Gaze upon waterfalls, hike through wildflower-strewn alpine meadows and schuss down powdery slopes when you visit Winter Park, Colorado’s all-season playground. Set at the Front Range of the Rockies, the resort town is an easy drive from Denver, making it both a tourist favorite and a go-to for locals.
Winter Park offers cold-weather fun for the whole family. Ski and board on countless acres at the Winter Park Resort and Granby Ranch with runs for all levels, take snowmobile tours up to the Continental Divide, get cozy on a sleigh ride or go snowshoeing in Arapaho National Forest. If you enjoy biking, try fat biking along snow-packed trails.
Summertime brings hiking, biking, fishing and horseback riding. Enjoy dreamy views without too much effort along the easy Fraser River Trail or challenge yourself on the Columbine Lake Trail. Hike to Cascade Falls on the west side of Rocky Mountain National Park or enjoy one of the many fabulous wildflower hikes, showcasing Colorado’s columbines, Indian paintbrushes and wild roses.
Mountain biking is a big draw in the summer, with more than 600 miles (960 kilometers) of cross-country trails and the world-class downhill Trestle Bike Park. From mellow, level rides to single-track adventures, there is something for all ages and abilities.
Winter Park is also a great Colorado spot for fishing, with 1,000 miles (1,600 kilometers) of streams and rivers and numerous alpine lakes. A quarter of Colorado’s Gold Medal Waters are found in Grand County, giving anglers the chance to reel in trophy-size trout.
Relax at summer art and music festivals or learn about Grand County and Winter Park’s history at the Pioneer Village Museum. Browse the art galleries of Winter Park and nearby Fraser, with original pieces and limited-edition prints from local artists inspired by the mountain setting.
Drive west from Denver International Airport to get to Winter Park in about 1.5 hours. Come any time of year to see what this summer playground and winter wonderland has to offer.
