Winter Activities in Aurora
Embrace Winter's charm in Aurora!
With the Rocky Mountains as a backdrop, there are plenty of winter activities in Aurora. Our state offers great conditions to enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you're a dedicated hiker, a snowshoeing aficionado, or a tubing enthusiast, Aurora offers a bounty of winter activities for those seeking snowy adventures! So, don your coziest hats and gloves, and prepare to welcome the chilly season ahead.
WINTER HIKING, SNOW SHOEING AND SCENIC TRAILS
Aurora Reservoir
Where: 5800 S Powhaton Rd, Aurora, CO 80016
Aurora Reservoir is a beautiful area for winter activities. Take a hike around the reservoir while drinking hot chocolate or tea; there is an 8-mile trail that winds around the perimeter. Bring the camera along for some gorgeous shots of the ice-covered reservoir. If the water has a thick layer of ice, which signs will indicate, take a swing at ice fishing. When there is a good amount of snow in the area, it is always fun to go snowshoeing. With little elevation changes and plenty of open space, the Aurora Reservoir is a perfect area to try winter activities.
Cherry Creek State Park
Where: 201 S Parker Rd, Aurora, CO 80014
Cherry Creek State Park is home to wildlife, a beautiful reservoir, trails, and so much more. Winter offers a new set of activities to enjoy. With 22 different trails, there is much to be explored. Spend the day hiking through the trails or across the dam. Pick up some skis and go cross-country skiing on the non-paved trails. If there is a lot of snow, rent some snowshoes and walk through the park in areas you would not normally visit.
For a longer outing, pack a thermos of hot chocolate, dress in layers, and plan time to explore the park's different trails. Winter camping may also be available at designated sites, depending on campground operations and seasonal restrictions. Check current park information before planning an overnight stay.
Quincy Reservoir
Where: 5800 S Powhaton Rd, Aurora, CO 80016
Quincy Reservoir is a popular spot for local anglers, offering trout, largemouth bass, perch, and crappie. The Colorado Division of Wildlife stocks the reservoir, which is accessible from March 1 to October 31. There's also a USTAF Certified 5k/10k loop trail for exercise and great birdwatching!
Jewell Wetlands Park
Where: 3005 E Jewell Ave, Aurora, CO 80012
Jewell Wetlands Park is tucked away but still very accessible. Enjoy a winter hike on their popular trails or sit to enjoy a cup of coffee on one of the benches along the path. If you have a mountain bike, it would also be a perfect place for a winter bike ride. After fresh snow, consider packing your snowshoes for a hiking adventure. Pro tip: stick to the trails in this area rather than the boardwalk, as it is easier in the shoes.
WILDLIFE VIEWING IN AURORA
Pronghorn Natural Area
Where: 27800 E Quincy Ave, Aurora, CO 80018
Pronghorn Natural Area is an open space with long trails, ideal for snowshoeing. Spend the day with friends exploring and hanging out in the great outdoors. If you are feeling like a regular hike, grab some boots and go for a walk. If you’re lucky, you might even see some of Aurora’s prairie dwellers, like pronghorn and burrowing owls, during your trip.
Plains Conservation Center
Where: 21901 E Hampden Ave, Aurora, CO 80013
Immerse yourself in Aurora's rich natural heritage at the Plains and Conservation Center. Explore local flora and fauna while delighting in the winter wonderland. Its extensive trail system, visitor center, tipis, and homestead village offer an authentic experience to connect with Aurora's wildlife. Experience the magic of the winter season through its family-friendly programs, allowing you to discover Aurora's prairies up close. From captivating wagon tours to exciting outdoor exploration and historical walks, the Plains Conservation Center offers a journey back in time.
Star K Ranch
Where: 16002 E Smith Rd, Aurora, CO 80011
Embrace the serenity of winter as you wander through Star K Ranch, where you might encounter some of the local wildlife regulars, including mule deer, majestic great horned owls, and lively blue jays. Its extensive trail system welcomes visitors daily, providing ample open space for your winter adventures. Remember to bundle up in a cozy coat and don your gloves for an unforgettable outing!
Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge
Where: 6550 Gateway Rd., Commerce City, Colorado 80239
Visit our friends in the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge! The ultimate wildlife viewing preserve, the arsenal has a 15,000-acre expanse of shortgrass prairie that acts as a wildlife sanctuary and the perfect spot for visitors to view Colorado's wildlife and experience nature within the plains!
GO SLEDDING AND ICE SKATING
When snow arrives, sledding is a fun way for families and friends to enjoy a Colorado winter day. Aurora has parks with hills that may be suitable for sledding when snowfall and local conditions allow.
Meadowood Recreation Center
Where: 3054 S Laredo St, Aurora, CO 80013
Meadowood Recreation Center boasts the ultimate winter wonderland, featuring top-tier snow hills that promise a day of exhilarating sledding and tubing adventures! With two meticulously crafted slopes catering to thrill-seekers and those seeking a gentler ride, it's the perfect destination for winter excitement.
Sagebrush Park
Where: 4744 S Evanston Way, Aurora, CO 80015
Nestled near the intersection of East Smokey Hill Road and South Chambers Road, this beloved 17.7-acre park features an expansive hill area tailor-made for exhilarating sledding adventures on those snow-covered days! Rally your friends, don your warmest gloves, and bring your trusty sled because snow days have never been this much fun!
The Pond at Southlands
Where: 6155 S Main St, Aurora, CO 80016
Embark on a journey to The Pond, nestled in the vibrant heart of Southlands! Open daily, even on major seasonal holidays, this enchanting destination offers on-site skate rentals or the option to bring your own. With a small admission fee, skaters can access the rink throughout the day. Don't miss the chance to experience the magic of nighttime skating beneath the lights, followed by a delicious dinner at one of the nearby restaurants. The rink's wintery wonderland stays open until February, ensuring ample time to savor the snowy season.
Where to get Hot Chocolate in Aurora
Warm your winter days by visiting the best spots to grab a cup of hot chocolate and coffee!
Legends Coffee
Where: 24100 E Commons Ave, Aurora, CO 80016
Located just around the corner of Southlands Lifestyle Center, Legends Coffee is known for its fabulous coffee paired with a quaint breakfast menu. Discover a hot chocolate made by a pro from in-house chocolate ganache and milk. Ask to add homemade vanilla, coconut, or hazelnut syrup if you’re looking.
Logan House Coffee Company
Where: 2501 Dallas St #112, Aurora, CO 80010
Warm up as you stroll around Stanley Marketplace with a cup of hot chocolate from Logan House Coffee Company. The inviting yet trendy store is perfect for spending an afternoon reading or catching up with some good friends.
Mishap Coffee (located inside Second Dawn)
Where: 2302 Dayton St, Aurora, CO 80010
Check Mishap Coffee, located inside Second Dawn Brewing, and start your day with a soothing cup of joe! Just a walk away from Stanley Marketplace, grab your perfect cup and walk around Stanley's shops or opt to hang out inside Second Dawn and warm up!
Milly's Community Cafe
Where: 15600 E Alameda Pkwy, Aurora, CO 80017
Cozy up with a steaming cup of coffee or hot cocoa at Milly's! A perfect spot to get some work done, catch up with friends, or relax, check out Milly's during your winter days for some delicious parties and u.
MORE WINTER ACTIVITIES IN AURORA
WINTER GOLF
Bask in the abundance of sunny Colorado days and seize the opportunity presented by the melting snow and milder weather to tee off on some pristine golf courses. Feel the cool breeze on the putting green and explore Aurora's top-notch golf destinations by diving into our Golf page!
GO HORSEBACK RIDING
View the scenic trails of Cherry Creek State Park via horseback. 12 Mile Stables provides horseback rides year-round and is the perfect opportunity to grab a friend and saddle up. If you’re looking for an amazing date night opportunity, 12 Mile Stables offers a Sunset and Dinner ride to bask in Colorado’s stunning sunsets and view wildlife!
Indoor Adventures
Want an indoor activity during the cold winter months? Aurora has a wide variety of trampoline and adventure parks available making it an ideal destination for family-friendly fun year-round. From high-energy trampoline parks like Urban Air and DEFY Denver to immersive indoor play spaces such as Slick City, Lava Island, Bounce City, and Go Bonkers, there’s something for every age and interest. Read our blog to find the adventure park that fits your style.
Plan the Perfect Winter Day in Aurora
Looking for a full day of winter fun? Here's one way to experience Aurora, Colorado, in a single day.
- Morning: Explore the outdoors. Take a scenic walk at Aurora Reservoir or Cherry Creek State Park.
- Late morning: Warm up. Stop at Legends Coffee for hot chocolate made with in-house chocolate ganache and milk.
- Afternoon: Pick your adventure. Go wildlife watching at Star K Ranch, try sledding when snow conditions allow, or visit an indoor adventure park.
- Evening: End on the ice. Visit The Pond at Southlands for seasonal ice skating, then grab dinner at a nearby restaurant.
Winter activities depend on weather and seasonal hours. Check current conditions and operating schedules before visiting.
Frequently Asked Questions About Winter in Aurora
What are the best winter activities in Aurora, Colorado?
Popular options include winter walks, wildlife watching, sledding when snow conditions allow, seasonal ice skating, and visiting local coffee shops or indoor adventure parks.
Where can you go sledding in Aurora?
Sagebrush Park and the Meadowood area are potential options. Check current city guidance and snow conditions before visiting.
Where can you go ice skating in Aurora?
The Pond at Southlands offers seasonal outdoor ice skating. Confirm current opening dates, hours, and skate rentals before your visit.
Where can you go snowshoeing near Aurora?
Aurora Reservoir and Cherry Creek State Park may offer snowshoeing opportunities when sufficient snow is present and trails are accessible.
Where can you see wildlife near Aurora in winter?
Star K Ranch, Pronghorn Natural Area, and Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge near Commerce City offer opportunities for wildlife viewing.
What can you do in Aurora in winter without snow?
Explore nature trails, visit a coffee shop, go horseback riding when available, play golf in suitable weather, or visit an indoor adventure park.
Is Aurora Reservoir open in winter?
Aurora Reservoir generally operates year-round, with seasonal hours and some holiday closures. Check current city information before visiting.
What are some family-friendly winter activities in Aurora?
Families can explore trails, watch wildlife, go sledding when conditions permit, enjoy seasonal ice skating, or visit an indoor adventure park.
Where can you get hot chocolate in Aurora?
Legends Coffee, Logan House Coffee Company, Mishap Coffee, and Milly's Community Cafe are local options to explore.
What should you wear for winter activities in Aurora?
Wear warm layers, a winter coat, gloves, a hat, and shoes with good traction. Check weather and trail conditions before heading outdoors.
Find a Winter Adventure Near You
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