Experiencing the Wonders of Colorado in February

February in Colorado is a magical time when the state is blanketed in snow, transforming the landscapes into a winter wonderland. While the ski resorts understandably draw the most attention, there is an array of exciting activities and events that make this month an ideal time to explore the Centennial State beyond the slopes.

Embrace the Winter Festivities

Across Colorado, numerous mountain towns and cities celebrate the joys of the winter season with lively festivals and carnivals in February. One of the highlights is the Steamboat Springs Winter Carnival, a century-old tradition that runs for a week (February 7-11, 2024). This unique celebration features quirky events like ski joring, where skiers are pulled by horses, and the Dog and Dad Dash, where children race while being pulled on sleds by family dogs. Other carnival attractions include a light show on skis, snow sculpture competitions, and a s’mores party.

Another delightful February festival is the Loveland Sweetheart Festival (February 10, 2024) in the aptly named “Sweetheart City” of Loveland. This free event celebrates love in all its forms, offering live entertainment, a light show, a “Palace of Sweets,” a “Tunnel of Love,” food trucks, and even a Sweetheart Classic 4-mile race.

For those seeking a more unconventional Mardi Gras experience, several Colorado towns put their spin on the annual celebration. Manitou Springs hosts a lively Mardi Gras (February 10, 2024) complete with a Mumbo Jumbo Gumbo Cook-Off and a colorful parade through downtown. Meanwhile, the ski towns of Snowmass (February 13, 2024) and Keystone Resort (February 13, 2024) offer their mountain-themed Mardi Gras festivities, including uphill races, bead tosses, live music, and fireworks.

Discover the Natural Hot Springs

One of the best ways to embrace the Colorado winter is by soaking in the state’s natural hot springs. With over 30 scattered throughout the region, visitors are spoiled for choice. The historic town of Glenwood Springs is a popular destination, offering several hot spring resorts like the Iron Mountain Hot Springs, which features multiple private soaking pools at varying temperatures.

For a more remote and rustic experience, the Avalanche Ranch near Redstone is a hidden gem tucked away in the Rocky Mountains. Closer to the Great Sand Dunes National Park, the Mount Princeton Hot Springs in Buena Vista provides another unique setting to soak away the winter chill while enjoying the stunning natural scenery.

Explore the Great Outdoors

While the ski slopes may be the primary draw, Colorado offers numerous opportunities for outdoor adventures beyond downhill skiing in February. Snowshoeing is an accessible and rewarding way to explore the state’s natural beauty, with trails available in places like Rocky Mountain National Park. For a guided experience, consider joining a snowshoe and fondue tour, which combines the scenic winter hike with a delectable fondue meal.

Those seeking a more adrenaline-fueled adventure can try their hand at ice climbing in Ouray, known as the “Ice Climbing Capital of the World.” The town’s famous Ice Park features over 150 human-made climbing routes sprayed onto the canyon walls, offering a unique and thrilling experience for climbers of all skill levels.

For a different kind of winter thrill, Colorado is a prime destination for snowmobiling, with over 3,000 miles of trails crisscrossing the national forests and groomed powder areas. Guided tours are available in popular ski towns like Winter Park, Breckenridge, Keystone, Copper Mountain, Vail, and Beaver Creek, providing a safe and exciting way to explore the backcountry.

Experience Unique Winter Attractions

Beyond the traditional outdoor pursuits, Colorado offers several one-of-a-kind winter attractions that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. One of the most enchanting is the Ice Castles, a spectacular display of ice sculptures, slides, and fountains crafted entirely from frozen water. This whimsical attraction features tunnels, thrones, and even Elsa-like characters wandering the icy halls, making it a true winter fairytale come to life.

Another quirky winter activity is ice bumper cars, also known as “smiling machines.” As the name suggests, this involves inflatable tubes on wheels that visitors can ram into each other, creating a delightfully chaotic and hilarious experience. Ice bumper cars can be found at the Howelsen Ice Arena in Steamboat Springs and the Gaylord Rockies Resort in Aurora.

For beer enthusiasts, the Mile High Beer Fest (February 24, 2024) in Denver offers a chance to sample brews from over 25 local breweries while enjoying live music and food trucks. This smaller-scale event provides a more laid-back atmosphere compared to the famous Great American Beer Festival, making it an ideal way to immerse oneself in Colorado’s thriving craft beer scene.

Embrace the Season’s Beauty

While winter in Colorado is often celebrated for its outdoor recreation opportunities, the season also offers breathtaking natural beauty that should not be overlooked. One such example is the Orchid Show at the Denver Botanic Gardens (January 12 – February 19, 2024), where visitors can marvel at stunning displays of delicate orchids in a warm, indoor setting.

For those seeking a more immersive natural experience, consider visiting the Great Sand Dunes National Park, where the towering dunes contrast beautifully against the snowy peaks of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. This unique landscape provides a surreal and otherworldly backdrop for hiking, sledding, or simply taking in the views.

No matter your interests, Colorado in February promises a wealth of unforgettable experiences that showcase the state’s winter wonders. From outdoor adventures to cultural festivities, this month offers a chance to embrace the joys of the season in a truly exceptional setting.