Family-Friendly Winter Snowshoe Hike

Family-Friendly Private Winter Snowshoe Hike – Rocky Mountain National Park

A blanket of fresh snow changes a familiar trail into something new — quieter, brighter, and full of small clues the rest of the year hides. This hike is built for exploring that winter version of the park at an easy, family-friendly pace, with plenty of time to stop and look around.

Your guide keeps the group moving and engaged, pointing out animal tracks in the snow and sharing details about how the park's wildlife gets through the winter months. It's an easy way to introduce kids — and anyone new to snowshoeing — to the sport, and the trip typically wraps up with hot chocolate to warm everyone back up.

Duration

1. Total trip length: approximately 5.5 hours, including check-in, the drive to the trailhead, breaks, and snowshoeing time 
   

Location / Where to Meet

1. Guests are picked up directly for groups of fewer than 4 — pickup location entered at checkout, must be within Estes Park
   
2. For groups of 4 or more, your guide establishes a meeting point in Estes Park or at the trailhead instead
   
3. Exact trailhead is selected by your guide based on trip length, weather, snow conditions, and group needs
   

Ages & Requirements

1. Minimum age: all ages welcome
   
2. A legal parent or guardian must accompany any participant under 18
   
3. This hike is well suited to families and first-time snowshoers — no prior snowshoeing experience is needed, and your guide fits everyone with gear before setting out
   
4. Group size: 1–5 people per trip (winter group sizes are capped lower than summer/fall trips); every trip is a private, custom booking for your party only
   
5. Guests should be able to walk on snow-covered, uneven trail terrain with minimal assistance
   

What's Included

1. A private, custom-designed snowshoe hike built around your group's pace and interests
   
2. A professional, Wilderness First Aid/CPR-certified guide
   
3. Snowshoes fitted for the trip, plus micro-spikes if trail conditions call for them
   
4. Trekking poles for the hike
   
5. Hand and/or toe warmers
   
6. Hot chocolate (typically included; varies by trip)
   
7. Education on animal tracks, winter wildlife behavior, and the surrounding landscape
   
8. Games and activities for kids along the trail
   
9. Extra layers and packs available if needed
   

Not Included

1. Rocky Mountain National Park entrance fee or park pass (a 7-day vehicle pass runs $35; other pass options are available directly through the park)
   
2. Extra snacks beyond what's provided
   
3. Gratuity for your guide — tipping is never required, but always appreciated
   

What to Bring / Wear

1. Insulated, waterproof winter boots
   
2. Warm wool or synthetic socks
   
3. Base layers (top and bottom)
   
4. Insulated winter jacket
   
5. Snow pants (recommended)
   
6. Warm hat or beanie
   
7. Insulated gloves or mittens
   
8. Sunglasses or goggles (snow glare can be significant)
   
9. Sunscreen
   
10. Water bottle (insulated, to help prevent freezing)
    
11. Snacks
    
12. Camera or phone