Snowshoeing in Rocky Mountains near Denver: Guided winter hike

Trek through snow-covered trails with lunch partway, return before dark

A guided snowshoeing hike in the Rocky Mountains near Denver where you trek unmarked snow-covered trails with a guide who knows the terrain, using provided snowshoes or microspikes, poles and gaiters. The hike covers 4 to 4.5 miles to either an alpine lake or a historic ranch, or a closer 3.5-mile option around a bison preserve near Denver; lunch and water are included. Pickup from Denver is included, and children from age 4 are welcome.

The Experience

You're picked up in Denver and driven roughly an hour and a half past Nederland into the high Rockies, or to a closer trailhead if you choose the bison preserve loop. The trail itself has no markings — that's why the guide matters. Snow covers the path completely, and without someone who knows the terrain, it's easy to wander off. The guide leads you through the winter landscape, reading the snow and the land beneath it to keep the route clear.

What you wear and carry is sorted before you start. Snowshoes come in different sizes, or the guide may use microspikes instead depending on snow conditions — both are provided. You get hiking poles to steady yourself on the slope, gaiters to seal your boots against snow, and ski goggles. Partway through the hike, you stop on the trail for a sandwich, snacks and chips, and you have bottled water throughout. The pace is steady but not rushed; the hike covers 4 to 4.5 miles on the main route, or 3.5 miles if you pick the bison preserve option closer to the city.

The destination shifts with the season and snow. The deeper route reaches either an alpine lake or a historic ranch with structures over 100 years old. The closer option loops around a bison preserve where you might see the animals near the fence. There's also a hike above red rocks past the ruins of a burned villa. The guide chooses based on conditions and what's passable that day. After the descent, you ride back to Denver in the van.

What’s included

• Snowshoes or microspikes (provided, no extra cost).
• hiking poles.
• gaiters.
• ski goggles.
• bottled water.
• lunch on the trail with sandwich, snacks and chips.
• pickup from Denver.
• guide in English.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelPets welcomeNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Amazing Adventures

Is this one for you?Your guide navigates the unmarked snowy terrain while you enjoy the landscape, with all gear provided and a warm lunch included.

Traveler reviews

5.00★★★★★★★★★★

13 verified traveler reviews

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

How far is the drive from Denver to the trailhead?

The main trailhead is roughly an hour and a half past Nederland deep in the Rockies. A closer option near Denver, around a bison preserve, cuts the drive time significantly if you prefer less time in the van.

What's included in the snowshoeing hike?

Snowshoes or microspikes (whichever suits the conditions), hiking poles, gaiters, ski goggles, bottled water, and lunch on the trail with a sandwich, snacks and chips. Pickup from Denver is also included.

What if I've never snowshoed before?

The guide teaches you how to use the snowshoes or microspikes and poles as you go. The hike is steady but manageable for anyone with moderate fitness; the guide sets the pace and stays with the group the whole way.

Can children come on this hike?

Children from age 4 are welcome. The closer 3.5-mile bison preserve route is a good option for younger hikers or anyone wanting a gentler day.

What happens if snow conditions change?

The guide may switch to microspikes instead of snowshoes if conditions are better for them — both are provided at no extra cost. The guide also chooses the trailhead and destination based on what's safe and passable that day.

Is the trail marked?

No — the snow covers the trail completely and there are no markings, which is why having a guide who knows the terrain keeps you on track and safe.