Just over an hour and 67 miles from Denver, Winter Park Ski Resort allows skiers to bypass the majority if I-70 traffic by exiting at US Highway 40 West just past Idaho Springs, driving over the scenic Berthoud Pass. Colorado’s largest ski resort is located in Winter Park, and surprisingly owned by the City of Denver.
Family friendly Winter Park Ski Resort is just 67 miles from Denver. — Photo courtesy of Winter Park Ski Resort
At 3,060 acres, Winter Park Ski Resort is big, offering a ski trip filled with award-winning terrain, terrain parks and activities. Although Winter Park gives skiers, 106 days of sunshine during ski season, 350 inches of annual snowfall (that’s over 30 feet) equals pretty awesome conditions. Three interconnected mountains and a high alpine bowl are spread across 134 designated trails, accessed by 22 chairlifts.
Every level of skier or snowboarder will find a favorite place. Look for steeps on Vasqueze Cirque; groomers for beginners on Winter Park Mountain. Terrain Parks total five, including the limited access park at Dark Territory. Of course, the bumps on Mary Jane, a separate mountain for experts, continue to attract skiers, with its 55 percent of expert terrain, one of the highest percentages in the state. Known throughout the country for housing the National Sports Center for the Disabled, Winter Park Ski Resort adds another component for disabled individuals.
A variety of packages and events also cater to families throughout the year and during the holidays. This season a newly installed tubing hill will add to the adventure.
Winter Park Ski Resort is a perfect day trip from Denver, but for those wanting to extend the fun, Winter Park offers accommodations to fit every budget.
