18 W E S T W O R D W e s t w o r d U n w r a p p e d 2 0 2 5 - 2 6 westword.com Cold Comfort TEN THINGS TO DO IN THE MOUNTAINS IF YOU DON’T SKI. BY ABI GAIL BL IS S Though iconic for its world-class ski resorts, Colorado has plenty to offer beyond the slopes, too. Bundle up the family for sleigh rides and snow tubing, or soak away holiday stress at the state’s many hot springs. Mean- while, thrill-seekers can trade black-dia- mond runs for ice climbing or snowmobiling to remote backcountry yurts where you’re more likely to see moose than people. Whatever your preference, consider add- ing these incredible destinations and unique experiences to this season’s bucket list — no lift lines or expensive ski passes required. Good Times Adventures 6061 Tiger Road, Breckenridge Explore the winding backcountry trails of Summit County with Good Times Adven- tures. After several of its huskies retired this year, a new litter of pups will be running the dog sled trips this season. Hold on tight as the team bounds through the six-mile route, or for even more speed, book a guided snow- mobiling tour. These exciting, hands-on experiences offer panoramic views just outside of downtown Breckenridge and are currently available for booking. Frisco Adventure Park 621 Recreation Way, Frisco Feel the rush of cold mountain air at Fri- sco Adventure Park, where groomed lanes send tubers soaring, spinning and sliding with glee. Thanks to the quick carpet lift, one-hour sessions allow for plenty of laps. The attraction is set to open on November 27, while charming sleigh rides from Two Below Zero begin on November 22. Hear the mules’ bells jingle as you dash through the scenic property on daytime hot cocoa tours or evening dinner events. Ice Castles 125 Stephens Way, Silverthorne 339 Irene Avenue, Cripple Creek Hundreds of thousands of icicles form these frosted fortresses, which offer an en- chanting winter experience for all ages. Crawl through color-changing caverns, race down slippery slides and lift your spirits at the cool- est bar around. Every shimmering display and intricate ice sculpture creates picture-perfect backdrops. The Ice Castles in Silverthorne and Cripple Creek have yet to announce opening dates, but mark your calendar, as tickets will be released on December 2. Vail Nordic Center 1775 Sunburst Drive, Vail In addition to cross-country skiing, this winter destination will soon welcome fat biking on eight miles of its packed trails. Rentals of these bulky bikes are available on site, as are helmets; though the extra-wide tires provide traction and stability, they take some getting used to. Pedal along the powdery paths — or pull on a pair of snow- shoes. When you need to warm up, hot drinks and bottomless soup await within the Vail Nordic Center lodge. C Lazy U Ranch 3640 CO-125, Granby Plan a luxurious getaway to this all-in- clusive dude ranch featuring private cabins, gourmet dining and a wide range of winter activities. Spend afternoons ice skating on the pond, snowmobiling through powder, riding on horseback and sipping cocoa on sleigh rides. While all delightful, no experience is more memorable than the daily jingle: Watch in awe as more than 200 horses trot gracefully from the snowy pasture back to the stable. Colorado Historic Hot Springs Loop Multiple locations Travel through eight of the state’s geother- mal destinations on this rejuvenating road trip. Several iconic hot springs appear on the route, and many offer fresh features. Choose from more than fi fty pools at the newly ren- ovated Springs Resort in Pagosa Springs or stay at Hotel 1888 at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, which debuted fi ve soothing mineral baths. Old Town Hot Springs in Steamboat Springs and Durango Hot Springs Resort have also seen recent updates. Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad 479 Main Avenue, Durango During the holiday season, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad sparks wonder with its theatrical re-creation of The Polar Express. Children will be captivated by dancing attendants, jolly Saint Nick and illuminated displays along the hour-long route. If you’d prefer a longer excursion, climb aboard the round-trip ride to Cascade Canyon. With views of the icy Animas River and snowcapped San Juans, it’s one of the most scenic train rides in Colorado. Ouray Ice Park 280 County Road 361, Ouray The world’s largest human-made ice climbing park spans nearly two miles of the Uncompahgre Gorge in southwest Colorado. More than 150 named routes challenge bold climbers, including beginners looking to learn the ropes. Take an intro course with a local outfi tter — or, to be fully immersed in the sport, visit during the annual Ouray Ice Fes- tival. Professional competitions, athlete-led clinics, gear demos and fi lm screenings will take place from January 23 through 25. Yonder Yurts 302 JCR 41, Walden Disconnect from your devices and the rest of the world when lodging with Yonder Yurts. During the winter, accessing these nine remote sites within State Forest State Park is an adventure in itself. Plan to cross-country ski, snowshoe or snowmobile to your cozy accommodations, which are up to fi ve miles from the plowed road. Guests can play board games by the toasty wood stove, explore miles of nearby trails and watch for wildlife in the moose capital of Colorado. Ice Fish Winter Park Grand County With giant trout and exciting annual contests, Grand County is well known as one of the state’s most popular places to ice fi sh. Outings with this local guide service include everything a winter angler needs: rods and bait, a heated shelter, chairs, and warm beverages to ward off the cold. Once your trip lead has drilled down into the ice, simply drop a line and reel ’em in. A feast of fresh-caught trout and northern pike lies just below the surface. ■ Meet the new sled dogs at Good Times Adventures. BRECKENRIDGE TOURISM OFFICE
