Things to Do in Winter Park, CO

Things to do in Winter Park, CO

Welcome to Winter Park, Colorado — a picturesque mountain resort where exhilarating adventures blend seamlessly with serene alpine beauty. Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Winter Park is not just a winter wonderland but a year-round destination for those who crave outdoor excitement as well as moments of peaceful relaxation.

From thrilling winter sports to summer activities, there’s an abundance of activities to explore in this vibrant town. So, let’s dive into the top attractions that make Winter Park an enchanting escape and a must-visit location in the Rockies!

Winter Park Resort

Winter Park Resort is great for both summer and winter adventurers. During the summer months, the resort offers scenic gondola rides with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Mountain biking enthusiasts can shred down the trails at the Trestle Bike Park, while hikers can explore a variety of trails for all skill levels. Guided hikes are also available for those who want to learn more about the area’s history and ecology. There’s also an e-bike tour, a putting course, and a ropes course!

In the winter, the resort transforms into a skier’s paradise. Whether you’re a newbie or a black diamond expert, there’s slopes for everyone. Lessons and rentals are available for those new to the sport, and terrain parks with jumps and rails keep adrenaline pumping for experienced skiers and snowboarders. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails are also available for those who want to explore this winter wonderland.

Tubing

Winter Park has some of the most exhilarating tubing parks in Colorado. The crown jewel is Coca-Cola Tubing Hill at Winter Park Resort, which has the title of the longest tubing hill in the state. Race your friends down multiple lanes, tackle exciting banked curves, and conveniently hop on the covered conveyor belt to get back to the top for endless tubing.

For a more laid-back experience, consider Fraser Tubing Hill. This family-friendly spot features a broad open slope, perfect for creating your own tubing hill. Both locations offer rentals.

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Snowmobiling

Come feel the rush of exploring Winter Park's backcountry on a guided snowmobiling tour with Grand Adventures! They have a store right in Winter Park, making it super convenient. Choose from a range of tours catering to all levels.

Ascend to nearly 12,000 feet on the Continental Divide Tour, taking in breathtaking views of the Winter Park Ski Resort and the Fraser Valley. Navigate through open meadows, wind through snowy forests, and enjoy the exhilarating freedom of riding a snowmobile. For a longer adventure, opt for the 3-hour tour that goes deeper into the backcountry for a true taste of winter wilderness exploration.

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Skiing & Snowboarding

Winter Park is a paradise for skiing and snowboarding lovers and has some of the best spots in the Rockies. The Winter Park Resort itself is at the heart of it all with over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain for both beginners and seasoned experts. It has seven distinct territories ranging from groomed trails to challenging glades and steeps in the Cirque Territory.

For those looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience, Berthoud Pass has backcountry skiing and snowboarding with great views and untouched powder. Just a short drive from Winter Park, this area requires knowledge of avalanche safety but is perfect for exhilarating runs. No matter where you decide to shred powder, Winter Park is perfect for your winter adventures.

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Ice Skating

Winter Park has two locations to twirl and glide across the ice. Embrace the winter ambiance at the outdoor rink at The Village in Winter Park Resort. This rink is a great spot to enjoy a day of ice skating under the crisp mountain air, with skate rentals available for those who need them. You can also check out the 'IceBox' at Fraser Valley Sports Complex for indoor ice skating.

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Hiking

Winter Park has a ton of stunning trails perfect for hiking. One of the most beloved destinations is the Vasquez Peak Wilderness Area, where hikers can immerse themselves in serene landscapes blanketed with snow and framed by towering pine trees.

Another must-visit spot for hiking enthusiasts is the Jim Creek Trail, located near Winter Park Resort. This trail is especially magical during the winter months, as it winds through dense forests and open meadows. The trail is well-marked and suitable for all skill levels, making it a popular choice for families or anyone looking to experience the beauty of Winter Park's natural landscapes.

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Mountain Biking

Winter Park also has some of the best mountain biking terrains in the region! Topping the list is the Trestle Bike Park, known for its fun downhill tracks and skillfully designed features for beginners and seasoned pros. If you're looking for a more natural trail, the Fraser River Trail has stunning views of the surrounding mountains and meadows. Both spots provide not just a test of skill but also a chance to explore Winter Park's scenery.

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Golfing

While Winter Park itself doesn't have a golf course within town limits, golfers won't be disappointed. Just a short scenic drive away are several fantastic options. The most popular choice is Granby Ranch Golf Course, a stunning 18-hole course known for its beautiful mountain views and challenging yet fair layout. Another great option is Pole Creek Golf Club, which has scenic terrain and a friendly atmosphere, perfect for golfers of all skill levels. Both courses have driving ranges and on-site instruction for those looking to improve their game.

Fishing

Cast a line and experience some of Colorado's best fishing in the pristine waters surrounding Winter Park. The Fraser River, a local favorite, has various sections with deep pools, slow-moving water, and riffles depending on your preference. For a trophy catch, head to Lake Granby, the third-largest lake in Colorado, known for being stocked with rainbow trout and kokanee salmon. For a more intimate experience, explore the nearby Vasquez Creek, teeming with various trout species depending on how far you venture upstream.

Whitewater Rafting

Cool off with an unforgettable day on the river! Just a short drive from Winter Park, you’ll find thrilling rapids and scenic floats along Clear Creek and the Upper Colorado River. Local outfitters have guided trips for all ages and skill levels - whether you’re craving an adrenaline rush or a relaxing float with mountain views. Most tours include gear, transportation, and experienced river guides to keep things safe and fun.

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Horseback Riding

Saddle up and explore the stunning mountain landscapes of Winter Park on a guided horseback ride! Just minutes from town, Winter Park Trail Rides give scenic tours through alpine meadows, pine forests, and along ridgelines with panoramic views of the Continental Divide.

Great for families, couples, and first-time riders, most tours are relaxed, beginner-friendly, and perfect for soaking in the fresh mountain air. Want to go further? Head to nearby Snow Mountain Ranch or Rusty Spurr Ranch for longer trail rides, private outings, or even authentic cattle drives. It’s one of the most peaceful and picturesque ways to experience the Rockies.

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Rocky Mountain National Park

Located just a short drive outside of town, Rocky Mountain National Park has tons of outdoor activities to keep you busy! Hike a variety of trails with diverse challenges, from gentle paths to strenuous climbs up mountain peaks. Keep your eye out for a variety of wildlife, including elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and marmots, as you explore the park’s rich ecosystem.

Join a ranger-led program to delve deeper into the park’s fascinating geology, ecology, and history. For a scenic drive, embark on Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved highway in North America, winding through mountains with picture-perfect spots. In the winter, experience the magic of a snow-covered wonderland with snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ranger-led winter programs.

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Book Your Homebase With Elysian Destinations

Winter Park has adventures for every season. From shredding down slopes to hiking in tranquil mountains, this town promises an unforgettable escape.

After a day full of activities, unwind in luxurious comfort by booking your stay with Elysian Destinations. We offer a curated collection of exquisite vacation rentals in Winter Park, from ski-in/ski-out retreats to cozy mountain cabins, all with top-tier amenities and breathtaking views.

Let Elysian Destinations unlock the true potential of your Winter Park experience!

Overall Rating

4.9

Based on 116 Reviews

Vanessa Newman

November 10, 2025

We had a fantastic stay at Alpenglow Escape. Paul, Ashley and the rest of the Elysian team were wonderfully responsive, check-in was a breeze, and the home was spotless and beautifully decorated. The kitchen had everything we needed, and the location is an easy walk to great restaurants and bars. We’d definitely stay again!

Brooke Murray

We absolutely loved our stay with Elysian! The property was GORGEOUS, and every single detail was so comfortable and well thought out. We can't wait to come back!

Diana Fit

I had the most beautiful stay in Winter Park! The house was absolutely stunning — spacious, cozy, and thoughtfully designed in every detail. From the soft morning light through the windows to the peaceful evenings by the fireplace, everything felt like a true mountain escape. The location was perfect — close to the slopes and local cafes, yet tucked away enough to feel calm and private. It was the ideal space to unwind, recharge, and create beautiful memories. Huge thank you to the hosts for making everything seamless and so welcoming. Can’t wait to come back soon!

Things to Do in Winter Park, CO