Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains in Granby, Colorado, Snow Mountain Ranch, a YMCA of the Rockies facility, offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and connection. With a wide array of activities available year-round, it's an ideal destination for families and groups seeking quality time together. Among its many attractions, the tubing hills stand out as a unique and exhilarating experience.
Winter Tubing at Snow Mountain Ranch
The YMCA of the Rockies at Snow Mountain Ranch hosts winter tubing, providing a snow-filled adventure for families and friends. When winter arrives, guests can grab a tube from the Winter Pavilion and enjoy the thrill of gliding down the snow tubing hill amidst the breathtaking Rocky Mountain views. Tubes are available at the Winter Pavilion, and only tubes provided by Snow Mountain Ranch are allowed on the hill.
Please note that there isn't a rope tow or moving platform to get you to the top. The walk back to the top adds a mini workout to your fun-filled day, helping you stay warm and energized while enjoying multiple runs down the hill. Tubing is always available weather and snowpack permitting.
Winter Tubing Hill Rates:
- Adults (13+): $29
- Children (6-12 years): $14
- Children (0-5 years): Free
Staying at Snow Mountain Ranch or being a YMCA of the Rockies member grants you free access to the winter tubing hill. Day passes can be purchased on-site at the Programs Building for those not staying on the property.
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Tips for a Safe and Fun Tubing Day
- Dress Warmly: Wear waterproof layers, gloves, and sturdy boots to stay comfortable.
- Bring Snacks: Refuel with hot cocoa and treats available at Snow Mountain Ranch.
- Accompany Children: For safety, children should always be accompanied by an adult.
- Capture the Moment: Bring a camera to snap action shots and joyful smiles on the hill.
Snow Mountain Ranch YMCA winter outdoor activities
Summer Tubing at Snow Mountain Ranch
Around Memorial Day weekend, the summer tubing hill at YMCA of the Rockies - Snow Mountain Ranch opens, offering a unique twist on traditional winter tubing. The Snowflex® tubing slope, which opened in 2015, is the first of its kind in Colorado. With the help of a slick modern surface, Snow Mountain Ranch developed a tubing hill suitable for summer, fall, and spring off-season.
Installed down a rolling hill, this 300-foot-long slope uses technology to simulate a snowy turf surface. It’s then misted with water before it’s ready for tubers of all ages. Equipped with a conveyer belt to give you a lift to the top and protective equipment, you’ll be able to lay back, relax, and enjoy the ride. Concessions and bathrooms are conveniently located at the top of the hill.
The summer tubing hill is free of charge to Snow Mountain Ranch guests, and YMCA members can enjoy it for a fee with proof of membership. Guests not staying on the property can purchase a full-day activity pass to access numerous amenities, including the tubing hill.
Guests staying on-grounds can reserve their time slot for the tubing hill one week in advance, which is highly recommended. Day visitors can reserve their time slots the day of their visit at the Programs Building. Beginning in September, the summer tubing hill is available on weekends only and closes for the season on October 1.
More Than Just Tubing
Snow Mountain Ranch isn't only about the tubing run. It offers a plethora of activities suitable for all ages and interests. In addition to tubing, other winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating. Summer activities, on the other hand, include horseback riding, hiking, biking, canoeing, zip lining, fishing, boating, and rafting. They also offer swimming, rock climbing, basketball, archery, and crafts.
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Other Activities at Snow Mountain Ranch:
- Aerial Challenge Course: Test your limits on the Aerial Challenge Course, open from late May through October.
- Archery: Participate in archery sessions year-round, with both indoor and outdoor ranges.
- Climbing: Climb the indoor rock-climbing wall at the Kiva Recreation Center, suitable for all skill levels.
- Crafts: Visit the Snow Mountain Ranch Craft Shop for a wide assortment of craft options for all ages.
- Family Programming: Enjoy seasonal family programs and classes, from fort building to guided hikes.
You can also stay overnight at the YMCA of the Rockies. For dining, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served in a buffet-style restaurant.
Adventure Play for All Ages
The Spruce Saddle Adventure Play Zone completes Phase 2 of the Family Adventure Park. The playground is designed so families can participate in the many play activities together. Elements of the playground are blended together on the mountain site so young and older children can play together and their parents and caregivers can move freely between them.
Among the many play amenities are:
- Climbing wall with slide
- Twisted log ladder
- Rocks-and-ropes climber
- Zipline
- VIP swing
- Climb-on moose sculpture
Getting There
Snow Mountain Ranch is conveniently located near Granby, Colorado, just a short drive from Denver. It's the ultimate winter destination for quick getaways or weekend adventures.
Read also: Summit County Ski Report