While Estes Park is a winter wonderland full of snowy adventures, you may be surprised to learn that there’s no downhill skiing directly in town. But don’t hang up your skis just yet! Estes Park serves as the perfect home base for accessing some of Colorado’s top ski destinations, along with thrilling backcountry skiing opportunities in Rocky Mountain National Park. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your Estes Park skiing adventure.
Nearby Ski Resorts for Downhill Skiing
Just a short drive from Estes Park, you’ll find some excellent ski resorts to satisfy your powder cravings:
- Eldora Mountain Resort (45 minutes away) – Located just outside Nederland, Eldora is the closest ski resort to Estes Park. With over 680 acres of skiable terrain, it’s perfect for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Plus, Eldora boasts a fantastic Nordic center for cross-country skiing fans.
- Winter Park Resort (1.5 hours away) – A Colorado favorite, Winter Park offers over 3,000 acres of ski terrain, from groomed runs to tree skiing and mogul fields. It’s a great day trip for skiers looking for variety and big-mountain thrills.
- Loveland Ski Area (1.5 hours away) – Known for its high-altitude slopes and affordable lift tickets, Loveland is ideal for skiers looking for less crowded runs and stunning mountain views.
- Copper Mountain (2 hours away) – With naturally divided terrain for all skill levels, Copper Mountain is a fantastic destination for families and advanced skiers alike.
Backcountry Skiing in Rocky Mountain National Park
For experienced adventurers and true daredevils, Rocky Mountain National Park offers some of Colorado’s best backcountry skiing. The park’s steep terrain, deep snow, and breathtaking alpine scenery make it a dream destination for those seeking powdery solitude.
Popular backcountry routes include:
- Hidden Valley: Once a ski area, Hidden Valley is now a hub for backcountry enthusiasts with wide-open terrain and moderate runs.
- Dragon’s Tail Couloir: Located on Hallett Peak, this steep and challenging line is perfect for advanced skiers looking for adrenaline-pumping descents.
- Tyndall Glacier: A scenic and exhilarating route offering glacial skiing for those ready to earn their turns.
Stay at Rocky Mountain Resorts
Now that you know the best Estes Park skiing spots, Rocky Mountain Resorts is the ideal choice for lodging in the area after enjoying a day of adventure. We offer a variety of accommodations ranging from cozy cabins and cottages to large and spacious vacation homes. In addition, guests enjoy the nightlife of downtown Estes Park and are less than a 10-minute drive from all that Rocky Mountain National Park has to offer. You truly have the best access to must-do Estes Park activities with a stay at Rocky Mountain Resorts! Book with us today.
