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Must-Try Fall & Winter Adventures in Colorado

Non-Pumpkin Patch Things to Do in Fall and Winter 2023

Along with no pumpkin patches, you may not be big on hitting the slopes (or sitting in I-70 traffic). But you don’t want to hibernate as the weather cools down. So, what can you do instead?

2023 Fall & Winter Adventures in ColoradoFortunately, there are tons of activities, places to explore, ciders to drink, and unique adventures available to everyone who lives here in Colorado. Visitors are welcome as well!

With numerous indoor courts available around town, you could take up pickleball.

Perhaps, take a dip in some of the best hot springs in the state.

And enjoy a weekend (or longer) getaway at any number of bed and breakfast spots across the state.

Need even more ideas? You got it. Take a look at these options for your agenda and get ready for fall and winter fun. 

Upcoming Fall & Winter Happenings

If you haven’t already, join the LoDo Zombie Crawl on October 28th. Costume up and roam the streets, stopping in and out of over 10+ bars and nightclubs with one all-access pass. 

You can also check out Oddities & Curiosities at Reynard Social. This two-night pop-up features killer cocktails, tasty appetizers, and a DJ—plus frightful interactive experiences including a haunted forest, aura-reading, a terror-packed room of phobias, and more.

If you want to get into the spirit of Halloween, minus the spirits, The Stanley Hotel Spirited Night Tour is a 60-minute exploration into the hotel that scared Stephen King and inspired his novel, The Shining. A great in-town option might be the Dark Side of Denver Ghost Tour.  

Coming up are even more uniquely Colorado events to try out. 

  • The 13th Floor Haunted House, Now Through Early November
  • Denver Film Festival, November 3-12
  • Denver Fashion Week, November 11-19
  • Denver Botanic Gardens Blossoms of Light, November 17-January 7
  • Colorado Springs Record Show, December 2
  • Lighting of Breckenridge & Race of the Santas, December 2
  • Ullr Fest in Breckenridge, December 7-9
  • Vail Film Festival, December 7-10

Get more details and check out more 2023 fall and winter events at Uncover Colorado.

Fall Apples You Can Eat or Drink

If you prefer the farm experience, head out on Highway 14 to Ault, Colorado in Weld County, and find Adam’s Apple Orchard and Country Store. During the fall, they offer “u-pick” opportunities on the weekends—just be sure to check their website or follow them on Instagram for updates on when picking is available. You can also find fruit, jams, cider and salsas in their store!

2023 Fall & Winter Adventures in ColoradoYa Ya Farm and Orchard in Longmont is a popular u-pick destination that regularly sells out well in advance. But, they still have frequent fall events, along with a farm stand with fresh-picked apples, their famous cider donuts, and so much more. You can also meet their Percheron draft horses (bigger than a Clydesdale), mini donkeys, chickens and ducks.

And for the adults, don’t forget to check out some of Colorado’s amazing Cider Houses. Our state isn’t just home to great breweries, after all! A few options to try:

  • Colorado Cider Company in Denver creates a rotating selection of ciders and blends, including their Cherry Glider and the Grasshop-Ah which offers flavors of light hops and a citrus kick of lemongrass. You can find their tasting room at 2650 W 2nd Avenue!
  • Stem Ciders in Lafayette brews tempting flavors including Tangerine Whip and even a “light” option if you’re looking for one. Their locations include Acreage, Ghost Box Pizza, and a taproom on Blake Street in Denver.
  • The Old Mine Cider Company in Erie is another great spot with a taproom and restaurant in one. Test out a flight and find your favorite, enjoy a fantastic dinner, and then walk out with a four-pack you can enjoy at home.

Winter Fun Off the Slopes

If you're seeking winter fun in Colorado, hurtling down the slopes on skis or a snowboard isn't the only way to embrace the season. There’s a whole world of thrilling winter activities to discover!

Horseback Riding | Best Spots: Granby/Winter Park, Breckenridge, Telluride, Estes Park

Whether you’re an experienced rider or a beginner, Rocky Mountain Stables at Snow Mountain Ranch in Granby will provide seasoned horses and trained wranglers to ensure a memorable ride. Discover your “Colorado Cowboy Adventure” on horseback. One and two-hour guided tours are offered—through the fall, book under “summer” rides. 

Dog Sledding | Best Spots: Winter Park, Wolcott, Durango, Leadville

Embark on an epic winter journey with the Durango Dog Ranch. Accompanied by a seasoned guide and a team of snow-loving canines, you'll begin with mushing lessons, followed by a scenic ride and a cozy fireside beverage to cap it off. An on-site photographer ensures you enjoy every moment, allowing you to immerse yourself in the experience.

2023 Fall & Winter Adventures in ColoradoSleigh Rides | Best Spots: Breckenridge, Aspen, Frisco, Keystone

Picture yourself surrounded by breathtaking mountain vistas, snugly wrapped in a warm blanket, sipping on hot chocolate. This is just a taste of the experience provided by Breckenridge Stables. Open November 23 through April 14, 2024, they’re now taking reservations for their various experiences. Don’t miss a perfect winter outing.

Snowshoeing | Best Spots: Eldora, Crested Butte, Vail Nordic Center

If you're a fan of warm-weather hiking, snowshoeing might be your perfect winter pastime. At the Vail Nordic Center, you can rent or purchase snowshoes and explore miles of groomed trails, all while reveling in mountain vistas. The Nordic Center also offers guided tours, a lodge for warming up, and a restaurant for a post-shoeing nosh. 

Ice Fishing | Best Spots: Chambers Lake, Eleven Mile Reservoir, Lake Granby

Once the winter chill fully sets in, here’s a unique way to catch your own fresh fish dinner. Eleven Mile State Park, situated on Colorado's eastern plains, offers the chance to reel in trophy-sized rainbow, brown, cutthroat, kokanee, or pike. Before you head out, be sure to check the latest ice conditions via the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website.

Snowmobiling | Best Spots: Silverton, Estes Park, Crested Butte, Salida

While you can rent snowmobiles in different locations across the state, consider Ice Pirates Backcountry Adventures in Silverton for guided tours tailored to your skill level. Bundle up and venture through the majestic San Juan mountains on a 2-3 hour tour—or explore even more terrain with a full day of adventure across different trails.

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