Snowshoeing in Rocky Mountain National Park

Snowshoeing in RMNP

NPS

Go Snowshoeing 

Ever thought how fun it would be to hike in the snow? Consider snowshoeing! It's as easy as strapping snowshoes on your boots and grabbing a couple of poles. No training is necessary and if you can hike, you can snowshoe.

Most park trails can be explored with snowshoes. A few pieces of equipment are essential: you will need a pair of snowshoes and waterproof boots. Poles are helpful for maintaining balance, but optional. Additional equipment that is essential include a waterproof/wind proof jacket, hat, gloves, and sunglasses or goggles to help protect your eyes from the sun, snow and wind.
 

Safety Tips for Planning a Snowshoe Trip in Rocky Mountain National Park

Before heading out on an backcountry winter trip, make sure that you are avalanche aware. We recommend to start by checking with the Colorado Avalanche Information Center (https://avalanche.state.co.us/) for the current avalanche forecast, do your research to understand what your desired trail is like, and make sure you are prepared for winter recreation in the park before heading out.

Please be aware that travel across and under steep slopes is not advised unless all members of your party have the education and experience to make informed decisions about traveling in avalanche terrain. 

Some important things to keep in mind include:

• Avalanches are possible when you have snow on a slope steeper than about 30 degrees.

• Most avalanches happen during or soon after a big snowstorm, period of strong winds, or during a thaw (rapid increase in temperature).

• Signs of higher avalanche danger include recent avalanches, cracking in the snow, and audible collapsing. Avoid traveling on or under similar slopes.

An avalanche could happen on any steep slope in the Rocky Mountains. They can release on their own or be triggered by the movement of a backcountry skier, snowshoer, or even wildlife. When hiking in low-elevation areas, it is always important to be paying attention to movement on the slopes above you. An avalanche can travel far. 

What If I Don't Have My Own Snowshoes?

Don't have your own equipment for playing in the snow? The communities of Estes Park and Grand Lake have shops where winter recreation equipment, including snowshoes, cross-country skis, poles, boots, sleds, tubes, saucers, gaiters, and traction devices can be rented or purchased. 

Details

Activity

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is a fun activity that all ages can enjoy! Just strap on a set of snowshoes over your waterproof boots and you are ready to hit the trails. 

From late October to early June, many high-elevation trails in Rocky are covered with snow. You can enjoy snowshoeing on both the east and west sides of the park.

Pets Allowed

No

Pets are not allowed on any trails in Rocky Mountain National Park

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Reservations

No

Season

Winter

Time of Day

Day

Accessibility Information

During the winter and spring seasons, many trails in Rocky Mountain National Park are covered with deep snow. To hike to places like around Coyote Valley, Alberta Falls, and Mills Lake you will need to wear snowshoes or traction devices on the bottom of your boots. Be prepared for winter conditions and cold weather.