Winter Tips, Gear Checklist, and Local Insight from Estes Park Tour Guides

Snowshoeing in Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most magical winter experiences in Colorado. Snow muffles the world, trails transform into quiet white corridors, and familiar summer destinations like Bear Lake or Bierstadt Lake feel like an entirely different planet. For families, first-time visitors, and anyone who thinks winter is only for skiers—snowshoeing is one of the most accessible, memorable ways to experience the park.

Planning a snowshoeing trip, however, takes a little more preparation than a summer hike. Cold temperatures, short daylight, and rapidly changing mountain conditions demand the right gear, layering system, safety plan, and trail selection. That’s where guided trips can make all the difference.

At Estes Park Tour Guides, we’ve been leading winter tours for almost a decade—helping families, wedding groups, photographers, and first-time snowshoers discover the park during its most underrated season. Whether you’re local to Colorado or visiting for the first time, this guide will help you understand what to expect, what to pack, and how to make your winter adventure safe and enjoyable.

Why Snowshoeing in RMNP Is Worth It

Most visitors never see Rocky Mountain National Park in winter—yet it offers some of the best conditions for adventure:

• Far fewer crowds

• Wildlife at lower elevations

• Quiet, peaceful landscapes

• Easier navigation compared to deep backcountry skiing

• Family-friendly activity that doesn’t require ski skills or lift tickets

Snowshoeing doesn’t require speed, special athletic ability, or expensive gear. If you can walk, you can snowshoe—with the right guidance and trail selection.

What Makes a Guided Snowshoe Trip Different

A good winter guide does more than lead the way. On every snowshoeing experience we provide:

• Snowshoes and poles (included in trips)

• Professional local guides with winter and avalanche training

• Trail selection based on conditions and group ability

• Pace and route customized for kids, seniors, or mixed skill levels

• Safety planning and weather monitoring

• Education on wildlife, ecology, and local history

• Optional photography support

We also take the guesswork out of winter preparation—no need to overpack or miss something critical.

Recommended Gear for Snowshoeing in RMNP

Here is a simple, no-guesswork packing list for winter tours. It intentionally mirrors our summer list so guests don’t overthink it.

Clothing & Layers

• Waterproof insulated boots

• Wool or synthetic socks

• Insulated pants (no jeans)

• Base layers (no cotton)

• Fleece or mid-layer

• Insulated jacket

• Waterproof outer shell

• Winter hat

• Neck gaiter or buff

• Insulated gloves or mittens

• Optional: hand warmers, sunglasses/goggles

Essentials

• Small backpack

• 32oz water bottle (water freezes slower than bladders)

• Personal medications

• Snacks

• Camera / phone with battery backup (cold drains power quickly)

For guests booking with us, snowshoes and trekking poles are included—we provide the equipment, you provide warm layers and curiosity.

Winter Safety: What Most Visitors Don’t Know

Winter in Rocky Mountain National Park is beautiful but real. Even short hikes can turn dangerous without preparation. Here are the factors we plan around every single day:

• Altitude makes cold feel colder

• Windchill dramatically affects exposed terrain

• Sun reflects off snow and burns skin quickly

• Weather changes fast, especially above treeline

• Trail markers can be buried under snow

• Deep snow can hide rocks, streams, and hazards

• Avalanche terrain exists—and must be avoided

A guided experience removes that risk—from route selection to timing to emergency preparation. Safety is our first priority, always.

Best Snowshoe Trails in Rocky Mountain National Park

You’ll find detailed trail guides everywhere online, but here are a few universally family-friendly favorites we often use:

• Bear Lake Loop – flat, scenic, good for first-timers

• Nymph & Dream Lake – short elevation but stunning alpine payoff

• Hidden Valley – great for kids, sledding nearby

• Sprague Lake – highly accessible option for all ages

Trail selection always depends on wind, snowpack, avalanche conditions, and group ability. Nothing is “one size fits all.”

How to Prepare for a Guided Winter Adventure

Booking a snowshoe tour is simple, but showing up ready makes the entire experience better.

Here’s what to do before your trip:

• Drink extra water the day before (altitude + dry air)

• Eat a solid warm meal before your tour

• Dress in layers you can add/remove

• Bring a full water bottle

• Arrive on time so we can adjust gear and sizing

• Check the forecast—but know it can change

And something most visitors don’t realize:
Winter tours start later than summer tours because we don’t need to beat heat or summer crowds. That means no 5:30am call times unless you want sunrise.

Snowshoeing With Kids and Families

Snowshoeing is extremely kid-friendly when paced correctly. We’ve taken children as young as 4 and grandparents in their 70s safely through winter trails. The key is:

• A shorter route

• More breaks

• More snacks

• Proper layering

• A sense of adventure over speed

And yes—just like our other tours—kids under 16 still tour free. We mean it when we say we believe in getting the next generation outdoors.

Who Snowshoeing Is Perfect For

• Families visiting Estes Park in winter

• Non-skiers who still want a snowy adventure

• Photographers who want winter landscapes

• Groups and wedding parties

• Travelers avoiding resort crowds and lift prices

• People who enjoy hiking and want to try something new

• Corporate and retreat groups bonding in nature

If you like hiking, you will love snowshoeing—especially with someone guiding the logistics.

The Bottom Line

Snowshoeing in Rocky Mountain National Park makes winter feel accessible, exciting, and unforgettable. With a professional guide, the right layers, and a willingness to breathe in cold alpine air, you’ll discover one of the most peaceful versions of RMNP—and create memories that summer crowds will never experience.

Whether you’re planning your first snowshoe trip or looking for a family-friendly outdoor adventure that doesn’t require ski passes or expensive gear, Estes Park Tour Guides is here to make winter easy, safe, and meaningful.

Ready for your winter adventure?

Book your snowshoeing experience or ask questions anytime at www.estesparktourguides.com.