Winter Trail Guide to Spanish Peaks Country

Winter in Spanish Peaks Country is quieter, slower, and beautifully immersive. Snow-covered forests, wide-open valleys, and dramatic mountain backdrops create the perfect setting for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, winter hiking, and snowmobiling, with trail options for every comfort level.

Whether you’re seeking an adventurous backcountry route or an easy, accessible winter walk, this guide highlights the best winter trail experiences across the region.

National Forest Routes

Much of the region’s winter trail access lies within the Pike-San Isabel National Forests.

From December 1 through April 30, some Forest Service roads close to motorized vehicles, but remain open for snowmobiling, hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, making them ideal winter corridors.

Popular Winter Routes (depending on conditions and snowfall)

• Forest Service Road 422 (Bear/Blue Road): snowmobiling, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing. From there, the Indian Trail can be accessed for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. 
• Dodgeton Trail: snowshoeing or winter hiking; can be accessed from the Spring Creek Trailhead 
• Baker Creek Trail: hiking or snowshoeing
• Dikes Trail: hiking or snowshoeing
• Cordova Pass Road: snowmobiling, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing
  • Trail access into the Spanish Peaks Wilderness is available here (note: no snowmobiling is allowed within the Wilderness Area)

Most Accessible Winter Options:
The Dikes Trail out of Cuchara and the Dodgeton Trail from Spring Creek Trailhead in Cuchara are typically the most accessible routes during winter months.

Cuchara Mountain Park

The Cuchara Valley is a winter recreation hub, offering a mix of groomed routes, Forest Service roads, and mountain trails ideal for non-motorized winter travel. 

All trails at Cuchara Mountain Park are open to snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and winter hiking, depending on conditions. The park’s varied terrain makes it a favorite for both beginners and experienced winter explorers.

⚠️ Some experienced backcountry skiers choose to skin up the old Cuchara Ski Area and ski down. This is unmanaged backcountry terrain, and hazards do exist, proper equipment and experience are essential.

Easy & Accessible Winter Trails at Lathrop State Park

For visitors looking for a gentler winter experience, or an option without specialized gear, Lathrop State Park offers some of the most accessible winter trails in the region.

Winter-Friendly Trails

• Cuerno Verde Trail: a 3-mile paved loop around Martin Lake, plowed throughout winter
  • Parallel road-base trail: ideal for runners and walkers
• Northside Trail System: 4.5 miles for hiking and mountain biking (please avoid muddy days)
• Hogback Trail: a 1.5-mile loop with elevated views of the Spanish Peaks and Greenhorn Mountain.
  • Note: The loop has a dirt trail that turns into rock.

♿ Accessibility Highlight
Lathrop State Park offers a free track chair for visitors needing trail accessibility. Reservations are required, contact the park office at 719-738-2376.

Winter Conditions & Planning Tips

• Trail conditions depend heavily on snowfall, temperature, and wind
• Always check weather forecasts and local conditions before heading out
• Dress in layers and bring traction, navigation tools, and extra water
• Respect seasonal closures and Wilderness regulations

During warm spells, the eastern part of the county often offers excellent canyon hiking and gravel riding, providing additional winter recreation options when snow coverage is limited.

Seasonal Highlights to Pair with Your Winter Trails

A Historic Season at Cuchara Mountain Park
Chairlift-serviced skiing and snowboarding have returned for the first time in 25 years, marking a special moment in Colorado ski history. Learn more here.

Stay Nearby at Cuchara Lokal Inn
Winter rates start at $100 per night, making it an easy basecamp for trail adventures. Book here. And be sure to check out other lodging options across the county.

Indoor Fun at Grandote Peaks Golf & Country Club
The new Grandote Summit Golf Simulator offers a warm, indoor activity after snowy days outdoors. Call to reserve. Walk-ins are welcome on a first come/first serve basis. Lessons are also available featuring in-depth swing analytics and instant-replay player swing analysis. Book a simulator lesson. Learn more about Grandote here.