Sign In
Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing
Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing
woman and dog snowshoeing

​​​​​​Top 5 State Parks Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing Trails​

Snow-packed paths don’t have to mean the end of outdoor recreation at our State Parks! Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing replace summer hikes and nature walks as the snow falls in the high country. Many Colorado State Parks offer groomed trails and exciting terrain for snow sports, so pack your gear and head to the parks!

While many parks offer excellent winter recreation opportunities, we’ve compiled our top five to get you started!

​​Got Snow?

All parks with level hiking trails are usually suitable for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing as long as there's adequate snow coverage. Park staff can give you best bets on trails and terrain for particular activities. Contact the park​ of your choice directly or check the conditions on individual parks' web pages​ before heading out. Some parks, like Sylvan Lake​, even rent out snowshoes to visitors!​​

Winter Safety

Before you begin your latest winter adventure, be sure you're prepared for the elements and familiar with important safety​ measures​.​


​More Outdoor Recreation Information

Mountain Biking, Road Biking, and Family Biking suggestions.​​​Buy A parks pass..Find/Visit a State Park.
​​ ​​​​​​


5. Mueller State Park

Snowshoer trio photo - having fun


With abundant wildlife and over 5,000 gorgeous acres, Mueller never fails to amaze​. ​For a nice long trip, make use of their excellent winter camping facilities. There are ideal trails for each level at Mueller; their variable terrain includes difficult hills, relaxing routes and short beginner trails. ​Beginners might start out on ​2.2 mile Campground trail, while advanced skiers and snowshoers will love the challenge of 7 mile long Cheesman Ranch trail​


​4. State Forest State Park​

Snowshoer, trees and mountains in background


Take in the stunning snow-dusted pines and white-capped peaks at State Forest! Begin your trek right from the Moose Visitor Center, where there is a 6-mile groomed trail that runs along the banks of the Michigan River. Other trails in the park offer intermediate and strenuous routes, and Gould Loop, Grass Creek and The Loops Trails are groomed when conditions allow! 


3. Vega State Park 

Athletic man cross-country skiiing.


​Vega is a high-mountain park​ at 8,000 feet in elevation, so there’s an excellent chance of abundant snow! The park offers a new 2.3- mile cross-country ski trail. Variable terrain makes these loops fun for the whole family. The trails are groomed when conditions allow.


2. Pearl Lake State Park 

adventurer cross-country skiing; mountains, trees, whispy clouds


For a short and serene trip on skis or snowshoes, head to Pearl Lake​. Views of the snow-covered lake and nearby Farewell Mountain will put any mind at ease, and the secluded park offers a mile-long loop of quiet escape. For a longer trek, branch off to Forest Service Coulton Creek Trail, which spreads to about six miles each way.  


1. ​Steamboat Lake State Park

Two people skiing as it snows


​Steamboat is a well-known hub for winter recreation, and for good reason! The park offers peaceful trails for those on cross-country skis and snowshoes. There are even ten camper cabins perfect for transforming a trek into a multi-day adventure! Placer Cove and the Sunrise Vista Campground are zoned "non-motorized" in winter and feature a network of groomed ski trails. For more information on Steamboat’s winter activities, download the Winter Recreation Guide​

​​​