: 61 miles (1 hour, 20 minutes)
Best for: Fun, low-stakes snowshoeing off the beaten path.
The alpine beauty of Lost Lake draws adventurers year-round, but the ample parking during the winter months is indeed a perk for those looking to strap on the snowshoes and get going without a lot of fuss. This is one of the more popular areas for snowshoeing given the views and relative ease; most venture off-trail if the snow is fresh, but sticking to Hessie is roughly a 4-mile, 2-hour, out-and-back trip.
Idaho Springs, Colorado
Distance from Denver: 66 miles (1 hour, 10 minutes)
Best for: Staying close to the city and still seeing exceptional views while snowshoeing
Saint Mary's Glacier is a popular backcountry spot for snowshoeing, and the trail leads to one of the closest (and most beautiful) alpine lakes near Denver. The 1.6-mile out-and-back trail gains 528 feet of elevation (if you’re looking for more, head to the glacier summit with the proper gear) and is relatively skill-friendly, as long as you’ve packed accordingly for the conditions. Explore the area and trail spinoffs surrounding the lake, or turn around at the Kingston Peak Spur junction as most often do. Just know that the prices for parking at the trailhead has increased from $5 to $20, but you can try your luck at one of the nearby free spots if you don’t mind a few extra steps.
Idaho Springs, Colorado
Distance from Denver: 66 miles (1 hour, 20 minutes)
Best for: Beginner snowshoers and those on a time crunch
One of the most popular trails on this list (and in Colorado), Echo Lake Trail checks off all the boxes: Close to Denver, all-levels-friendly, beautiful views, and easily accessible. Getting to the trailhead is a breeze when the summer hiking traffic isn’t a factor, and this 1.5-mile, out-and-back route is an excellent beginner’s trail or a good way to get a few snowshoe steps in for more skilled folks who are tight on time. Check out the lake, explore nearby Echo Lake Park, and maybe hop onto Mt. Blue Sky Scenic Byway for even more views on the way home.
Ward, Colorado
Distance from Denver: 67 miles (1 hour, 30 minutes)
Best for: Intermediate snowshoers who don’t mind additional walking if access roads are closed
The Brainard Lake Recreation Area is never lacking in appeal for outdoor enthusiasts, whether it's hiking and camping in the summer or frolicking through the snow in winter. It’s particularly popular for those looking to snowshoe or cross-country ski, and the many trails surrounding the area are a testament to that popularity. The Pawnee Pass Trail is just one of many that snowshoers should experience—its 6.6-mile loop and 672 feet of elevation gain deem it a moderate trail that gets the blood flowing without being too challenging. (Note: This one’s not to be confused with Lake Isabelle Trail, a challenging, 11-mile route meant for experienced snowshoers.)
Rollinsville, Colorado
Distance from Denver: 69 miles (1 hour, 30 minutes)
Best for: Those in it for the long haul while snowshoeing
Venture into the heart of the James Peak Wilderness via the Moffat Tunnel East Portal trailhead, which leads ambitious explorers to the picturesque Crater Lakes. This trail isn’t for the faint of heart, coming in at just under 6 miles total and gaining 2,100 feet of elevation when all’s said and done. Still, the trail is considered to be moderate in difficulty and stopping for a lunch (or craft beer) break at alpine lakes just below the Continental Divide sounds very much like a peak Colorado experience.
Estes Park, Colorado
Distance from Denver: 86 miles (1 hour, 50 minutes)
Best for: High reward for a short snowshoeing trail
Though the blue-green hue of Emerald Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park is captivating in the warmer months when you can see it, the lake is just as beautiful frozen over and covered in snow. Breathtaking views of craggy peaks and snow capped pines await on this moderate trail that gains roughly 700 feet in elevation from start to finish. At 3.2 miles, it’s a brief trek, and you’re more than likely to pass by other explorers on your journey.
Breckenridge, Colorado
Distance from Denver: 110 miles (2 hours)
Best for: Experienced snowshoers
Considering the track record for snowfall on this trail, it makes sense that it's a beloved route for snowshoers. Take in the views of nearby fourteeners Quandary Pea k and Mt. Lincoln (and thirteener Mt. Buckskin) plus sweeping views of the mountains and their evergreen valleys below without sinking feet-deep into powder or snowpack. This 6.3-mile out-and-back trail is definitely a challenge with a whopping 3,333 feet of elevation gain, so it’s best primarily for seasoned snowshoers.
Bellvue, Colorado
Distance from Denver: 135 miles (2 hours, 30 minutes)
Best for: More novice snowshoers looking for alpine lake views
Alright, technically a little bit longer of a drive than two hours, but snowshoeing anywhere within the Cameron Pass area is well-worth a few extra minutes in the car. This trail loops Zimmerman Lake and is generally considered an easy snowshoe trail, often boasting great conditions for explorers of all skill levels. Clearly marked trails, friendly passersby, and decent parking all add to the appeal of this trail in Bellvue.