Wait. So skiing isn't the only winter sport out there? Skiing isn't for everyone. As a native Coloradan, I've only ever gone skiing ... once in my entire life. I know, it's shocking and practically unheard of, especially as a native. It's just never been something I'm interested in or, frankly, very good at, so I never gave it a second thought.

But it got me thinking: there's got to be some winter activities for us non-skiers out there to participate in so we're not holed up inside binge-watching Netflix, right? (Not that spending a cozy day inside is something to be ashamed of, because it's not. In fact, we highly encourage it!)

So we've found four Colorado winter activities for anyone who doesn't ski or snowboard—we'd hate for you to feel left out in all the winter fun.

Go Dog Sledding Through the Snow

Courtesy of Snow Buddy Dog Sled Tours (Facebook)

Several areas across the state allow you to traverse the backcountry and take in all Mother Nature offers in the best mode of transportation possible: a dog sled. You'll learn how to mush, have the chance to cuddle and meet the furry athletes, and experience the beauty of Colorado through the eyes of the dogs. 

Ride in a Horse-Drawn Sleigh

Courtesy of Winter Park (website)

There's nothing like being cuddled under a warm blanket, sipping hot cocoa as you listen to the gentle jingle of bells and the rhythmic stride of horses through the snow. Luckily, there are plenty of opportunities to experience just that this winter in Colorado—including Saddleback Ranch (Steamboat Springs), 2 Below Zero (Frisco), and many more.

Explore an Ice Castle

Courtesy of Ice Castles CO (Facebook)

The Ice Castles have yet to be announced for 2024, but we're hopeful we'll explore the winter wonderland again! Preparations usually take roughly a month to complete, and 10,000 icicles need to be harvested every day to make the life-sized fairytale playgrounds come to life. So make sure you bundle up!

Take a Soak in the Hot Springs

Courtesy of Glenwood Springs (Facebook)

You can simply relax and enjoy the warmth of the waters as the snow falls around you, creating quite the contrast of temperatures. Between Glenwood Springs Pool, Ouray Hot Springs, and Iron Mountain Hot Springs, among others, there are a ton of incredible hot springs scattered about the state that you should definitely keep in mind this winter if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle.

What other winter activities in Colorado do you enjoy outside of skiing?