Content Produced in Partnership with Winter Park
Some say a mountain town is a mountain town. That you can mountain bike, hike, and play anywhere. But not every mountain town can claim the title of "Mountain Bike Capital USA™." Not every town is known as Colorado's favorite playground, brimming with adventures from an Alpine Slide to hot air balloon rides, zip-lining to water sports. Truth is, Winter Park hosts any mountain adventure you can imagine. With accommodations ranging from cozy cottages to luxurious condominiums, Winter Park is the perfect basecamp to Rocky Mountain National Park.
Read on for our top eight ways to experience our favorite Rocky Mountain Basecamp activities and plan your ultimate summer vacation to Colorado's favorite playground.
1. Set Up Your Basecamp
What good is a basecamp without a place to stay? Whether you prefer a cozy cabin or a luxurious condominium, a guest ranch or an economical motel, Winter Park has a lodging option to suit your preferences. Search for the perfect property where you can rest up for Rocky Mountain Park adventures throughout your stay.
2. Mountain Bike Capital USA™
Winter Park is proud to be known as Mountain Bike Capital USA™. With more trails than you can ride in a weekend that range from beginner to difficult, you are sure to find the perfect mountain bike experience. Load up on gear at one of our experienced outfitters, and get planning!
3. Hiking
You name it, we have it. From day hikes to overnight treks, scenic vistas to alpine lakes, Winter Park has access to the best hiking around. Choose your perfect hike based on difficulty, length, and scenery from our Local's Favorite Day Hikes, or find your own favorite using our hiking guides and maps.
4. Resort Fun
Think Winter Park is only for those who love snow? Think again. Come summer, Winter Park turns into a popular high-altitude destination buzzing with fun-filled activities sure to entertain. With events ranging from an Alpine Slide to a human maze, scenic chairlift rides to summer tubing, Winter Park is the perfect basecamp for all of your rocky mountain adventures. Check out the local resorts for your choice of play: Winter Park Resort, Granby Ranch, Snow Mountain Ranch/YMCA, and Devil's Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa. Tip: Stop by Winter Park Information Center and purchase a $5 discounted full day Adventure Pass voucher to get the most out of your full day of Winter Park Resort fun.
5. High Altitude Fun
Located at about 9,000 feet, Winter Park is already full of high altitude fun. But adventure-seekers can get even higher with unique experiences such as hot air balloon rides or zip-line tours. View wildlife and pick pinecones from the tops of the trees during a lower-altitude hot air balloon trip, or marvel at the spectacular Rocky Mountain peaks from a higher-altitude trip. Or get a little closer to nature and fly at up to 40 miles per hour through the trees on a thrilling zip-line tour. Whatever your high altitude style, Winter Park has it, and we're happy to share the once-in-a-lifetime experience with you.
6. Golf
With our gorgeous, high altitude golf course, there's nothing slowing your drive in Winter Park. Golf at 9,000 feet, and find out why Pole Creek golfers have to stop their golf carts around every bend to take in the breathtaking scenery. If you want to hit more than one course, you'll have access to three more courses in the area. Since each course is near the next, it's easy to hit all 4 in one day if you're up for it.
7. Water Sports
Seeking thrills, chills, and unbeatable adventure? Our extensive water playground offers activities such as rafting, kayaking, boating, and stand up paddling. With a variety of rivers and lakes to suit your preferences, you won't know where to begin when it comes to this big of a playground.
8. Rest & Relaxation
Just need a break? Sometimes when you play hard, you need to rest easy. Visit one of our spas, salons, or wellness centers offering an array of services including massage, acupuncture, reflexology, aromatherapy, and more, and pamper yourself in luxury. Looking to spend some downtime downtown? Winter Park offers plenty of shopping and dining, and we keep it simple and easy. With 45 unique shops featuring clothing, art, jewelry, souvenirs, and more, you will find plenty of great places to stroll through on a leisurely afternoon.