DENVER, Jan. 5, 2012 /PRNewswire/ — Renowned for its unmatched ski areas, Colorado also offers an array of winter activities visitors can enjoy off the slopes. The Colorado Tourism Office has highlighted 13 winter activities that make the state a playground for any age and thrill level. To view the full release, visit www.COLORADO.com/MediaRoom/NewsReleases.

Romantic Relaxation. Dunton Hot Springs offers endless opportunities to relax and explore fresh powder beyond an individual cabin’s back door. www.DuntonHotSprings.com

Nordic Photography. Learn how to photograph winter in Crested Butte using various techniques while accessing subject matter on Nordic skis or snowshoes. www.CrestedButteArts.org

Dog Sledding in Durango. Siberian and Alaskan Huskies guide sleds through Colorado mountain trails, guaranteeing exhilarating adventure and breathtaking beauty. www.DurangoDogRanch.com

Glide Across Grand Mesa’s Skyway and County Line. Discover 32.4 miles of some of the state’s best trails for cross-country skiing, skate skiing and snowshoeing. www.GMNC.org

Ice Fishing in Diverse Waters. Ice fish on Colorado’s largest lake, Blue Mesa Reservoir near Gunnison, with local outfitters who make this winter activity effortless and fun. www.HighMtnDrifters.com

Snowshoe Across the Rockies. Follow in wildlife’s footsteps through Rocky Mountain National Park on some of the most beautiful backcountry trails that can only be reached via snowshoes. www.VisitEstesPark.com

Ice Climbing in the “Switzerland of America.” Novices and gurus alike can experience the exhilaration of ascending massive walls of ice at Ouray Ice Park, the world’s first park dedicated to ice climbing. www.OurayIcePark.com

Snowmobiling at Grand Lake. Known for its proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Lake is base camp for winter pursuits that take visitors off the beaten path. www.GrandLakeChamber.com

Wintertime Golf. Three golf courses in Montrose remain open all winter long, each offering spectacular views and unique terrain. www.VisitMontrose.com

Hot Air Ballooning. Enjoy a bird’s eye view of three million acres of snow-covered national forest and wilderness areas surrounding Pagosa Springs on a hot air balloon ride. www.VisitPagosaSprings.com

History in the Backcountry. Breckenridge’s backcountry allows adventurers to uncover dredge boats once used for gold mining, abandoned pioneer cabins and more via snowshoes or cross-country skis. www.GoBreck.com

Frosty Fly-Fishing. Winter is the best time to fish Colorado’s Gold Medal waters, including the big Roaring Fork, Frying Pan, Crystal and Colorado rivers. www.Carbondale.com

Scenic Jeep Tours. Step inside a mountain ATV vehicle to experience spectacular views of the snow-capped Continental Divide. www.MileHiRafting.com

Contact: Carly Grimes / 720-289-9366 / [email]cgrimes@mmgyglobal.com[/email]

SOURCE Colorado Tourism Office

Web Site: http://www.COLORADO.com