Discover Snow Mountain Ranch — One Activity at a Time
Spread across an expansive high-country ranch near Winter Park and Grand Lake, Snow Mountain Ranch delivers serious adventure and wide-open space in equal measure. From the world-class Nordic Center and fat tire biking to climbing walls, tubing, and campfire nights — many activities included free with your stay — there's always something to do and always room to breathe.
Download our weekly activity guides here!
Archery
Make your mark with archery at Snow Mountain Ranch! Our archery sessions allow beginners to learn the basics, while experienced archers get a chance to hone their skills.
Available throughout the year — with both indoor and outdoor ranges — archery sessions are limited to 12 guests/session in the summer and fall, 9 guests/session in the winter. Sign up online or by calling our Programs Department at 970-887-2152 ext. 4135. Reservation required. Reservations 24 hours in advance are recommended
- More Information
- All Seasons
- Day Pass or Lodging Reservation Required, Does Not Cover Additional Fees
- $12/person Facilitation Fee
- 45-Minute Session
- 6 Years or Older
Climbing
Appropriate for all skill levels, Snow Mountain Ranch's three-story indoor climbing wall is located in the Kiva Recreation Center. During a 45-minute session, guests will harness up and have a chance to learn the basics of rock climbing with a trained facilitator. We have easy, moderate, and difficult routes to choose from. Guests must be between 40 and 250 lbs. to use the climbing wall.
Sign up online or by calling our Programs Department at 970-887-2152 ext. 4135. Reservation required. Reservations at least 24 hours in advance are recommended.
- More Information
- All Seasons (Indoor)
- Day Pass or Reservation Required
- $12/person Facilitation Fee
- 12 guests/session
- 45-Minute Sessions
- Adaptive equipment available. Call for details
Aerial Challenge Course
Challenge yourself and enjoy our aerial challenge course, an aerial playground suspended 20 feet in the air!
The session begins with a 30-minute ground school that each participant must pass before entering the course itself. Participants must be between 40 pounds and 250 pounds and be at least 4’9” tall to participate. People with known heart conditions or who are pregnant may not participate.
Sign up online or by calling our Programs Department at 970-887-2152 ext. 4135. Reservation required. Reservations at least 24 hours in advance are recommended.
- More Information
- Summer, Fall
- Day Pass or Lodging Reservation Required, Does Not Cover Additional Fees
- $35/person facilitation fee
- 2-Hour Sessions
Summer Tubing
Opens for the season May 23rd
Head for the hills and have a whole lot of fun! Snow Mountain Ranch has expanded the traditional winter activity of tubing to enjoy without the cold and snow. Located near the dog park. Ages 3+, children ages 3-6 must ride in a tandem-tube with an adult (no lap riding). Free for YMCA of the Rockies members and Lodging guests. $10/person for Day Pass guests. 50-minute sessions. Advance reservations required.
- More Information
- Summer, Fall
- Included with a lodging reservation or YMCA of the Rockies membership
- An additional $10/per person facilitation fee is required for day pass users
Biking
Offering great exercise and lots of fun, biking is a terrific way to explore our extensive trail system - no matter your skill level! Available on a first come, first-served basis, mountain bike and e-bike rentals are available in adult and child sizes and are located at the program building. We also rent bike trailers for children to ride in!
- Bike Rentals
Full Suspension: $55/full day | $45/ half day
Hard Tail: $40/full day | $30/half day
Kids (6-12): $20/full day | $15/half day
Kids 5 and Under: $6/full day | $6/ half day
Child Trailer or Ride-Along: $35/full day | $23/ half day - E-Bikes
$30 for 1 hour
$60 for 2 hours
$70 for 3 hoursPlease note: All rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The bike shop hours are 8:30am-5pm 7 days/week from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day. There are no overnight rentals. All rentals include a MIPS certified helmet.
- More Information
- Summer
- $6 – $70/Person
- Trail Access Included With Lodging Reservation, Day Pass, or Membership
- 1-Hour to Full-Day Sessions
Crafts
Bring your ideas and inspirations to life at the Snow Mountain Ranch Craft Shop. With a large assortment of crafts options, kids and adults can make and take handcrafted memories home. The Snow Mountain Ranch Craft Shop is open daily with projects available for all ages and abilities. Projects range from $1 to $75 and include ceramics, leatherwork, mosaics, tie dye, wood burning, and various kid’s crafts including sand art and paper crafts.
- More Information
- All Seasons
- Day Pass or Lodging Reservation Required, Does Not Cover Additional Fees
- Material Fees, $1 - $75/project
- All Ages
- Accessible
Miniature Golf
Gather your friends and family together for a fun round of miniature golf! One of Snow Mountain Ranch’s most popular activities, our 27-hole miniature golf course is relaxing fun for every age. Equipment is available at the mini-golf course, which is located behind our Programs Building.
For more information, please call our Programs Department at 970-887-2152 ext. 4135.
- More Information
- Summer, Fall
- Included with Day Pass or Lodging Reservation
Family Programming
Trying to get your kids outside and off the couch? We offer a variety of seasonal family programs classes that will pique any kid’s interest level this summer! From fort building and guided hikes to classes special guests and roller discos, there's plenty for your family to enjoy.
- More Information
- Year Round, Varies by Season
- Included with a Day Pass or Lodging Reservation
Hiking
We have a variety of Snow Mountain Ranch hiking trails to explore, from short hikes to mountain summits. Explore our trail system on your own or join one of our guided hikes. Our two most popular hiking trails are the Waterfall Trail and 9-Mile Mountain.
Stop by the Program Building to learn about our hiking trails, or for more information, please call our Programs Department at 970-887-2152 ext. 4135.
- More Information
- Summer, Fall
- Included with Day Pass or Lodging Reservation
Horseback, Hay, and Sleigh Rides
Explore the natural beauty of your spectacular surroundings with horseback riding at Snow Mountain Ranch! Rocky Mountain Stables is a third-party horseback riding company located on the Snow Mountain Ranch property and offers a memorable horseback riding experience through our backcountry terrain. Prices vary depending on the experience. All rides are booked through the Rocky Mountain Stables website.
- More Information
- All Seasons
- Prices Vary
Game Room
Starting April 16th, open from 1pm - 9pm daily.
Have fun together with family and friends at our game room. In addition to sports and games, the Kiva Recreation Center is home to classic games like air hockey, foosball, ping pong, and pool.
On select summer weekends, the recreation center may be partially reserved by private groups.
For more information, please call our Programs Department at 970-887-2152 ext. 4135.
- More Information
- All Seasons
- Included with a Day Pass or Lodging Reservation
Roller Skating
Starting April 16th, open from 1pm-9pm daily.
Show off your skills at the Snow Mountain Ranch Roller Skating Rink. Located indoors at the Kiva Recreation Center, roller skating is the perfect activity everyone can enjoy, no matter the weather. Check out our activity guide for special events, including our very popular roller disco. Roller skates are provided free of charge to guests, but you're welcome to bring your own.
On select summer weekends, the recreation center may be partially reserved by private groups.
For more information, please call our Programs Department at 970-887-2152 ext. 4135.
- More Information
- All Seasons
- Included with Day Pass or Lodging Reservation
Sports & Games
Whether you’re looking to play the classics like basketball, volleyball, and tennis or itching to try something different like gaga ball or pickleball, we’ve got what you need! We also have equipment for kickball, soccer, football, Frisbee, and more!
Equipment is available for check out and use from the Programs Building (open 8:30am - 5pm daily) or Kiva Center (open 1pm-9pm daily).
Our softball field is available for rent on most weekends, with limited availability during the week.
For more information, please call our Programs Department at 970-887-2152 ext. 4135
- More Information
- All Seasons
- Included with Day Pass or Lodging Reservation
Historic Sites
Explore life of a rancher in the early 1900s at the Rowley Homestead. You can take a guided tour, learn to weave, make dolls, or participate in a variety of other historical programs. Check your activity guide for programming details and hours of operation.
We encourage you to stop by this Snow Mountain Ranch historical site to learn more and start your history adventure!
- More Information
- Summer
- Included with Day Pass or Reservation
Doll Making
Join us at Rowley Homestead to create a "homesteader" style doll of your own! Capacity limited, registration required $5/pp. Recommended ages 8+
- More Information
- Summer
- Registration Required
Library
The library at Snow Mountain Ranch offers hundreds of books and plenty of games to check out and enjoy while enjoying our scenic surroundings — be it from your cabin or lodge room, or anywhere you please. Whether you’re interested in fiction or non-fiction, adventure or special Colorado selections, you’re sure to find a book that peaks your interest!
Our library may not have an active attendant at all times. A key to unlock the library is always available at the Front Desk or the Programs Office. For any questions about our Snow Mountain Ranch library, call our Programs Department at 970-887-2152 ext. 4135.
- More Information
- All Seasons
- Included with Day Pass or Lodging Reservation
Massage
Soothe muscles, alleviate pain, and release stress with a therapeutic massage in the Rocky Mountains. At Snow Mountain Ranch, therapeutic massage is offered through Massage by Lynda.
Disc Golf
Enjoy 18 holes of disc-flipping fun on Snow Mountain Ranch's 18-hole disc golf course. Take in views of subalpine forest and the continental divide as you play your way around the YMCA property. Feel free to bring your own discs, or disc-golf discs can be rented at the Program Building.
For more information, contact the Programs Department at 970-887-2152 ext. 4135.
- More Information
- Summer, Fall
- Included with a Day Pass or Lodging Reservation
Dog Park
Bring your furry friend to the Snow Mountain Ranch Dog Park! Located across from the summer tubing hill, our large three-acre dog park is fenced and has amenities for both dogs and their humans, including a dog-friendly water fountain, shade shelter, picnic table, and separate sections for large dogs.
Please note: Pets are welcome at YMCA of the Rockies, but must follow our public space and leash rules. Learn more about our pet policies here.
- More Information
- All Seasons
- Included with Day Pass or Reservation
- Accessible
Playgrounds
There’s always time and a place to play at the Y! Snow Mountain Ranch maintains playgrounds located conveniently around the property to offer plenty of fun and fresh mountain air for kids and adults alike.
For more information, please call our Programs Department at 970-887-2152 ext. 4135.
- More Information
- All Seasons
- Included with Day Pass or Lodging Reservation
Spiritual & Faith-Based Programming
Come as you are and join us for Morning Prayer at 8am, either at Columbine Point or Whispering Pines Chapel, weather and season depending. We also hold special gatherings for Advent, Christmas, Lent, and Easter.
In addition to traditional gatherings, we host a variety of programs and services that allow individuals to be intentional and curious about their faith. Self-guided beatitude hikes, Bible studies, interfaith studies, children's programming, s'mores campfires, sing-a-longs, grief groups, hymn sings, and more allow guests to deepen their faith and continue to grow spiritually.
Our Chaplain is also available for counseling and pastoral emergencies as needed; and is available to assist with weddings, baptisms, memorial services, and private gatherings.
For more information or to speak with the Chaplain, please call the Chaplain's Office at 970-887-2152 ext. 4003.
Swimming
Pool will be closed May 16th-23rd. Thank you for your understanding.
Heated and at a length of 25 yards, there’s plenty of room for relaxation and fun at our Snow Mountain Ranch swimming pool. We offer open swim times and a designated lap lane, as well a dry sauna. Be sure to check the weekly activity guide for the schedule!
As a member of YUSA, YMCA of the Rockies must adhere to certain rules to remain in compliance with YUSA and government regulatory agencies.
- Pool capacity (including those on the deck) ranges from 50 – 80 depending on lifeguard staffing.
- Children 5 and under must wear floatation gear (provided) and have an adult in the water with them.
- Children ages 6 – 12 must take a swim check with a lifeguard before entering the water.
- Children 12 and under must have an attending adult (18+) in the building.
- Our dry sauna has a minimum age requirement of 13.
For more information, please call our Programs Department at 970-887-2152 ext. 4135.
- More Information
- All Seasons
- Included with Day Pass or Reservation
- Safety Waiver Required
Fishing
Looking for a convenient place to hook a fish or two? Snow Mountain Ranch offers catch-and-release trout fishing at Gaylord Reservoir - no license required. Bring your own equipment or rent from our Fish and Bike Shop. For more information, please call our Programs Department at 970-887-2152 ext. 4135.
- More Information
- Summer
- Included with Day Pass or Lodging Reservation
- Rental Fees May Apply
Canoeing & Paddle Boarding
Bring the family to the waterfront for a day of fun for everyone! Located on site at scenic Gaylord reservoir, canoeing and paddleboarding are great family friendly activities to get into nature without a lot of hassle.
Canoeing and paddle boarding takes place at Gaylord Reservoir. Paddleboarding participants must be at least 13 years of age.
Life-jackets provided. All participants must fit safely in a life-jacket (infant to adult sizes available) no exceptions.
No personal watercrafts are allowed in Gaylord Reservoir.
- More Information
For more information, please call our Programs Department at 970-887-2152 ext. 4135. Reservation required. Reservations at least 24 hours in advance are recommended.
- Summer
- Day Pass or Lodging Reservation Required, Does Not Cover Additional Fees
- $12/person facilitation fee
Sand Volleyball
Bump, spike, and get set for a perfect activity on a warm summer day: Enjoy sand volleyball with panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains and the continental divide! Our sand volleyball courts are located in several locations near the Administration Building and reunion cabins. Volleyballs are available to check out at the Programs Department.
For any questions, please call the Programs Department at 970-887-2152 ext. 4135.
- More Information
- Summer
- Included with Day Pass or Lodging Reservation
Campfires
Fire pits and campfires are temporarily unavailable at both locations due to an active fire ban. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to welcoming you to the mountains.
Warm your boots and enjoy the cool Colorado nights huddled by a toasty campfire at Snow Mountain Ranch. Campfire reservations are $36 and include private use of the space for morning, afternoon, or evening. Fire ring reservations do not include firewood; wood bundles available for purchase on-site.
Campfires are subject to fire bans or weather conditions and are available Memorial Day through mid-October. Reserve online or by calling our Programs Department at 970-887-2152 ext. 4135.
- More Information
- Spring, Summer, Fall
- $36/ring for a 4 hour session. Morning, afternoon or evening.
- Up to 50 Guests/Session
- Accessible Fire Rings Available
ATV Tour
Depart from MAD Adventure’s convenient location in Winter Park and ride 15 miles up the historic Corona Pass road to the Continental Divide at nearly 12,000ft in elevation. You will drive your own machine on the tour while following one of our qualified guides. This trip includes breathtaking panoramic views of the Continental Divide, Rocky Mountains, and Fraser Valley. We will pass by the historic railroad train trestle that used to operate as a 23 mile long railroad over Rollins Pass. There will be multiple opportunities for enjoying the views, taking pictures, and occasionally a short hike up to the Continental Divide.
This trip is perfect for families and adventurers alike. Side by Side ATV machines come in a 4 seat configuration.
Whitewater Rafting
If you’d like to go on a whitewater adventure during your stay with us, MAD Adventures can set you up — whether you are looking for an easy half-day, a vigorous full-day or an all-out MAD overnight river-rafting trip for yourself, your family, or best buddies. MAD Adventures has the trip for you!
To book your trip, call 970-726-5290 or visit Mad Adventures online.
- More Information
- Summer
- Prices Vary
Nordic Skiing
The world-class Nordic trails at Snow Mountain Ranch offer miles upon miles of fun for all ability levels and ages. Nordic skiing is available to the public with the purchase of a day pass/trail pass. A trail pass is included with YMCA of the Rockies memberships or for guests staying on site.
For more information, please call our Nordic Center at 888-573-9622 November through April, or our Programs Department at 970-887-2152 x4135 May through October
- More Information
- Winter
- Rental Fees May Apply
- Trail Access Included with Day Pass or Lodging Reservation
Winter Tubing
Feel the rush of the wind on your face as you zoom down the Snow Mountain Ranch tubing hill! Tubes are available at the Winter Pavilion — only tubes provided by Snow Mountain Ranch are allowed on the hill; no outside tubes or sleds are permitted. Tubing is always available weather and snowpack permitting. Please note that we do not have a tow rope or moving platform to return to the top of the hill.
For more information, please call our Programs Department at 970-887-2152 ext. 4135.
- More Information
- Winter
- Included with Day Pass or Reservation
- Accessible
Dog Sledding
Have you ever dreamed of shouting “mush” to a team of huskies on a sunny, brisk winter morning? Then a dog sledding tour at Snow Mountain Ranch may be just what you are looking for! We’ve partnered with Redemption Dog Sled Tours to offer “unforgettable dog sled tours amidst pristine winter landscapes, creating memories that last a lifetime.”
For more information and to book your dog sledding tour, visit Redemption Dog Sled Tours.
- More Information
- Winter
- Prices Vary
Snowshoeing
Strap on snowshoes and set out on an adventure through snow-frosted pine trees. Whether you're a beginner or a snowshoeing pro, our Snow Mountain Ranch showshoe trails will spark wonder and awe in every member of your group. View the Snowshoe Trail Map.
Snowshoe rentals are available at the Nordic Center. Free and public guided hikes are listed on the weekly Activity Guide, with hikes available for all levels of adventurers. Private guided hikes are available for $50/guide and have a limit of 15 guests per guide. (Snowshoe rentals are not included in the cost.)
Things to Know: Bring snacks and water. Hiking or waterproof boots are highly recommended. Dress in layers and be prepared for all weather. To schedule a hike, call the Programs Department at 970-887-2152 ext. 4135.
- More Information
- Winter
- Rental Fees May Apply
- Trail Access Included with Day Pass or Lodging Reservation
- Ages 4+
Ice Skating
Put on some skates and glide across the rink for ice skating at Snow Mountain Ranch! Free ice-skate rentals are available at the Winter Pavilion. Sizes range from children to adults. Conditions allowed for ice skating are generally early December through March, weather depending. A day pass is required for non-lodging guests who would like to participate in this activity.
For more information, please call our Programs Department at 970-887-2152 ext. 4135.
- More Information
- Winter
- Included with Day Pass or Reservation
Sauna
This ski season, YMCA of the Rockies is thrilled to partner with Cedar Sauna House, a wood-fired, mobile sauna parked right at the Snow Mountain Ranch Nordic Center. It's a unique blend of wellness, community, and classic après ski sauna culture in the heart of the Rockies.
Book direct online with Cedar Sauna House
Pricing:
Drop in Single Session 75 minutes: $40 ($25 Locals)
6 punch pass: $150
Monthly Membership: $100
Inside this 20-person wood-fired sauna, you'll find:
- A wood-burning stove with about 800 pounds of rocks for deep, radiant heat
- Temperatures targeting 160–175°F, with the ability to reach up to about 195°F
- Tiered benches, so you can sit higher for more heat or lower for a gentler experience
- On-site changing rooms, lockers, and a cozy warming hut
- Towels provided, making it easy to drop in even if you didn't plan ahead
Downhill Skiing
The Rockies have some of the best downhill skiing in the US. Rent your downhill ski gear at Snow Mountain Sports, right on-site when you stay at Snow Mountain Ranch!
Located below the library
*Downhill ski rentals are available at Snow Mountain Ranch through Snow Mountain Sports, however you must travel to nearby ski resorts, Winter Park Resort or Granby Ranch to downhill ski.
- More Information
- Winter
Snowmobiling
Experience Coloradoʼs backcountry like you never have before, and go snowmobiling at Snow Mountain Ranch! With Grand Adventures’ guided tours and unguided snowmobile rentals, you’ll ride along with professional tour guides on nice wide-groomed trails, single track through the trees, powder play meadows, and maybe even catch a glimpse of some wildlife. Tour options for all ages and abilities, from beginner to advanced.
For more information or to reserve your rental today, visit Grand Adventures online or call the company at 970-726-9247. Please note: Tours take place off Snow Mountain Ranch property.
- More Information
- Winter
- Prices Vary
- Accessible