The Little-Known Park In Colorado That Transforms Into An Icy Wonderland In The Winter
Annie
Author
If you aren’t enjoying the slopes, winter in Colorado can drag on and on, leading to the seasonal blues we all seem to experience. Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be this way, as the wintertime in Colorado is downright gorgeous and packed with things to do, thanks to places like this little-known Colorado park that transforms into an icy wonderland. Check out State Forest State Park the next time you’re in the Walden area!
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To learn more about State Forest State Park, including camping, fees, and current conditions, check out the Colorado Parks & Wildlife website.
For even more epic things to see and do during your visit to north-central Colorado, you’ll definitely want to check out these winter hiking trails in Colorado! Then, head to Steamboat Springs for even more winter fun, plus a cozy place to rest your head.
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More to Explore
Winter In Colorado
What are the best things to do in winter in Colorado?
Winter in Colorado is a wonderful time to explore the state’s spectacular natural beauty and enjoy its abundance of outdoor activities. Many of CO's state parks and national parks offer opportunities for winter hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, ice fishing, sledding, wildlife watching, and a plethora of other unexpected (and often quirky) cold weather activities.
However, one of the best ways to enjoy winter in Colorado (while staying warm and comfortable) might just be the simplest: taking a scenic winter drive! Some of Colorado's parks and historic sites have scenic drives that are accessible in winter, such as Rim Rock Drive in Colorado National Monument and South Rim Drive in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.
What are the best state parks to visit in winter in Colorado?
Colorado has 42 state parks and four national parks that are open year-round - which means explorers have plenty of beauty and activities to choose from throughout the seasons! Many of Colorado's state parks even offer cabins, yurts, or lodges that you can rent for a cozy and convenient stay, like Mueller State Park, Ridgway State Park, and State Forest State Park.
Here are just a few of the best state parks to visit in winter in Colorado:
- Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Monument: This underrated park features a deep and narrow canyon carved by the Gunnison River. You can admire the dramatic cliffs, spires, and waterfalls from several overlooks or hike along the rim or the inner canyon. It looks incredible dusted with snow!
- Mueller State Park: This park is known for its diverse wildlife, such as elk, black bear, and hawks. You can explore the park’s winter trail system by cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or sledding.
- Ridgway State Park: This park has a large reservoir that is ideal for ice fishing, as well as hiking and wildlife watching. You can also soak in the nearby hot springs or visit the historic town of Ouray.
- Roxborough State Park: This park has stunning red rock formations, wildlife viewing, and hiking trails. You can also enjoy the views of the Continental Divide and downtown Denver from Panorama Point Scenic Overlook.
- Ridgway State Park: This park has a large reservoir that is ideal for ice fishing, as well as hiking and wildlife watching. You can also soak in the nearby hot springs or visit the historic town of Ouray.