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St. Mary’s Glacier: Glissade and Chill!

  • St. Mary's Glacier Saint Marys Drive Idaho Springs, CO, 80452 United States (map)

St. Mary’s Glacier:

Glissade & Chill!


About this event

High alpine views with a short hike (and maybe some sledding)!


The Overview:

Want that "top of the world" feeling without an 8-hour trek? St. Mary’s Glacier is the answer. Located near Idaho Springs, this hike takes us up to a stunning frozen lake and a permanent snowfield at over 10,000 feet!

It is often windy but incredibly beautiful. The best part? The way down! Many locals bring plastic sleds or wear waterproof pants to "glissade" (slide on your butt) down the snowfield. Whether you slide or walk, it’s guaranteed fun!

The Stats:

  • Distance: ~1.5 miles Round Trip.

  • Elevation Gain: ~1,000 ft (Short but steep).

  • Difficulty: Moderate.

  • Altitude: Starts at 10,400 ft.


The Plan:

  • 9:00 AM: Meet at the St. Mary's Glacier Trailhead Parking Lot (Alice Road).

  • 9:15 AM: Begin the ascent.

  • 10:15 AM: Arrive at the lake/glacier base. Hang out, take photos, and watch the skiers/boarders.

  • 11:30 AM: Head back down (slide or hike!).

  • 12:30 PM: (Optional) Meet at Beau Jo’s Pizza in Idaho Springs for post-hike lunch.

Logistics & Community Support:

  • Carpooling: Highly recommended as parking is $20/car! Carpooling is available for a small donation of $8 for gas.

  • Drivers Needed: If you can drive folks, please let us know at contact@soberoutdoors.organd we'd love to support you by buying you a tank of gas!

  • Need Gear? Windbreakers and spikes are useful here. Visit our Gear Valet to rent what you need! We are looking for sled options but please plan on bringing your own!

  • Scholarships: Scholarships are available for those in need.

What to Bring

  • CASH FOR PARKING: The trailhead kiosk is $20 CASH ONLY.

  • Windbreaker: It is almost always windy at the lake.

  • Traction: The trail is packed snow/ice. Spikes are necessary. Cue Gear Valet!

  • Sled: Optional, but highly encouraged!

EVENT SIGN UP

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EVENT SIGN UP 〰️

RSVP HERE!

RSVP today as spots will fill up FAST!

RSVP HERE
 

Gift A Trail

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Gift A Trail 〰️

Why We Offer Free Events —

and How You Can Help!

At Sober Outdoors, we believe everyone deserves access to nature and real community, no matter their financial situation. That is why more than 90 percent of our events are completely free.

These experiences only happen because of the incredible generosity of people like you!

If you are in a position to give, please know how deeply grateful we are. Your support directly creates moments of connection, healing, laughter, and growth in the outdoors.

You can support Sober Outdoors in two simple ways:

  • Add a donation during event registration!

  • Donate anytime through our Giving Page!

Your contribution helps cover:

  • Permits and park fees

  • Safety and communication gear

  • Event materials

  • Insurance

  • Staff and volunteer coordination

  • Outreach to help others find this community


    Even $5 makes a difference!

and if you’re able to give more, your support helps keep this movement strong and growing!

DONATE HERE

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for helping us keep the outdoors open, welcoming, and accessible to all!

💡We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. All donations are tax-deductible.

EIN: 99-1666001

 

MEMBERSHIP

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MEMBERSHIP 〰️

Want to Go All In with Sober Outdoors?

Become a Community Member!

 

If you’ve been to a few of our events and want to deepen your connection to the Sober Outdoors community - it’s time to become a Member!

Community Membership is for people who believe in what we’re doing and want to play a bigger role in sustaining it. It’s also the best way to get the most out of your time with us.

 

As a Member, you’ll get:

✅ Unlimited access to all events (priority registration!)
✅ Exclusive Members-Only gatherings, gear swaps & virtual meetups!
✅ Discounts on SO merch!
✅ A private community space online!
✅ Special seasonal gifts!
✅ The joy of knowing you're helping this community thrive!

 
Learn more

Cancellation policy:

Refundable up to 72 hours before event starts.

Donations are not refundable. Thank you for understanding and for your contribution to our cause!

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February 7

Winter Dogsledding Adventure by SO!

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February 28

FINDING YOUR FOOTING: Elk Meadows Snowshoe Adventure!