When you need a break that includes plenty of snow, fun, and especially time on the slopes, the beauty of a four-seasons destination is just what you need. If you’re looking to add fresh mountain air, breathtaking views, and top-notch skiing, you’ll want to set your sights on Colorado. Once you’ve settled on Colorado, turn your attention to Winter Park. You’ll find some of the best skiing Colorado has to offer for a ski vacation to remember.
Winter Park Resort
The longest continually operated Winter Park ski resort features seven “territories” across over 3,000 acres of terrain. There are groomed and ungroomed trails, from easy for the beginners to black diamond for those looking for the ultimate thrill. Each territory has its own unique features and even activities specific to the area and its conditions. The resort was recently rated the #1 ski resort in Colorado.
Granby Ranch
Challenge yourself on nearly 900 acres of skiable terrain with a height over nearly 1,000 vertical feet. There’s a trail or slope to fit every age or ability level. The resort features two mountains and 41 trails accessible by the resort’s five chair lifts. Beginners will want to East Mountain, while those with more experience will enjoy the challenges found on West Mountain.
Backcountry Skiing
Advanced thrill seekers will love the backcountry of Winter Park and the surrounding area. Berthoud Pass and The Cirque Territory of Winter Park Resort join the list with trails of Rocky Mountain National Park for great backcountry skiing and snowboarding. The old Berthoud Pass Ski Area, abandoned in 2002, has over 65 trails on 1,200 acres of terrain. Winter Park Resort’s “The Cirque” territory offers nearly 400 acres and 2,260 vertical feet of extreme, double-black diamond terrain of ungroomed backcountry skiing and riding while still in a patrolled area.
Cross-Country Skiing
Winter Park and Fraser have hundreds of miles of groomed and ungroomed trails for skiers looking for a more relaxed time. The Winter Park Information Center has maps of the many trails that cut through the Arapaho National Forest. There are routes for beginners and intermediate skiers as well as longer trails and steeper climbs for those with more experience. If you’re looking for a little more structure to your adventure, Devil’s Thumb Ranch Adventure Center and Snow Mountain Ranch/YMCA of the Rockies, and Grand Lake Nordic Center have plenty of Nordic ski options, too.
Gear Rental
There are several places in and around Winter Park that offer gear rentals. Reserve safety equipment as well as skis, snowboards, and apparel to stay safe and comfortable on the slopes. Some will require a ‘fitting’ before you receive the gear to make sure everything is just right to keep you as safe and comfortable as possible. Many resorts and ski areas offer rentals for guests.
Winter Park Ski Lessons
Several places offer lessons that are tailor made for the age and skill level of the skiers in the group. Beginner lessons cover the basics and everything you need to know before hitting the slopes. More advanced lessons cover technique and skill refreshers. Rental gear and lift tickets are sometimes included in the lesson, but you’ll want to check before booking. Those items may only be provided for the length of the lesson.
Winter Park Express Ski Train
Pack your gear for a different kind of ski adventure! The Amtrak Winter Park Express train is a beautiful train ride from Denver Union Station to Winter Park Resort. Board a double-decker Amtrak Superliner train and head northwest toward the Rockies with views of the Flatirons above Boulder and the surrounding plains. Slide through 31 tunnels – many historic and built by hand. Spend a little time in the lounge car where you can order snacks, soft drinks, beer, and wine. The two-hour trip ends at the heated platform at Winter Park Resort where the nearest ski lift is just 100 feet away!
Ski Adventure to Winter Park
There is plenty of skiing waiting for you in Winter Park, but you’ll also want to relax and unwind when you’re not out on the slopes. A vacation rental by Winter Park Escapes is the perfect place to come back to after a full day of fun. Prepare a meal in the fully equipped kitchen and enjoy it in an open dining area. When the day is done or you need a quick nap between adventures, retreat to a private bedroom. We have cozy two-bedroom units for small families or sweetheart getaways, all the way up to sprawling five-bedroom units for a family or group reunion on the slopes. Ask about pet-friendly units to include everyone in the fun. Choose a premium rental for perks like flat screen TVs, a private hot tub, hardwood floors, and more.
Call today to book your dream ski Winter Park getaway!