In many places around the world, the arrival of November means bitter cold days with little to no sunshine. In Colorado, however, a winter snowstorm is often followed by sunshine and milder weather, allowing Coloradans to enjoy the outdoors all year. There are lots of outdoor winter activities to enjoy like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snowboarding, ice climbing and more. However, if you like unwinding by immersing yourself in culture, art, music or real-life storytelling instead, there are plenty of options for that around the state as well.

Here are some of our favorite outdoor and indoor things to do in Colorado in November.

Nov. 1 and beyond: Go dog sledding in the mountains

No one gets as excited about winter’s first snow as a Siberian Husky sled dog. These dogs are bred for pulling a sled for long distances and they absolutely love their job. Once you sit in the sled behind these dogs, you’ll realize how exciting, yet peaceful dog sledding really is. What better way to explore Colorado’s wilderness off the beaten path? There are numerous dog sledding tours available in Colorado, including Monarch, Vail, Granby, Gunnison, Pagosa Springs and Durango.

Nov. 4-12: Attend Denver Arts Week

Celebrate the Mile High City’s arts and culture scene with hundreds of events happening around the city. Explore vibrant art districts, check out museum exhibitions and outdoor sculptures, enjoy a show, get inspired at film and literary events, or buy some one-of-a-kind art of your own. Many museums and cultural institutions will be open for free during this week and there will be other deals and promotions throughout the city, so you don’t want to miss it. Check their events schedule on the website or follow Denver Arts Week on social media for the latest updates.

Nov. 11-13: Attend the Rocky Mountain Women’s Film Festival

The Rocky Mountain Women’s Film Festival in Colorado Springs is celebrating 35 years of elevating the stories of women through film. The festival was started by two women who wanted to offer their community a new lens on the world — the female lens. This year’s event will celebrate the driven, spirited and diverse filmmakers that help define this festival. Tickets and the film lineup are available now.

Nov. 12: Run or walk in the Denver Veterans Day Run

Get moving for a good cause by signing up for the Denver Veterans Day Run in City Park, Denver. Recognized as Denver’s official run for veterans, this is a memorial 5K and 10K in-person and virtual run, open to everyone. All the proceeds of your registration (and donations) go directly to helping Colorado Veterans. The run is hosted by the Colorado Veterans Project, whose mission is to enhance pride and patriotism in all Coloradans by building a stronger, more supportive community around our veterans. Registration is $40 for the 5K and $45 for the 10K.

Nov. 18- Jan. 1: Take a ride on the Polar Express

The holiday season is upon us and there is something magical about experiencing a classic holiday story first-hand. Climb aboard the Polar Express Train Ride as it departs from Durango, Colorado, and travels to the North Pole to pick up Santa Claus. You’ll be immersed in the story as chefs serve hot chocolate and sweet treats while the conductor recites a reading from the Polar Express book. Once you arrive at the North Pole a beautiful light show set to holiday music awaits! Tickets for the 2022 season are now available.

Read more about ‘Polar Express’ train ride…

Nov. 23 and beyond: Hit the Slopes at Steamboat Resorts

The ski and snowboard season begins Thursday, Nov. 23 at Steamboat Ski Resort in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Make yourself at home in this welcoming, western community that is known for its world-class skiing. Not an expert ski bunny quite yet? No worries, they have lessons and equipment rentals available. After a long day on the mountain, stroll down Main Street and refuel with a hearty meal at one of the many restaurants in town, relax in the healing waters of the mineral hot springs in town, then snuggle up in the warmth of your lodge or cabin while snow, or Champagne Powder as locals have trademarked it, continues to fall outside. Read more about what Steamboat has to offer.