When you make the journey to the mountains of Winter Park you may find yourself never wanting to return to the mundane ever again. Winter Park offers all of the best features of Colorado including gorgeous views, snowy slopes, national parks, and of course plenty of local attractions. If you ask the locals what there is for fun that is off the beaten path they may suggest taking a day trip to one of our surrounding communities. Reaching these areas is easier than ever when you book a stay at one of our vacation rentals. Here are the top day trips from Winter Park that you can access all year long:
Grand Lake
Those who visit Winter Park tend to be outdoor enthusiasts who are looking for some thrills outside. One of the best spots for outdoor fun is over at Grand Lake. You will find this community to be within an hour drive of Winter Park. The community is situated along the shores of Grand Lake, the largest natural lake in the entire state of Colorado. Grand Lake is a popular destination all year long but is especially popular during the summer season when the temps have warmed up. If you visit in the summer you will find the lake frequented by other visitors enjoying kayaking, boating, paddle boarding, and so much more. The lake features plenty of docking and picnic areas so you can find plenty of spots to take off from. Another popular reason so many frequent Grand Lake is that it is home to the western entrance of the Rocky Mountain National Park.
If you have yet to visit this national park you will be in for quite a treat. Rocky Mountain National Park is home to all kinds of scenic hikes, local wildlife including moose and elk, and scenic drives. The Trail Ridge Road is perhaps one of the most popular scenic hikes in the country that will take you over 12,000 feet in elevation. The road is open seasonally from May to October when snow has cleared from the roadway. Purchase your day pass at the park entrance or bring your annual national park pass for entry.
Hot Sulphur Springs
Part of the fun of vacation is getting the chance to relax and there is no better way to do that than with a trip to the spa. You can find the best kind of outdoor spa experience when you make the short drive over to Hot Sulphur Springs. This location is only 45 minutes away from Winter Park and offers one of the oldest hot springs areas in the state. Hot Sulphur Springs features over 20 different mineral rich pools that feature a backdrop of forest and mountain scenery. You will find it easier than ever to unwind here while enjoying a few hours at one of the spa resorts before making your return trip to Winter Park. The area has an incredible history that allowed Native American tribes to find naturally heated water. Don’t miss out on the chance for a relaxing visit quite like this.
Fraser
While a 15 to 30 minute drive may not seem like a full-day trip, it is enough to get you out of Winter Park for a few hours. You will find Fraser to be this distance from Winter Park where it is home to more outdoor exploration. Fraser is a charming little town that will provide you with additional opportunities to hike and bike around. The trails continue to wind down the area and make for perfect treks during the warmer months of the year. The town features plenty of local restaurants and breweries that offer a chance to unwind after your outdoor activities. One popular area to visit around Fraser is Devi’s Thumb Ranch. You can stop by here and enjoy activities including horseback riding in the summer. Best of all Fraser offers incredible views of the Continental Divide making this a peaceful destination for your day trip.
Idaho Springs
Last but not least is Idaho Springs, a charming mining town found approximately one hour from Winter Park. Here you can enjoy historic mining tours along with the chance to relax in the Indian Hot Springs. Mount Evans Scenic Byway will take you to an elevation past 14,000 feet where you can find sweeping alpine views along with a mountain goat or two along the way. There are breweries galore so make sure you arrive hungry and ready to explore.
Winter Park Is Ready to Host You
All of these day trip destinations are ready to host you and your family during your next Winter Park excursion. Our vacation rentals are sure to keep you close to the fun and ready to relax with plenty of amenities found inside.