A Rocky Mountain Spring Break Extravaganza Itinerary

Dog Sledding At Snow Mountain Ranch | Photo by Heidi Kerr Schlaefer

When we think about a Rocky Mountain Spring Break, we think of skiing. And it’s true. Skiing in March can be quite grand in the Rockies. However, there are other activities to consider over spring break. I’ve done all of the following activities in the winter and highly recommend each and every one.

Zip Line or Snowmobile in the Rockies 

Photo by Heidi Kerr Schlaefer

How about a zip line at 11,500 feet? In the snow. Top of the Rockies doesn’t just offer snowmobiling, it is one of the only zip lines open in the winter.  

Conveniently located in Summit County near Leadville and Copper Mountain and a quick shuttle ride from Frisco and Breckenridge, this experience comes with amazing views of the Continental Divide and more than a few thrills. Visitors can choose a two-hour zip line tour or a zip line and snowmobile outing (booked together). The snowmobile excursion is through White Mountain Snowmobile Tours at the same location. 

Photo courtesy White Mountain Snowmobile Tours

There are age restrictions on both activities, so families should beware, but this outing is memorable. The side-by-side triple cables in the sixth zip line section are something the entire ménage will love. And the 100-foot Sky Tower finale is not something anyone will soon forget.

Dog Sledding is a Delight  

Snow Mountain Ranch Dog Sledding | Photo by Heidi Kerr Schlaefer

There are several areas in the Colorado Rocky Mountains to go dog sledding, and many are close to ski resorts, so that can be included in family spring break fun. Of course, this activity depends on the snow depth in March, but this year, 2023, has been a good year for snowfall in Colorado.

Snow Mountain Ranch, located near Granby and Winter Park, is the perfect place for families on spring break. Not only can one downhill ski at resorts nearby, but there is also a Nordic Center onsite and other winter activities like ice skating, sledding, an arts and crafts center, and so much more. 

Snow Mountain Ranch Sled Dogs | Photo by Heidi Kerr Schlaefer

Dog sledding here is a chance to try it for the first time or practice your mushing skills. Short rides are just $35 and are great for a child and accompanying adult. Available Friday and Saturday, this 15-minute ride consists of a two-mile loop of wooded and wide-open views. The slightly older or more adventurous family member can experience the 30-minute, more in-depth experience available on Mondays only.

Hot Springs Galore

Photo courtesy Glenwood Hot Springs

The Rocky Mountains are full of hot springs, and there is a destination for every soaker, whether looking for a romantic escape or a family-friendly option. For those firmly in the second category, there are several options the kids will love. 

One of the best-known is Glenwood Hot Springs Pool. The world’s largest hot spring pool, it’s also one of the oldest, celebrating 135 years this May. Many Coloradans grew up going here, including my husband, and it is one of the first places he took me when we moved here in 1999. 

Photo courtesy Glenwood Hot Springs

Breakfast and lunch are served daily at the poolside restaurant, making it a go-to for the day for families. If skiing is on the schedule, there is a Ski, Swim, Stay package that the pool has put together with Sunlight Mountain Resort.

Other family-friendly spring break soaking destinations are The Springs Resort in Pagosa Springs, Indian Hot Springs in Idaho Springs, Sand Dunes Recreation in Hooper, and Old Town Hot Springs in Steamboat Springs. Many of these hot springs destinations have been covered by The Heidi Guide in previous articles.