Discover a winter wonderland while getting a great workout

There is still plenty of snow in the foothills for those looking to squeeze what they can from their winter sport hobbies before the spring weather arrives. Snowshoeing has a multitude of physical health benefits. Snowshoeing may seem just like walking (and it is for the most part). However, breaking trail in fresh snow is challenging. As an aerobic activity, snowshoeing gets your heart pumping.

Along with improving cardiovascular fitness, snowshoeing provides health benefits for your muscles—especially your lower body. Like walking, snowshoeing primarily activates your quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and calves.

This leisurely pastime also burns more calories than walking at the same pace and duration. Both important facts for those wanting to shed inches and/or pounds. The weight of snowshoes and winter clothing combined with resistance against the snow, is a surprisingly challenging workout.

If you’re yearning for the incredible scenery of the backcountry, look no further than northern Colorado. Be ready to create an unforgettable memory while spending the day snowshoeing on snow-packed trails along the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. This is one of the most unique ways to enjoy the famous Colorado snow.

Check out the nearby options for your spring snowshoeing adventure.

  • Lory State Park: Located just west of Fort Collins, Lory State Park offers an abundant number of trails with beautiful views and ranging difficulty levels. Directions: 708 Lodgepole Dr., Bellvue
  • Horsetooth Mountain Open Space: Located west of Fort Collins, Horsetooth Mountain Open Space is one of Fort Collins’ greatest outdoor playgrounds and it is open year-round. There are multiple trails that range in difficulty level. Directions: 6550 W. County Rd. 38 E, Fort Collins
  • Mineral Spring Gulch: Located up the Poudre Canyon, this trail is great for a short, mid-winter excursion. It is four miles long, an out-and-back trail and great for beginners. Directions: 149-211 Crown Point Road, Roosevelt National Forest, Bellvue
  • Little Beaver Creek Trail: Also up the Poudre Canyon, this trail is great for late-season snow and is moderate in skill level. It is two miles long, out-and-back, and gains 1,500 feet in elevation. Directions: 7311 North County Road 63E, Roosevelt National Forest, Bellvue
  • Big South Trail: This six-mile trail is located within the upper reaches of the Poudre Canyon and offers stunning views of frozen waterfalls. It is an out-and-back trail with moderate difficulty and gains 5600 feet in elevation Directions: 48924 Poudre Canyon Highway, Roosevelt National Forest, Bellvue
  • Green Ridge Road: Located in the upper reaches of the Poudre Canyon, this moderate difficulty trail offers great views of several frozen lakes and travels through a rolling forest. Only three miles long, this snowshoeing trip is perfect for a quick out-and-back trip. Directions: 51561 Poudre Canyon Highway, Roosevelt National Forest, Bellvue

 

Packing list for a snowshoeing day trip

Basic:

  • Snowshoes
  • Trekking Poles
  • Clothing Layers
  • Backpack
  • Food and Hot Drinks
  • Drinking Water
  • Navigation Tools (tools, map, GPS)
  • Firestarter (lighter, matches)

More Advanced (for longer or more advanced trips)

  • All of the Above, plus:
  • Collapsible Shovel
  • Beacon (transceiver)
  • Small Stove
  • Seat (waterproof mat)
  • Small (backpacking) Stove
  • Battery Pack for Phone Charging
  • Headlamp
  • Emergency/First Aid Kit