Winter in Colorado is a playground for groups. From attending outdoor concerts in Aspen and Snowmass with parkas on and riding the gondola to a tasty dinner at on mountain to something more adventurous like snowmobile tours, snowshoeing, or dogsleding in Winter Park, there is something for all types of attendees.
Here is a sampling of extraordinary things to do during winter in Colorado.
Skiing & Snowboarding – Colorado has 32 ski resorts, so there are plenty of options sprinkled around the state. Some are right in a town, while others require a shuttle ride to access. Some have more meeting and event space (including conference centers like in Keystone and Telluride) than others. Also, make it a point to see what activities are available at what price points, explore the personalities of the ski towns you are considering (they are all very different), and consider what attendees and guests who don’t ski can do while others are occupied on the slopes.
Snowcat Skiing & Heli-Skiing – These are activities for groups that are full of adventure seekers, or they can be on a menu of activities to choose from on incentive trips. For people who are really into skiing and snowboarding, snowcat skiing and heli-sking are often bucket-list items. Some resorts like Monarch Mountain near Buena Vista has snowcat skiing on-site, while Crested Butte has an outfitter that provides a luxury snowcat ride from downtown to Lake Irwin for outstanding powder stashes.
Nordic Skiing – Also known as cross-country skiing, this type of skiing can be more appealing to attendees who are a little frightened at the prospect of skiing down mountains and riding chairlifts. Plus, it’s fun and terrific exercise. Two of the best options for Nordic skiing, lodging and meeting space are Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa and Snow Mountain Ranch. There are easy-to-follow trails, instructors, and shops with ski rentals and all sorts of gear and clothing. Many Colorado mountain towns such as Frisco and Breckenridge have quality Nordic centers that can assist with lessons and guided outings.