COME TO LIFE Colorado Winter Colorado’s sun-drenched skies, pristine powder-filled valleys and iconic snowcapped peaks create a true winter wonderland. Paired with charming mountain towns, easy-to-get-to ski resorts, an extra-long ski season and endless off-slope activities, Colorado is truly the perfect place for an unforgettable winter adventure. Ways to Love a Skiing & Snowboarding With more than 30 resorts, Colorado offers winter-sports enthusiasts access to the nation’s highest-altitude lift-served terrain, where fresh snow, expansive trails and unbeatable mountain views await. From bustling resorts with thousands of snow-blanketed acres and dozens of high-speed lifts to charming, lesser-known ski areas and lower prices, Colorado’s slopes cater to every skier and snowboarder’s dream. (See the map on page 34.) Know Before You Go Find out how to recreate responsibly in the Colorado backcountry, including being prepared for winter travel conditions, having the right equipment and understanding the risks at Colorado.com/ BackcountrySafety. Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing Backcountry trails lead to fluffy, snow-covered valleys and peaceful stands of evergreen and aspen trees, where the only sounds you hear are chirping birds and your own heartbeat. Dozens of Nordic centres, including many at the ski resorts, offer rentals, trail maps and cosy warming areas. For a more intense adventure, try a multiday hut trip, where you trek between a network of winter lodges. Snow Tubing Tube down powdered hills and take in epic mountain views or try thrilling nighttime runs under a starlit sky. If you like to get the adrenaline going, some places offer a fast lane so you can really speed down the mountain. Most offer lifts or tow ropes so you don’t have to wear yourself out hiking uphill! Sleigh Rides Experience the timeless charm of a Colorado sleigh ride, complete with warm blankets, crisp winter air and the gentle jingle of bells accompanying each stride. Many sleigh rides include elegant dinners by roaring fires, with decadent desserts to top off a cosy winter evening. Snowmobiling Enjoy the exhilaration of a high-speed ride through snowy mountain landscapes on Colorado’s extensive network of snowmobiling trails. With plenty of rental options and friendly mountain towns that welcome snowmobilers, you can even ride right into town to warm up with a snack or hot drink. 32 COLORADO . COM