Summary
Introduction to the Winter Park Express
In a world where just finding a parking spot near the slopes can be difficult, the idea of taking a dedicated ski train straight to a ski area is a refreshing concept. However, this dream is now a reality for those wanting to visit Winter Park Resort in Colorado.
The original train, which started running in 1940, has finally returned after a multi-year hiatus, thanks to a partnership with Amtrak. Known as the Winter Park Express, the train regularly travels between downtown Denver and the ski area during the winter months.
“The Winter Park Express is the only ‘ski train’ in Colorado,” Jen Miller, the public relations and communications manager for Winter Park Resort, shared. “No need to fight traffic, weather, or figure out parking. It’s a simple, easy way to get to Winter Park, and fares start at $34 a person this season.”
Exploring Winter Park’s Terrain
Winter Park may be Colorado’s most accessible ski area (in addition to having a ski train, it’s just 67 miles from Denver), but it still has a remote, small-town feel. The ski area sits at 9,000 feet and boasts over 3,000 acres of skiing, including 166 designated trails and over 1,200 acres of off-piste terrain. Furthermore, it averages just over 344 inches of snow a year and claims to have “the most consistent snow season after season.”
Beyond the pristine snow, Winter Park is also notoriously family-friendly, with a ski school and plentiful hot chocolate stops. Nevertheless, it caters to pro-level skiers and riders as well.
Accessing New Terrain
This ski season, Winter Park almost doubled its expert-only terrain with the opening of two new terrain pods. The first is in the Cirque Terrain, named Jelly Roll for its rolling landscape and fluffy snow. The second expansion is in the Chutes area of the resort’s Mary Jane Territory. Several new controlled avalanche chutes now provide expert skiers with a fun and challenging way to access the Powder Field, which is known for holding epic powder stashes.
“Skiers and riders can access all the new Cirque terrain via a snowcat-drawn sled and about a half-mile to three-quarters-mile hike. The terrain gives an inbounds backcountry experience in a patrolled environment,” Miller explained. “The expanded terrain in the Chutes area on Mary Jane is mostly improved access points, so skiers and riders can drop into this challenging area quicker and easier than ever before. The Chutes are some of the steepest, most difficult slopes at the resort.”
After Dark Activities
The resort also takes care of skiers who’d rather stick to the groomers — with improved grooming and snowmaking operations that get runs groomed earlier and more often. Therefore, the fun doesn’t stop once the lifts shut down for the day. Winter Park is now offering several after-dark activities, including tubing, ice skating, and guided sunset skiing.
“We opened our slopes in 1940 and have been welcoming adventurers of all types ever since,” Miller added. “Our history, location, consistent snow, and laid-back, authentic Colorado vibe sets us apart from every other resort in the state.”
Lift Ticket Pricing
Lift tickets start at $113/day but can jump to $239/day if you wait until the last minute or visit during high-demand periods. Moreover, Ikon passholders get full access to Winter Park Resort.
Where to Stay
For super easy access, consider a room at Zephyr Mountain Lodge, Winter Park’s ski-in, ski-out lodging. The accommodations are condo-style at Zephyr, offering full kitchens, gas fireplaces, and multiple bedrooms (1 to 3).
Dining and Après-Ski Options
There’s no better place to end your ski day than at Sunspot Mountaintop Lodge, which is set at 10,700 feet. This lunchtime hotspot transforms into an après-ski go-to on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays starting at 4 p.m. The drinks and food are excellent, but what really makes this place special are the views.
Ski Train Schedule
The Winter Park Express runs every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from January 13 to March 26. The train departs from Denver’s Union Station at 7 a.m. and leaves Winter Park en route to Denver at 4:30 p.m. A one-way journey starts at $34 for adults and $17 for kids ages 2 to 12. Tickets can be purchased with Amtrak.
Importantly, skis, boards, bags, and boots can be brought on board at no additional charge and will be stored in a dedicated baggage space for the journey, which takes around two hours. Those flying into Denver can take the A-Line airport train to Union Station and easily transfer to the Winter Park Express.
Upon arrival in Winter Park, skiers need only walk 100 feet to the nearest ski lift — it’s that easy.
