Colorado Springs Winter: Magical Events, Adventures, & Experiences

The first time I experienced a Colorado Springs winter, I couldn’t believe how mild it was. Coming from Chicago, I was used to gray skies, slushy streets, and that kind of “bone-chilling” cold that cuts right through you.

But Colorado was a delightful surprise. The air’s lighter, the snow sparkles, and the sun shows up almost every single day (no, really!).

I learned that the locals here don’t dread winter, they celebrate it. People here ski, hike, soak in hot springs, and make the cold feel like part of the fun.

Now, after exploring this city through every season for 5+ years, winter has become one of my favorites. In this guide, you’ll find the best winter activities, the most magical Christmas events, cozy cafès, and local tips to make the most of your trip to Colorado Springs in Winter.

So grab your gloves (and maybe some tea), and let’s dive in.

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Colorado Springs Winter: Magical Events, Adventures, & Experiences

11 Amazing Colorado Springs Winter & Christmas Events (Worth Going To!)

One of the things I love most about Colorado Springs in winter is how the city actually gets excited for the season. People here don’t hide from the cold, they actually lean into it. Something I’ve had to learn to do.

It’s nice to see a town where people head out to celebrate everything this time of year brings. I’m excited to share all of my favorite events in my home town with you!

So if you’re planning a trip or just looking for something new to do close to home, these are some of my favorite winter and Christmas events that always make the colder months feel a little more magical.

1. Downtown Festival of Lights Parade

Okay, so this parade kicks off December in the best way!

The City Of Colorado Springs puts together a downtown Festival Of Lights Parade for the Community.

Usually, I like to find a spot on Tejon Street, bundled up with a warm drink, and watch the floats go by. It’s one of those nights that makes the whole city feel connected.

This is a great event to go with friends and family, but make sure to be bundled because it gets a little chilly!

2. Ice Skating in Acacia Park

Now, something I am still learning to do. Every winter, Acacia Park turns into a little snow globe moment right in the middle of downtown. In the center of the city park, they create an open-air ice skating ring.

It’s fun to see everyone having fun! There is a small ticket price involved at the door but it makes for a fun friend date!

3. Royal Gorge Santa Express Train

This is probably my favorite tours I’ve ever experienced in southern Colorado. In Cañon City, you’ll find The Royal Gorge, this deep canyon in the mountains, and at the bottom by the river, this is where this train ride is located.

When you buy a ticket for the Royal Gorge Santa Express Train, you sip hot cocoa while the train glides through snow-covered canyons and Christmas music plays in the background.

I love Christmas and the feeling of being in a cheesy Hallmark movie, so if that’s your thing too, absolutely recommend this one for you and your family!

If you’re wondering whether this train experience is worth it, I wrote an in-depth guide about it here!

4. Bridge of Lights at Royal Gorge Bridge & Park

Walking across the Royal Gorge Bridge surrounded by thousands of lights feels surreal. So the train is located at the bottom of the canyon, but if you go to the top of it, this is where you’ll find the bridge.

When you purchase a ticket, you can do a handful of things on the bridge, walking across being one of them. You can also do a scenic gondola tour that slowly gets you from one side to the other.

It can get COLD so please make sure you really bundle up for this one because you’ll catch some wind while you’re up there!

5. Electric Safari at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

So this one is so fun for a date or bringing your family too. The local zoo, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, brings their place to life with a lot of lights.

Picture twinkling lights, glowing animal displays, and the city of Colorado Springs sparkling below you. The view of the city lights are incredible since the zoo sits on the side of the mountain.

I always make sure to go at least once a season since it’s cozy, fun, and your ticket helps support wildlife conservation. Since the whole zoo is uphill, you may actually warm up while roaming around. Make sure to buy your ticket at the entrance.

6. Victorian Christmas at Miramont Castle

This one is really unique!

This is a Victorian Castle in downtown Manitou Springs where you walk through decorated rooms decorated for Christmas. It’s calm, cozy, and a little bit magical—especially if you stay for afternoon tea.

7. Manitou Springs Christmas Parade

Manitou Springs also puts together a small Christmas Parade. Locals come out and put together homemade floats, fun Christmas music, and lights.

It’s a smaller version of the bigger downtown Colorado Springs parade, but Manitou Springs has a lot of shops there that walking around is something you can do right before or after.

8. Cripple Creek Ice Festival & Castles

If you’ve never seen giant ice sculptures up close, this is worth the short drive to Cripple Creek. This is Ice Castles and Festival that’s become quite popular online so a lot of people from Colorado come to see them.

9. Christmas Lights at The Broadmoor Hotel

This is another one of those events that are always worth adding to your Colorado itinerary. Even if you’re not staying there, walking around The Broadmoor at night is a must.

The Broadmoor Hotel put up lights that light up the entire walking area. The lake reflects all the twinkling lights, and everything just feels magical.

The Broadmoor Hotel is already beautiful so it’s honestly a really nice experience. I usually grab a drink, wander the outdoor paths by the lake, and just take it all in.

10. Manitou Springs Fruitcake Toss

It’s exactly what it sounds like, people competing to throw fruitcakes as far as possible. In Manitou Springs, every year, they host a fruitcake toss.

It’s ridiculous and hilarious and somehow perfectly fits Manitou’s personality. I can’t help but laugh every time I go.

11. Christmas at Flying W Ranch

If you want a cozy and fun way to wrap up the holiday season, this is it. Flying W Ranch is an outdoor chuckwagon show and dinner. They are tucked behind some red rocks that I would say are an extension to Garden of the Gods.

Cowboy carols, hearty food, and a warm fire, it’s that simple mix of comfort and tradition that makes you slow down and appreciate the moment.

I’d say, seeing one of these shows is a nice relaxing event to attend.

Winter Outdoor Adventures in Colorado Springs

After the holidays wind down, I always find myself craving fresh air again.

The best part about Colorado Springs in Winter is that the adventure doesn’t stop when the temperatures drop like in other states.

With plenty of sunshine and light snow, you can still hike, explore, and take in all those stunning mountain views, you just have to make sure you’re dressed appropriately. 

Here are a few of my favorite spots to get outside when the city slows down and the trails get quiet.

Garden of the Gods in Winter

No matter how many times I visit, Garden of the Gods in the Winter always feels absolutely magical after a snowfall.

The contrast of white snow against the deep red rocks never gets old.

One time, I went to the famoust Balanced Rock during a winter storm, and I SWEAR the entire experience felt like a movie. The snow was falling gently and since it was sunny outside, it sparked in the light. I had my parents and Phil with me at the time and felt so incredibly grateful to have experienced that with them!

I like to go early in the morning when the park is calm and the sunlight catches on the cliffs—it’s one of the most peaceful winter walks in town. Also, a lot less crowds!

Pikes Peak (America’s Mountain)

Driving up Pikes Peak in the Winter is a whole different experience. On a clear day, the views stretch forever, and you’ll catch that golden winter light hitting the snow-covered pines.

Just check road conditions before heading up because weather can change fast up there and you may not always be able to make it to the top.

Cheyenne Mountain State Park

When I need a quiet reset, I head to Cheyenne Mountain State Park. Just west of town, this area is filled with tons of hiking trails and outdoor spots.

It’s one of those places where you can hike through rolling hills, spot deer in the distance, and still see the city skyline far below. The trails stay open year-round, and the trails are really calm.

It’s a nice contrast to the busy tourists in the Summertime.

Scenic Snowshoeing & Hiking Trails

For me, winter hikes are all about quiet and stillness. I love that anytime you go hiking in the winter, the trails are incredibly quiet.

I think part of it has to do with the sound absorption from the snow and also the less number of tourists during this season.

If you can dress warmly, it’s not that bad and actually quite nice to walk around.

Some of my go-tos are Ute Valley Park, Red Rock Canyon Open Space, and Palmer Park, they’re close to town but still give you that “lost in nature” feeling. Bring shoe spikes if it’s icy!

The Most Magical Winter Attractions & Tours

If there’s one thing I’ve learned living here, it’s that locals in Colorado Springs know how to embrace winter. Locals don’t slow down when the temperatures drop, they truly just find new ways to enjoy the season.

From frozen waterfalls to mountain railways, these are a few of my favorite winter attractions and tours that make this time of year so special.

Broadmoor Seven Falls

This is another Broadmoor favorites of mine: The Broadmoor Seven Falls. It’s a paid attraction where you walk up a 1-mile canyon – don’t worry it’s paved – until you reach the “Seven Falls”. It’s a seven cascading waterfall.

The sound of rushing water, the frozen edges of the cliffs, the quiet of the canyon, it’s actually incredibly stunning.

They have some stairs you can take all the way to the top if they’re not closed and there are a couple more hiking trails too. Make sure to check their online website for winter hours though! You can buy your tickets on their website!

Pikes Peak Scenic Jeep Tour (w/ Heated Seats!)

What I love about this jeep tour is that it not has heated seats, but it takes you to the top of pikes peak if weather allows. The guide is very kind and has a lot of knowledge on the history of the area. It also takes you to Garden of the Gods. It’s like 2 tours in one.

Pikes Peak Cog Railway (#1 Winter Train Ride In The U.S.)

So on January 2025, The Pikes Peak Cog Railway was named the #1 Winter Train in the U.S.

If hiking or driving to the summit of Pikes Peak isn’t in the cards for whatever reason, the Pikes Peak Cog Railway is the most scenic & coziest way to reach the top of Pikes Peak Mountain.

The inside is heated and the scenic ride up the mountain never gets old. Watching the landscape change through the window is so cool!

Cave of the Winds Mountain Park

This one’s a classic, and it’s open year-round. It’s a mountain park right in Colorado Springs, right off of HWY 24 going into Woodland Park. They have cave tours, zip-lining, swing that throws you into the air called: The TERROR-dactyl.

I love touring the caves when it’s cold outside, the temperature stay steady & mostly consistent underground, and it feels like a secret little world below the mountains.

The lights reflecting off the limestone make it even dreamier in winter.

Manitou Cliff Dwellings

Another really cool place to explore in town are the Manitou Cliff Dwellings and its museum.

Keep in mind, the rooms have been moved from its original location, but have been preserved for educational purposes. You can walk between the walls and a get a real feel of how it was like to live back then.

It’s one of those spots that slows you down and makes you appreciate the deep history of this area.

North Pole Colorado Santa’s Workshop

I don’t care how old you are—this place is pure joy! This is an outdoor amusement park that sits just outside town near the base of Pikes Peak, and visiting during the holidays is so much fun!

There’s all the normal amusement park rides you think of when you think amusement park. It’s open all year round, all seasons, and very cute.

If you’re lucky, it’ll start snowing and it really feels so magical!

Royal Gorge Scenic Winter Train (Another Scenic Train Ride!)

While this one is not technically in the city of Colorado Springs, I had to include this one because it’s a common one that people who live in Colorado Springs like to experience every year during the winter season.

Drive down an hour south to Cañon City and ride the Royal Gorge Train. They keep it warm inside, serve food, but honestly the views make it SO worth it. Trust me, it’s a local favorite for a reason!

Indoor Experiences: Best Museums & Shopping

As much as I love being outdoors, sometimes the cold catches up with me and I just need a warm, cozy place to wander, indoors.

That’s one of my favorite things about Colorado Springs in winter, there are so many spots where you can slow down, learn something new, or just get lost in a good exhibit for an hour or two.

Here are a few of my go-tos when I’m craving a slower kind of day indoors:

The Broadmoor Hotel

You don’t have to stay overnight at the Broadmoor to pay a visit to it.

I will say though, it is worth a visit just to walk through. I love grabbing tea or eating one of my absolute favorite pastries (called: “The Julie”) at the hotel café, then wandering the halls to look at the local artwork and historic photos.

The artwork on the walls are absolutely amazing, full of detail and color!! During winter, it feels especially charming with the lights reflecting off the lake and the smell of pine in the air. It’s one of my favorite places to go.

U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum

If you know me, you know that I love a good museum. The Olympic & Paralympic museum always leaves me inspired!

Every time I go, I walk out feeling proud to call this little city home. I’m glad to see my home town shining a light on these athletes. 

Space Foundation Discovery Center

If you’re a space nerd (like me), this one’s a must. It’s small, but there’s something so cool about learning how local scientists and engineers are shaping the future of space travel. Or at least, go to a fun space museum, I mean who doesn’t like that right?

It’s a another great option for those windy winter afternoons. I love to bring my little nephews here and they have a blast too!

Art, Galleries, and Local Shops

Old Colorado City and Manitou Springs are 2 little sections within Colorado Springs where I love to walk around and just explore.

Both towns have art galleries, vintage stores, and local boutiques that are perfect for slow browsing. While yes you’d have to walk outside to get from store to store, it’s nice to warm up between those stops.

It’s the kind of easy, feel-good day where you can just give yourself a warm drink and an open afternoon. Also, I’m certain you’ll find something cute to buy too!

Winter Wellness & Hot Springs Nearby (Cozy & Warm)

Okay, so if you know me, you know I LOVE hot springs!! There’s nothing better than soaking in hot water while the air around you is crisp and cold.

Also if there are mountain views…even better!  It’s one of my favorite ways to slow down after a few days of hiking or exploring a town. Something about the mix of steam, silence, and mountain views just melts everything away.

If you’re craving a little rest and reset, these are some of the best and my favorite hot springs in and near Colorado Springs to visit during winter:

🌊 SunWater Spa – Manitou Springs

Starting right in-town of Colorado Springs is SunWater Spa.

Each cedar tub is filled with mineral water that comes straight from the mountain, and you can sit outside surrounded by snow-dusted trees. It’s quiet, restorative, and perfect after a long day of exploring.

🌊 Mount Princeton Hot Springs – Buena Vista

About two hours from the Springs, this place is worth the drive. You can soak in riverside pools with mountain views or relax in the upper terrace area that feels more like a resort.

I love visiting after a day trip through Buena Vista, it’s such a good way to end the day! Also, if you go to the river section of the springs, you will LOVE it!! It’s my favorite part!

When Phil and I went here, we were on a road trip between Twin Lake, Buena Vista, and Salida. It was an incredible experience. There are 2 big sections with a different areas to soak. Would highly recommend a visit here!

🌊 Cottonwood Hot Springs – Buena Vista

If you’re looking for something smaller and more laid-back, Cottonwood Hot Springs is another one of my go-tos.

It has a rustic charm and a calm energy that feels like you’re away from the city. It’s easy to lose track of time here but in the best way!

Fun Things to Do Nearby (Easy Day Drives w/in One Hour)

One of my favorite things about living in Colorado Springs is how easy it is to escape the city for a quick day trip.

Within an hour, you can go from red rocks to alpine forests to tiny mountain towns.

These are a few nearby spots I always recommend when friends come to visit or when I just need a change of scenery myself.

Mueller State Park

Just west of town, Mueller State Park turns into a peaceful winter wonderland. It’s a nice small state park near Colorado Springs that stays open year-round.

The trails stay open for snowshoeing and hiking, and you’ll usually see more deer tracks than people.

I love packing a thermos of tea and finding a quiet overlook to sit for a bit, it’s the kind of calm that makes the drive completely worth it.

Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument

This spot is so underrated. Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument houses petrified trees and a bunch of easy open hiking trails.

The petrified trees are incredible up close, and the park has this stillness in winter that feels almost sacred. This place is wide open and better for snowshoeing, just fyi.

Paint Mines Interpretive Park

If you’ve never been, this one’s a must! This is located about 40 minutes EAST of Colorado Springs in the middle of the open fields. You’ll find a bunch of colored clay formations.

The pastel-colored clay formations are beautiful in the summer, but they look even more surreal with a dusting of snow.

Scenic Drive to Cripple Creek and Victor

I would say this drive is a great introduction to Colorado.

Winding roads, mountain views, and historic mining towns that look straight out of an old Western.

I love grabbing lunch in Victor and then driving back closer to sunset. But make sure to give yourself enough time to get out of the windy road section before it gets icy. 

Rita the Rock Planter

This free attraction always makes me smile. It’s a free road side attraction on the way to Victor. Just type in Rita The Rock Planter on google maps.

Here, you’ll find Rita—a giant stone troll sculpture completely made out of recycled wood. It’s fun, weird, and totally worth pulling over for a photo if you’re already out that way.

Colorado Wolf & Wildlife Center

If you’ve never heard a wolf howl in real life, you’re in for a treat!

This center does absolutely amazing conservation work, and the guided tours are both educational and heartwarming. It’s one of those places that makes you appreciate how wild and connected Colorado still is.

Ski Resorts Near Colorado Springs

There’s a big ski and snowboard culture in Colorado, and a lot of people (like my friends and co-workers) in Colorado Springs take the weekends—or even just a day or two—to hit the slopes.

While we don’t have a ski resort right in town, that’s never stopped anyone from getting out there.

I wanted to share a few of my favorite ski resorts near Colorado Springs, both local and bigger ones, that I think are totally worth the trip.

Smaller, Local Ski Resorts (Less Crowds + More Affordable)

⛷️ Monarch Mountain

About two and a half hours from town, Monarch Mountain is my go-to for a laid-back ski weekend. It’s less crowded, A LOT more affordable, and has that small-town mountain vibe where everyone’s just happy to be outside.

The drive through Salida is beautiful, especially when the trees are covered in snow. Salida is a great place to find an Airbnb or Hotel since it’s just 30 minutes away from Monarch Mountain. 

⛷️ Ski Cooper

If you’re newer to skiing or prefer a more relaxed scene, Ski Cooper near Leadville is such a good pick.

It’s one of Colorado’s oldest resorts and has a friendly and low energy vibe that makes it easy to just enjoy the day. 

Bigger Ski Resorts (Busier + More Expensive)

⛷️ Breckenridge

Breckenridge is one of those classic Colorado ski towns that really lives up to the hype. Between the slopes, the cozy downtown, and the ski spots, it’s easy to spend a full weekend here and never get bored.

⛷️ Keystone

If you’ve never tried night skiing, Keystone is the place a lot of people go to.

There’s something magical about gliding down the mountain under glowing lights with snowflakes falling around you. It’s actually kind of amazing! Haha 

⛷️ Winter Park

Despite the name, Winter Park is a four-season destination—but in winter, that’s when it really shines.

The drive up is stunning, especially early in the morning when the peaks catch that first pink light.

Best Breweries & Restaurants

With Colorado Springs growing so quickly, there are a lot of good food, cozy cafes, and local breweries to check out—especially in winter.

And I’m a huge foodie, so you can trust me! Haha Something about the cold weather just makes everything taste better, doesn’t it? Warm soups, wood-fired pizza, good beer, and that post-adventure hunger after a long day outside.

I’ve spent years building a running Google list of my favorite spots (it’s up to 77+ now and counting), and these are a few I keep coming back to. They’re great for meeting friends, thawing out after a hike, or just soaking in the local vibe.

Breweries Worth Getting A Beer At

If you’re a beer lover, you’ll fit right in here. The local brewery scene is strong, and each spot has its own vibe.

• Cerberus Brewing Co. – Laid-back, dog-friendly, and perfect for grabbing a pint after exploring Garden of the Gods.
  
• Phantom Canyon Brewing Co. – One of the OGs downtown with a beautiful old brick building, solid pub food, and pool tables upstairs.
  
• Red Leg Brewing Company – Veteran-owned with a rooftop view of Pikes Peak that’s hard to beat.
  

4 Restaurants I Absolutely Love!

When it’s cold out, I gravitate toward places that feel cozy and welcoming—somewhere you can sit for a while without feeling rushed.

• Dos Santos or Por Favor Tacos & Tragos – Both are the best Mexican food in town. And that’s coming from a Mexican, haha! Both have amazing margaritas too!
• Public House – The best burgers in town. Great for casual dinners when you want good food without the fuss. Their burgers and rotating craft beers make it a solid winter favorite.
• 3.14 Pi Bar – Probably the BEST filled savory and sweet pies in town! They’re filling and so freaking delicious!
• Night Ramen – The best ramen, period. Warm, flavorful, and cozy in the best way. Nothing beats a steaming bowl of ramen on a cold night in the Springs.
  

Cozy Coffee Shops to Warm Up In

Sometimes all you need is a good matcha latte, a flaky pastry, and a window seat with a good book.

• Loyal Coffee – Minimalist, bright, and community-focused. I love starting my mornings here before heading out to shoot or blog for this travel blog. 🙂
• Switchback Coffee Roasters – Perfect for journaling days—good music, friendly people, and they make a mean chai!
• Building Three Coffee – Housed in a converted warehouse, this spot has a creative, cozy energy that makes you want to stay a while. They have really good food too!
• Wayfinders Coffee – Probably my favorite coffee shop in town. They are “travel” themed and have the BEST pastries!

Where to Stay In Colorado Springs In Winter

In the wintertime, Colorado Springs has plenty of cozy places to stay. They have everything from boutique hotels to locally owned lodges. You can book places to stay in Colorado Springs on Booking.com or VRBO easily! 

The places I recommend are run by people and companies who genuinely care about the community and the land around them.

I love supporting good businesses, so when you stay at one of these, you’re not just booking a room—you’re supporting good people who love doing good things for their community. 🌿

These are 3 of my most recommended cozy unique stays in town:

Bicycle Lodge – Budget

A fun, locally owned stay with a laid-back vibe. Perfect if you like easy access to trails, friendly hosts, and a place that feels more like a home than a hotel.

Kinship Landing – Mid

Probably the CUTEST hotel right in downtown. A modern, community-driven boutique hotel downtown. It’s bright, social, and designed for travelers, which is why I like them.

The Broadmoor – Luxury

If you’re looking to treat yourself, The Broadmoor is a classic. The lake, the lights, and the timeless charm make it feel like a winter postcard come to life. Love this hotel but not gonna lie, it does come with a price tag.

Colorado Winter Weather & What to Expect

As someone who’s originally from Chicago, I can clearly say that the winters in Colorado Springs are surprisingly mild—at least depending on where you are.

The air here is much drier than the Midwest or anywhere humid, and that makes such a difference. You can be outside for hours and not feel that bone-chilling cold that sinks into your bones back home.

Most days are sunny, and even when it snows, it rarely sticks around for long in town. Up in the mountains, though, it’s a different story, perfect for skiing & snowshoeing.

Here’s a quick look at what to expect if you’re visiting in the winter:

Average Winter Temperatures in Colorado Springs:

• December: Highs: 45°F, lows: 20°F
  
• January: Highs: 43°F, lows: 17°F
  
• February: Highs: 46°F, lows: 19°F
  

It’s always a good idea to dress in layers since the temperature can swing quickly, especially between morning and afternoon. A light puffer jacket, warm hat, and sturdy waterproof boots usually do the trick.

Tips For Dry Skin & Air

• Bring a good lip balm and moisturizer—your skin will thank you!
  
• Stay hydrated, even if you don’t feel thirsty. The dry air sneaks up on you. Carry a reusable water bottle with you at all times and drink often.

Pro Winter Tips (How To Drive & Pack Mindfully)

Let’s make sure you’re getting around Colorado Springs like a local.

If it’s your first time here, I want you to feel like you’ve already been before, like you know exactly where you’re going and how to get there. So note a few of these tips down (or save them for later) so you’re ready to go when you get here.

Driving Tips

Most people get around by renting a car, and driving here in winter is pretty manageable as long as you’re prepared. The city keeps main roads clear, but if you’re heading into the mountains or up to places like Pikes Peak, check weather and road conditions first.

• Keep a small emergency kit in your car (snacks, blanket, scraper, flashlight).
  
• Start slow on icy mornings and evenings. That being said, the sunshine usually melts everything by midday if you’re doing mornings.
  
• If you’re renting a car, try to get one with AWD or 4WD. I can’t stress this enough! 

How to Pack Mindfully

If you’ve read any of my other Colorado posts, you’ve probably heard me say it: packing for winter here is all about layers, layers, layers. The mornings can be cold, the afternoons sunny, and the evenings chilly again. I always recommend:

• A good base layer (preferably wool)
  
• A lightweight puffer or insulated jacket
  
• Waterproof hiking boots or shoes with traction
  
• Gloves, hat, and sunglasses (yes, even in winter—the glare off the snow is real)

And if you’re someone who loves comfort like me, don’t forget tea, filling snacks, and a journal. A little mindfulness and proper preparation goes a long way on cold days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Colorado Springs worth visiting in the winter?

Absolutely! I hope this guide has allowed you to see how much there is to do in Colorado Springs in winter. It is one of my favorite times to explore.

The crowds are smaller, the snow makes everything feel extra peaceful, and the sunshine keeps it from ever feeling too harsh. You can still hike, road trip, and enjoy plenty of outdoor activities—just with fewer people around.

Does it snow a lot in Colorado Springs?

It does snow, but not as much as you might think. Most storms are light and melt within a few days, especially in town.

Higher elevations (like Pikes Peak or Woodland Park) get more consistent snow, so if you’re chasing that true winter wonderland, head a little higher into the mountains.

Do I need winter tires or chains to drive around?

In town, regular all-season tires are usually fine. But if you plan to drive into the mountains, I always recommend driving with a 4 wheel drive for the extra traction and grip.

Roads like Pikes Peak Highway and I-70 can require 4WD or chains after a storm. 

Are most attractions open in winter?

Yes! Almost everything stays open year-round, from Garden of the Gods to local museums and restaurants.

Some tours might have shorter hours, but winter is actually one of the best times to visit since it’s quieter and parking is easier to find.

How far is skiing from Colorado Springs?

Most ski resorts are about 2–3 hours away, depending on where you go.

Monarch Mountain and Winter Park are two of my favorite close options if you want to plan a weekend trip. Also, they’re less crowded and more affordable.

Can I hike in winter?

Definitely! Many trails are open all year, and the dry weather makes for beautiful winter hiking days.

Garden of the Gods, Ute Valley Park, and Red Rock Canyon Open Space are all great spots as long as you have good traction on your shoes and dress in layers.

Final Thoughts – Where Are You Going To Next?

No matter how you spend it, chasing snow on Pikes Peak, soaking in a hot spring, or sipping tea at a cozy café, winter in Colorado Springs has a way of slowing you down in the best way. The light, the quiet, the mountains… it all feels a little magical this time of year.

While you plan your winter trip to Colorado Spring, make sure to check out my guide to Garden of the Gods in Winter , where I share my favorite trails, photo spots, and cozy places to warm up nearby. It’ll be another great resource for planning your trip to my hometown!