So you’ve hit a wall. There is nothing worse than getting stuck in the daily grind of work, school, holidays, blah, blah, blah… You’re itching to travel, get away from it all, reclaim your sanity, but you’re not sure where to go?
Make Winter Park Your NEXT Escape!
Here are 11 reasons your sanity NEEDs YOU to Escape to Winter Park, Colorado!
ONLY – 67 Miles from Denver.
Don’t want to deal with a rental car or your not-so-snow-worthy car in the mountains? No problem. Catch the Amtrak or Home James Shuttle to Winter Park. Once here, we have accessible (and FREE) transportation throughout town, the resort, and to most lodging in Winter Park and Fraser, Colorado.
Great Lodging Deals!
No matter your budget or the number in your group, you’ll be able to score lodging in Winter Park.
Traveling With a Group?
There’s plenty of lodging available for groups of all sizes and all budgets. In Winter Park you’ll find everything from rustic cabins, to luxurious vacation homes sleeping 2 – 30+, to affordable cabins, ski condos, Bed & Breakfasts, and even yurts*! For great options that will fit your group and your budget.! (*Yurt – A circular tent built on a collapsible framework. Originally used by nomads in Mongolia, Siberia, and Turkey.)
Get Wild!
Looking for a WILD Colorado Lodging Experience? Three words, “High Lonesome Hut.” Accessible only by snowshoe, ski, dog sled, or depending on the weather, by foot, this three-story hut is located 2.5+ miles back in the wild. Your neighbors will be moose, coyotes, deer, and the occasional mountain lion.
Cheapest Ski and Ride without spring break crowds!
Early season is full of great deals! (Plus, with most rug rats still in school, you won’t have to worry about plowing them over on the slopes, or visa versa…) Four Pass deals to Winter Park Resort are currently available for as low as $50 a day!
It’s Legal…and We’ve Got Three Retail Marijuana Outlets!
It’s no secret that Colorado is one of a few states where weed is legal. If you’re not interested in “that scene,” you probably won’t even know it’s here…so skip to #5.
If you are interested in “that scene”, or are just curious, we have two dispensaries and a revolutionary growing facility! Take a tour of the 12,500 square foot facility and see hundreds of plants at all stages of life. Next, observe “canna-chefs” as they create, infuse, and bake edibles! In the retail shop, you’ll be able to purchase everything from flower, wax, topical ointments, candies, and more! (It’s all very scientific.)
Be Human…Talk
There’s no better time to strike up a conversation and potentially make friends than when you’re on vacation! Everyone’s got a story to tell, and while traveling you’ve got time to hear it. That’s part of the beauty of traveling! Take a break from your “Snapchat” and chat it up with the local bartender, your lift buddy, or the chick in line behind you…you never know who you might meet, or what insider information they might share with you!
Try a Parking Lot Party.
November and December temps are still enjoyable and you’ll see people grilling, playing Frisbee, and hanging out in the resort lots. (Happen to hit the parking lot on a cold day? Add some “adult beverages” to your menu, and warm up from the inside out.) Don’t know anyone? No problem. Refer to #5.
GET YOUR SPA ON!
If you’re looking to loosen up after a day on the snow, you’re in the right place! With Pamper yourself with a massage, facial, iridology*, reflexology, aromatherapy, a chiropractic adjustment, a yoga class, and more. There are plenty of ways to unwind in Winter Park, Colorado!
(*Iridology reviews the iris for patterns, colors, and other characteristics in order to identify underlying conditions and personality traits.)
Slow Down…
Coming to Winter Park is like slowing down. You’ll notice that unless you’re on the slopes, people generally move slower. There is no need to rush.
Embrace it. Chill out. Take time to say hi to a stranger. Hit up the late-night music scene. Slow your roll. Soak it up!
Après Ski Deals and BOOZE
(Need we say more? If not skip to 10)
Après Ski literally means “after ski.” In Winter Park, when the lifts stop for the night, everyone flocks to the restaurants and bars to eat, drink, mingle, and be merry! Nearly every restaurant around offers Après Ski deals, so whether you’re craving sushi, Italian, Chinese, Pizza, or fine dining, we can assure you there are plenty of options that will satisfy you and your budget.
If you’re a connoisseur of the alcoholic variety, we’ve got you covered. With three breweries and two tasting rooms featuring whiskey and wine, you’ll be set!
Get Outta Your Comfort Zone!
When was the last time you did something NEW? If you had to think about that…that’s not a good sign. Winter Park is the perfect place to get outta your comfort zone and give something new a try!
Fat Biking:
• Need a break from the slopes? Go for a ride on a Fat Bike…(Yes, you can bike in the snow!) There are miles of accessible trails to check out! Plus, with mild weather in November and December, you’ll be set to cruise! Looking to rent a fat bike and get some beginner tips? Hit up the Nordic Center at the YMCA of the Rockies, Snow Mountain Ranch, Devil’s Thumb Ranch, Epic Mountain Sports, Icebox Mountain Sports, or Beavers Sports Shop.
Snowmobiling:
• Take a guided or unguided tour through snow packed and powder trails hitting elevations of 12,000ft+!
Nordic Skiing:
• The old skinny ski. If you thought these skis were for “grandma” you were wrong. Nordic skiing is a somewhat extreme sport requiring coordination, balance, stamina, and skill. Try for yourself at Devil’s Thumb Ranch or YMCA of the Rockies Snow Mountain Ranch.
Snow Tubing:
• 4 Hills within 15 miles. We’ve got that covered!
Cat Skiing:
• No, we’re not inviting you to bring your cat skiing, but we are inviting you to get way out of your comfort zone for an experience you’ll remember forever. Get off the slopes and into the beautiful and serene backcountry with Powder Addiction! Catch a SnowCat up to Jones Pass where you’ll enjoy 2,600 skiable acres, 10,500 – 12,500 ski vertical, and 7 – 12 runs a day! Avalanche beacons, packs, shovels, food, guides, transportations, and powder skis are provided! B.Y.O.B. (bring your own board), if you prefer to ride.
Truly Escape.
The landscape, authenticity, culture, and experiences of Winter Park are captivating. Whatever you decide to do while you’re here, be sure you take time to look around, appreciate nature, the mountains, people, the sun, and your life. If you’re looking for perspective, chances are you’ll find it. It’s pretty hard to dwell on “petty junk” when you are surrounded by the mountains and endless opportunities!
Do it for your sanity. Do it for yourself.
Make Winter Park Your NEXT Escape!
all is a great time for everyone to have fun! Here’s a list of kid-friendly family activities in Winter Park Colorado, and the best part is they are all free!
Fall Festival – Sept. 26 – Fraser, Colorado
The 15th Annual Grand Kids Fall Festival is located at the Fraser Valley Sports Complex. Free admission to festival, tickets available for the following festivities: Tasty Food, Bake Sale, Prizes, Silent Auction, Bouncy House, Bobbing for Donuts, Tie Die, Ear 2 Ear Photo Booth, Face Painting, Plinko. All proceeds benefit Grand Kids Child Care Center.
Fishing Ponds:
Lions Club Ponds – Fraser, Colorado
Fraser River Valley Lions Club Fishing Ponds are located next to Safeway in Fraser, Colorado. There is both a kids and adult pond stocked with a variety of fish. Adjacent to the ponds you can find a pavilion with BBQ grill and picnic tables as well as a children’s play area. Close enough to take a stroll along the Fraser River.
Kaibab Park – Granby, Colorado
Kaibab Park is located near the bridge at the southern entrance to Granby. Along with the children’s fishing pond is a playground as well as softball and baseball fields. Picnic shelter and tables are also available.
Easy Biking and Hiking Trails:
Discovery Trail – Winter Park, Colorado
Distance: 1.5 miles round trip
Description: This shorter, child-friendly hike is great for family picnics and a chance to spot wildlife. The path eventually meets up with Jim Creek Trail for those looking for a bit further of a hike.
Fraser River Trail – Winter Park/Fraser, Colorado
Distance: 5 miles one way
Description: Starting at Winter Park Resort the Fraser River trail is a combination of paved and dirt paths that lead all the way to Safeway in Fraser. This path is great for strolling on foot or cruising on a bike, and follows the Fraser River.
Creekside – Flume Loop Trails #61 / #82 – Fraser, Colorado
Distance: 5-mile loop
Description: This easy/intermediate trail offers a less challenging scenic route next to St. Louis Creek, offers wildlife viewing of moose and deer.
Adams Falls Trail – Grand Lake, Colorado
Distance: 1 mile out and back
Description: If you’re in the Grand Lake area this hike is a great experience for all ages. This easy hike takes you out to a spectacular lookout point to view Adams Falls.
Local Parks:
Hideaway Park – Winter Park, Colorado
Address: 78841 US-40 Winter Park, CO 80482
Hideaway is a beautiful park located in the heart of Downtown Winter Park, Colorado. This versatile park is home to a number of events including the summer concerts series.
Park Features:
• Playground
• Rock Climbing Wall
• Skateboard Park
• Events Space
• River Walk
• Pavilions
• BBQ Grill
• Picnic Tables
• Public Restrooms
Wolf Park – Winter Park, Colorado
Address: 320 Kings Crossing Rd. Winter Park, CO 80482
Wolf Park is Winter Park’s largest park located off Kings Crossing Road in Winter Park. This neighborhood park is a great option if you would like to get off the busy beaten path.
Park Features:
• Playground
• Basketball Court
• Sand Volleyball Court
• Tennis Courts
• Fitness Trail
• Playing Field
• Pavilions
• BBQ Grills
• Public Restrooms
• Gazebo
• Picnic Tables
Old School House Park – Fraser, Colorado
Address: 153 Fraser Ave. Fraser, Colorado 80442
Old School House Park is located next to Fraser Town Hall (Fraser’s original schoolhouse). A great place for youngsters to safely view trains that are passing through.
Park Features:
• Playground
• Tennis Courts
• Playing Field
• Canopy
• Pavilion
• BBQ Grill
• Picnic Tables
Fraser Valley Sports Complex – Fraser, Colorado
Address: 220 County Rd 522, Fraser, CO 80442
Fraser Valley Sports Complex is a 40-Acre park located just north the town of Fraser. This spacious park has an awesome 360-degree view of surrounding mountain skyline.
Park Features:
• Playground (New Cowboy & Indian Playground Coming Soon)
• Soccer Fields
• Softball/Baseball Fields
• Ice Rink
• Big Teepee
• Sand Volleyball Court
• Public Restrooms
• Picnic Tables
• BBQ Grills
• Pavilions
Polhamus Park – Granby, Colorado
Address: Zero West Jasper Ave. Granby, CO 80446
Polhamus is a gated park located next to Granby Town Hall. This neighborhood park provides a variety of equipment making it perfect for all ages.
Park Features:
• Playground
• Skateboard Park
• Gazebo
• Playing Field
• Picnic Tables
• BBQ Grills
• Public Restrooms
It is that time of year again. The time when the aspen trees begin to turn and bull elk begin to bugle. Listening to an elk bugling “live” is an amazing experience. The range of pitches a bull elk can reach and the raw power of their calls will astound you and give you chills. We definitely encourage you to add, “listening to an elk bugle” to your personal bucket list.
Perhaps the best place to witness the fall elk rut and bugling is in our own backyard, in Rocky Mountain National Park. With hunting season in full swing, many animals flock to the park for protection. Drive through the park around dawn or dusk and chances are you’ll witness the rut going on in meadows and in trees. If you’ve got the time, head over Trail Ridge Road to the Eastern entrance of the park and look around for elk there. Below are 15 facts about elk that will help you prepare for your Colorado Elk Experience and Excitement!
15 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Elk
- The peak of Elk Rut occurs from mid-September through mid-October in the Colorado Rockies.
- Elk will eat meat. Don’t worry, they won’t “hunt” but they have been known to eat eggs and nestlings if they come upon them. (Opportunistic creatures they are!)
- A bull elk’s herd of cows is known as his harem. A harem can range anywhere from a few cows to 20+ cows.
- Elk bugling might sound similar, but the different types of bugles mean different things. Some thoughts on possible meanings include, “my harem is in the area,” “cows get closer to me, you’re too far away,” and
- “hey other bull, this is my harem of ladies and I will defend them.”
- Researchers currently don’t understand what the grunts mean… Maybe you have a theory?
- In the summer, elk antlers can grow an inch or more per day!
- It is believed that the ancestors of elk had tusks way back in the day.
- It is rare, but female elk have been known to occasionally grow antlers. This is usually caused by increased testosterone and other hormonal imbalances.
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- Scientists are researching the speedy growth of elk antlers to in hopes of discovering cures for cancers and other diseases.
- Calves (baby elk) are born in May or June and are typically spotted like Bambi for the first six months.
- The Shawnee people called elk the Wapiti. Wapiti meant something along the lines of, “White rump” or “light colored deer.”
- Elk in the wild typically weigh between 400 and 1,100 pounds and live between 8 and 12 years.
- Blood flows through the antlers in the spring and summer, acting as
- built in air conditioners for elk.
- Farms raise elk to harvest the velvet elk antlers. Why? Velvet antler supplements are used for anti-aging, healthy joints, energy, to strengthen the immune system, treat high blood pressure, and the list goes on… Note: There is insufficient evidence for many of the uses. Always consult a doctor prior to using velvet antler.
- Elk have three stomach chambers, allowing them to digest twigs, and tough plants that other mammals can’t. (Don’t be too jealous, elk digestion includes a lot of regurgitation and “cud chewing” too…)
Fall in Winter Park, Colorado means the gorgeous glow of aspen trees, and they are already starting to POP! This year the aspens are expected to peak the third and fourth weeks of September. So plan ahead, Visit Winter Park, and see the magic as it unfolds.
Here are some insider tips on some of the best leaf peeping opportunities in the high country, (that require limited or no hiking at all)!
Must-do Leaf Peeping Drives:
CO – 125 North
Drive past Granby and take a right on CO – 125 North towards Walden – this paved and fun drive winds along the beautiful Coyote Creek, passes incredible rock formations and crosses large aspen forests that if you hit at the right time will be bursting with fall colors. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for moose and deer that frequent the willows and meadows. If you want to make a day out of it, stop by the Arapaho National Wildlife Refuge in Walden, Colorado. Here you’ll see a variety of native birds, moose, elk, antelope, and more.
Corona Pass
From the town of Winter Park, head East on Highway 40 towards Winter Park Resort. About a mile up, you’ll see a sign for Corona Pass on your left. Take this turnoff and follow 80. You’ll drive through aspen groves of all sizes, and chances are you’ll see some wildlife on the drive. While you can take the road to Rollins Pass at the top of the Divide, the road gets fairly rough at times, and the drive will take about an hour, (awesome drive if you have the time, but halfway up, the aspens dwindle). If you’d like to stick with the leaf peeping, take your second right onto 81 (Forest Road 128) and then take another right onto Arrow Trail until you reach Highway 40.
Cottonwood Pass
Cottonwood Pass is a hidden gem of Grand County Colorado. If you’re in search of an amazing trip through the backcountry, on maintained dirt roads, take Cottonwood Pass. From Winter Park, head West on Highway 40 through Tabernash, Colorado and continue until you pass the YMCA of the Rockies, (it will be on your left). About a mile after you pass the YMCA of the Rockies, you’ll take a left onto County Road 55. This dirt road will take you through meadows, fields, giant aspen groves, and eventually will drop you off in the town of Hot Sulphur Springs, Colorado and reconnect with Highway 40, (you can take Highway 40 back to Winter Park, Colorado). While in Hot Sulphur Springs we recommend checking out the Pioneer Village Museum, the hot springs, or if you are hungry hit the Glory Hole for a fantastic breakfast, or the Dairy Delight for great burgers and ice cream.
County Road 8
Head West on 40 out of Winter Park, Colorado. After you pass the Fraser Post Office (on your right) take your next right onto County Road 8. Follow along County Road 8 for a few miles you’ll end up in the thick of a variety of aspen forests. After the turnoff for the Devil’s Thumb Trailhead, you can take a quick hike, turn around, or *adventure onto 128 (Water Board Road). *If you choose the last option, get a map, a full tank of gas, and plan your route before going.
Granby Ranch
Not in the mood to drive? Head over to Granby Ranch. Why? Granby Ranch is offering free chairlift rides for all foot passengers up and down the mountain! Grab a free pass from the shop, and hit the lifts. Once the lift drops you off at the top, you’ll be free and clear to explore the hiking trails, which meander through beautiful groves and look out over stunning views covered with aspen trees! (Wednesdays – Sundays* from 10am – 5pm through September 27th – weather dependent. Call ahead if you have any questions.)
If you’re looking for the perfect fall hike Columbine Lake a great option!
On this hike you enjoy limited elevation gain, stunning views of the Indian Peaks Wilderness, late blooming wildflowers, and of course the teal blue of the clear mountain lake.
To prepare:
- Bring layers, food, water (or water purification tools), a camera, and a credit card for the fee station if you plan on hiking between Memorial day and September 15th. (The hike will take anywhere from 3+ hours so plan accordingly.)
- Proper footwear. Though the trail is defined, you will encounter roots, rocks, and boulders.
- A dog (if you have one) with a leash and doggie bags.
- A vehicle with higher suspension is recommended because the road to the trailhead has fairly large bumps and potholes. However, if you take it slow, a smaller vehicle will work.
Getting there:
- Take 83 off of highway 40 (as if you’re going to Devil’s Thumb Ranch).
- At the first “T” Take a left onto 84.
- Once you pass Strawberry Road (on your left), keep left at the fork, (this turns into USFS 129 and there should be a creek on your right).
- Stay on USFS 129. There will be a fee station on your left where you can purchase a pass for $5/car.
- Continue on USFS 129 and stay left at the fork before the Meadow Creek Reservoir.
- Approximately three-quarters of the way around the reservoir you will see the trailhead parking lot on the left. (There are fairly primitive bathrooms located here – the only bathrooms you’ll encounter on the hike.)
- Park, display your pass, sign in the hiking registry, and hit the trail!
The Hike:
The trail is approximately 8 miles round-trip and takes anywhere from 3+ hours to complete. The destination is the perfect spot to have a picnic, so plan ahead and make a day of it. The trail is rocky but well maintained and defined. Also, though there are multiple water crossings, all of them have rocks, bridges, or makeshift log bridges to use. (No one likes wet socks!)
Once on the trail keep your eyes peeled for moose and deer, especially in the meadows and forests! (My first time hiking this trail in July, I saw three big bulls and a few cows!)
About a half a mile in, you’ll see an old homestead on your right. It’s pretty cool to check out and imagine how people used to live.
The trail is slightly sloped for the first three quarters and the last leg being a more dramatic incline. The trail runs along a few meadows, the Meadow Creek at times, enters pine forests, boulder fields, next to cliffs, and waterfalls. It is a very beautiful and fairly low impact hike.
Once you get to the lake there are plenty of boulders to sit on and enjoy the view. Some people (and dogs) swim, though the mountain lake’s icy chill prevents many.
Moral of the story:
Columbine Lake is a very accessible, beautiful, and enjoyable hike for anyone looking to get out, explore, and see some of Colorado’s untouched beauty this fall. Protected by cliffs and trees, you will not encounter the cold winds that other hikes are prone to this time of year, and with the cooler temps and natural springs, a variety of wildflowers are still blooming in the meadows and creek beds, (yes even in September).
If you still need more convincing, check out the photos below. Then grab some gear and your friends and hit the trail to Columbine Lake, you’ll be glad you did!
Visit Winter Park, Colorado
Your unofficial guide to all things Winter Park and the Fraser Valley
5 Surprises What to do in Winter Park, Colorado
1. A Summer Tubing Hill
Yes, you read that correctly. A summer tubing hill! We have the only summer tubing hill in Colorado and one of only three in the county here in our own backyard! You’ll be able to enjoy tubing without the heavy gear and snow pants. When you Visit Winter Park, Colorado be sure to add this downhill adventure to your bucket list!
Located at Snow Mountain Ranch YMCA of the Rockies
2. An Experimental Forest
We are home to an experimental forest managed by the United States Department of Agriculture and the United States Forest Service. Located next door in Fraser, CO this experimental forest is a 23,000-acre forest that was established in 1937. The forest focuses on researching the effects of different forest management styles on timber and water production. Take a hike in the Fraser Experimental Forest when you Visit Winter Park, it can be found down route 73 past the Fraser Rodeo grounds.
Find out more about the Fraser Experimental Forest.
Love the outdoors? Try a leaf peeping drive this fall!
3. Summer Dogsled (cart) Rides
Dogsledding in the summer? We’ve got it! Dog Sled Rides of Winter Park offers cart rides when there isn’t snow, sled rides when there is snow cover, and kennel tours year-round. Their team of nearly 80 dogs were born and raised to pull sleds and carts and just watching them work as a team you’ll realize what talented and passionate pups they are.
4. Lift-served Cross-Country Biking and Hiking
Not only is Granby Ranch is home to a fantastic downhill mountain bike park, but they also have lift-serve access to miles of cross-country biking and hiking trails. These trails range from beginner trails to expert and wind and curve along mountain vistas, through aspen forests, and end at the base of the mountain. Foot traffic enjoy free lift rides and hiking!
5. Hot Sulphur Springs
Located in nearby Hot Sulphur you’ll find Hot Sulphur Springs. As you may guess from the name, these springs are filled naturally by hot Sulphur water, originating from deep inside the earth’s crust. This historic hot springs was originally discovered by Native Americans who felt the springs were healing. William Byers rediscovered the hot springs in 1840 and decided to turn the hot springs into a resort, and named the town Hot Sulphur Springs.Read our guide for what to do in Winter Park, Colorado besides ski.
Do you remember the last time you went on a date with your significant other? If not, you’re overdue so plan a date when you Visit Winter Park, Colorado. If you’re in need of some Winter Park date night ideas we’ve got you covered, (we’ve even got childcare covered)!
Here is a list of options for date nights ranging from happy hour to a fun-filled night out on the town!
Pack a Picnic
Pack a picnic and a bottle of wine and head to the mountains with your significant other and enjoy a low-key date night of a sunset and stargazing. Be sure to bring headlamps, bug spray, a blanket, layers, and plenty of water if you choose to do your own backwoods cooking. (Be sure a fire ban is not in place and prior to leaving make sure your campfire is out, out!)
Where to go? If you have 4-wheel drive head up to Corona Pass in Winter Park! – It’s a bit longer of a drive on a bumpy road, but the views from the top of the divide are unbelievable! Otherwise, head up Strawberry Creek in Tabernash, Colorado for a smoother drive and lots of great lookouts!
Pizza and a Movie
Winter Park, Colorado is home to The Foundry, one of the coolest movie theaters in the country. Here you can grab a drink, order a pizza or sandwich, and head into their deluxe and newly remolded theater with perhaps the most comfortable seats in existence. (Insider’s tip: The seats in the front are extra-comfy, lazy-boys that recline!) Not feeling a film? The Foundry also offers bowling and pool, in a retro-styled environment.
Ice Cream and a Show
In need of an extended night out, away from the words, “Mom” and “Dad?” If so, head over to Grand Lake, Colorado for a night on the town. In just 30 minutes you will be passing by the beautiful Lake Granby and heading on your way to the rustic town of Grand Lake, Colorado. There you’ll find a bustling Main Street complete with souvenir shops, art galleries, and ice cream shops.
Once you’ve grabbed some ice cream and checked out the town, head over to the Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre and settle in for a great show. This year’s shows include, 42nd Street, The Addams Family, All Shook Up, and Forever Plaid.
Happy Hour
Looking for an early date night so you can get back with the family before bedtime? Try happy hour at Tabernash Tavern. Located a five-minute drive West of Winter Park, Tabernash Tavern offers a full happy hour menu, amazing drink specials, and live music on select nights.
Dinner and Live Music
Friday’s throughout the season, Cooper Creek Square is offering live music and outdoor dining. The various restaurants have gotten together to organize a delivery system so you can eat your meal while watching a live band perform in the courtyard. Cooper Creek Square offers a variety of different dining options including; Mexican, Sushi, Indian, Chinese, Barbeque, Coffee, Gelato, and more.
Fancy and Affordable
If you’re looking for delectable food, a vast wine selection, a romantic atmosphere, and a surprisingly affordable menu, Volario’s is the place to go. Located in downtown Winter Park, Volario’s offers a variety of Italian-American dishes, with homemade pasta, and fantastic service.
Childcare
If childcare, (or lack thereof) might be the difference between a great date night out, or another night in have no fear. There are plenty of responsible and professional child care providers in the area.
- Checkout – SitterCity.com
- Ask someone you meet – a lot of people have kids up here and most have a go-to sitter. Ask them if they have a babysitter they’d recommend.
- Contact Snow Mountain Ranch – they have an awesome camp department, complete with staff who are all first aid and CPR certified.