Wintertime in the Rockies means snow, and lots of it. The snow covered slopes of the Rocky Mountains make the perfect environment for downhill skiing, cross country skiing, sledding, tubing, and even ice skating. Before setting out on a fun filled day of winter activities, be sure to take extra supplies in case you end up stuck or trapped in a snowstorm. To avoid hypothermia, bring a change of dry wool clothing. Though the chances of either of these happening are slim to none, it’s better to be safe than sorry.Downhill skiing is possible in both the Rocky Mountain National Park area and the Roosevelt and Arapaho National Forests. To ski down a fast paced extreme slope in a Park, check out the Hidden Valley Park course. For Forest options, there are five commercial downhill ski areas: Loveland Ski Area, the Winter Park Resort, Eldora Ski Resort, SolVista at Granby Ranch Ski Resort, and Mary Jane Ski Area.If you prefer Cross Country Skiing, the previous hiking trails of the summer are easily converted into great cross country ski routes during the winter snowfall. There are also groom trail options available at SolVista at Granby Ranch Ski Resort and the Grand Lake Touring Center.If you have no previous ski experience and don’t want to take the time to learn, the small slopes of the Rockies are great for sledding and tubing. Kids of all ages will enjoy the fast downhill ride as the wind whips their hair and the snow cushions any falls. Another non-skiing option is the snowmobile. You must have a license and registration to drive one, and wilderness areas are strictly prohibited, but the winter snow is ideal for snowmobiling in designated areas.Ice Skating is another winter friendly activity of the Rockies. When the many lakes of the area freeze over, the icy surface makes for a rink of family fun.