If you ask any winter sports enthusiast, there’s a good chance they’ll tell you cross-country skiing is among the most immersive things to do to enjoy the great outdoors. Although downhill skiing usually takes center stage in the Centennial State, Colorado offers excellent cross-country skiing opportunities, including around Estes Park. The best part is that most of our skiing areas are beginner to intermediate level, so you don’t have to worry about being an expert. To help you find the best spots, the Fall River Village Resort team put together a list of nearby places that won’t disappoint.

Trail Ridge Road

It’s no secret that Trail Ridge Road is closed to automobiles in the winter, but some people may not know that you can still explore it amid a beautiful blanket of snow. And because cars aren’t allowed, you can safely navigate this iconic road from over 10,000 feet. Patrons will enjoy the alpine vantage points along the road, which offer outstanding winter views of Hidden Valley and Horseshoe Park.

Sprague Lake Loop

The Sprague Lake Loop is another excellent Estes Park cross-country skiing trail for beginners. This three-mile loop is the primary route, but you can also go around the lake. With minimal incline, a distinct pathway, and beautiful scenery, it’s no surprise that the Sprague Lake Loop is popular among newbies and families with children.

Bear Lake

Bear Lake is a beloved summer hike that transforms into a winter wonderland for those eager to experience Colorado cross-country skiing. The flat trail circling the lake is an excellent starting point, branching out to other scenic backcountry lakes like Nymph Lake, Emerald Lake, and Dream Lake.

Glacier Gorge

Explore the Glacier Gorge trails accessed through Bear Lake and the Glacier Gorge Trailhead for more rugged cross-country skiing. The journey to Mills Lake via Glacier Gorge is spectacular and moderately easy in terms of elevation gain.

Premier Lodging in Estes Park, Colorado

Now that you have a few places in mind to create a memorable Colorado cross-country skiing experience, we invite you to make yourself at home at Fall River Village Resort. We have a wide selection of vacation rentals offering easy access to all the popular outdoor winter adventure spots and Downtown Estes Park, so you’ll never have to worry about missing out on anything. From condos to vacation homes, we have it all! To find out more or make reservations, please visit us online today!