Colorado in March is a time of year when you can enjoy both winter and spring. The days are getting longer and the weather warmer, in between snow storms. It is a time when us mountain folk start thinking about weekend getaways to get out of the snow. But don’t be fooled, it is prime ski season. The ski slopes are hopping too.
Colorado’s March weather can be quite variable and unpredictable. During this month, temperatures can range from mild to warm, with average high temperatures hovering around 50°F (10°C). However, it is not uncommon for temperatures to reach into the 60s and even 70s during the day, especially in the lower elevations of the state. Snow is also common in March, particularly in the mountain regions of the state.
Thinking about going somewhere in Colorado in March? Here are some ideas for you!
Ski Getaways
March is peak ski season for good reason. The days are longer and a bit warmer, and snowpack is at its peak. The snow is great and the ski resorts have all of their terrain open.
For families, Snowmass, Beaver Creek and Copper Mountain are our favorite ski resorts. They have great base villages with lodges, restaurants, ice skating and more. For teens, we love Vail and Steamboat Springs. They also have base villages and more challenging terrain. For a ski day, Ski Cooper is one of our favorite mountains. There’s not much to do there other than ski, but it is an easy in and out without expensive parking.
Hot Springs
This is one of our favorite times of the year to visit Colorado’s natural hot springs. There is something special about soaking or swimming in hot mineral waters as snowflakes float down around you. Glenwood Springs may be home to the best variety of hot springs with two of our favorites: Iron Mountain Hot Springs and the Glenwood Hot Springs Resort Pool. Steamboat Springs is a bit further out, but also home to a couple of unique hot springs options. And, of course the southwestern area of Colorado is full of unique hot springs too.
With a variety of options to choose from, ranging from secluded, natural pools to luxurious resort spas, you are sure to find the perfect hot springs experience that fits your needs and interests.
Get Away to the City
For those of us in the mountains, March is when we think about getting down to Denver for a warmer weekend away. Fortunately there’s always lots of fun to be had in the city. While we have several favorite Denver hotels for families, the Gaylord Rockies is offering a spring special worth considering.
The Gaylord Rockies Welcome to Spring Package includes an overnight stay, two Spring-A-Long Scavenger Hunt booklets, two kits for making s’mores, and self-parking for one car per night. Overnight guests also receive unlimited access to Arapahoe Springs Water Park.
Arapahoe Springs, the resort’s water park complex featuring heated indoor and outdoor pools, three waterslides, and a 720-foot-long lazy river opens for the season Friday, March 10. Other spring events and activities include an interactive show Adventure Kids: Sprout into Spring, the Discover Colorado Escape Room: Riches in the Rockies, a scavenger hunt, an Easter bunny meet and greet (March 3 to April 9, 2023) and Campfire & S’mores.
And, if you haven’t been to Meow Wolf Convergence Station, this would be an excellent time to visit. You’ll want to plan for several hours at this multi-dimensional, multi-sensory place of discovery and imagination.
Rocky Mountain National Park
You may think of summer as the best time to visit Colorado’s National Parks. But this iconic park is one of the best places to visit in Colorado in March, as the snow-capped peaks and stunning scenery are at their finest during this time. Whether you are looking to hike, snowshoe, or simply take in the views, Rocky Mountain National Park is a must-visit destination in March.
If you are looking for a secluded getaway, be sure to check out Grand Lake Lodge. They more recently started offering their historic cabin rentals in winter.
Garden of the Gods
This stunning park in Colorado Springs is a must-visit for anyone interested in geology, nature, and outdoor recreation. With its towering red rock formations capped in snow and miles of hiking trails, Garden of the Gods is a unique and beautiful destination to explore in March.
If the weather is inclement, then check out Great Wolf Lodge for the kids. This huge indoor waterpark is also complimented with an indoor adventure park with everything from mini golf and an arcade to a ropes course. There’s no shortage of fun things to do with the kids in Colorado Springs.
Durango
This charming mountain town is the perfect place to visit in March for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With its picturesque Victorian architecture, scenic railway, and nearby mountain trails, Durango offers a taste of the Old West and a chance to connect with nature.
It is also near two of Colorado’s more unique ski resorts: Purgatory and Silverton. We love combining history with fun on the slopes during a Colorado getaway.
Just beware of the drive if you go over Red Mountain Pass. It is beautiful, but scary. And, a snowstorm can shut it down for hours or days.
Colorado is a state that offers a diverse range of experiences and activities for visitors at different times of the year. Colorado in March, and April too, is when you really can experience different seasons depending on timing and where you go.
