Snowshoeing in the Pikes Peak Region
- Druid Hills POA
- Oct 22
- 2 min read
Snowshoeing in the Pikes Peak region is one of the best and most accessible ways to get out and experience the outdoors in the wintertime. Many popular trails and hiking areas in the summertime are even more fun in the snow! Anyone from toddlers to older adults can snowshoe, and many local areas can be used for either a rolling stroll, or a heart pumping cold-weather workout. Make sure to ask a local shop where the best snow is as our Colorado weather changes frequently, and so do snow conditions! Note that many popular snowshoe trails are also popular cross-country ski trails, so try to avoid stepping in ski tracks whenever possible. The Trailforks app (www.trailforks.com) is a good resource for local area trails.
GETTING STARTED
First of all, anyone considering snowshoeing (especially in remote locations) is heavily advised to take at least an Avalanche level 1 certification class. Backcountry conditions can vary, so know the conditions and bring necessary equipment for a worst-case scenario. Always check the Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC; www.avalanche.state.co.us) before you go.
Second: Whereas bare ground or grass only typically reflect 10-20% of the sunlight that falls directly on them, snow can reflect up to 80% or more. For this reason, sunglasses or goggles are an absolute must when snowshoeing.
Locations such as Elevenmile State Park, Mueller State Park, and North Cheyenne Canyon offer excellent opportunities for snowshoeing when conditions are right.
PRO TIP
Dress in layers! As you warm up from hiking you can cool down by removing outer layers.
BE PREPARED
Make sure to check the weather conditions, dress in layers to stay warm and regulate your body temperature, and bring essentials like water, snacks, and navigation tools for a safe and enjoyable winter hiking experience.
BE SURE TO PACK
Snowshoes (easily rented in the Pikes Peak region)
Trekking Poles
Sunglasses or Goggles
Waterproof Insulated Boots with your Snowshoes
Waterproof Snow Pants or Gaiters with Athletic Clothing
Hat and Insulated Gloves
MORE SNOW ACTIVITIES
MORE INFORMATION
For more info contact Leave No Trace at 1-800-332-4100 or visit http://www.LNT.org
The content on this page was provided by Pikes Peak Outfitters