Winter Park is about 67 miles from Denver, and the drive takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the traffic or the mountain weather. The route takes you over the stunning and sometimes snow-packed Berthoud Pass, so winter tires or a four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended if you plan to go for a drive. Although most travellers opt to rent a car for flexibility, you can also take a shuttle service that runs regularly. These shuttle services can drop you off in town or at the resort for a more laid-back travel experience. Since Winter Park doesn’t have an airport, planning for that scenic 90-minute stretch from Denver International is part of the adventure.

Winter Park has two main vibes when it comes to lodging: stay slope-side at the resort base or find a cozy spot in town just five minutes away via the free shuttle. If you prefer to be steps away from the lifts, you’ll love the resort base area where condos and hotels put the mountain right outside the doorstep. However, if you’re looking for more affordable options on top of local charm, downtown Winter Park is the place for you. Regularly running shuttles from this peaceful and quiet town provide easy access to the slopes. In any case, places become fully booked fast during the peak season, so it’s always a wise choice to lock in your reservations early.

If you plan to take lessons or rent gear at Winter Park, booking ahead is always the best move, especially around holidays, when spots fill out fast. The resort’s ski school has group and private sessions for every level. As for rentals, there’s a wide array of shops at the base offering skis, snowboards, boots, and helmets. There is also an option to book online, often coming with a discount, so you can skip the lines and get straight to the fun. First-timer? Look for bundle deals that include both lessons and gear. It’s the easiest way to hit the slopes without any stress.

There’s a lot to love in Winter Park, even if you never click into a pair of skis. Start with snow tubing at the resort; it’s fast, silly, and perfect for anyone who just wants to laugh their way down a hill with no skill required. Want something a little more peaceful? Strap on some snowshoes or try fat biking through forest trails for a quiet and snowy escape. If your idea of winter magic is stillness and relief, head to Hot Sulphur Springs, about 30 minutes away, and soak in natural mineral pools under the open sky. When you’re ready to thaw out and cozy up, the town has cozy cafes, quirky shops, and live music that turns your lazy afternoons into a mini adventure.

The winter climate in Winter Park brings the full mountain experience; think frigid mornings, heavy snowfall, and the kind of chill that calls for serious layers of winter clothing. The temperature can dip into the teens or lower, so pack a solid jacket, waterproof boots, and other essentials for snowy weather. The altitude at 9,000 to 12,000 feet isn’t something to be underestimated, and you might feel winded just by walking up a flight of stairs. Avoid becoming dehydrated, and maybe take it slow for the first day or two to adjust to the altitude. If you’re driving, especially over Berthoud Pass, make sure that you’ve got four-wheel drive. Lastly, always keep an eye on the local weather forecast, as snowstorms aren’t something to mess around with up there.