Plan Your Winter Park Ski Trip
The complete guide to Colorado's favorite ski destination
Winter Park Resort consistently ranks among North America's top ski destinations—and for good reason. With over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, 166 trails, and an average of 325 inches of snow annually, it delivers world-class skiing just 90 minutes from Denver.
Whether you're planning a family ski vacation, an expert's powder pilgrimage, or a group trip with mixed abilities, this guide covers everything you need: terrain breakdowns, lift strategies, gear rentals, dining, and where to stay to make the most of your mountain time.
We've been skiing Winter Park for years and hosting guests at Chateau Relaxo who come specifically for the slopes. This guide shares what we've learned about making ski trips here unforgettable.
Winter Park Resort at a Glance
Winter Park is actually multiple mountains in one resort, each with its own personality. Understanding the layout helps you maximize your ski time.
Winter Park Mountain
The main mountain with great groomers and family terrain
76 trails, beginner to intermediate focus
Mary Jane
Legendary bumps and steeps for advanced skiers
53 trails, expert terrain, famous mogul runs
Vasquez Ridge
Quieter, tree-lined runs, locals' favorite
24 trails, intermediate cruisers
Vasquez Cirque
Hike-to expert terrain, serious only
Backcountry-style in-bounds
Parsenn Bowl
Wide open bowl skiing above treeline
Intermediate to advanced, stunning views
Tip: Start at Vasquez Ridge in the morning—it gets the best early sun and has shorter lift lines.
Best Runs by Ability Level
Winter Park excels at serving all ability levels. Here's where to head based on your skills.
Beginners
Discovery Park (dedicated learning area), Galloping Goose, March Hare
Wide, gentle groomers with slow zones
Intermediates
Cranmer, Jabberwocky, Vasquez Ridge runs
Long cruisers, consistent pitch, well-groomed
Advanced
Mary Jane front side, Parsenn Bowl, Hughes Trail
Steeps, bumps, and variable conditions
Expert
Derailer, Jeff's, Vasquez Cirque hike-to terrain
Extreme moguls, cliffs, backcountry feel
Skiing with Kids
Winter Park is exceptionally family-friendly, with programs for ages 3 and up.
Ski + Ride School
Award-winning instruction for ages 3-14
Full and half-day programs
Discovery Park
Dedicated beginner area with magic carpet
Separate from main mountain traffic
Coca-Cola Tube Park
Tubing hill for non-ski fun
Great for ski break or non-skiers
Tip: Book ski school 2+ weeks in advance during holidays—it sells out.
The Secret Weapon: Granby Ranch
Just 10 minutes from Chateau Relaxo, Granby Ranch is the local alternative that most visitors miss. It's perfect for beginners, families, and anyone wanting to avoid crowds.
Lower Prices
Significantly cheaper lift tickets than Winter Park
Great for learning days
No Crowds
Rarely any lift lines, even on weekends
More runs per hour
Night Skiing
One of the few Colorado resorts with lights
Usually Friday & Saturday nights
Tip: Use Granby Ranch for first-day warm-up, then hit Winter Park for days 2-3.
Gear Rentals & Shops
Rent in town for better prices and shorter waits than on-mountain.
Viking Ski Shop
High-end demos, expert fitting
Winter Park base area
Christy Sports
Reliable chain, online reservations
Multiple locations
Tip: Reserve online for 10-20% off. Pick up the night before to save morning time.
Getting There & Getting Around
Winter Park is one of the easiest Colorado ski resorts to access from Denver.
From Denver
I-70 West to US-40, about 90 minutes
No mountain pass required—Berthoud is a tunnel
From DIA
About 2 hours direct
Shuttle services available
Amtrak Winter Park Express
Train from Denver Union Station
Weekend service, ski-to-train
Free Shuttle
The Lift bus runs throughout Fraser Valley
Connects lodging to resort
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to ski Winter Park?
January through mid-March offers the most consistent snow. Late February/early March balances good snow with warmer temps. Avoid Christmas week and Presidents' Day weekend for crowds.
Is Winter Park good for beginners?
Excellent. The Discovery Park learning area is separate from main traffic, and 8% of terrain is designated beginner with another 17% novice. Granby Ranch nearby is even mellower.
How does Winter Park compare to Vail or Breckenridge?
Winter Park has comparable terrain at lower prices, with far fewer crowds. It's more of a "local's mountain" feel. Less glitzy base village, more authentic ski town vibe.
Should I buy an Epic Pass or day tickets?
If skiing 3+ days, an Epic Day Pass (limited days) usually beats window prices. Winter Park is on Epic, so your pass also works at Vail, Beaver Creek, etc.
Where should I stay for a Winter Park ski trip?
We recommend staying in Tabernash or Fraser rather than at the base. You're 15 minutes from lifts but get more space, better value, and authentic mountain town feel. Chateau Relaxo sleeps 14 with hot tub and sauna—perfect for recovering after ski days.
Your Ski Trip Home Base
Chateau Relaxo is 15 minutes from Winter Park with everything you need to recover after a day on the slopes.
- Hot tub under the stars
- Sauna & cold plunge
- Boot dryers in mudroom
- Theater for movie nights
- Sleeps 14 guests
property-image.jpg