Evergreen, Colorado, is one of those places that makes winter feel like a storybook, fresh powder on pine trees, crisp mountain air, twinkling holiday lights, and outdoor adventures that fit every kind of winter day. Whether you’re planning to spend Christmas 2025 with your family, friends, or just want a quiet snowy escape, Evergreen offers the perfect balance of scenic beauty and seasonal cheer.
From ice skating on a shimmering lake to peaceful snowshoe hikes and holiday festivals complete with Santa sightings, this mountain town has plenty of ways to enjoy a full day of winter wonder. If you’re searching for things to do in Evergreen or planning a Christmas trip to Colorado, this guide will help you craft a day that feels effortless and unforgettable.
Just remember, some activities depend on snow and ice conditions, so checking day-of updates will ensure your trip flows easily.
Things To Do In Evergreen, Colorado
Evergreen Lake Ice Skating
A Winter Bucket-List Experience
Evergreen Lake is one of the largest Zamboni-groomed outdoor ice-skating rinks in the United States, making it a must-visit during the Christmas season. With open skate areas, pond hockey sections, and rental shops nearby, it’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone who wants that classic holiday skating moment.
However because this is a natural lake, ice opening day changes every year. Based on early 2025 updates, it’s possible the ice may not be fully frozen at the start of the season. So before you drive out, make sure to check the current ice thickness, skating hours, and rental availability.
Pro Tip: Arrive early for the smoothest ice and best parking, especially on weekends and holiday weeks.
Gentle Winter Hikes & Trail Walks in Evergreen
If you prefer roots, snow, and solitude over skates and crowds, Evergreen’s winter trails are calm, scenic, and ideal for beginners. A little snow makes everything quieter here; sound carries less, and views feel bigger, brighter, and somehow softer.
Elk Meadow Park
Perfect for easy winter walks and snowshoeing.
Rolling hills and open foothill views make Elk Meadow one of Evergreen’s top winter-friendly trails. After fresh snowfall, it looks like powdered sugar dusted across the fields. Ideal for beginner hikers or families.
Alderfer/Three Sisters Park
Forested, peaceful, and endlessly photogenic. Tall pines, sun-speckled snow trails, and rocky formations make this one great for those who want a little variety under their boots. You can do a short loop or spend a full morning exploring.
Maxwell Falls
Quieter, dreamier, but more icy. This trail stays peaceful in winter, but packed snow can make it slick. Microspikes or traction cleats will make your experience safer and way more enjoyable.
Good to know: Always carry warm layers, waterproof boots, and traction gear if temperatures have been low.
Snowshoeing Adventures for Soft Powder Days
If you wake up to fresh snowfall, grab your snowshoes—this is where Evergreen truly shines.
Top Spots for Snowshoeing
| Trail | Best For |
| Elk Meadow | Casual beginner snowshoe days |
| Buchanan Park Trails | Close to town, perfect for families |
| Chief Mountain (nearby) | Bigger views, more elevation |
| Squaw Pass area | Alpine feel with sweeping panoramas |
Elk Meadow and Buchanan Park are your easy go-to options flat, calming, and beautiful after a storm.
But if you’re craving a high-alpine vibe without a long drive, head toward Chief Mountain or Squaw Pass. You’ll get long-range winter views, mountain winds, and the kind of scenery that makes you stop and say Wow.
Important: High-elevation snowshoeing needs winter gear—warm gloves, wind protection, and non-cotton layers.
Christmas Celebrations, Santa Events & Holiday Cheer
December in Evergreen is more than snow and trails-it’s festive, warm, and brimming with local holiday magic.
Winterfest at Center for the Arts Evergreen
One of the community’s biggest winter highlights.
Winterfest brings artisan vendors, handmade gifts, food trucks, music, kids’ craft booths, a cocoa bar, and Santa visits making it the perfect après-adventure stop.
You can browse the market, sip something warm, grab snacks, and make memories that feel cozy and bright.
Santa Pop-Ups Around Town
Keep your eyes open, Santa loves Evergreen.
Local clubs, creameries, and small shops often host holiday photo events, cookie days, and meet-and-greet Santa hours. These are quick, fun, and great for kids (and adults who still believe in a little magic).
How to Plan the Perfect One-Day Winter Itinerary
You can easily combine Evergreen’s outdoor charm with festive holiday fun in a single snowy day. Here’s a simple plan:
Morning → Easy hike at Elk Meadow or Alderfer/Three Sisters
Lunch → Warm up with soup, burgers, or wood-fired pizza in town
Afternoon → Check Evergreen Lake status for skating
If ice is closed → Drive to Squaw Pass for epic sunset views instead
Evening → Head to Winterfest for candy canes, cocoa, music & Santa smiles
One snowfall, one town, one joyful winter day.
Why Evergreen Should Be Your Christmas 2025 Destination
Because here, winter isn’t rushed, it’s experienced. You don’t need big plans or complicated itineraries. Just snow, trees, a trail, maybe some skates, and the sparkle of holiday lights.
Whether you’re searching for things to do in Evergreen, dreaming of holiday adventures in Colorado, or planning Christmas events that feel real and magical, Evergreen welcomes you with open arms and snow-deep memories.
For more local experiences, events, and seasonal guides, visit:
The Evergreen Experience – Your guide to everything Evergreen.
Contact an Evergreen Colorado Real Estate Agent
Shad & Claudine Phillips – Certified Mountain Area Specialist 303-218-6926
Have Questions? – Text @ 214-682-2113 – No Really, I Don’t Mind!
To learn more about Evergreen Colorado homes for sale or to receive email notifications when homes are listed for sale in Evergreen Colorado, call 303-218-6926 or contact an Evergreen Colorado REALTOR®.
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