For many, this year has encouraged us to change up our annual traditions, seek new experiences, and finally do things we’ve always wanted to try. With chilly days ahead, reacquaint yourself with some of Colorado’s most breathtaking scenery. Shea Homes® has rounded up five stellar — socially-distant — activities designed to help you and your family enjoy the great outdoors this season.
Go Sledding
After fresh snow blankets Colorado’s rolling hills, grab a speedy sled and slide away. In designated areas, your family will have a blast racing each other down slippery hillsides and taking tumbles in the powdery snow. Perfect for families on a budget, pack healthy snacks to fuel your family for a day of fun. Stay safe by slathering on sunscreen, keeping your distance from others, and staying hydrated. Before you head back to your gorgeous Shea home, warm up with a thermos of steaming hot cocoa — don’t forget the marshmallows!
Try Snowshoeing
A fantastic way to get your heart rate up — without noticing — is by strapping on a pair of snowshoes. No matter your family’s experience or fitness level, you’ll find freestyle snowshoeing available in almost all of Colorado’s four corners. For a full day excursion, head out along Rocky Mountain National Park’s 355 miles of trails, or recreate near Glenwood Springs, Nederland, or Keystone. If you prefer to practice before venturing on your own, structured snowshoeing is available along certain trails. Tip — check weather and avalanche conditions, special guidelines due to COVID-19, and traffic along your route to be sure your family stays safe during your adventure.
Take a Dip
As the snow falls, little compares to taking a swim in crystal clear — naturally heated — mineral water. The closest hot springs to Denver — the iconic Indian Hot Springs — is currently open to the public. Be safe by checking opening hours and following special instructions if you plan your trip in the coming months. For a weekend getaway, consider Glenwood Hot Springs Pool or Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort. In two to four hours by car, you can soak in the outdoor geothermal pools while taking in the wintery beauty of your natural surroundings.
Set Out On A Scenic Road Trip
Take a day trip around colorful Colorado to experience what attracts visitors to our stunning state. About one hour from Denver, you can hike around world famous Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre by way of the Lariat Loop — a 40 mile scenic byway. Make the short trip to Boulder where you can view the beautiful Flatirons and stretch your legs along one of many hiking trails on a sunny winter day. Whether you choose to explore — or stay in the car — cruise south to Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. As you travel along the roadway, you’ll notice the towering rocks jutting from the foothills with unmistakable Pikes Peak as the backdrop.
Get Close to Wildlife
Year-round, Colorado is buzzing with a wide variety of animals. Take the kiddos to view their favorite creatures at the Denver Zoo — where they can spot everything from penguins to polar bears. Consider a drive to the Wild Animal Sanctuary. Weather permitting, you and your family will be able to stroll along an elevated walkway and view roaming lions, tigers, bears, and wolves from a safe distance. When you’re ready for an adventure closer to home, don’t forget the flora and fauna of the trails within your Shea Homes community.
When you buy a home from Shea, experiencing all of Colorado’s seasonal beauty is easy. Conveniently located, your new home is near unbeatable sledding, animal life, and more. With stunning home collections that feature unique floorplans, enjoy the wonder of winter in one of our tightly-knit communities. Chat with us to discover the home of your dreams.