Choosing the perfect ski destination in Colorado can be overwhelming, given the state's wealth of world-class resorts. But if you ask a local for advice, you'll likely hear two key tips: first, hit the slopes during the week to sidestep the crowds, and second, don’t miss out on Winter Park Resort.
Winter Park is a local favorite, known for its friendly atmosphere and authentic mountain town vibe. With over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain and an average of 320 inches of snowfall annually, it offers an experience that feels both like an adventure and a homecoming. Once you visit, you'll find yourself eagerly counting the days until you can return.
Getting Here
Winter Park Resort is a great option for a midweek trip because of its proximity to Colorado's capital city, Denver. At only 87 miles from the international airport, Winter Park is the closest major resort to Denver. Getting out of the city and into the mountains during the week might just cut your travel time in half, as Denver locals love a powder day as much as you do, and highways can fill up quickly on weekends.
If you're looking for the convenience of travel, or you're unfamiliar with winter driving conditions, opt for a shuttle over renting a car. Your journey to Winter Park will take you over the breathtaking Berthoud Pass, and passengers will want to have their cameras ready. Once you make it over the pass, your adventure begins. Since most winter tourists will continue on I-70 towards Summit County, you'll notice Winter Park is less crowded than other ski areas.
Terrain 101
Winter Park is known for its wide range of terrain, making it the perfect choice for versatile skiers and riders, as well as groups with varying degrees of ability on the slopes.
Beginners
Taking a skier’s left off the gondola towards the High Lonesome Express will open up the opportunity for some beautiful long runs that won’t force you into harder terrain. If you are looking to cover ground, try taking Hook Up to Village Way - a winding, wide-open run with a fun tunnel section that brings you back to base.
Intermediates
You'll love the Olympia Express and Sunnyside Express areas, as well as much of the upper Mary Jane zone. If you’re looking for lots of S-turns, views to write home about, and low traffic, Jabberwocky and Roundhouse are not to be missed. Parry’s Peek to Corona Way will bring you from the top of the resort to the Mary Jane base and provide a gorgeous perspective of the surrounding valley and great carving opportunities.
Advanced
The area around the Challenger lift is chockful of classic steeps and moguls. There is enough vertical in this area to keep busy for a whole day if you’re so inclined. The Eagle Wind territory is a must-visit for those who love to slash through trees. This area is meant to feel more like a true backcountry experience so expect no grooming, just good old-fashioned tight turns and powder pockets.
Something for Everyone
With seven different territories, Winter Park Resort is a big mountain. For families looking to stay close together while all getting to ski or board within their comfort levels, there is enough variety and acreage in the Winter Park territory alone to fill a day. That being said, each zone holds treasures worth discovering. The Panoramic Express is a must-see regardless of experience or terrain preference. As the name suggests, the panoramic views of the Continental Divide and beyond are spectacular. Be warned that it is often colder and windier at the top, and this line can be one of the busiest. But if you’re looking for sweeping Colorado vistas, one trip up is worth the experience. Forget-Me-Not and the upper portion of Village Way provide paths back to the base and will prove comfortable for any level skier.
Fuel Your Stoke
Can you even call it a ski vacation without dining and après? I don't think so. Luckily, there are several mouthwatering delicacies worth trying. Over the week you should have no problem tasting them all.
Goody’s Bananas Foster Crepe is next level. For the 21+ crowd, adding a Spiced Butterscotch Cider to the order will give you a sugar rush to fuel another trip up and down the slopes. Sweettooths will delight in the fact that Winter Park doesn't just have a Waffle Cabin. They have four. The freshly prepared, gooey, chocolate-drizzled waffles can be topped with a scoop of ice cream or slabs of bacon. These grab-and-go treats are best enjoyed around one of the many fire pits found throughout Winter Park's winding village.
Doc’s Roadhouse is the place to get some bang-for-your-buck nachos. The hearty portion makes the perfect mid-day snack, and for those who need additional protein - the brisket is fantastic add-on. Happy hour hounds should head to The Derailer Bar at the base of the mountain or ascend to the Lodge at Sunspot. At Over 10,000 feet it offers an unmatched day-ender with après cocktails, live music, and glorious sunsets. This is also where you'll find the yummiest gluten-free menu on the mountain.
Make The Most of Your Trip
Winter Park might sound too good to be true, but it lives up to the hype. For the best experience, I highly recommend giving yourself a few days to experience everything the resort has to offer. There are stunning and conveniently located accommodations in Winter Park throughout the resort and surrounding area suited for every budget.
Additionally, take advantage of the Resort’s Midweek Flex Pass. This pass allows you to choose which weekdays (Monday through Friday) you want to ski, giving you flexibility and access to less crowded slopes. Skiing midweek not only offers potential savings but also the chance to ride the first chair, savor a freshly baked waffle, and enjoy the Panoramic Express without the usual long waits.
Over the years, Winter Park Resort has earned titles like “Most Family-Friendly Ski Resort” and “#1 Ski Resort in America.” After just one visit, you'll likely add “Best Vacation We’ve Ever Taken” to its list of accolades.