Western Wanderlust Chronicles

There’s no better way to ring in a new year than with an adventure, and Bill and I chose to begin 2025 in the best possible way—by hiking through the winter wonderland of Rocky Mountain National Park. It was Bill’s first winter hike here, and we were both eager to explore the park’s breathtaking beauty under a blanket of snow.

When we first drove into the park, there was no snow in sight. But as we climbed higher toward the Bear Lake parking lot at 9,500 feet, the landscape began to transform. Snow-capped peaks emerged in the distance, hinting at the quiet magic waiting for us. A recent snowstorm had dusted the trails with fresh powder, but luckily, the trail was packed down enough that we could hike with just our microspikes, instead of snowshoes. In a few places, it was a delicate balance between the two, but we embraced the challenge.

The air was crisp—well below 10°F—and the wind had a bite to it. But once we stepped into the forest, the world felt different. It was like stepping into our own private snow globe. The towering pine trees lined our path, their heavy branches weighed down with snow. Every now and then, the sun would break through the clouds, casting a glimmering glow over the snow as it drifted down from the tall, bright green pines—each moment more magical than the last.

We made our way from Bear Lake to Bierstadt Lake, two stunning frozen lakes this time of year. Though the clouds kept the mountain views and the Continental Divide hidden from sight, the stillness of the landscape more than made up for it. The serenity of the snow-covered scenery was enough to fill our souls with awe.

As we began our return journey, the snow began to fall lightly, adding a soft hush to the world around us. Bill, ever the playful adventurer, couldn’t resist catching snowflakes on his tongue while I sang Christmas carols, our laughter mixing with the gentle snowfall. It was a moment of pure joy—simple, but unforgettable.

This hike wasn’t just about the destination, but the journey itself. We relished the quiet peace of the mountains, the crunch of snow underfoot, and the crisp air filling our lungs. In those moments, we were fully immersed in the wonder of winter in the Rockies—a perfect way to start the year together.

As we finished the hike, a sense of accomplishment settled over us. We’d shared something special in these mountains, and it was a reminder of how lucky we are to explore the world together. If this winter hike is any indication, 2025 is bound to bring more adventures, more moments to cherish, and more memories to create.

What about you? Have you ever experienced the magic of a winter hike or had a similar adventure in the snow? Or maybe you’re making some outdoor resolutions for the year ahead—what trails or mountains are you hoping to explore in 2025? Share your thoughts and plans in the comments below, and let’s inspire each other to make this year unforgettable in the outdoors!

Here’s to another year of exploring the great outdoors and making unforgettable memories!