If you think Winter Park Resort is only for skiing, think again. When the snow melts, this mountain town transforms into one of Colorado’s top summer playgrounds. Just 70 miles from Denver and tucked into the scenic Fraser Valley along the Continental Divide, Winter Park offers cooler temperatures, sunshine-filled days, and outdoor adventures for every type of traveler.
Why Winter Park Shines in Summer
One of the biggest draws is the weather. At Winter Park Resort, summer temperatures rarely top 80 degrees, making it an ideal escape from the heat. With more than 300 days of sunshine each year, visitors can enjoy everything from hiking and sightseeing to dining outdoors while surrounded by stunning views of Colorado’s iconic 13,000- and 14,000-foot peaks.
Ride, Slide, Hike, Repeat
One of my favorite ways to take in the scenery at Winter Park Resort is aboard the scenic gondola, which climbs to 10,700 feet for sweeping views of wildflowers, aspen groves, and the Continental Divide. Thrill-seekers can race down Colorado’s longest Alpine Slide or explore more than 3,000 acres of hiking trails. For a more relaxed pace, grab lunch with a view at Sunspot Mountain Lodge or enjoy a mountaintop happy hour with live music on Friday and Saturday evenings.
Mountain bikers won’t want to miss Trestle Bike Park, one of the premier downhill biking destinations in the country. The park features more than 40 miles of gravity-fed trails. Beginners can take lessons or rent e-bikes to explore the mountain at their own pace.
Gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park
Winter Park Resort also makes an excellent basecamp for exploring the quieter west entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park, located about 35 minutes away. Wildlife sightings, including moose, are common, and crowds are often lighter than at the park’s eastern entrances.
In less than an hour, you can also reach Grand Lake, Lake Granby, and Shadow Mountain Lake for boating, paddling, fishing, and additional outdoor adventures. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-fueled fun or a relaxing mountain retreat, Winter Park Resort delivers the best of a Colorado summer.
To Book Your Vacation: Winter Park Resort
