It’s the coziest time of the year, and a scenic mountain sleigh ride just so happens to be the perfect place to snuggle up to your loved ones. So break out warm mittens, cuddle up with a blanket (BYO currently required), and get ready for an unforgettable winter adventure. All of the rides listed below are suitable for guests of all ages. Keep in mind that space will be limited, and advanced reservations are typically required.

Snow Mountain Stables

Granby

Forty-five-minute public sleigh rides are offered daily at Snow Mountain Stables. Horse-drawn sleds depart from the YMCA of the Rockies’ Snow Mountain Ranch location to take families on a magical journey past frosted pines and scenic vistas, all ending at a crackling bonfire with hot chocolate. Private sleigh rides are also available.

Two Below Zero

Frisco

This family-owned operation has delighted Summit County adventurers for more than 30 years. Dinner rides include hearty food and live music, plus plenty of majestic views. There’s also a shorter, 50-minute hot chocolate ride option. Private rides—starting in mid-January—are ideal for those looking for an intimate family experience.

Aspen Carriage and Sleigh

Aspen

Families who sign up for a public sleigh ride are escorted by a horse-drawn sled on a 20-minute ride through a bona fide winter wonderland. Those looking to experience a Norman Rockwell-style vacation might book a private ride; it’s longer and includes hot cocoa and special photo-ops as you wind through a wintry forest into a meadow bordering the Roaring Fork River.

Golden Horseshoe

Breckenridge

Take a short-but-scenic seasonal experience, or opt for a memorable night including a hot meal—plenty of options await in one of Colorado’s most adorable mountain towns. In addition to its dinner theater and romantic sleigh rides, Golden Horseshoe offers 40-minute horse-drawn hot cocoa rides through the White River National Forest trails, plus private sleigh trips.

This article was originally published in December 2021.
Jamie Siebrase

Jamie Siebrase is a Denver-based freelance writer, mother, and author.