Fun Things to Do in Colorado, Utah, Montana, & Washington Ski Towns Besides Skiing
Skiing may be the heart of mountain life, but it is not the only way to experience winter in the West and Pacific Northwest. Whether you are taking a rest day, traveling with non-skiers, or simply choosing not to click into bindings, ski towns offer plenty of ways to enjoy the season. Many travelers build these experiences into rest days or arrival days, making winter trips feel more relaxed and more memorable.
From hot springs and scenic rides to culture, food, and wildlife experiences, this guide highlights some of the best winter activities across the Mountain West. It is built for couples, mixed ability groups, and travelers who want flexibility without missing out on what makes ski towns special.
If you are traveling with kids, this guide pairs well with our family focused companion, Planning a Family Friendly Winter Getaway, which highlights kid approved snow adventures and easy winter outings.
Jump to Your Destination
- Colorado Ski Towns (Aspen, Breckenridge, Telluride, Steamboat)
- Park City & Deer Valley, Utah
- Big Sky, Montana
- Washington Ski Towns (Crystal Mountain, Leavenworth, Snoqualmie Pass)
At a Glance: Top Non Ski Winter Experiences
Best for Thrills
Olympic Bobsled Experience in Park City, Utah
Best for Relaxation
Dunton Hot Springs near Telluride, Colorado
Best for Nature and Wildlife
Yellowstone Snowcoach Tours from Big Sky, Montana
Best for Food Lovers
Pine Creek Cookhouse outside Aspen, Colorado
Best for Scenic Winter Views
Non Ski Winter Activities in Colorado Ski Towns
Aspen, Colorado: What to Do If You Do Not Ski
Aspen is one of the most well rounded ski towns in the West for non-skiers, blending culture, scenery, and classic mountain traditions.
Guided snowmobile tours with T-Lazy-7 Ranch explore iconic terrain near the Maroon Bells and Independence Pass, offering big views without the lift lines. For a slower pace, naturalist-led snowshoe tours through Hallam Lake, Ashcroft, and Aspen Mountain focus on winter ecology and quiet forest landscapes.
Dining becomes part of the adventure when you cross country ski, snowshoe, or hike to the Pine Creek Cookhouse, where alpine views and seasonal menus reward the journey. Sleigh ride lunches and dinners are also available for a classic winter experience in an incredibly majestic setting.
Back in town, the Aspen Art Museum is an easy cultural stop between winter adventures. Admission is free, and rotating contemporary exhibitions, public programs, and a café on the upper level make it a welcoming place to warm up, linger, and explore beyond the slopes.
If you need gear for snowshoeing, cold weather exploring, or long afternoons outside, visit Christy Sports in Aspen or Snowmass for warm layers, accessories, and local advice. Even simple winter walks feel different at elevation, which is why warm layers and traction-friendly footwear matter more than many visitors expect.
Breckenridge, Keystone, and Summit County: Winter Experiences Beyond Skiing
Summit County is ideal for travelers who want variety without overplanning. Many non ski activities fit naturally into arrival days or breaks between ski days.
Winter fly fishing on the Blue River near Silverthorne and Breckenridge offers quiet water, snowy backdrops, and fewer anglers than peak season. Guided trips make the experience approachable, even if it is your first time casting in winter.
Snowshoeing and cross-country (XC) skiing are also popular ways to explore Summit County on non-ski days. Christy Sports offers walk-in XC ski rentals in Breckenridge Ranahan and snowshoe rentals at multiple Summit County locations, including Breckenridge, Dillon, Frisco, Copper Mountain, and Keystone. Gear availability varies by store, so contacting a location directly is recommended.
Evenings are a highlight thanks to classic sleigh ride dinners at the Keystone Stables Sleigh Ride Dinner, where a scenic ride through Soda Creek Valley leads to a hearty meal, live music, and a peaceful return under the stars. Nearby, 2 Below Zero Sleigh Rides adds dinner theater for a more interactive night out.
For sightseeing without skis, snowcat tours at the Breckenridge Nordic Center travel through wildlife preserves in heated cabins, complete with hot chocolate stops. Travelers also enjoy the Copper Mountain Rocky Mountain Coaster, one of the longest alpine coasters in North America.
You can find Christy Sports locations throughout Breckenridge, Keystone, and Summit County to get set with winter layers, rentals, and accessories for your plans.
Telluride and Southwest Colorado: Hot Springs, Snowshoeing, and Scenic Winter Days
Southwest Colorado is known for wide open scenery and some of the most memorable hot springs in the state.
The Orvis Hot Springs, about 45 minutes from Telluride, is an easy stop when flying into or out of Montrose. For a fully immersive experience, Dunton Hot Springs offers secluded soaking surrounded by snow covered peaks.
Snowshoeing around Telluride is especially accessible thanks to local trail options and nearby terrain. Christy Sports and Alpineer locations in Telluride offer walk-in snowshoe and XC ski rentals, with adult gear available at select stores. Availability can change day to day, so checking ahead is always a good idea.
Steamboat Springs: Hot Springs and Easy Winter Fun
Steamboat Springs is a favorite for travelers who want to balance activity with downtime. Natural hot springs anchor the experience, offering a warm contrast to cold days outside. Bowling and horseback riding add low pressure options that fit well into rest days or travel transitions.
Christy Sports in Steamboat Springs can help you get set with layers that keep you comfortable from morning to evening.
For travelers looking to explore beyond town, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing offer an easy way to get outside without committing to a full ski day. Christy Sports offers walk-in snowshoe rentals at select Steamboat locations with availability varying by store.
Non Ski Winter Experiences in Utah Ski Towns
Park City, Deer Valley & Salt Lake City: Unique Winter Adventures Beyond the Slopes
Park City combines adrenaline, culture, and history in a way few ski towns can match.
For a true bucket list experience, the Utah Olympic Park Bobsled Experience lets visitors ride a professional bobsled on an actual Olympic track. Just outside town, the Homestead Crater offers geothermal soaking inside a limestone dome, making it a perfect counterbalance to winter cold.
Back on Main Street, performances at the Egyptian Theatre provide a warm cultural break tied closely to Sundance history. Dog sledding, hot air ballooning, fat tire biking, and snow tubing round out the list of non ski options.
If you are visiting Park City, stop by Christy Sports near Kimball Junction for winter rentals, layers, and trip planning help.
Things to Do in Big Sky, Montana Besides Skiing
Big Sky and Yellowstone: Winter Wildlife and Wide Open Spaces
Big Sky offers winter at full scale, with fewer crowds and access to some of the most dramatic landscapes in the country.
The town serves as a gateway to wintertime Yellowstone National Park, where guided snowcoach tours replace car travel and reveal geysers, wildlife, and snow covered valleys at their quietest.
Back in Big Sky, winter fly fishing, scenic flights over the Spanish Peaks, and guided wildlife experiences offer a deeper connection to Montana’s landscape. Local brews, spirits, and live music create a relaxed after adventure scene that feels authentic and welcoming.
Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are natural fits for Big Sky’s wide-open terrain. Christy Sports offers walk-in XC ski and snowshoe rentals at the Big Sky Town Center location, with gear availability varying throughout the season.
Find XC ski and snowshoe rental locations across the Mountain West.
Stop by Christy Sports in Big Sky for winter gear, layers, and local insight.
Non-Ski Winter Experiences in Washington Ski Towns
Washington ski towns bring a different kind of winter magic. Think dramatic alpine views, mossy forests dusted with snow, walkable villages, and a slower pace that makes winter feel immersive rather than rushed. These destinations are especially appealing for non-skiers, mixed-ability groups, and travelers who want scenic days without committing to lift tickets.
Crystal Mountain sits on the northeast edge of Mount Rainier and offers one of the most accessible non-ski winter experiences in the Pacific Northwest.
Non-skiers can ride the Mount Rainier Gondola to take in sweeping views of the Cascades, weather permitting, without ever stepping into skis. Snowshoe trails around the base area and nearby forest roads provide a quiet way to explore winter landscapes shaped by heavy snowfall and old-growth trees. On clear days, the contrast between snow, rock, and evergreen forest feels distinctly Northwest and completely different from the Rockies.
Before heading up the mountain, stop by Sturtevant’s in Bellevue to get set with snowshoes, waterproof layers, insulated gloves, and accessories built for variable winter conditions.
Leavenworth, Washington: Winter Festivals, Food, and Walkable Charm
Leavenworth is one of Washington’s best winter destinations for travelers who want atmosphere over adrenaline. The Bavarian-style village is easy to explore on foot and comes alive in winter with lights, festivals, and seasonal events.
Visitors can enjoy sleigh rides, wine tasting, cozy cafés, and winter markets without needing a ski pass. Snowshoeing and Nordic skiing trails sit just outside town, making it easy to mix short outdoor outings with warm indoor stops. It is an ideal choice for couples, families, and anyone planning a relaxed winter weekend.
Snoqualmie Pass: Easy Winter Access from Seattle
Just an hour from Seattle, Snoqualmie Pass offers one of the most approachable winter environments for non-skiers in the region. Snowshoe trails, groomed Nordic routes, and scenic viewpoints make it easy to enjoy snow without a full mountain itinerary.
The area is well suited for day trips, spontaneous outings, and travelers easing into winter activities for the first time. Short walks, hot drinks, and dramatic mountain backdrops make Snoqualmie Pass a reliable option when conditions are right.
Both Sturtevant’s Ski Mart Bellevue and Sturtevant’s Ski Mart Tacoma can help you prepare with warm layers, traction accessories, and local advice for changing mountain weather.
Planning Tip for Washington Winter Travel
Washington winters often mean heavier snowfall, mixed precipitation, and rapid weather changes. Waterproof outerwear, insulated gloves, and warm base layers make a noticeable difference for comfort, even on short outings. Snowshoeing and scenic tram rides are popular alternatives to skiing, and many travelers find they spend more time outside than expected once they are properly layered.
The Insider’s List: Local Secrets for Non Skiers
Once you move beyond the main villages, ski towns reveal a quieter side of winter. These experiences are local favorites and offer a different way to enjoy the mountains without a lift ticket.
In Aspen, snowshoeing through Ashcroft Ghost Town near Independence Pass provides a striking look at Colorado’s mining history when conditions allow. In Big Sky, the short hike to Ousel Falls often leads to a frozen waterfall that locals love for winter photos. Near Park City, a visit to High West Distillery in Wanship offers grain to glass tours in a relaxed ranch setting. Across ski country, winter festivals add energy and local flavor throughout the season.
For more ideas, see our guide to winter festivals and mid winter events across ski towns.
How to Plan a Ski Town Trip With Non Skiers
The best trips are built with flexibility. Choose walkable towns, mix indoor and outdoor activities, and plan real rest days alongside ski days. Weather and energy levels can change quickly, and having options keeps everyone happy.
If you need gear to go with your plans, Christy Sports and Sturtevant’s can help you get set with ski and snowboard rentals, warm layers, and accessories for long days outside.
Before you head out, check out our Winter Gear Guide for the latest jackets, pants, goggles, gloves, and ski and snowboard picks you will want for festival days and mountain days alike. Small accessories like insulated gloves, neck gaiters, and traction devices can make winter walking and sightseeing far more comfortable.
Find a Christy Sports location near your winter destination.
Why Ski Towns Are Worth Visiting Without Skiing
You do not need perfect snow or a packed ski schedule to enjoy winter in the mountains. Ski towns are built around shared experiences, wide-open scenery, and time spent outside together. Often, it is the moments beyond the slopes that stay with you longest. Winter in the mountains is about choosing what feels right for the day and leaning into it.
Last updated February 5, 2026.
Fun Things to Do in Colorado, Utah, Montana, & Washington Ski Towns Besides Skiing
Skiing may be the heart of mountain life, but it is not the only way to experience winter in the West and Pacific Northwest. Whether you are taking a rest day, traveling with non-skiers, or simply choosing not to click into bindings, ski towns offer plenty of ways to enjoy the season. Many travelers build these experiences into rest days or arrival days, making winter trips feel more relaxed and more memorable.
From hot springs and scenic rides to culture, food, and wildlife experiences, this guide highlights some of the best winter activities across the Mountain West. It is built for couples, mixed ability groups, and travelers who want flexibility without missing out on what makes ski towns special.
If you are traveling with kids, this guide pairs well with our family focused companion, Planning a Family Friendly Winter Getaway, which highlights kid approved snow adventures and easy winter outings.
Jump to Your Destination
- Colorado Ski Towns (Aspen, Breckenridge, Telluride, Steamboat)
- Park City & Deer Valley, Utah
- Big Sky, Montana
- Washington Ski Towns (Crystal Mountain, Leavenworth, Snoqualmie Pass)
At a Glance: Top Non Ski Winter Experiences
Best for Thrills
Olympic Bobsled Experience in Park City, Utah
Best for Relaxation
Dunton Hot Springs near Telluride, Colorado
Best for Nature and Wildlife
Yellowstone Snowcoach Tours from Big Sky, Montana
Best for Food Lovers
Pine Creek Cookhouse outside Aspen, Colorado
Best for Scenic Winter Views
Non Ski Winter Activities in Colorado Ski Towns
Aspen, Colorado: What to Do If You Do Not Ski
Aspen is one of the most well rounded ski towns in the West for non-skiers, blending culture, scenery, and classic mountain traditions.
Guided snowmobile tours with T-Lazy-7 Ranch explore iconic terrain near the Maroon Bells and Independence Pass, offering big views without the lift lines. For a slower pace, naturalist-led snowshoe tours through Hallam Lake, Ashcroft, and Aspen Mountain focus on winter ecology and quiet forest landscapes.
Dining becomes part of the adventure when you cross country ski, snowshoe, or hike to the Pine Creek Cookhouse, where alpine views and seasonal menus reward the journey. Sleigh ride lunches and dinners are also available for a classic winter experience in an incredibly majestic setting.
Back in town, the Aspen Art Museum is an easy cultural stop between winter adventures. Admission is free, and rotating contemporary exhibitions, public programs, and a café on the upper level make it a welcoming place to warm up, linger, and explore beyond the slopes.
If you need gear for snowshoeing, cold weather exploring, or long afternoons outside, visit Christy Sports in Aspen or Snowmass for warm layers, accessories, and local advice. Even simple winter walks feel different at elevation, which is why warm layers and traction-friendly footwear matter more than many visitors expect.
Breckenridge, Keystone, and Summit County: Winter Experiences Beyond Skiing
Summit County is ideal for travelers who want variety without overplanning. Many non ski activities fit naturally into arrival days or breaks between ski days.
Winter fly fishing on the Blue River near Silverthorne and Breckenridge offers quiet water, snowy backdrops, and fewer anglers than peak season. Guided trips make the experience approachable, even if it is your first time casting in winter.
Snowshoeing and cross-country (XC) skiing are also popular ways to explore Summit County on non-ski days. Christy Sports offers walk-in XC ski rentals in Breckenridge Ranahan and snowshoe rentals at multiple Summit County locations, including Breckenridge, Dillon, Frisco, Copper Mountain, and Keystone. Gear availability varies by store, so contacting a location directly is recommended.
Evenings are a highlight thanks to classic sleigh ride dinners at the Keystone Stables Sleigh Ride Dinner, where a scenic ride through Soda Creek Valley leads to a hearty meal, live music, and a peaceful return under the stars. Nearby, 2 Below Zero Sleigh Rides adds dinner theater for a more interactive night out.
For sightseeing without skis, snowcat tours at the Breckenridge Nordic Center travel through wildlife preserves in heated cabins, complete with hot chocolate stops. Travelers also enjoy the Copper Mountain Rocky Mountain Coaster, one of the longest alpine coasters in North America.
You can find Christy Sports locations throughout Breckenridge, Keystone, and Summit County to get set with winter layers, rentals, and accessories for your plans.
Telluride and Southwest Colorado: Hot Springs, Snowshoeing, and Scenic Winter Days
Southwest Colorado is known for wide open scenery and some of the most memorable hot springs in the state.
The Orvis Hot Springs, about 45 minutes from Telluride, is an easy stop when flying into or out of Montrose. For a fully immersive experience, Dunton Hot Springs offers secluded soaking surrounded by snow covered peaks.
Snowshoeing around Telluride is especially accessible thanks to local trail options and nearby terrain. Christy Sports and Alpineer locations in Telluride offer walk-in snowshoe and XC ski rentals, with adult gear available at select stores. Availability can change day to day, so checking ahead is always a good idea.
Steamboat Springs: Hot Springs and Easy Winter Fun
Steamboat Springs is a favorite for travelers who want to balance activity with downtime. Natural hot springs anchor the experience, offering a warm contrast to cold days outside. Bowling and horseback riding add low pressure options that fit well into rest days or travel transitions.
Christy Sports in Steamboat Springs can help you get set with layers that keep you comfortable from morning to evening.
For travelers looking to explore beyond town, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing offer an easy way to get outside without committing to a full ski day. Christy Sports offers walk-in snowshoe rentals at select Steamboat locations with availability varying by store.
Non Ski Winter Experiences in Utah Ski Towns
Park City, Deer Valley & Salt Lake City: Unique Winter Adventures Beyond the Slopes
Park City combines adrenaline, culture, and history in a way few ski towns can match.
For a true bucket list experience, the Utah Olympic Park Bobsled Experience lets visitors ride a professional bobsled on an actual Olympic track. Just outside town, the Homestead Crater offers geothermal soaking inside a limestone dome, making it a perfect counterbalance to winter cold.
Back on Main Street, performances at the Egyptian Theatre provide a warm cultural break tied closely to Sundance history. Dog sledding, hot air ballooning, fat tire biking, and snow tubing round out the list of non ski options.
If you are visiting Park City, stop by Christy Sports near Kimball Junction for winter rentals, layers, and trip planning help.
Things to Do in Big Sky, Montana Besides Skiing
Big Sky and Yellowstone: Winter Wildlife and Wide Open Spaces
Big Sky offers winter at full scale, with fewer crowds and access to some of the most dramatic landscapes in the country.
The town serves as a gateway to wintertime Yellowstone National Park, where guided snowcoach tours replace car travel and reveal geysers, wildlife, and snow covered valleys at their quietest.
Back in Big Sky, winter fly fishing, scenic flights over the Spanish Peaks, and guided wildlife experiences offer a deeper connection to Montana’s landscape. Local brews, spirits, and live music create a relaxed after adventure scene that feels authentic and welcoming.
Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are natural fits for Big Sky’s wide-open terrain. Christy Sports offers walk-in XC ski and snowshoe rentals at the Big Sky Town Center location, with gear availability varying throughout the season.
Find XC ski and snowshoe rental locations across the Mountain West.
Stop by Christy Sports in Big Sky for winter gear, layers, and local insight.
Non-Ski Winter Experiences in Washington Ski Towns
Washington ski towns bring a different kind of winter magic. Think dramatic alpine views, mossy forests dusted with snow, walkable villages, and a slower pace that makes winter feel immersive rather than rushed. These destinations are especially appealing for non-skiers, mixed-ability groups, and travelers who want scenic days without committing to lift tickets.
Crystal Mountain sits on the northeast edge of Mount Rainier and offers one of the most accessible non-ski winter experiences in the Pacific Northwest.
Non-skiers can ride the Mount Rainier Gondola to take in sweeping views of the Cascades, weather permitting, without ever stepping into skis. Snowshoe trails around the base area and nearby forest roads provide a quiet way to explore winter landscapes shaped by heavy snowfall and old-growth trees. On clear days, the contrast between snow, rock, and evergreen forest feels distinctly Northwest and completely different from the Rockies.
Before heading up the mountain, stop by Sturtevant’s in Bellevue to get set with snowshoes, waterproof layers, insulated gloves, and accessories built for variable winter conditions.
Leavenworth, Washington: Winter Festivals, Food, and Walkable Charm
Leavenworth is one of Washington’s best winter destinations for travelers who want atmosphere over adrenaline. The Bavarian-style village is easy to explore on foot and comes alive in winter with lights, festivals, and seasonal events.
Visitors can enjoy sleigh rides, wine tasting, cozy cafés, and winter markets without needing a ski pass. Snowshoeing and Nordic skiing trails sit just outside town, making it easy to mix short outdoor outings with warm indoor stops. It is an ideal choice for couples, families, and anyone planning a relaxed winter weekend.
Snoqualmie Pass: Easy Winter Access from Seattle
Just an hour from Seattle, Snoqualmie Pass offers one of the most approachable winter environments for non-skiers in the region. Snowshoe trails, groomed Nordic routes, and scenic viewpoints make it easy to enjoy snow without a full mountain itinerary.
The area is well suited for day trips, spontaneous outings, and travelers easing into winter activities for the first time. Short walks, hot drinks, and dramatic mountain backdrops make Snoqualmie Pass a reliable option when conditions are right.
Both Sturtevant’s Ski Mart Bellevue and Sturtevant’s Ski Mart Tacoma can help you prepare with warm layers, traction accessories, and local advice for changing mountain weather.
Planning Tip for Washington Winter Travel
Washington winters often mean heavier snowfall, mixed precipitation, and rapid weather changes. Waterproof outerwear, insulated gloves, and warm base layers make a noticeable difference for comfort, even on short outings. Snowshoeing and scenic tram rides are popular alternatives to skiing, and many travelers find they spend more time outside than expected once they are properly layered.
The Insider’s List: Local Secrets for Non Skiers
Once you move beyond the main villages, ski towns reveal a quieter side of winter. These experiences are local favorites and offer a different way to enjoy the mountains without a lift ticket.
In Aspen, snowshoeing through Ashcroft Ghost Town near Independence Pass provides a striking look at Colorado’s mining history when conditions allow. In Big Sky, the short hike to Ousel Falls often leads to a frozen waterfall that locals love for winter photos. Near Park City, a visit to High West Distillery in Wanship offers grain to glass tours in a relaxed ranch setting. Across ski country, winter festivals add energy and local flavor throughout the season.
For more ideas, see our guide to winter festivals and mid winter events across ski towns.
How to Plan a Ski Town Trip With Non Skiers
The best trips are built with flexibility. Choose walkable towns, mix indoor and outdoor activities, and plan real rest days alongside ski days. Weather and energy levels can change quickly, and having options keeps everyone happy.
If you need gear to go with your plans, Christy Sports and Sturtevant’s can help you get set with ski and snowboard rentals, warm layers, and accessories for long days outside.
Before you head out, check out our Winter Gear Guide for the latest jackets, pants, goggles, gloves, and ski and snowboard picks you will want for festival days and mountain days alike. Small accessories like insulated gloves, neck gaiters, and traction devices can make winter walking and sightseeing far more comfortable.
Find a Christy Sports location near your winter destination.
Why Ski Towns Are Worth Visiting Without Skiing
You do not need perfect snow or a packed ski schedule to enjoy winter in the mountains. Ski towns are built around shared experiences, wide-open scenery, and time spent outside together. Often, it is the moments beyond the slopes that stay with you longest. Winter in the mountains is about choosing what feels right for the day and leaning into it.
Last updated February 5, 2026.
