When holiday lights peek through frost-covered trees, it’s easy to feel like you’re on the set of a Hallmark movie.
But the frosty season doesn’t always feel as whimsical and magical as the movies depict. Strolling down Parker’s Main Street or taking a day trip to hit the slopes with family and friends are certainly great ways to spend the winter months, but what else does Colorado have to offer?
Here are three hidden gems in the Centennial State that will help you embrace winter. Some activities may even make you feel like you’re on the set of a movie (think Disney’s Frozen or Snow Dogs).
Ice Castles
Locations: Silverthorne and Cripple Creek
Live out fairy tale dreams by visiting a castle made entirely from ice. The one-acre castle is handcrafted each year with more than 25 million pounds of ice and thousands of icicles.
Visitors spend unlimited time inside the castle, exploring caverns, sculptures, thrones, icicle-adorned archways, tunnels and slides. There’s even a bar inside where guests can enjoy winter-themed beverages.
During the evening, LED lights frozen inside the ice brighten up the space and frequently change colors, creating a one-of-a-kind show.
Founder Brent Christensen came up with the idea for Ice Castles after building an ice cave in his yard for his daughter. The cave was a big hit with his kiddo and neighbors — it even drew a crowd of locals. This led Brent to found Ice Castles in 2011.
Tickets can be purchased at www.icecastles.com through late February or early March, depending on the weather.
Pro tip: Wear gloves and a long jacket.
Grizzle-T Dog & Sled Works
Location: Steamboat Springs
“Mush,” and you’re off!
At Grizzle-T Dog & Sled Works, guests take the reins of a dog sled pulled by a team of Alaskan Huskies to explore a 12.5-mile private trail.
Each sled typically accommodates two people, creating an intimate, hands-on experience in which each person weighing at least 80 pounds gets a turn to drive.
But this adventure isn’t just for adults. Smaller children who are at least 2 years old are allowed, too, in which case, there may be three people on a sled.
Once guests arrive back at the trailhead, they get time to thank, pet and snuggle the Huskies that pulled them. Desserts and hot chocolate are also provided.
Grizzle-T will celebrate its 30th anniversary this year, and co-owner Kris Hoffman has been along for the ride from the very beginning. He worked as a guide at Grizzle-T when the company began in 1996. In 2001, Kris purchased the business and now runs it alongside his wife, Sara Hoffman.
The excursion can be booked online at www.steamboatdogsledding.com.
Pro tip: Book as soon as you can. The business only uses eight sleds at a time.
Tennessee Pass
Location: Leadville
Take a hike through a winter wonderland on your way to a unique dining and lodging experience.
Upon arrival at the Nordic Center, guests ski, snowshoe or hike about one mile through the Pike-San Isabel National Forest to a multi-course lunch or dinner at the Tennessee Pass Cookhouse.
Those wanting to prolong the adventure beyond a meal can book a private sleeping yurt and hike a bit past the Cookhouse for an off-the-grid evening or two. Each yurt accommodates six people and is equipped with beds, wood stoves, a kitchenette and more.
Tennessee Pass also offers cross-country skiing and Nordic ski lessons.
Additional information and yurt rentals can be found at www.tennesseepass.com. Meal reservations must be made by calling 719-486-8114.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to dress in layers; the journey to and from the restaurant is magical, but it can be cold.
Three hidden gems in the Centennial State that will help you embrace winter.