Winter Park is not only the major ski resort that’s closest to Denver; it’s also the most popular Colorado ski resort among Colorado residents. While some of that perennial popularity is undoubtedly due to its proximity to the capitol city (just 67 miles away by interstate highway), it’s also because natives know a good thing when they ski it.

Founded in 1940, Winter Park is an actual park owned by the city of Denver, and it’s one of Colorado’s oldest resorts. With a peak elevation of 12,060 feet and an average annual snowfall of 370 inches, conditions are often ideal at this nearly 3,000-acre ski resort. There are 134 trails, 22 lifts and nearly 1,500 additional acres of off-piste skiing terrain.

 While advanced and expert trails comprise more than half of all runs, with this much area there’s plenty for everyone, regardless of skill level. To Coloradoans, Winter Park means reliable snowfall, varied terrain, and easy access – not to mention a laid-back atmosphere that’s not necessarily available at flashier resorts up the road, such as Vail or Beaver Creek. For natives, the combination is unbeatable.

Snowboards are welcome, and cross-country skiing trails are available. In 2000/2001, the resort completed the Zephyr Mountain Lodge, located at the base of the slopes. Another exciting improvement for adrenaline junkies is the addition of the “Ridge Ride.” For an additional $5, skiers and boarders seeking the pulse-pounding thrills of Vasquez Cirque can hop a ride behind a snowcat. The rope tow trip from the 12,000-foot summit of the Timberline Lift, at the top of Parsenn Bowl, to the cirque’s entrance, saves cirque-bound daredevils the trouble of making an arduous 20-minute hike at altitudes that can leave the unprepared breathless.

Families and Lovers
Families may enjoy taking a whirl downhill on snow tubes at the renowned Fraser Tubing Hill, while those more interested in a little romance may wish to schedule an evening sleigh-ride to a cozy restaurant, or a twilight snowmobile tour. Or perhaps a moonlit gondola ride to The Lodge at Sunspot for a five-course dinner is more appealing.

You can also take a crack at the Base Camp 9000 Climbing Wall, or book a moonlight snowshoe hike if you’re willing to spend a little extra cash, but stunning views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains and the Continental Divide are free. Although Winter Park tends to get exceptionally crowded on holidays and weekends, lift lines are virtually non-existent during the week, making this an excellent destination for families on vacation.

Winter Park makes a concerted effort to appeal specifically to families. Besides the Children’s Center, with centralized daycare facilities and ski rental, there are extensive children’s ski school and snowboard instruction programs. Beginners will appreciate the award-winning Groswold's Discovery Park, Winter Park's 25-acre beginner area. Used by children and novice adults alike, this safe haven is especially appealing to young skiers and their parents. Families who’d like to learn together will appreciate Family Private lessons.

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