Cold Comfort: Ten Things to Do in the Mountains if You Don’t Ski

Though iconic for its world-class ski resorts, Colorado has plenty to offer beyond the slopes. Bundle up the family for sleigh rides and snow tubing, or soak away holiday stress in one of the state’s many hot springs. Meanwhile, thrill-seekers can trade black-diamond runs for ice climbing or snowmobiling to remote backcountry yurts where they’re more likely to see moose than people.

Whatever your preference, consider adding these incredible destinations and unique experiences to this season’s bucket list — no lift lines or expensive ski passes required.

Good Times Adventures
6061 Tiger Road, Breckenridge
Explore the winding backcountry trails of Summit County with Good Times Adventures. After several of its huskies retired this year, a new litter of pups will be running the dog sled trips this season. Hold on tight as the team bounds through the six-mile route, or for even more speed, book a guided snowmobiling tour. These exciting, hands-on experiences offer panoramic views just outside of downtown Breckenridge and are currently available for booking.

Frisco Adventure Park
621 Recreation Way, Frisco
Feel the rush of cold mountain air at Frisco Adventure Park, where groomed lanes send tubers soaring, spinning and sliding with glee. Thanks to the quick carpet lift, one-hour sessions allow for plenty of laps. The attraction is set to open on December 4, while charming sleigh rides from Two Below Zero began on November 22. Hear the mules’ bells jingle as you dash through the scenic property on daytime hot cocoa tours or evening dinner events.

Ice Castles
125 Stephens Way, Silverthorne
339 Irene Avenue, Cripple Creek
Hundreds of thousands of icicles form these frosted fortresses, which offer an enchanting winter experience for all ages. Crawl through color-changing caverns, race down slippery slides and lift your spirits at the coolest bar around. Every shimmering display and intricate ice sculpture creates picture-perfect backdrops. The Ice Castles in Silverthorne and Cripple Creek have yet to announce opening dates, but mark your calendar, as tickets will be released on December 2.

Vail Nordic Center
1775 Sunburst Drive, Vail
In addition to cross-country skiing, this winter destination will soon welcome fat biking on eight miles of its packed trails. Rentals of these bulky bikes are available on site, as are helmets; though the extra-wide tires provide traction and stability, they take some getting used to. Pedal along the powdery paths — or pull on a pair of snowshoes. When you need to warm up, hot drinks and bottomless soup await within the Vail Nordic Center lodge.

C Lazy U Ranch
3640 CO-125, Granby
Plan a luxurious getaway to this all-inclusive dude ranch featuring private cabins, gourmet dining and a wide range of winter activities. Spend afternoons ice skating on the pond, snowmobiling through powder, riding on horseback and sipping cocoa on sleigh rides. While all delightful, no experience is more memorable than the daily jingle: Watch in awe as more than 200 horses trot gracefully from the snowy pasture back to the stable.

Colorado Historic Hot Springs Loop
Multiple locations
Travel through eight of the state’s geothermal destinations on this rejuvenating road trip. Several iconic hot springs appear on the route, and many offer fresh features. Choose from more than fifty pools at the newly renovated Springs Resort in Pagosa Springs or stay at Hotel 1888 at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, which debuted five soothing mineral baths. Old Town Hot Springs in Steamboat Springs and Durango Hot Springs Resort have also seen recent updates.

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
479 Main Avenue, Durango
During the holiday season, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad sparks wonder with its theatrical re-creation of The Polar Express. Children will be captivated by dancing attendants, jolly Saint Nick and illuminated displays along the hour-long route. If you’d prefer a longer excursion, climb aboard the round-trip ride to Cascade Canyon. With views of the icy Animas River and snowcapped San Juans, it’s one of the most scenic train rides in Colorado.

Ouray Ice Park
280 County Road 361, Ouray
The world’s largest human-made ice climbing park spans nearly two miles of the Uncompahgre Gorge in southwest Colorado. More than 150 named routes challenge bold climbers, including beginners looking to learn the ropes. Take an intro course with a local outfitter — or, to be fully immersed in the sport, visit during the annual Ouray Ice Festival. Professional competitions, athlete-led clinics, gear demos and film screenings will take place from January 23 through 25.

Yonder Yurts
302 JCR 41, Walden
Disconnect from your devices and the rest of the world when lodging with Yonder Yurts. During the winter, accessing these nine remote sites within State Forest State Park is an adventure in itself. Plan to cross-country ski, snowshoe or snowmobile to your cozy accommodations, which are up to five miles from the plowed road. Guests can play board games by the toasty wood stove, explore miles of nearby trails and watch for wildlife in the moose capital of Colorado.

Ice Fish Winter Park
Grand County
With giant trout and exciting annual contests, Grand County is well known as one of the state’s most popular places to ice fish. Outings with this local guide service include everything a winter angler needs: rods and bait, a heated shelter, chairs, and warm beverages to ward off the cold. Once your trip lead has drilled down into the ice, simply drop a line and reel ’em in. A feast of fresh-caught trout and northern pike lies just below the surface.