What You Need to Know About Visiting RMNP in Winter

Winter transforms Rocky Mountain National Park into a peaceful, snow-covered wonderland. The trails are quieter, the landscapes are blanketed in fresh snow, and the crowds are almost nonexistent. It’s a completely different experience than the lively summer months in which I had previously visited, but it’s just as breathtaking in its own way.

From frozen lakes to serene alpine views, winter adds a whole new layer of beauty to this incredible place. Here are the need-to-knows for your own visit to RMNP, which is an ideal stop when you visit Estes Park in Winter.

Park Accessibility in Winter

Winter in Rocky Mountain National Park brings some changes to accessibility, but it’s still easy to explore its snowy beauty. While Trail Ridge Road—the iconic high-elevation route—closes for the season, Bear Lake Road remains open and offers access to some of the park’s most stunning winter trails and vistas.

Roads within the park are regularly maintained, but winter conditions can be unpredictable. Snow, ice, and wind can make driving challenging, so having a vehicle equipped with 4WD/AWD or carrying chains is a smart choice, especially after a storm – though not required.

One perk of visiting RMNP in winter is the absence of timed entry reservations, which means you can plan a spontaneous trip without worrying about booking in advance. However, you’ll still need to purchase a park pass, which is required year-round.

Passes can be bought online through the park’s website or at the entrance stations when you arrive. If you’re a frequent visitor, consider the annual pass for unlimited access.

Best Winter Hiking Trails

Winter hiking here offers a unique opportunity to experience the quiet beauty of snow-covered trails and frozen alpine lakes. This is the ideal time of year to explore the Bear Lake Corridor, where iconic trails are transformed into serene winter escapes with fewer crowds and breathtaking scenery.

For shorter hikes, Dream Lake is a must-see destination. Starting from the Bear Lake Trailhead, this trail takes you past Nymph Lake before opening up to the shimmering, ice-covered Dream Lake framed by towering peaks. It’s a moderate trek but short enough to enjoy even in cold weather, and it’s the one I took on my last visit. That’s what you’re seeing in the photos!

According to the ranger I spoke with, another great short-hike option is Sprague Lake. It’s a flat, easy loop with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and incredible sunrise photo opportunities.

For those looking for more of a challenge, the Bierstadt Lake Trail is an excellent longer hike. Beginning at the Bierstadt Lake Trailhead, this route climbs steadily through snow-laden forests, offering occasional views of the peaks as you ascend. The reward is a stunning alpine lake surrounded by snowy meadows and evergreen trees.

The trail’s elevation gain and length make it more demanding, but the peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking scenery make it a rewarding winter adventure. It’s an ideal choice if you’re looking to escape into the quieter corners of the park while still staying close to the Bear Lake Corridor.

Winter trails in RMNP often feature packed snow and icy conditions, so preparation is key. Microspikes or snowshoes can help ensure safe footing, especially on steeper or shaded sections of the trail. The Bear Lake Corridor is particularly well-maintained, making it a perfect spot for both beginner and seasoned hikers to experience the magic of RMNP in winter.

If you don’t have spikes/snowshoes then grab them before heading into the park. I rented from Estes Park Mountain Shop. It was a fantastic experience with great prices (and they give back so much to the Estes Park community.)

More Than Hiking

Hidden Valley, once home to a ski resort in Rocky Mountain National Park, has found new life as the park’s only designated sledding area. The ski resort operated from 1955 until it closed in 1991, but today, families and winter adventurers can enjoy the same slopes, just in a different way. The hill, located just off Trail Ridge Road near Many Parks Curve, is perfect for sledding and a great spot out-of-towners with little ones who want to play in the powder.

Our family visited on a weekday, so we were able to use the restrooms, but the warming hut was closed. It’s worth noting you’ll need to bring your own sled or tube since there aren’t rentals available on-site. Luckily, Estes Park Mountain Shop has those for rent, as well.

Things to note: There is not a tow up the hill, so your kids (or you) will be hauling the sled back up the mountain. It’s not too bad, actually, but be prepared. Also, if you’re bringing your own sled, be sure it does not have metal runners; they’re not allowed. Finally, like the rest of the park, be sure to leave your pets at home.

The ranger’s also offer ranger-led snowshoe walks and cross country ski tours. New in 2025, they are offering family-friendly snowshoe hikes, geared toward kiddos 5 and older, with their guardians.

Finally, yes, you can ice skate on the frozen lakes in the park. There are not skate rentals so bring your own or rent them in town. Also, talk to the rangers before you get on the ice to make sure it’s frozen enough to hold you. We visited in early December and it wasn’t quite ready – but every year is different.

Bears, Sheep, and Elk – Oh My!

While you’re visit, you’ve got some unique opportunities for wildlife spotting, with some animals becoming even more active in the snow-covered landscape. Elk are a common sight, with around 100 overwintering in the park and an additional 200 taking up residence in nearby Estes Park.

Mule deer are even more plentiful, with populations reaching over 500 during the colder months. Keep an eye out for the park’s roughly 350 bighorn sheep, often seen on rocky slopes or open areas. Smaller critters like snowshoe hares and ptarmigans blend seamlessly into the snowy backdrop, their white winter coats making them a fun challenge to spot. Coyotes also remain active, and you might see their tracks along the trails.

While bears and marmots hibernate during the winter, it’s important to remember that the park is home to an estimated 20–25 black bears. Though they are likely in their dens, please still take precautions. Use binoculars or a zoom lens to get a closer look without disturbing them, and stick to marked trails to minimize your impact on their habitat.

Dressing for Winter Adventures

Ask any local about the key to enjoying winter adventures, and they will tell you it all begins with dressing for the weather. And as you prepare, keep in mind that the temperatures in the park are significantly colder and winds potentially stronger than in Estes Park. Even on sunny days, the chill can catch you off guard, so layering is essential to stay comfortable and safe.

Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your skin. Add an insulating middle layer, like fleece or down, to trap heat, and finish with a waterproof and windproof outer layer to shield yourself from snow and icy gusts.

Don’t forget the small essentials—warm gloves, a snug hat, and face protection like a buff or balaclava. Sunglasses are a must for reducing glare from the snow, and sunscreen is just as important as in summer since the sun’s rays are even stronger at higher altitudes. With the right gear, you’ll be ready to take on RMNP’s winter wonderland.

Final Tips

• Bring plenty of water – dehydration happens even in winter. And if you expect the elevation to be an issue, you might also include some electrolytes.

• Pack snacks, especially for longer hikes.

• Start early to maximize daylight hours and avoid getting caught in the dark. The sun sets early in winter.

• Be sure to stop at the Beaver Creek ranger station to talk to the rangers about the conditions, any special issues during your visit, and to check out the programs and gift shop.

• When you’re coming into the park, grab coffee and breakfast at Coffee on the Rocks. It’s on the left just a small ways before you enter the park. The breakfast sandwiches here are delicious!

• After your visit, as you head out of the park, Bird & Jim is the place to grab a bite. You’ll be famished, and this is where to solve that problem. It’s my favorite restaurant in Estes Park!