Winter transforms Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park into a pristine playground for winter sports enthusiasts. One of the most popular winter activities to enjoy in the area is cross country skiing. With breathtaking mountain landscapes, powdery snow, and diverse trail systems, Estes Park offers an unparalleled cross country skiing experience for both novice and experienced skiers.

The team at Estes Park Condos is here to help you plan the ultimate cross country skiing getaway to Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. Our guide will inform you on the best places in the area to ski, where you can rent equipment, and more.

Why Cross Country Ski in Estes Park?

Rocky Mountain National Park provides some of the most spectacular cross country skiing terrain in Colorado. The park’s winter landscape offers a serene, untouched environment where skiers can glide through snow-covered forests, across open meadows, and alongside stunning mountain vistas. Unlike downhill skiing, cross country skiing allows you to explore the park’s quieter, more remote areas while enjoying a full-body workout and intimate connection with nature.

Top Cross Country Skiing Locations Near Estes Park

Skiiers are spoiled for choice when it comes to picking out a great skiing destination near Estes Park. With the beautiful setting, it’s hard not to enjoy yourself wherever spot you settle on. However, we want to highlight a few of our favorites.

During winter, the famous Trail Ridge Road is closed to vehicular traffic, transforming it into a magnificent trail system for skiers. The road provides a wide path without obstacles, making it suitable for beginners and offering breathtaking views of the Continental Divide. 

Another great option is Bear Lake Road Corridor. This area offers multiple trail options for different skill levels. Skiers can access stunning alpine landscapes, glide past frozen lakes, and traverse snow-laden pine forests. The relatively flat terrain around Bear Lake makes it ideal for those new to cross country skiing.

Equipment Rentals

If you’re new to cross country skiing or simply don’t want to travel with your equipment, don’t worry; Estes Park is home to several companies that offer equipment rentals. Estes Park Mountain Shop offers cross country ski packages, including skis, boots, and poles, as well as expert advice for all skill levels.

You can also rent equipment at the Nordic Center at YMCA of the Rockies. With your equipment and a day pass, you can enjoy over 82 KM of well-kept cross country skiing trails.

Well-Appointed Accommodations in Estes Park

After a day of exhilarating cross country skiing, you’ll need a comfortable place to rest and recover. Estes Park Condos offers the perfect solution for your winter adventure. Our conveniently located, well-appointed condos provide a warm, inviting retreat after a day on the best ski trails in Estes Park. With amenities designed to make your stay comfortable and proximity to the best skiing locations, we ensure your winter vacation is nothing short of extraordinary.

Make forever memories at our accommodations in Estes Park! To book one of our vacation rentals in Estes Park, please make a reservation online. For more information, please call 970-577-0068.