Sequoia/Kings Canyon National Park

Colorado Photos: Winter Scenes

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On Generals Highway between Grant Grove and Giant Forest, this privately owned resort maintains more than 30 miles of groomed cross-country trails and a wide range of backcountry paths. The higher elevation here means the snow lasts longer—this is the place to go for spring skiing.

You can rent or buy gear and pick up a trail map at the Montecito Sequoia ski shop. Lessons are available, too: 800-227-9900.

Homavalo Loop
Distance: 1 mile
Difficulty: Easy
Trailhead: ski shop

Nervous first-timers should make this their circuit. A flat, easy trail leads to the far side of Lake Homavolo—a surprisingly scenic payoff for so little physical effort.

Sunrise Trail
Distance: 1.8 miles (one-way)
Difficulty: Intermediate
Trailhead: ski shop

Take this trail from the lodge to the warming hut, stop in for some hot chocolate, and peek out the window at the snowy Silliman Crest. Continue the short distance to Sunrise Bowl before retracing your steps.

Chimney Rock Loop Distance: 6 miles
Difficulty: Intermediate
Trailhead: ski shop

A scenic, mid-level loop over rolling hills and wide range of terrain. You can take a detour up along Baldy Ridge to Baldy Peak (8,211 ft.) for impressive views of Kings Canyon.

Otter Slide
Distance: 1 mile
Difficulty: Difficult
Trailhead: intersects the mid-point of the Chimney Rock Loop

This detour adds a notable challenge to the Chimney Rock Loop. Be careful on the steep descent, or you could find yourself skidding downhill, face first, on your belly (now you know why it's called the "otter slide").

Ski Areas:
Giant Forest/Lodgepole | Grant Grove