Rocky Mountain National Park
Colorado
Winter Time

Bear Lake iced and snowed over

Sheep Lakes iced over

Elk on snowy meadow

Winter Activities

Skiing and Snow Shoeing

Snow accumulation varies tremendously across Rocky Mountain National Park. The West Side of the park receives moisture-bearing storms first, and has the deepest accumulation of the fluffy white stuff. Often there is sufficient snow cover by late November to cover rocks, logs, and other obstacles, making trails and slopes safe for skiing and snow shoeing. There are no ski lifts in the park, so skiers generally use cross-country equipment that allows them to ascend as well as descend in mountainous terrain.

The East Side of the park, the lee side of the mountains, is relatively dry and snow cover is patchy, especially early in the winter. Strong winds blow what snow falls into drifts, covering some areas but exposing others. Snow coverage is often intermittent below 9500 feet. Above that elevation, steep slopes and variable snow coverage result in challenging ski conditions.

Winter Hikes in Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain Pages
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More Photographs by Steve: Antelope Canyon|Monument Valley

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Copyright © 1995 - 2007 Steve Schmorleitz. All rights reserved.
Revised: September 22, 2008.
Contact Steve Schmorleitz for approval of photo usage.