Winter Park Travel Guide

At an elevation of 9,000 feet, the town of Winter Park in Grand County, Colorado, is a less-explored haven for snow lovers. With a permanent population of only 700 to service the needs of visitors who come up to the area for its numerous skiing opportunities, this is definitely not another Aspen. But with world-class ski slopes open on the interconnected peaks of Winter Park, Mary Jane and Vasquez Ridge for six months of the year, this is no second-rate resort. In fact, its laid-back atmosphere adds to its charm. What's more, the fun does not stop when the snow melts. In the summer, the sun paves the way for concerts, hiking and biking.

Things to Do

Skiers of all levels will find Winter Park Resort up to their expectations. From their gentle family trails at Discovery Park to the more challenging tree skiing in Wildwood Glade to the Derailer (experts only), there's definitely a run for everybody here. Guided snowmobile tours can be arranged with Grand Adventures, while the kids will certainly find lots of fun and games at the Winter P'Arcade. If you fancy a warm dip, the Hot Sulphur Springs Resort has hot spring pools open year-round, while those who would like to hit the longest drives of their life should cart their clubs to the three high-altitude courses at Pole Creek Golf Club. In the summer, there are many different activities lined up for visitors in Winter Park. From the circus to Mountain Man Story Telling to downhill cycling at Trestle Bike Park to geocaching, Winter Park stays warm even when the snow melts.

Dining

Small town though it is, Winter Park maintains a variety of restaurants for visitors hungry after a day of hard slope work. Coffee, crepes, soups, burgers, pizza, grilled and home-cooked fare can all be found in the restaurants and cafes around Winter Village and at the base of Winter Park Resort. There are also eateries at the base of Mary Jane Mountain.

Shopping

There are a lot of different shops offering retail sport in Winter Village. For resort clothing and gear, head to the Mountain Adventure Center, Showcase Snowboards or Shirt Off My Back. For souvenirs, jewelry and home items, Silver Creek is a good choice. If you rent a cabin and you need groceries, try Trail's End Mercantile, which also has gifts and souvenirs. Rocky Mountain Eyewear has top brands of shades to choose from.

Where to Go in Winter Park