Are you ready for the alpine getaway of a lifetime? When you book a beautiful cabin with Winter Park House, you will set yourself up for an unforgettable getaway in gorgeous Winter Park, Colorado. Winter Park, Colorado, should be at the top of your vacation list for many reasons. First and foremost, the town is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with snow-capped mountains and a glistening lake, making it a dream for outdoor enthusiasts. Even if you’re not an adrenaline junkie, Winter Park has plenty to offer. The town has a charming, rustic feel with plenty of delightful restaurants, cafes, and shops to explore. No matter the season, Winter Park is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a quintessential Colorado experience. This is your guide to getting the most out of your next stay at the nation’s favorite small town alpine getaway.
About Winter Park, Colorado
First incorporated in 1979, the town hovers around 1,000 permanent residents, though the seasonal population can be much higher. This small population allows the town to retain its charm, community orientation, and sustainable practices that benefit people and nature alike. Known worldwide for its incredible skiing, mountain biking, and other outdoor activities, Winter Park is one of the best vacation destinations in the country. It is conveniently located between Denver and the Rocky Mountain National Park, making it a great base for anyone vacationing in Colorado looking for grand adventures and ease of access to many other fun things to do!
What to Do in Winter Park
Although best known for winter activities and the Winter Park Ski Resort, a mecca for skiers and snowboarders from around the world, the city of Winter Park has so much to offer year-round. Whether you are seeking some heart-pumping outdoor activities or a quieter vacation emphasizing beautiful views and good food, Winter Park is about to become your new favorite vacation destination.
Shred the Slopes
Winter Park is world-renowned for its incredible cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowboarding opportunities, and a day on the slopes will be a truly unforgettable experience. If you visit Winter Park between November and May, you will typically find the Winter Park Resort open for thrill seekers. With over 3,000 acres of skiing and 167 runs ranging from beginner to expert, anyone can enjoy the slopes here. The resort offers an array of runs suitable for all experience levels.
- Green Circle: Winter Park’s green-designated runs are suitable for complete beginners. 8% of the runs are green circles.
- Blue Square: Blue-designated runs are steeper and are best suited for skiers who are more confident. 18% of Winter Park’s runs are blue squares.
- Blue Square with Black Diamond: Winter Park Resort is unique in that it has a slope designation that is between the traditional blue square and black diamond. These slopes are more difficult than a normal blue but less challenging than a black diamond.
- Black Diamond: A black diamond piste is steep and may have obstacles. These are only for advanced and skilled skiers. 52% of the runs at Winter Park are black diamonds.
Double Black Diamond: A double black diamond slope is extremely challenging and should only be attempted by true experts and professionals. 3% of the runs at Winter Park are double black diamonds.
Hike Rocky Mountain National Park
The hiking opportunities near Winter Park are world-class and simply unbeatable. Situated in some of the most incredible alpine scenery in the world, Winter Park is a hiker’s dream destination year-round. The Rocky Mountain National Park is only a short drive away and offers miles of trails with truly awe-inspiring views. Closer to Winter Park and the nearby town of Fraser, you will find plenty of memorable trails in the Fraser Valley and Arapaho National Forest that allow hikers of all experience levels to enjoy the beauty of Colorado. These are some of our favorites.
Discovery Challenger Trail
Enjoy an easy and scenic hike when you opt for this 1.2-mile loop. The Discovery Challenger path is a popular trail just outside of Winter Park and is the perfect option for a quick hike that provides serene nature views. It is a great trail for the whole family, and leashed dogs are also welcome.
Emerald Lake Trail
Head up to the Rocky Mountains National Park for one of the country’s most popular and beloved hikes. The 3.2-mile out-and-back Emerald Lake Trail is moderately challenging but well worth the effort. The main draw to the trail is the awe-inspiring alpine lake surrounded by impressive mountain peaks.
Jim Creek Trail
This 8-mile out-and-back trail in the Arapaho National Forest outside of Winter Park is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a moderately-difficult hike that packs a big punch on scenery. For most of the Jim Creek Trail hike, you will be surrounded by classic alpine forests and expansive fields, which might be sprinkled with wildflowers in the spring. There are numerous water crossings and a beautiful waterfall at the end.
Lower Roof of the Rockies
If you are at the Winter Park Resort during the summer, you absolutely have to take the ski lift up to the trailhead for the Lower Roof of the Rockies hike. This 3.6-mile out-and-back trail is fairly easy as it doesn’t have much elevation change, but the views are hard to beat. Enjoy beautiful, peaceful views and quiet solitude, as this trail is not highly trafficked. Please note that this trail is within the resort and requires you to use the lift, so you must pay the resort entrance fee.
Ride the Trails at Trestle Bike Park
Winter Park has been honored to be dedicated as a Mountain Bike Capital USA, and it is easy to see why! Winter Park Resort isn’t just for skiing; they also have the incredible Trestle Bike Park. With over 600 miles of bike trails ranging from relaxing, beginner-friendly routes to adrenaline-inducing tracks that will thrill even the most experienced bikers, there is something for all bikers visiting Winter Park in the summertime.
Saddle Up for a Horseback Riding Adventure
Take in the gorgeous mountain views from new heights when you opt for a memorable horseback riding excursion through the wilderness of Winter Park. In warmer months, you can enjoy classic trail rides with awe-inspiring views. If you are visiting in the winter, make unforgettable memories on a sleigh ride through the snow. Multiple tour operators and guide services in the area offer equine experiences for anyone looking for a unique adventure during their mountain vacation. Rocky Mountain Stables offers one or two-hour guided tours and kid-friendly rides.
Ride Winter Park’s Longest Alpine Slide
Get your adrenaline pumping and take a ride on Colorado’s longest alpine slide. Located within the Winter Park Resort, the slide is 3,000 feet of winding fun through the mountainous landscape. Your adventure starts with a scenic ride up the Arrow Chairlift before boarding your sled and setting off down the slide. You can control your speed on the sled, so it is up to you if you want a relaxing coast down where you can take in the views or a race to the bottom as you zip around the curves. The minimum age for the alpine slide is two years; children five and under are encouraged to ride with an adult.
Take in the Views by Hot Air Ballon
Winter Park is a wonderland of snow-covered mountains, glistening with beauty that overwhelms. But what if you could view it all in a way that removes barriers between you and the stunning landscape? Imagine looking down upon the forests, skiing slopes, and valleys, all from the comfort of a wicker basket high above the ground, drifting gently on the breeze. Grand Adventure Balloon Tours will take you high above the Fraser Valley, the ridge of the Continental Divide, and the Rocky Mountains. They recommend arriving 45 minutes for sunrise and take occupants six years and older.
Enjoy a Winter Park Festival
Winter Park Jazz Festival
The Winter Park Jazz Festival is an annual event celebrated its 40th year in 2023. Winter Park transforms into a haven for Jazz enthusiasts every year in late July. The two-day festival draws a crowd with its exceptional performers, tasty food, and unique art.
Winter Park Brew Fest
What is a trip to the mountains without an afternoon of beer sampling? The annual Winter Park Brew Fest is a fantastic event that allows visitors to sample brews from a wide variety of local breweries. In addition to the beer tastings, there is live music, food, and a spirit and cocktail lounge.
Festival of Trees
Get into the holiday spirit on your December trip to Winter Park with the Festival of Trees. Located in the nearby town of Fraser, the Festival of Trees is a lovely event that allows guests to enjoy a massive lineup of beautifully decorated Christmas trees. This free event also hosts a raffle that benefits local charities.
Where to Eat Around Winter Park
After a day of adventuring, you will have worked up a serious appetite! Luckily, Downtown Winter Park has no shortage of delicious restaurants. Try some of these popular restaurants for memorable meals during your Winter Park getaway.
Pepe Osaka’s Fishtaco
Always topping lists and beloved by locals and visitors alike, Pepe Osaka’s Fishtaco offers delicious Mexican cuisine with a specialty in seafood. Be sure to pair one of their famous margaritas with your meal!
Hernando’s Pizza Pub
It’s hard to beat a good pizza after a long day on the slopes or trails. Head over to Hernando’s for a delicious pie in Winter Park. Don’t forget to try their crusts with a drizzle of the honey found at each table!
Goodys Mountain Creperie
Satisfy your sweet tooth with a stop at Goodys Mountain Creperie. Offering a delicious brunch menu and plenty of crepes, cinnamon rolls, specialty coffee drinks, and much more, everyone will surely find something great here.
Lunch Rock
Whether skiing, hiking, or simply interested in lunch with a view, a meal at Lunch Rock will surely delight you. Located in the Winter Park Resort at the top of the Mary Jane Territory, this restaurant offers pizza, soup, and a large selection of Colorado craft beers.
Stay and Play in Winter Park
This region, convenient to Denver, is known for its jaw-dropping alpine peaks, endless outdoor recreation, and charming small towns. Book your Winter Park cabin today!