Over President’s Day weekend, YMCA of the Rockies Estes Park Center will host the inaugural Winterfest Weekend, a fresh take on their long-running Mountaineering Weekend. Nestled on more than 850 acres in Estes Park, CO, YMCA of the Rockies Estes Park Center is the perfect destination for affordable, approachable winter fun; and, from February 17-18, this new winter festival is designed to encourage people to spend more time outdoors – and learn new skills!
Throughout the weekend of snowy fun, guests can:
- Learn about the Rocky Mountains in the winter and how climate change is impacting the seasons on a guided snow ecology hike
- Take an Intro to Snowshoeing class, to learn about winter preparedness, different types of snowshoes and when to use them, and proper form while wearing snowshoes.
- Pick up the basics of climbing, including knot tying, climbing form, and more during an indoor Climbing 101 session
- Explore the property and the great outdoors with a winter-themed scavenger hunt
- Enjoy other Winterfest activities, including ice skating, ice cream making, snowball capture the flag, a snowman-building contest, and more.
- For the full schedule, click here
Accommodations range from cozy, private cabins that sleep up to five people to hotel-style lodge rooms; and most Winterfest Weekend activities are included with a stay. Guests can also participate in several on-site, seasonal activities outside of the event – including sledding, roller skating, indoor swimming and more. And the town of Estes Park itself is a must-visit winter destination – with stunning winter vistas, local boutique shops, and charming restaurants.