If you are planning a trip to Snowmass, Colorado this winter, you may have a number of choices for winter activities. Some of these include cross country skiing, ice skating, and hot air balloon rides. For the more adventurous, there are even dog sledding tours and horse-drawn sleigh rides.
Cross-country skiing
Cross-country skiing is a great way to get exercise while enjoying the great outdoors. It is also a cheaper alternative to downhill skiing. In addition, the sport can be enjoyed by all ages.
There are several cross-country ski trails in Snowmass. Some of the best include the Owl Creek Trail and the Village Way Trail. The Owl Creek Trail offers beautiful views of both Aspen and Snowmass.
If you’re looking for a more challenging tour, try the Terminator Trail. This trail features steep descents. Experienced skiers can also ski from the base of Tiehack up to Oregon Trail.
While in the area, be sure to visit the Snowmass Cross-Country Center. This center provides over six miles of Nordic trails. They also offer group lessons, rentals and a retail shop.
Ice skating
Ice skating in Snowmass Colorado is a fun family activity. The area has two free rinks for you to enjoy, one indoors and one outdoors. While they’re not the largest, they are certainly a fun way to spend some time in the snow.
You can also visit Snowmass Base Village, which is a new hotspot in town. It features an outdoor ice rink and is open daily from noon to nine at night.
There’s plenty more to do at Snowmass Base Village than ice skating. Enjoy activities such as dog sledding, sleigh rides, snowboarding, and skiing. Among other things, the town has a fun holiday market, a nifty game lounge, and an apres-ski cocktail bar.
If ice skating is your thing, then you’ll want to check out the Lewis Ice Arena, which is one of the only Snowmass ice rinks that’s open year round. This rink features an NHL regulation sized rink that can accommodate hockey games and figure skating competitions.
Dog sledding
Dog sledding in Snowmass Colorado has been around for decades. But in the last few months, a debate has raged between a town official and a sled dog company.
The town of Snowmass, Colorado is trying to evict the Krabloonik Dogsledding from its lease. A lease for the facility was terminated, and the company must vacate by November 1. While the town is claiming it wants to be responsible for protecting and educating residents about the dangers of the sport, the town and the sled dog company have not yet reached an amicable settlement.
The company has been subject to various state investigations. There have been whistle-blower complaints about mistreatment of dogs, as well as animal activism in the region.
A review of the sled dog industry found the Krabloonik has not been following best practices. This included not providing a best-practices certificate for their kennel operations.
Hot air balloon tours
Hot air balloon tours in Snowmass Colorado provide a unique perspective on the beautiful scenery surrounding the area. A ride can be a romantic escape or an adventure for the whole family.
The best time to take hot air balloon tours in Snowmass Colorado is at sunrise. During this time, the wind is calm and the atmosphere is stable, making the flight a smooth experience.
The ride will last about an hour. If you’d like a longer flight, you can opt for the platinum option, which includes a sit-down breakfast. There’s also a post-flight champagne toast.
You can also choose a full-day adventure, which includes a Champagne brunch. Several companies in the Aspen and Snowmass area offer these excursions.
Another popular hot air balloon festival in the area is the Snowmass Balloon Festival, which is held every year. This event is free for the public, and spectators can watch the balloons lift off from the ground before inflation. At the end of the flight, the balloons are lowered back down to the ground by a trained crew.
Horse-drawn sleigh and carriage rides
A horse-drawn sleigh ride is a great way to spend a winter day in Snowmass Colorado. These sleigh rides offer a unique and magical experience. It is also a great way to get around town and enjoy the sights. Whether you’re looking for a private or public sleigh ride, you can find one to suit your needs.
Public sleigh rides are often offered daily in the winter months. They usually run from 1-4 pm. Riders can choose from a one-horse open sleigh to a two-horse open sleigh. The horses are drawn by a friendly coachman.
Private sleigh rides are a more secluded experience. You can book a one-hour trip that takes you through the forest of aspens. During the ride, you’ll stop for hot cocoa and cider.