10 unmissable winter experiences

Published

11 May, 2022

Edited

13 April, 2023

10 winter adventures to experience

No matter the season, there are always endless activities to be enjoyed in the mountains. While the variety of hiking, biking, fishing and skiing opportunities are certainly enough to keep you busy, if you're seeking an extra special experience then you'll find it out on the slopes. What’s more, our expert Travel Advisors can arrange a personalised itinerary for your getaway, depending on your wants and needs, leaving you free to relax and enjoy the very best of your surroundings.

From hot air ballooning to family-friendly sleigh rides, here are ten of our all-time favourite high altitude experiences, ideal for your next mountain adventure. While you’ll find a whole host of wonderful winter experiences around the world - our focus is on the many festive delights of Colorado. In between these exhilarating winter adventures, be sure to fit in the classics - snowball fights, building a snowman, and making angels in the snow.

Dog Sledding in Snowmass

Cruise along the beautiful snow-capped peaks at the Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway and over the continental divide with a team of canine companions. The day begins with a tour of the kennels to meet the dogs and learn about the everyday life of sled dogs and mushers. Your musher will get you settled in comfortably, before releasing the anchor and zipping out of the kennel and away on a five-mile guided tour through snow-filled forest and past majestic peaks.

Hot air ballooning in Aspen

Take to the skies on a sunrise balloon flight over the iconic ski resort and mountain town of Aspen. Available all year round, this thrilling adventure is certainly one to cross off your bucket list. Bob along beside the clouds, marvelling at the stunning panorama unfolding below. Drifting between altitudes of 1,000 to 2,500 feet, you’ll enjoy spectacular bird’s eye views of your surroundings - from the snow-tipped hills of its majestic mountains to the frozen lakes below. Finish the morning with a champagne toast to celebrate your unforgettable flight - cheers!

Horseback riding in Vail

Discover the backcountry of the Colorado Trail in true Western style with a guided horseback tour in Vail. Meander below the Continental Divide, reach the top of Tennessee Pass and cross through some 19th-century mining sites on this thrilling excursion through the local landscape. Enjoy a picnic lunch alongside a glacial lake, before making your way back down through Long’s Gulch and across West Tennessee Creek on your trusty steed.

Telluride heli-skiing day tour

One for the ski-fanatics, this spectacular day of heli-skiing in Telluride includes six runs down the mountain - that’s a total of 10,000 - 12,000 vertical feet! The ‘copter will drop you off in your own private winter wonderland, leaving you to carve your way down through the pristine, untouched powder. The day package includes powder skis, poles, food and water and an avalanche transceiver and airbag, meaning the only thing you need to focus on is carving those beautiful first tracks.

Ice fishing in Vail

For something completely different, why not consider ice fishing? The fishing season doesn’t have to end once the snow begins to fall. In fact, Turquoise Lake and Twin Lakes provide some of the best ice fishing in the state. The deepwater lakes are home to plenty of oxygen, which keeps the trout healthy and active during the winter months. And you don’t even need to worry about the cold weather, as your guide will provide a shelter to keep the wind off while you concentrate on catching some lake trout.

Private sleigh rides through Breckenridge

Treat your family to a picture-perfect experience this festive season. Climb aboard a shiny red sleigh, pulled by a beautiful horse, and set off on your way. Clip clop your way through the snowy landscape, passing by pine and spruce trees nestled under majestic mountain peaks, before stopping at a secret winter spot. Here, you’ll be able to disembark the sleigh and wander around, taking pictures and enjoying a steaming mug of cocoa. Once you’ve soaked up the wonderful wintry scene, hop back into the sleigh and head back home with rosy cheeks and hearts full of adventure.

Ski with an Olympic champion in Deer Valley

Hit the slopes with an Olympian this winter. This is an incredible opportunity to learn from a professional snowsports athlete, honing your racing skills, perfecting your turns and discovering tricks and tips from an expert. Athletes can be booked to ski with individuals, families or groups for exclusive half and full-day adventures.

Jackson Hole wildlife safari and fishing trip

One for the nature lovers, this full-day tour starts with a four-hour introduction to the fascinating wildlife of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Taking advantage of the times of day when the animals are most active, observe a variety of birds and animals, including Jackson Hole's iconic large-hoofed mammals. Continue the adventure aboard a private drift boat, cruising down Snake River (which boasts some of the best fishing in the area). Cast out your line for native Cutthroat Trout as Bald Eagles soar overhead - this is truly a once in a lifetime experience.

White water rafting near Breckenridge

Enjoy the very best of spring with an exciting white water rafting trip for up to six people from Breckenridge. This exhilarating full-day excursion to Browns Canyon National Monument is perfect for adventurous families and groups of friends. Brave the fearsome rapids as you shoot through the belly of the canyon, admiring the spectacular views on the calmer stretches.

Cat skiing in Aspen

Take your wintersports to new heights with a private cat skiing tour in Aspen. Experience a full, private guided day of cat skiing or snowboarding on the backside of Aspen (Ajax) Mountain. A backcountry powder tour lets you skip the hiking, crowds and lift lines, taking you straight to the freshest powder the mountain offers. Start your day by meeting a luxury snowcat at the top of the mountain, and set off upon the adventure. Available for up to eight people, the full day of guided skiing includes the lift ticket for gondola access, as well as a hearty gourmet lunch served in a rustic mountain cabin.

Dreaming of a marvellous mountain escape?

OUR EXPERT TRAVEL ADVISORS CAN HELP MATCH YOU WITH YOUR DREAM CHALET AND HELP YOU SELECT THE PERFECT WINTER ACTIVITIES FOR YOUR GROUP.