Dreaming of Travel: Snow Mountain Ranch
Published on October 10, 2022 - Updated on October 10, 2022
Snow Mountain Ranch in Winter Park, Colorado is part of the YMCA of the Rockies family. This inclusive getaway tucked into the Rocky Mountains is perfect for a family vacation any time of year, but the snowy winter is when it really shines. The Ranch is the perfect place to introduce and enjoy a variety of winter activities all while being close to where you are staying.
Where to stay?
The YMCA of the Rockies at Snow Mountain Ranch has a variety of lodging opportunities that fit every family size and budget. There are 50 cabins (from 2-5 bedrooms) with kitchens and fireplaces that provide a more serene visit. Three hotel lodges with varying room layouts are more centrally located. Snow Mountain Ranch also has 24 seasonal yurts and 41 seasonal RV and tent campsites. We happen to love the rooms that come with two queen beds and a set of bunk beds! The staff is happy to help you find your perfect option.
Where to play?
Snow Mountain Ranch has a huge list of activities included in your stay. The tubing hill is a family favorite. The small outdoor skating rink is perfect for new skaters, and state rental is included. When you get cold you can head indoors to the roller rink. The indoor pool has a climbing wall and slide. The gym is packed with activities you check out from the desk from volleyball to air hockey and pickleball.
There are also family games and activities you can sign up for. We enjoyed a family scavenger hunt around the property as well as a game of dodgeball. There is a library on site where you can borrow books or participate in storytime.
Activities like archery and dog-sledding are available but cost a nominal fee.
There is also a full craft center where you pay per activity. You can paint your own pottery, do some leather working, or try your hand at mosaics.
The Nordic Center, located on the property, is your gateway to 100+ km of trails all included in your stay. You can bring your own gear or rent it on-site.
They also offer lessons if you are new or need a refresher. We typically do a half-day of snow-shoeing and a half-day of cross-country skiing.
The Nordic Center can also help you arrange a trip off-property for alpine skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, or horseback riding.
You won't need to leave the Snow Mountain Ranch property to fill your days but if you want to the nearby town of Winter Park is similarly packed with activities including a world-class ski resort.
Where to Eat?
The resort offers several on-site dining options including a full-service buffet option at the Schlessman Commons and a takeout pizza and grill place called the Buckboard Grill.
Lodge rooms have small refrigerators and cabins have full kitchens, so you can feel free to bring your own food and make meals as you go.
Snow Mountain Ranch is also a short drive from Tabernash (5 miles), Fraiser (10 miles), and Winter Park (15 miles), which all have additional dining options.
Have you been to Snow Mountain Ranch? What were your favorite spots and activities? Let us know in the comments below and don't forget to tag us in your Instagram photos @gethappyly!
Looking to read up on more places to explore? Check out our articles on Petrified National Forest, White Sands National Park, Theodore Roosevelt National Park, and Saguaro National Park!
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