Best Places Locals Love To Snowshoe On Colorado’s Western Slope

A high-altitude winter doesn’t have to mean uphill skiing or overcrowded lifts. On the Western Slope, there is only one thing you need to access forests, frozen lakes, and panoramic mesa views, and that is a pair of snowshoes.

From places near Grand Junction or Montrose, there is plenty of snowshoe terrain that is both remote and intimate. Keep scrolling to find out more about equipment rental and winter loops you can enjoy without waiting in line.

Western Colorado Equipment Rental

Rental options are easy to find in Western Colorado, so if you get the urge to try snowshoeing, there is no need to haul equipment all over the state (unless you already have your own shoes). Pro tip: Flying into Montrose? It is probably easier to rent equipment at your destination. Always call ahead, as weekends following a major snow event can quickly clear the shelves.

• In Grand Junction, Board & Buckle rents gear for locals and visitors. MileHighMamas.com points out that Odin Recreation (Mesa, Colorado) has snowshoe and Nordic tour rentals to explore even more of the Grand Mesa.
• Once you have your gear, head up to the Grand Mesa, where the Grand Mesa Nordic Council grooms the Skyway, County Line, and Ward trails – ideal launch points on the Western Slope.
• Headed further east? The Crested Butte Nordic Center rents snowshoes, boots, and poles, and offers guided tours.

Know the Snow: Avalanche Safety for Snowshoers

Some of the best snowshoeing in Colorado may inevitably lead you into avalanche-prone areas of the Rockies. Before you go, check the Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC), avalanche.state.co.us. Slopes over 30° are ones to avoid immediately following a snowstorm or rapid warming after a snow event.

Snowshoeing on groomed trails is the safest way to enjoy this activity. For those with advanced skills headed off groomed trails, advanced equipment such as beacons and probes may be required. If going off the beaten path in the winter is something you love to do, you should consider an AIARE avalanche course for exploring off-trail.

Pack It Right: Snowshoeing Essentials Checklist

Snowshoeing in Colorado means dressing in layers: base, insulation, and a waterproof shell. Coloradoadventureguides.com suggests good socks for snowshoeing. Bring gloves, a hat, and sunglasses (or eye protection). Waterproof boots are important, and poles to help keep you upright.

For long-distance off-trail snowshoeing, REI suggests you carry headlamps, first-aid, GPS, snacks, water, a change of socks, and emergency items like a whistle, fire starter, and blanket. For safety’s sake, breaking new tracks should be left to the experts.

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