9 Winter Activities Beyond the Slopes

While the rest of your crew heads to Purgatory, you can ride straight to heaven on the Cascade Canyon Winter Train. Hop aboard at the Durango Depot for a picturesque train ride through the Rocky Mountains, where every twist and turn offers stunning views of the San Juan National Forest’s jagged cliffs, winding rivers, and white-capped mountains. This relaxing journey lets you sit back in heated coaches and immerse yourself in awe-inspiring surroundings. During the sixty-minute layover, Cascade Canyon provides the perfect backdrop for lunch by the fire or a serene walk along the Animas River.

More trains to catch: Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Romance on the Rails, where you can indulge in chocolates and sip prosecco as you share beautiful vistas with your sweetheart. And don’t forget to snag your tix for the Durango Blues Train before they sell out—tickets for May go on sale February 12 at 10 a.m. and August tickets are available starting February 19 at 10 a.m.

Stretching over 8,000 feet, this exhilarating adventure with Top of the Rockies Zip Line offers an unforgettable ride through frosty pines at the National Top of the Rockies Scenic Byway off Highway 91. Equipped with automatic braking systems and guided by experienced professionals, ziplining is a gripping yet safe activity requiring no previous experience. The highlight? A grand finale featuring three side-by-side lines, allowing you to race friends and family. Zipping from platform to platform, you’ll also have time to pause and admire the snowy wilderness.

Tap into your creative side with a diverse range of art and cooking classes at Ah Haa School for the Arts in downtown Telluride’s Art District. Whether you explore painting, drawing, ceramics, jewelry making, or culinary arts, this school provides a welcoming space for both beginners and seasoned artists. Discover the joy of self-expressing through hands-on, expert-led classes, or schedule a private lesson. Plus, get inspiration from exploring the Art Exhibition, featuring incredible talent and visionary works each month.

Bundle up and take to the skies on an unforgettable winter excursion with Grand Adventure. Soar high above the winter landscape with panoramic views of the valley and surrounding mountains draped in snow, all while breathing in the fresh air. Each flight offers a one-of-a-kind experience, guided by the wind. Upon landing, your journey will be toasted with a traditional Champagne History Celebration, a cherished tradition for over 200 years, celebrating humans’ first flight. Enjoy some of the best views of the Rockies on this captivating adventure, only minutes from the resort—an excellent contrast to the action-packed slopes below.

Extreme sports enthusiasts who favor warmer activities can still experience a downhill thrill without braving the cold at Copper Mountain’s Woodward Barn, located off Copper Road as you head into Center Village. This indoor park features ski and snowboard training simulators, multiple skate and BMX zones, five Olympic-grade flybed trampolines, a tumble track, and more—allowing you to chase the adrenaline year-round. Whether you’re carving turns, catching air, or tackling new tricks, this action-sports playground delivers the adventure you crave in a fully enclosed and heated environment.

Ice Fish Colorado offers guided tours on the Blue Mesa and Taylor Reservoirs, providing a peaceful alternative to the chaos of the ski hills. Expert guides take you to the best fishing spots, where you can pursue trout, salmon, pike, and perch. All necessary equipment is provided, including rods, tackle, and heated ice huts for warmth and comfort. Whether you’re aiming for quality or quantity, this experience is tailored to meet your expectations and maximize your chances of a successful catch.

A tribute to the state’s rich heritage of skiing, snowboarding, and winter recreation, the Colorado Snowsports Museum in Vail Village features fascinating exhibits that highlight the evolution of snow sports—from the early days of wooden skis to today’s cutting-edge technology. Visitors can explore Colorado’s interactive Hall of Fame exhibit, learn about the 10th Mountain Division’s impact on skiing culture, and view an extensive collection of vintage gear and memorabilia. Perfect for enthusiasts and history buffs, the museum captures the spirit and legacy of winter sports in the Centennial State.

Ride Keystone’s gondola to the top of Dercum Mountain for an unforgettable family adventure at the summit. Home to the world’s largest snow fort, this massive structure offers a magical experience for all ages. Explore caves, admire sculptures, and enjoy the new snow tubing hill that winds right through the fort—it’s the perfect playground for those who want to skip the skis but stay in the snow. Designed for children to run, play, and create their own adventures, this snowy wonderland is great for families seeking fun and laughter in a winter paradise.

If your skincare routine calls for clay masks and botanical-infused serums over a face shot of fresh pow, the RAKxa Wellness Spa at The St. Regis Resort Aspen is right up your alley. Unwind in the warmth of a luxurious spa designed for comfort and rejuvenation. Treat yourself to a soothing deep tissue massage to release tension or indulge in the Seven Chakra Hot Stone Massage for alignment and healing. The spa also features therapeutic amenities like a cold plunge, steam room, hot tub, and a tranquil waterfall area to enhance your experience.