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Posted on by Lee Sims

9 Summertime Activities In Winter Park

Winter Park summer activities remind us why we love living in the mountains! Grand County and the Fraser Valley have so much to offer when it comes to things to do in the great outdoors, and Summertime is the ideal time to get out and explore. These long days are perfect for outdoor activities, and the area offers a number of things to do that are fun for the whole family! Try rafting the Colorado River, wild trout fly fishing, mountain biking, award winning rounds of golf, scenic chair lift rides, and even try hiking in the Rocky Mountain National Park. There is something for everyone here!

Winter Park Activities 

There are tons of things to do at the base of the Winter Park Ski Resort, including the state’s longest alpine slide, Trestle Bike Park, hiking trails, chair lift rides, mini-golf, a rock climbing wall, disc golf, Leaps & Bounds Bungee, and much more!

Check out these resources for more information about the base area and town goings-on:

Winter Park & The Fraser Valley Chamber of Commerce 1.800.903.7275

The Official Trail Guide to Winter Park & the Fraser Valley 970.887.0776

Fraser Valley Recreation Center 970.726.8968

1. Fishing

Fish! Fish! Got my wish! Fishing is a great pastime to get on the river and experience the outdoors with the whole family. The experienced angler will find every challenge available, and the beginner can find out why people return to Winter Park every year to chase wild trout.

2. Hiking

Rocky Mountain National Park is a hiker’s paradise and is one of the best summer Winter Park activities to take part in. Here you’ll find everything from short walks through flower filled meadows, to day hikes with famous mountain lakes, to multi-day backcountry alpine routes. There are Rocky Mountain hiking trails for both beginners and experienced hikers to enjoy.

Rocky Mountain National Park 970.627.9595

Here are a few options in the area:

  • The Fraser River Trail – If you’ve got little one with you this is one of the best bets as the trail gains very little elevation and it’s paved! The trail takes you from Winter Park Resort all the way into the town of Fraser. There are picnic tables and benches along the way.
    **Bonus: You can hike AND bike here.
  • The Creekside Trail – It’s just up County Road 73, across from Safeway, and has really well-labeled trails in case you can only do a “quick one.” Should have lots of early season sun exposure so one of the first/driest spots available.
  • The Little Vasquez Trail/Loop – Really easy to find! Just take Vasquez Road, off Highway 40, all the way until you can’t go any further….you’re there! Lots of shade, so bring layers and potentially snowshoes if you’re there in April….will likely have lots of snow still. There are a few other trails (Blue Sky, Tunnel Hill) up here too if you’d like to make it a longer hike.
  • YMCA of the Rockies/Snow Mountain Ranch –  This is a terrific and extensive trail system for hiking/biking. You will need to pay for a day pass to access but they have TONS of other fun activities that are included in this day pass so you can truly make a day of it here. For $25 per adult/per day and $10 per child/per day (free for kids under 5), purchased at the Program Building near the entrance. The Waterfall Trail is really cool!
    Local’s Tip:     locals often go after 3pm to just do a drive or quick hike. In the summertime it stays lighter, longer. Go after dinner and watch for wild elk!
    • Option 1 will be for Park Access Plus the Bear Lake Road Corridor (from the junction of Trail Ridge Road to the Bear Lake Trailhead), which will include the entire corridor and access to the rest of the park. This reservation period will be from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m.
    • Option 2 is for Park Access, Does Not Include Bear Lake Road. This permit provides access to all areas of Rocky Mountain National Park, not including destinations along the Bear Lake Road corridor. This reservation period will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Permits issued using the reservation system will allow park visitors to enter the park within two-hour windows of availability. The reservation system will apply to all areas of the park.
  • For more Tips & Tricks about hiking in the area, check out this great resource: 5 Tips For Rocky Mountain National Park Daytrips
  • And for more info about Hiking & Biking trail systems, see this great article: Spring Hiking & Biking In Winter Park

3. Horseback Riding

Riding a horse through the mountains and meadows of the Fraser Valley is a great way for the family to enjoy our beautiful part of the world, and there are rides for all ages and abilities. Mountain horseback riding is a once in a lifetime experience and one of the most exciting things to do in Winter Park!

4. Rafting

Rafting is one of the most popular summer Winter Park activities, and these outfitters can help you find a trip that suits your experience level, from mild to wild! Half day to multi-day adventures, within easy reach of Winter Park.

To learn more, click here:

5. Rodeo

Now in its 29th season, the High Country Stampede Rodeo features classic western events like barrel racing, steer wrestling, and bull riding. The arena is a great venue to enjoy the warm summer nights, beautiful sunsets, and the excitement that is rodeo!

High Country Stampede Rodeo 1.800.903.7275

6. Rock Climbing

Winter Park Adventure Quest is a rock climbing guide service in the Winter Park area, offering half-day guided rock climbing trips just minutes away in the Arapaho National Forest. Climbing is a fun and healthy way to experience the the great outdoors! You’ll challenge yourself, gain new skills, resilience— and muscle!

Check out their website here:

7. Golfing

There are a number of award winning golf courses in Winter Park that offer spectacular views and exceptional challenges for both beginners and experienced golfers. To find out about the courses, tee times, and specials check out these resources:

Local’s Tip: Coming to Winter Park for a Bachelor Party? Check out this great resource: Guy’s Getaway To Winter Park – Summer Edition

8. Boating

One of the best Winter Park activities to enjoy during the hot summer months is taking to the waters for a day of boating. Surrounded on three sides by Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Lake is Colorado’s largest and deepest natural lake, and provides a unique boating experience near the Continental Divide.

Check out these resources on Grand Lake and neighboring bodies of water for more info:

 

9Hot Sulphur Springs

For those looking for relaxing things to do in Winter Park, take a soak in the therapeutic natural hot springs at Hot Sulphur Springs and Spas, just 30 minutes west of town. Featuring a full service spa that offers massage and a variety of body treatments that will rejuvenate your body and soul.

Hot Sulphur Springs Resort & Spa 970.725.3306

Local’s Tip: Ready for your trip to Winter Park? Check out 3 Easy Ways To Get To Winter Park

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For more info about Winter Park, CO check out these other great resources:

Winter Park Lodging Company
21 Telemark Dr, Suite 103
Winter Park, CO 80482
vacation-planner@winterparklodgingcompany.com 970-722-0707

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