To put it simply, winter in Colorado is unlike any other. Home to some of the world’s top destinations when it comes to jaw-dropping landscapes and outdoor recreation, as well as exciting cities rich in history and culture, there’s a reason the Centennial State is a dream destination for so many. Winter shines a little brighter as bluebird skies and crisp powder provide opportunities for countless adventures to be had. On this seven-day itinerary, exploration abounds—from National Parks and interactive art installations to brewery tours and sleigh rides. Whether seeking adrenaline or relaxation, you’ll find immersive experiences and lifelong memories.
Itinerary
PLAN YOUR TRIP![Never Summer Nordic](https://afar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/375bea3/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1200x637+0+167/resize/1440x764!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fafar-media-production-web.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F42%2Fe5%2F63b9a3b44691888783e24c5b181b%2Fnever-summer-nordic.jpg)
Wintertime blankets Never Summer Nordic yurts
Never Summer Nordic
Days 1-2Northern Colorado
Continue your trip northwest to Colorado State Forest State Park in Gould.. After your first night resting up in the wilderness, start day two with a cross-country ski jaunt on the groomed Gould Loop Trail.
![Downtown Fort Collins in December](https://afar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/2296897/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1014x538+93+0/resize/1440x764!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fafar-media-production-web.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F93%2Fd2%2F4ae9947f43059e8d29d7de76cb6a%2Ffortcollins.jpg)
Downtown Fort Collins in December
Visit Colorado
Day 3Fort Collins
Before you raise a glass, check into The Elizabeth Hotel in the heart of Old Town and take advantage of their Instrument Lending Library and in-room record players. Then, venture out for an Old Town brewery tour in the heart of Fort Collins. Head over to the family-owned Gilded Goat for award-winning brews crafted on-site, followed by a trip to Equinox where its 18 taps are kept filled with an ever-changing line of offerings. Once you’ve whet your whistle, head to the Museum of Art Fort Collins to explore a diverse series of contemporary art exhibitions that aim to connect you with art, artists, and community.
![The 16th Street Mall](https://afar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/84e10e9/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1200x637+0+288/resize/1440x764!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fafar-media-production-web.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F5a%2F5a%2F9de28f154964811bf0e6a8d2682d%2Fericfrancis-unsplash.jpg)
Located in the heart of Downtown Denver, the 16th Street Mall is always bustling
Eric Francis/Unsplash
Day 4Fort Collins to Denver
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, make your way to The Fort in Morrison for signature Colorado cuisine such as buffalo tenderloin and elk medallions served in a historic adobe home. From there, head to Denver’s River North Art District for a night at The Ramble Hotel, designed to resemble the French Salons of the 17th century.
![Meow Wolf Denver](https://afar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/714fb21/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1200x637+0+57/resize/1440x764!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fafar-media-production-web.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2F08%2Ff8%2Fabc4858c45be9b7ab2172b4ead7b%2Fmeowwolf.jpg)
An immersive installation welcomes visitors at Meow Wolf Denver
Colorado.com
Day 5Denver to Keystone
After a few hours traversing Meow Wolf’s trippy installations, head west to shred a little powder. Skiers can take to the slopes with night skiing at Keystone, where the lights come on after sunset, ensuring visitors the “longest ski day in Colorado.” Those after low-key adventure can tuck into warm blankets for a sleigh ride under the stars at 4 Eagle Ranch, followed by an authentic ranch dinner and live music. Hang your hat after a long day at one of the condos at River Run Village for a two-night stay.
![Loveland Ski Area](https://afar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/dd8dcce/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1200x637+0+82/resize/1440x764!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fafar-media-production-web.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fc4%2Fe5%2Fd5c0be5246afbc80120d02b8f895%2Floveland-22-scaled.jpg)
Skiers prepare for backcountry turns with Loveland Ski Area
Loveland Ski Area
Day 6Resort to Backcountry Skiing
Intermediate and expert-level skiers and snowboarders can venture to the Loveland Ski Area for a guided backcountry trip by snowcat. Full-day trips in Dry Gulch make the 580 acres of open-bowl and tree skiing reachable and come complete with lunch, lift ticket to access the snowcat, and plenty of wide-open space.
![Snow tubing in Colorado](https://afar.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/4e181cc/2147483647/strip/true/crop/1200x637+0+148/resize/1440x764!/quality/90/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fafar-media-production-web.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fbrightspot%2Fa6%2Fb1%2F135857604f9d95e6c9a17db16ebc%2Ffrasertubinghill.jpg)
Enjoy some fun for the whole family at Fraser Tubing Hill
Yelp