The breathtaking mountain peaks of Colorado have a powerful draw, and for good reason. A big part of this pull is the thrills provided by our many renowned ski resorts — but not everyone wants to race down a mountainside in the cold.
For some, the ideal Colorado winter vacation is about serenity, connection, and slowing down to savor nature’s splendor. Here, we have so much more than slopes to offer, and you don’t need a pair of skis to experience the magic of the Rockies. From sleigh rides and spa days to horseback rides through freshly fallen snow, the mountains offer endless ways to enjoy winter at your own pace. Here’s how to plan the ultimate Colorado getaway for non-skiers, complete with luxury, adventure, and a touch of Western legend.
What Makes a Western Winter So Remarkable?
1. Saddle Up for a Snowy Trail Ride
Who says horseback riding is just for summer? At C Lazy U Ranch, the experience takes on a whole new kind of beauty in winter. We’re talking about winding through frosted meadows and snow-laced evergreens, the only sounds being the steady rhythm of hoofbeats, soft neighs, and the gentle whisper of the wind. It’s peaceful, cinematic, and uniquely Western — an experience that makes you feel part of something timeless. Beginner and seasoned riders alike can experience a side of Colorado that few ever see, one that harkens back to the days of old while experiencing the preserved nature of today.
All About Winter Horseback Riding
2. Glide Through the Snow — No Skis Needed
If you’ve ever wanted to try skiing but found it intimidating, cross-country skiing is the perfect alternative. It’s much easier to learn than downhill skiing, and you can be gliding comfortably in no time. The trails at C Lazy U Ranch wind through quiet forests, open meadows, and scenic hillsides, letting you explore at your own pace while getting a great workout. Prefer a slower rhythm? Strap on a pair of snowshoes and wander where the snow sparkles untouched. Both options let you experience the hush and beauty of winter in a way that’s calm, refreshing, and utterly breathtaking.
3. Indulge in a One-of-a-Kind Spa Day
When the mountains are blanketed in snow, the Lazy You Spa becomes a sanctuary of warmth and relaxation. Set along a rippling creek, this unique spa offers massages, facials, and body treatments in heated tents that let you unwind to the sound of flowing water and soft mountain breezes. Book a couples’ massages for a romantic escape unlike any other! Whether you’re soothing sore muscles from a long day of adventure or just recharging your spirit, it’s an experience that turns a winter evening into something unforgettable.
Read More: The Best Western Ways to Unwind After a Day in the Snow
4. Celebrate the Holidays in True Colorado Style
There’s a definite storybook magic to spending the holidays in a Colorado mountain town or resort. Twinkling lights, roaring fireplaces, and snow-dusted cabins set the stage for a festive small town winter. At C Lazy U, we’ve been cultivating the same hometown festive spirit for over a hundred years. Guests can enjoy trees and lodges strung with brilliant lights, thrilling winter activities, warm hearths, and plenty of hot cocoa. Seasonal feasts and special gatherings make it easy to create lasting memories with family and friends. From Thanksgiving to New Year’s, the ranch turns every winter moment into a warm, joyful celebration in the heart of the mountains.
Read More: The Top Reasons to Visit C Lazy U for Christmas Vacation
5. Try Ice Skating or Tubing for Classic Winter Fun
If you’re craving a bit of playful adventure, grab some skates or a tube and head out for some all-ages fun. The ranch’s private ice rink is perfect for gliding under the open sky, and the tubing hill delivers plenty of thrills (without the wipeouts of skiing). It’s pure, uncomplicated joy.
6. Take a Sleigh Ride Straight Out of a Movie
Few moments capture the magic of winter quite like a horse-drawn sleigh ride. Wrapped in blankets as you glide through snow-covered pastures, you’ll hear nothing but the rhythmic jingle of harness bells and the crunch of snow under hoof. It’s a scene straight out of a holiday classic, and one of the most beloved traditions at C Lazy U Ranch. Families love it for the laughter and memory-making, while couples savor the romance of watching the sunset turn the mountains pink from the comfort of their sleigh.
7. Visit The One Place That Has It All
If you’ve ever wondered what to do in Colorado if you don’t ski, C Lazy U Ranch has the answer — and then some. Our all-inclusive luxury dude ranch brings together the best of the Rockies: snowy adventure, cozy comfort, world-class dining, and unmatched hospitality. Everything from your meals and activities to your lodging is included, so all you have to do is relax and enjoy. If you’re a couple seeking peace, a family craving world-class fun, or an international traveler looking for something totally different, C Lazy U transforms the Colorado winter into your own snowy paradise — no lift pass required.
Ready to ride the trails and get in touch with the festive West? Plan your trip today, and check out our winter packing list.
