Winter Park Ski Resort: Guide for Skiing & Snowboarding

🏔️ Ready for a winter escape to the Rockies? Winter Park Ski Resort in Colorado has everything you need for a thrilling ski adventure! 🎿 From cozy hotels nearby to parking tips, trail maps, and endless things to do, I've got all the details to make your trip smooth and unforgettable! ⛷️

About Winter Park Ski Resort

Source from Winter Park Ski Resort Official

Winter Park Resort, just 90 minutes from Denver, is a top spot for skiers and snowboarders looking for that Colorado mountain experience 🎿. Winter Park rises from a 9,000-foot base to a 12,060-foot summit, covering 3,078 acres with 143 trails. ⛷️

The terrain splits into 12% beginner, 30% intermediate, and 58% advanced/expert, served by 25 lifts, including 5 surface, 6 doubles, 4 triples, 7 quads, 2 six-packs, and 1 gondola 🚠.

Average snowfall is 354 inches, with runs open daily from 8:30 to 4:00. ❄️

Owned by Alterra Mountain Company, Winter Park has been running for longer than any other resort in Colorado.

Where is Winter Park Ski Resort?

Source from Google Map

Winter Park Resort is in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, roughly 67 miles northwest of Denver. The drive takes about an hour and a half via U.S. Highway 40.

Sitting near the Continental Divide at an elevation of 9,000 feet at the base, Winter Park spans over 3,000 acres across two mountains—Winter Park and Mary Jane.

Cheap & Fast eSIM Plan for your Skiing Trip

Getting to Winter Park Ski Resort

Source from Winter Park Ski Resort Official

Getting to Winter Park Resort from Denver International Airport (DEN) ✈️

Denver International Airport (DEN) is the closest major airport, located about 90 miles east of Winter Park. With year-round flights from major airlines, DEN is the best gateway for travelers. You’ll find all major car rental companies at DEN, or book through Trip.com Car Rentals, which partners with Hertz and others.

From here, you have a few great options to get to the slopes:

• Home James Shuttle Service: The Home James Shuttle operates 11 trips daily in winter between DEN and Winter Park Resort, running from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm from the airport, and 5:30 am to 7:00 pm from the resort. This 2-hour ride drops you off directly at your lodging in Winter Park or Fraser. Tickets are $72 per adult. After late March, service drops to six trips per day.
• Rental Car: All major car rental companies are available at DEN. If you prefer driving, head west on I-70 for 40 miles, then take Exit 232 onto U.S. Highway 40, which leads over Berthoud Pass (a perfect stop for photos) and directly to Winter Park. If it's summer, you can also take a scenic route via U.S. Highway 34 through Rocky Mountain National Park.

Taking the Train to Winter Park 🚆

For a more relaxed, scenic option, consider taking the train to Winter Park:

• Winter Park Express: Known as the “Ski Train,” this runs on weekends from early January through late March, directly from Denver Union Station to the base of Winter Park Resort. The 2-hour ride departs at 7:00 am and returns at 4:30 pm. Tickets must be pre-booked through Amtrak.
• Amtrak California Zephyr: Available year-round, this train drops you off at Fraser, just 5 miles from Winter Park. From there, take a quick taxi, Uber, or shuttle ride to the resort. This option is perfect for weekday travelers who don’t mind the quick transfer to Winter Park.

Hotels near Winter Park Ski Resort

Check the best hotels near Winter Park Ski Resort🏩

*Price may vary based on the selected dates. Please check from Trip.com website and special discounts will sometimes appear.

4.2/5: The Vintage Hotel – Located 3.56 km from Winter Park Resort, this cozy, pet-friendly hotel includes an outdoor pool, hot tub, and on-site restaurant, making it great for families and those with pets who want close proximity to the slopes.

4.3/5: Gravity Haus Winter Park – Just 7.18 km from the resort, Gravity Haus offers modern amenities like a fitness center, hot tub, free Wi-Fi, and an on-site restaurant, ideal for solo travelers and digital nomads looking for a well-equipped retreat near skiing.

4.8/5: Winter Park Chateau – Located 7.67 km from Winter Park Resort, this boutique inn provides mountain views, a hot tub, complimentary breakfast, and free Wi-Fi, making it a top choice for couples and small groups seeking a charming, relaxing stay near the slopes.

Winter Park Ski Resort: Parking Tips

Source from Winter Park Ski Resort Official

Winter Park Resort offers a mix of free and paid parking, but it’s best to arrive early since the 3,200 free spaces fill up quickly, especially after 10 am. For easy access, try the North Bench Lot for walk-in convenience, or the Village Parking Garage for central access with covered parking at $25 per day or $15 for a half day. Old Town Lots (Lone Tree, Blue Spruce, Bus Barn, and Adolf’s) and Lots F and G offer free Park-N-Ride shuttles: Old Town on weekends and holidays, and F and G daily from 7:40 am to 10:00 am, with shuttles running every 30 minutes.

• Mary Jane Side For early birds, prime parking on the Mary Jane side is a major perk. There are spots right next to the Challenger lift, perfect if you want to avoid shuttle buses. A little-known spot is just behind the Challenger lift, providing a few spaces close to the trail without the hassle of a parking lot.
• Village Parking Garage: Closest to the slopes but paid. Fill up early if you want a convenient spot.
• Vintage Lot (Free): If you’re looking to save, this free lot connects to the Cabriolet lift, taking you directly to the base area. Plan to arrive early, as it’s a popular choice.
• F and G Lots: Traditionally, the F lot was a hidden gem for Winter Park skiers, but it’s now fenced off. The G lot, however, is still open and offers a great alternative. Plus, the new shuttle drops skiers right at the gondola, making it easier than ever to reach the lifts without hiking through the village.

Winter Park Ski Resort Trail Map

Source from thetvtraveler

Here’s a quick guide to the route colors at Winter Park Ski Resort Map:

Some Areas to Avoid & Better Routes👀

• Parsenn Bowl to Panoramic Lift: Avoid the crowded Edelweiss trail. Instead, take a left onto Bluebell for a quieter, safer route that leads to the same place with fewer merging skiers.
• Mary Jane Connector from Gondola: The Mary Jane trail is a busy blue run that connects Winter Park and Mary Jane. If you’re skiing at Mary Jane, park there directly to bypass this bottleneck and enjoy smoother runs.
• Pioneer Express Area: With the new Wild Spur chairlift, blue-level skiers can enjoy this area more easily. Avoid skiing to the bottom as it flattens out, especially challenging for snowboarders. Take a break at Sundance Chili Hut instead, just a short ride away.

💖If you're curious about how to stay connected fast, check Global eSIM, Wifi and SIM card!

Things to Do at Winter Park Ski Resort

Source from Winter Park Ski Resort Official

Winter Park Ski Resort is packed with fun things to do both on and off the slopes. Here's a rundown of some must-try activities for your mountain getaway:

Skiing and Snowboarding 🎿

Winter Park is a skier’s paradise with over 3,000 acres of varied terrain. Whether you’re a beginner working on your turns or an advanced rider tackling Mary Jane’s moguls, there’s something for everyone here. From powder bowls to tree skiing, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained across the mountain.

Source from Winter Park Ski Resort Official

Tubing Fun on Coca-Cola® Tube Hill 🛷

For a break from skiing, head to Coca-Cola® Tube Hill. It’s all about the thrill here with multiple tubing lanes and a convenient conveyor lift—perfect for families or groups looking for a fun, low-key activity.

Source from Winter Park Ski Resort Official

Scenic Gondola Rides 🚠

Hop on the Scenic Gondola to soak in some amazing views of the Fraser Valley and Continental Divide. This 10,700-foot journey is especially popular for capturing photos or enjoying a peaceful ride to the top, even if you’re not skiing.

Source from Winter Park Ski Resort Official

Après-Ski Vibes and Dining 🍻

When the day winds down, Winter Park has a great après-ski scene. Mountaintop Après at Sunspot Lodge offers live music, drinks, and food specials—no lift ticket required after 4 pm! Or, head to Derailer Bar for a more lively scene right at the base.

Source from Winter Park Ski Resort Official

Snowcat Tours and Snowshoeing ❄️

For something unique, try a Snowcat Tour or a guided snowshoe adventure. The Snowcat takes you to scenic spots for epic sunset views, while snowshoeing lets you explore the quieter side of the mountain.

Time in Winter Park Ski Resort

Winter Park Ski Resort operates on Mountain Time, which is 1–2 hours behind U.S. Eastern Time, depending on the season. During Daylight Saving Time (mid-March to early November), it observes Mountain Daylight Time (MDT), aligning with the U.S. practice of shifting clocks forward by one hour.

If you're visiting from a different U.S. time zone, especially the East Coast, remember to adjust your clocks accordingly to match Mountain Time.👀

Winter Park Ski Resort Lift Tickets & Ski Passes

Source from Winter Park Ski Resort Official

Winter Park Resort offers two primary lift ticket options for the 2024/2025 season:

• Day Lift Tickets: These are date-specific tickets available for single or multiple days. Purchasing at least 48 hours in advance can yield savings of up to 40%. Prices fluctuate based on demand and date, so it's advisable to check the official website for the most current rates.
• Flex Lift Tickets: These tickets provide flexibility, allowing you to lock in a price now and decide your ski dates later. Options include skiing 2 out of 4 days, 3 out of 5 days, or 4 out of 6 days. This is ideal for those who prefer not to commit to specific dates upfront.

For equipment rentals, Winter Park Resort offers ski and snowboard packages with the following options. Rent top-tier equipment, receive personalized assistance from experts, and enjoy free overnight storage at the Winter Park base. Kids 12 and under rent for free when you prebook a 3-day Adult Rental Package.

• Adult Packages: Include skis or snowboard, boots, and poles (for skiers).
• Junior Packages: Tailored for younger skiers and snowboarders, also including necessary equipment.
• Performance and Demo Packages: Feature higher-end equipment for those seeking enhanced performance.

Winter Park Ski Resort Weather & Best Time to Visit

Source from Winter Park Ski Resort Official

Winter Park sees about 354 inches of snow annually, making it a reliable winter destination.

For the best skiing and snowboarding conditions, plan your trip between January and March, when the snowfall is at its peak and trail conditions are ideal.

To check real-time snow updates, visit Winter Park Resort’s Mountain Report or use sites like OnTheSnow.

Facilities at Winter Park Ski Resort

Source from Winter Park Ski Resort Official

Winter Park Ski Resort offers a variety of facilities to enhance your mountain experience:

• 🎿 Ski and Snowboard Rentals: Conveniently located at the base, the resort provides a range of equipment for all skill levels. Booking in advance is recommended to ensure availability.
• 🍽️ Dining Options: From quick bites to sit-down meals, the resort has several eateries, including the Lunch Rock Restaurant atop Mary Jane Territory, offering panoramic views and a diverse menu.
• 👶 Childcare Services: For families, the resort offers childcare programs, allowing parents to enjoy the slopes while children are engaged in supervised activities.
• 🏫 Ski and Ride School: Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, professional instructors are available for group and private lessons.
• 🚡 Chair Lifts: The resort operates 25 lifts, including high-speed quads and gondolas, ensuring quick access to various terrains.
• 🅿️ Parking: Ample parking facilities are available, with options for both free and paid parking, ensuring easy access to the slopes.

Things to do near Winter Park Ski Resort

Here’s a guide to some fantastic things to do near Winter Park Ski Resort to add extra adventure to your trip:

Rocky Mountain National Park

Just a scenic drive away, Rocky Mountain National Park offers incredible outdoor experiences year-round. With stunning mountain views, scenic trails for all skill levels, and abundant wildlife, it’s a must-see for nature lovers. Whether you’re hiking, snowshoeing, or just taking in the views, this park brings a true Colorado experience to your Winter Park getaway.

Downtown Aquarium, Denver

A fun stop for families or anyone looking to explore unique marine life, the Downtown Aquarium in Denver features interactive exhibits, a mermaid show, and even an on-site restaurant with views of the aquarium tanks. It's an easy day trip and a great way to add a bit of underwater adventure to your mountain escape.

Denver Zoo

The Denver Zoo is another fantastic option for a day off the slopes. Home to over 3,000 animals, including lions, elephants, and penguins, the zoo is packed with exhibits and educational programs. It’s a fun, family-friendly destination that brings the wild right into the heart of Denver.