From the blog

5 Must-Do Scenic Winter Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park

People hiking in the beautiful Rocky Mountains in winter. Taken at Dream Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado.

Estes Park is home to miles of splendid beauty in Colorado. Majestic mountains, countless towering alpine trees, and other serene sights reside there. In the summer, you’re surrounded by this vibrant greenery when exploring, but as winter rolls around, the area glows as the snow begins to fall. Hiking is one of the must-do winter activities in Estes Park, especially in Rocky Mountain National Park. So, get ready for a fantastic adventure in the snow with the best winter hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park!

The Pool

Take on the Fern Lake Trailhead this winter and discover the unique beauty of The Pool. This area stands out during this time of year! The turbulent water pocket freezes over, and you’ll see beautiful sights of frozen waterfalls while hiking.

Upper Beaver Meadows

Amazing sights of Longs Peak and the Continental divide can be seen when hiking through Upper Beaver Meadows. This is a moderate hike with some elevation gain, but worth the journey for the majestic view once you reach the mountains covered in snow.

Sky Pond

Sky Pond is a beautiful sight throughout the year! But once it’s blanketed with snow, it’s an even more magical area within the park. You can access Sky Pond through the Glacier Gorge Trailhead. You’ll also see Alberta Falls and Timberline Falls when hiking to the frozen blue waters.  

Odessa Lake

Odessa Lake is one of the more challenging winter hikes and typically needs to be explored with snowshoes. The journey up contains beautiful sights of frozen waterfalls, lakes, and aspen groves.

Calypso Cascades

Calypso Cascades is one of the most underrated spots in Rocky Mountain National Park! This scenic area can be accessed through Wild Basin Trailhead. During wintertime, the typical rushing waters freeze over the towering rocks. It’s one of the unique sights to see during the winter, so make sure to have your camera handy!

Stay at Brynwood on the River

Get ready to extend your winter getaway in Estes Park with our Stay ‘n’ Play special. We are offering a FREE third night if you book two nights with us. That’s a whole extra day to take on the winter hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park or take it easy in Estes Park!

Located on five acres of natural beauty in the heart of Estes Park, most of our rentals rest on the banks of the Big Thompson River, bringing Mother Nature to your front door. Enjoy cabins with private hot tubs, fireplaces, and river or mountain views for a romantic stay in Estes Park. Plus, feel right at home with modern features such as a full kitchen or kitchenette, a dining area, and free Wi-Fi.

Book your stay with us today!

Photo of Cass Tooke.
Cass is a writer who focuses on travel, outdoor fun, and local culture. When not working, she enjoys watching movies, listening to her record collection, and biking with her boyfriend, Ryan. She also dreams of earning that Paul Hollywood handshake and making it on the Great British Baking Show one day.

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