Winter Park
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About Winter Park
Winter Park Resort stands out as Colorado’s most convenient major ski destination, located just a short distance from Denver and easily accessible by direct train service. Steeped in history since the 1940s, it seamlessly blends its rich heritage with contemporary landscapes spread across seven unique zones. Winter Park offers a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere that sets it apart. Unlike Breckenridge and Vail, it shines for its affordability, genuine charm, and world-class expert terrain, most notably on the renowned Mary Jane mountain.
5 best things about Winter Park according to our Mountain Travel Experts
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Where to stay in Winter Park
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How to get to Winter Park
Winter Park is conveniently located just 90 miles from Denver International Airport (DEN) and 100 miles from Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE), both of which offer international service. While both airports provide easy access, DEN is often the more popular and budget-friendly choice. The drive from Denver takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
For a scenic, car-free option, take the Amtrak Winter Park Express, which runs directly from downtown Denver to the resort base on select winter weekends. The area is pedestrian-friendly, especially around the Village, but cars are welcome, with ample parking lots available. Shuttle services, private transfers, and car rentals offer flexible arrival options to suit families, solo travelers or larger groups.
Getting around
Winter Park is pedestrian-friendly, especially around the base area and Village, but cars are allowed and easy to navigate. There are several large parking lots, including free and paid options close to the lifts. The Lift Transit System provides free public buses throughout Winter Park, Fraser, Granby and other nearby areas, making it easy to get around without a car. Within the resort area, a complimentary shuttle runs between lodging and base areas, and the Cabriolet Gondola offers a scenic ride from The Vintage Hotel into the Village.
Skiing in Winter Park
Spanning 3,081 acres across seven territories, Winter Park offers beginner zones, smooth intermediate runs, and world-class expert terrain like the famous Mary Jane moguls and challenging tree skiing. It’s a favorite for families and seasoned skiers alike.
With an average of 320 inches of annual snowfall and extensive snowmaking, the resort ensures consistently strong conditions throughout the winter season. The resort features two highly regarded ski and ride schools with lessons for kids, adults, and adaptive athletes.
Winter Park Resort is part of the Ikon Pass, providing passholders with unlimited access without requiring additional lift tickets. However, it is not included with the Epic Pass. Discounts are available for multi-day bookings, advance online purchases and Colorado residents, seniors and military personnel. Expect to save up to 40% on single or multi-day lift tickets after booking at least 48 hours in advance.
Beginner Skiing in Winter Park
On-mountain, beginners can enjoy easy-access terrain like Discovery Park, a gentle, wide-open area ideal for first turns, and Prospector Trail off the Gemini Express for smooth cruising. The Galloping Goose run on Vasquez Ridge offers a longer green trail through scenic forest. Winter Park offers supportive instructors and a relaxed, welcoming environment, making it the perfect place for beginners to enjoy a safe, fun, and unforgettable introduction to the slopes. For families, the Kids Ski School provides full- and half-day programs, including rentals, lift tickets, and lunch for children as young as 3 years old.
Expert Skiing in Winter Park
Family vacations in Winter Park
Winter Park is the perfect destination for families, offering everything from gentle beginner slopes to thrilling off-snow adventures. Start your day with the Gemini Express, which gives easy access to Discovery Park, the perfect spot for little learners. Over on the Mary Jane side, Galloping Goose offers a fun, mellow ride (no lift ticket needed!). Enroll the kids in the Ski + Ride School, where expert instructors tailor lessons to their level—plus, it’s the best way to access the magic carpet. Families looking to level up can book a Ski & Ride Guide to chase powder or navigate the trees together.
After skiing, enjoy day or night tubing, Mountaintop Après at Sunspot with cocoa and live music, or try a SnoGo Ski Bike Tour, fat biking for ages 14 and up. Younger kids will love the Nature Snowshoe Tour and Parry’s Parade, while s’mores fans won’t want to miss the cozy Snowcat and S’Mores Tour. Dining is family-friendly, too, with chicken tenders at Bradley’s, quesadillas at Olympia Outpost, pizza at Lunch Rock, and fresh waffles at the Waffle Cabin. Trail’s End Mercantile offers a convenient spot for snacks, essentials and souvenirs, perfectly complementing Winter Park as the ultimate one-stop destination for family ski adventures.
FAQs
Winter Park offers a more relaxed and affordable alternative to the bustling charm of Breckenridge and Vail. While Vail is known for its luxury and Breck for its vibrant town and après-ski scene, Winter Park is often praised for its challenging terrain, shorter lift lines and more relaxed atmosphere.
At Breck, you can expect a larger village and higher elevation (and winds!), but Winter Park often has less crowded slopes and more diverse expert terrain, particularly at Mary Jane. Vail may offer vast terrain and upscale amenities, but it comes with higher lift ticket prices and more congestion. Winter Park avoids that and delivers a more authentic Colorado ski experience with excellent tree skiing, powder stashes and a loyal following of serious skiers.
For those seeking world-class skiing without the pretense, Winter Park is an underrated (and highly accessible!) gem in Colorado’s ski landscape.