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You don?t have to race downhill to experience Colorado?s high country Fresh powder, 10,000-foot mountains, and the promise of epic adventures call skiers and snowboarders to Colorado every winter. But those tall peaks and the alluring, carved-from-history towns that have risen in their shadows aren?t just a destination for thrill-seekers strapped to carbon fiber planks.
Centennial State ski towns are worthy destinations for both travelers who crave outdoor fun and culture aficionados looking to experience art from a different vantage point. Prefer a winter getaway that doesn?t involve skiing or snowboarding" From tubing and fat biking to ultra-luxurious spas and public art tours, here are 15 ways to enjoy the Rocky Mountains that (mostly) don?t require a lift ticket.
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Warm up in hot springs
Nothing staves off Old Man Winter?s chill quite like a dip in a natural pool of 100-plus-degree water. Thankfully, Colorado delivers with more than 30 hot springs scattered across the state. Strawberry Park Hot Springs in Steamboat Springs is a locals? favorite for its sizeable, rocky pools; woodsy backdrop; and the ability to rotate between the hot-hot-hot hot springs and the chilly river. (Note: Strawberry Park is clothing optional after dark, and you?ll need four-wheel drive to reach it in the winter.) Other worthy stops include Ouray Hot Springs (about an hour from Telluride) and Hot Sulphur Springs Reso...