Estes Park is known as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, but when winter rolls in, a lot of visitors start asking the same question: Where do you ski around here? There are no ski lifts in Estes Park itself, but the town sits within driving distance of three Colorado resorts and offers its own lineup of winter activities. Here’s everything you need to know about skiing in Estes Park and the surrounding area.
Can You Ski in Estes Park? What to Expect
Estes Park does not have a downhill ski resort in town, but that doesn’t leave winter visitors without options. Rocky Mountain National Park, which borders the town, does not allow traditional downhill skiing. But it does offer excellent cross-country skiing and snowshoeing once snow covers the trails.
For resort-style runs, the nearest options require a drive, but Estes Park’s more affordable lodging makes it a practical base for a ski trip. Estes Park connects to several routes leading to Colorado’s ski corridor. The three closest resorts are Eldora Mountain, Winter Park, and Loveland Ski Area.
Best Ski Resorts Near Estes Park
Eldora Mountain Resort
As the closest ski resort near Estes Park, Eldora covers 680 acres with 63 trails and avoids the I-70 traffic that bogs down most Front Range ski days.
- Distance: About 47 miles
- Location: 2861 Eldora Ski Road #140, Nederland, Colorado, USA 80466
- Season: Mid-November through early April
- Tickets: Prices range from $120 to $180+
- Trail Map
Winter Park Resort
One of Colorado’s largest and most storied mountains, Winter Park Resort covers over 3,000 acres with 171 trails. Mary Jane, its second mountain, is known for some of the best bump skiing in the state.
- Distance: About 80 miles
- Location: 85 Parsenn Rd, Winter Park, CO 80482
- Season: Late October through late April
- Tickets: Prices range from $70 to $215
- Trail Maps
Loveland Ski Area
Located on the Continental Divide near Georgetown off I-70, Loveland is one of Colorado’s best value ski areas with 1,800 acres, 94 trails and a top elevation of 13,010 feet. No blackout dates on season passes and no crowds to match.
- Distance: About 88 miles, roughly 2 hours 20 minutes via Boulder and I-70
- Location: 20798 US-6, Keystone, CO 80435 (Exit 216 on I-70)
- Season: Early November through early May
- Tickets: Early-season adult tickets start at $119. Children ages 6 to 14 start at $40. Ages 5 and under ski free
- Trail Map
Other Winter Activities in Estes Park
Estes Park skiing isn’t the only reason to visit in winter. The town and Rocky Mountain National Park offer plenty more.
Cross-Country Skiing & Snowshoeing
Rocky Mountain National Park has miles of trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing once snow arrives. Bear Lake and Sprague Lake are popular starting points. Gear rentals are available in town.
Sledding & Snow Play Areas
Hidden Valley within Rocky Mountain National Park has historically been a popular sledding spot. Check current park conditions before heading out.
Scenic Winter Hikes
Lower elevation trails like Gem Lake and Lily Mountain stay accessible throughout winter and look completely different covered in snow.
Wildlife Watching
Elk herds move into the lower valleys in winter and are frequently visible from the roads near town. Mule deer, bighorn sheep and coyotes are common sightings.
Why Stay in Estes Park for a Ski Trip
Resort lodging carries a premium, especially on peak winter weekends. Staying in Estes Park and driving to the mountain saves money without sacrificing much time. The town is calm and quiet in winter, the restaurants and shops are open and Rocky Mountain National Park is right there when you want a non-ski day.
Where to Stay for Your Estes Park Ski Trip
Ready to plan your trip? Mountain Village Estes Park has cabins and vacation rentals well-suited for winter trips, including properties with fireplaces, hot tubs and easy access to the main roads heading toward the resorts. Browse our winter rentals in Estes Park today!