Winter in Southwest Colorado is more than snowstorms and ski days. It’s a season defined by cozy traditions, community events, quiet mountain moments, and knowing exactly where to go when the snow starts falling. To help you experience winter like a local, we asked our Legacy Properties West Sotheby’s International Realty agents to share their favorite winter activities, hidden gems, and best advice for making the most of the season.

Here’s what they had to say.

❄️ Favorite Ways to Spend a Winter Day

Winter days here tend to revolve around snow, family, and embracing the season rather than avoiding it.

Brittany McCoy: “Skiing at Purgatory with my husband and kids.”

Kim Penny: “Downhill skiing.”

Nicole Perino: “Downhill skiing at Purg or Nordic skiing at the golf course.”

An agent shared: “Skiing at Purgatory followed by après at The Nugget.”

Kim Cofman: “Pond hockey with a blazing fire on the ice, snowshoeing, and Nordic skiing.”

📍 Go-To Winter Spots for Visitors

When friends or family come to town in winter, locals know exactly where to send them.

Brittany McCoy: “Chapman Hill for ice skating, sledding, and soaking in the winter vibes.”

Kim Penny: “A horse-drawn sleigh ride up at Bear’s Ranch.”

Nicole Perino: “Durango Hot Springs.”

Another noted: “With kids, The Polar Express. Otherwise, just get out and explore.”

Kim Cofman: “If weather allows, the drive from Durango to Ouray is incredible in winter.”

🎉 Favorite Winter Events & Festivals

Winter in Durango comes with a calendar full of traditions locals look forward to every year.

Brittany McCoy: “Snowdown!”

Kim Penny: “Snowdown.”

Nicole Perino: “Snowdown or Skijoring in Silverton.”

An agent added: “Skijoring in Silverton!”

Kim Cofman: “Snowdown — every year.”

🍽 Favorite Winter Restaurants

Cold days call for warm meals and cozy dining rooms.

Brittany McCoy: “El Moro. It perfectly matches Durango’s cozy winter feel.”

Kim Penny: “Eolus.”

Nicole Perino: “Seasons, for a warm bowl of soup and an excellent glass of wine.”

An agent shared: “Eolus.”

Kim Cofman: “Derailed, it’s cozy, twinkly, and welcoming.”

⛷ Best Winter Outdoor Activities

Southwest Colorado offers far more than just downhill skiing.

Brittany McCoy: “Wolf Creek and Purgatory.”

Kim Penny: “Snowshoeing up at Molas Pass.”

Nicole Perino: “Chapman Hill for the kids or Old Lime Creek Road for snowshoeing.”

An agent noted: “Chapman Hill night skiing.”

Kim Cofman: “Nordic skiing at Vallecito or dogsledding with Durango Dog Ranch.”

⭐ Underrated Winter Activities

Locals know some of the best winter fun flies under the radar.

Brittany McCoy: “Downhill skiing! It gets easier the more you do it.”

Kim Penny: “Making a snowman with my kids.”

Nicole Perino: “Snowshoeing. It sounds boring but it’s a great workout and very peaceful.”

An agent shared: “Sleigh rides at Bear’s Ranch.”

Kim Cofman: “Free Nordic skiing downtown at Hillcrest.”

🙃 Overrated Winter Activities (Just for Fun)

We asked agents to be honest and opinionated.

Brittany McCoy: “Cross-country skiing. It looks easy… it’s not.”

Kim Penny: “👇👇”

Nicole Perino: “Skiing when there’s no snow and way too many people.”

Kim Cofman: “Free Nordic skiing at Hillcrest… when there’s no snow…🙃.”

💬 Advice for Enjoying Winter Like a Local

Winter is best enjoyed with the right mindset.

Brittany McCoy: “Walk up and down Main Avenue when it’s snowing. That’s the magic.”

Kim Penny: “Check out Chapman Hill.”

Nicole Perino: “Don’t try to pack it all in. Cozy up and enjoy the slower pace.”

An agent advised: “There are a lot of people visiting. Be patient and plan ahead.”

Kim Cofman: “The après is just as important as the sport.”

🏡 Final Thoughts & Winter Home Tips

Winter offers unique insight for buyers and unforgettable traditions for families.

Brittany McCoy: “The Polar Express is always a great family tradition.”

Kim Penny: “Enjoy and embrace the slower pace around town after a snowstorm.”

Nicole Perino: “Tip for buyers: get four-wheel drive if you want to fully enjoy winter here.”

Kim Cofman: “Buying a home in winter lets you truly experience how it functions in the season.”

Make Winter Yours in Southwest Colorado

From ski days and snowshoe trails to cozy restaurants and iconic winter festivals, Southwest Colorado offers something special all season long. Whether you’re visiting or considering a winter home, our agents live this lifestyle — and they’re here to help you find the right fit.

Contact Legacy Properties West Sotheby’s International Realty to learn more about winter living, available homes, and life in the mountains.