Winter in Estes Park is typically a quieter season for family activities—but that slower pace is part of the appeal. Fewer crowds, snow-covered landscapes, and a more relaxed rhythm create space for meaningful time together.
While winter offers fewer options than summer, there are several standout experiences that continue to shine. From easy outdoor exploration to guided adventures and scenic tours, Estes Park offers winter activities for families at every comfort level.
Family-Friendly Snowshoeing in Estes Park During Winter
Snowshoeing is one of the easiest and most rewarding ways for families to explore Estes Park in winter. It’s approachable, budget-friendly, and doesn’t require prior experience.
The best snowshoe trails for families in Rocky Mountain National Park include:
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Bear Lake Trail – A mostly flat loop ideal for young children and first-time snowshoers
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Alberta Falls Trail – A 1.2-mile round trip best for families with older kids, ending at a frozen waterfall
Some lodging partners offer snowshoe rentals on-site, including Castle Mountain Lodge , YMCA of the Rockies and Holiday Inn Estes Park. If your lodge doesn’t offer rentals, the Estes Park Mountain Shop has affordable options for the whole family.
Guided Snowshoeing and Winter Adventures for Families
Families who want guidance, education, or a more adventurous experience have several excellent options.
KMAC Guides offers a wide range of professionally guided winter adventures. Snowshoeing is their most family-friendly option, while also providing other fun and adventurous options like:
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Backcountry cross-country skiing (require prior experience)
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Backcountry snowboarding (require prior experience)
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Ice climbing
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Avalanche awareness training (for those looking to level up their skillset)
For a more educational and budget-friendly option, the Rocky Mountain Conservancy offers free, scheduled snowshoe programs that blend light adventure with learning. Families should check availability in advance.
Another family-friendly option is Estes Park Tour Guides, which provides curated winter outings designed for families. Thoughtful touches like hot chocolate help keep everyone comfortable, and kids 16 and under tour for free, making this an especially appealing option for families with young children.
Across all guided experiences, families can expect knowledgeable, professionally trained guides who help build confidence while exploring winter landscapes safely.
Scenic Winter Tours in Estes Park (Less Hiking, Big Views)
For families who want winter scenery without hiking, guided tours are a great alternative.
Both Wildside 4×4 Tours and Green Jeep Tours Estes Park offer winter tours that highlight scenic overlooks and wildlife viewing.
Green Jeep Tours typically offers two daily winter departures and provides blankets and hot cocoa. Weather permitting, both companies may include short snowshoe walks or sledding stops near Hidden Valley—adding a hands-on element without a full hike.
Snowcat Rides: A Truly Unique Winter Experience
For a one-of-a-kind winter adventure, a snowcat ride with Estes Park Outfitters offers big views without physical effort.
Families ride a snowcat up a snow-covered mountainside to a remote lodge, where they can explore the property, take photos, and warm up by a wood-burning stove before heading back down. It’s an ideal option for multi-generational families or anyone seeking a memorable winter experience without hiking.
Sledding at Hidden Valley Snow Play Area
Sledding is a winter classic, and Hidden Valley Snow Play Area is the best place to do it. Once a former ski hill, it’s now the only location within Rocky Mountain National Park where sledding is allowed.
Families can bring their own sleds or experience sledding as part of a guided winter tour with Wildside 4×4 Tours or Green Jeep Tours, weather and snow conditions permitting.
A Slower Season, Still Worth the Trip
Winter in Estes Park may be quieter, but it’s rich with opportunity. Whether snowshoeing to a frozen waterfall, enjoying a scenic winter tour, riding a snowcat into the mountains, or sledding with the family, the season invites visitors to slow down and experience Estes Park in a more intentional way.
