To say Colorado is an oasis for outdoor recreation is an understatement, especially during the winter! From skiing to snowshoeing there is plenty to do across Colorado and even Boulder County.
Outdoor recreation will look slightly different because of the pandemic, but there is still plenty of activities to partake in. We've outlined the latest information about guidelines put in place and what you can do this winter in our outdoor recreation guide for Boulder County.
Get out there and start exploring the great outdoors this winter!
Key Guidelines
Whatever outdoor activity you may be participating in, remember to follow the guidelines that Boulder County and the state have put in place.
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Maintain a social distance of 6 feet or more from others not in your party.
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Parties should be kept to immediate family members only.
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Face coverings are required in any indoor facilities.
Skiing
As of November 23rd, ski resorts opened for the public, operating at a limited capacity. More individuals are flocking to smaller ski hills, such as Eldora located at just 20 miles from the city of Boulder, as reservations for the larger ski resorts fill up quickly. Indoor dining facilities are currently closed, but many have shifted to serving grab-and-go options for guests.
Looking for some close skiing near Boulder? Check out these 8 mountains under 2 hours away.
Snowshoeing
If skiing isn't your thing, take to the snow with an activity a little lower key like snowshoeing. The best conditions to go out are within 24 hours of snowfall- which in Colorado happens quite frequently. Now there are some etiquette tips to have a successful walk.
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Yield to cross country skiers.
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Try to avoid snowshoeing on cross-country tracks.
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Walk close to the edge of the trail as possible.
There are several spots around Boulder County where you can trek up a hill or take a leisurely stroll around a walking trail. Some of the top snowshoeing areas are Eldorado Mountain, Brainard Lake Recreation Area, Caribou Ranch, and Betasso Preserve.
Ice Skating
Spend some time off the snow and on the ice this winter. There are many places around Boulder County were you can go ice skating, both indoors and outside. Just remember if you are skating indoors to wear your mask and social distance as much as possible! Many rinks are only taking reservations for an open skate time, so make sure to check with each facility's COVID rules.
To view a list of the most popular ice rinks, check out our guide.
Cross Country Skiing
If flying down the slopes at record speeds isn't calling your name, but you still enjoy strapping on the skis- check out cross country skiing. There are many spots around Boulder and Longmont that offer terrific terrain right after a snowfall, or take to the hills west of town for the better "bounty". Some of the locals' favorite spots are Caribou Ranch, North Boulder Park, and Eldora Nordic Center.
Ice Fishing
Fishing in Colorado can happen year round! When temperatures reach freezing and our lakes and reservoirs ice over, fishers brave the cold in search of the perfect catch. Adhere to the normal rules for outdoor recreation, which is especially easy to do while hiding out in little ice huts. Boulder Creek, Big Thompson River, and the South Fork of the Platte River are the best spots around Boulder County to experience this winter activity.
Sledding/ Tubing
Bundle up in all your winter attire and head for the hills- that's where all the best sledding and tubing spots are! Speed race down twisty tracks or see who can make the longest tube train, and for a little extra fun go out at night when many places have festive lights, hot cocoa, and music to sing-along with. If you prefer to keep a little closer to home for a few runs down a smaller hill, there's plenty of sledding spots around Boulder County, like Chautauqua Area, Casey Middle School Field, and Dry Creek Community Park.