Enjoy your favorite trails year-round by strapping on some snowshoes
National Park Service/Courtesy photo
In the early days of Grand County, snowshoeing was a means of survival and mobility during winter. Now, snowshoeing is a perfect way to enjoy the outdoors while trails are blanketed in snow from December until mid-May.
Snowshoeing can be an easy activity that offers visitors a fun way to see magnificent winter landscapes, and it offers a less-crowded experience compared to summertime activity on the same trails.
All it takes is a little preparation to enjoy the enchanting wonders of Grand County in the wintertime.
Granby Ranch offers guided snowshoe tours during winter, and the package includes a lift ride to the top of the mountain, snowshoes and poles. The guided snowshoe package is $54, and tours are offered from 1-3 p.m. daily. In addition to these guided tours, Granby Ranch offers tickets to ride the lift and access trails on East Peak for $20, or snowshoers can purchase the golf course trail pass, which is $29 for adults and $15 for juniors.
Rocky Mountain National Park plans to have ranger-led snowshoe walks on the west side of the park this winter from Jan. 4 to March 30. These walks will take place beginning at 1 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday.
Reservations are required for these ranger-led programs since space is limited to 20 people per program. The National Park Service warns that snowshoe spots fill up quickly, especially when the forecast is warm and sunny, and recomends reserving a spot early. To reserve a spot in the west side snowshoe program, call 970-586-1513. Reservations are taken up to seven days in advance of the scheduled program.
Check out the park’s website and social media for more details on the snowshoe program.
For anyone who wants to head out on their own adventure, many locations across Grand County offer snowshoe rentals. The Grand County Library District offers free snowshoe checkouts for those who are interested in giving the activity a try without committing to purchasing the equipment. All it takes is a library card.
Preparing for snowshoeing is similar to other wintertime activities, such as skiing or snowboarding. Before heading out on the trails, be sure to come prepared with plenty of warm layers. Waterproof and water-repellent clothing are another must for staying warm and dry.
Safety is your responsibility. Here is what you should know before you go:
- Know your limits
- Bring plenty of water and snacks
- Anticipate weather conditions by wearing layers
- Invest in waterproof hiking boots or snow boots
- Wear sunscreen and sunglasses
- Check avalanche conditions at Avalanche.state.co.us
- Brush up on your route-finding skills, as signs and trails can become buried under snow
- Make sure your vehicle is winter ready and check road conditions
- Keep your distance from wildlife
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