Getting the family to agree on 1 thing isn’t easy. Getting them to spend time together doing something they agree on isn’t any easier. Luckily, Winter Park is the Top Adventure Town in Colorado and we have hundreds of family adventures to choose from that’ll make everyone smile. Lace-up your boots, drop the phone, and get ready for these 5 adventures the whole family will love.
1) Camp Idlewild – Family Escape
Grab your family and learn about the local flora and fauna, survival tips and tricks, and everything else about the wild. Take a stroll to fantasy meadow through the shaded forests and across streams & open fields with views as far as the eye can see. This hike is suitable for all skill levels and all ages. Be prepared to be blown away by the views, your knowledgeable and fun guide will share, and the family fun! Camp Idlewild will for sure bring the family together.
Amanda ★★★★★
Karen [Guide] was so great at keeping our daughters engaged, and showing them things that we wouldn’t have noticed or known by ourselves. We had a great hike!
2) Coca-Cola Movie Night
After a long day of Venturing Out at Winter Park Resort, head to the Cabriolet Meadow for a FREE movie under the stars every Friday night. Movies start just after dusk. Winter Park will provide the movie, chairs, and a beautiful place to watch the movie. This summers movies include Jurassic Park, Coco, and many more family favorites! Check here for the schedule and details.
We recommend that you bring an extra jacket and a blanket since the temps go down when the sun goes down. Also, no movie is complete without some snacks, so make sure to bring your favorite candy and drink!
3) Rocky Mountain National Park
Just a short 37 miles away sits the crowned jewel of National Parks, Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP). With 355 miles of hiking trails and156 alpine lakes, the National Park will have something the whole family will love. RMNP also has the highest continuous paved highway in the nation sitting just over 12,000 feet, Trail Ridge Road.
RMNP requires a reservation for your entry to the National Park. Learn more about the Timed Entry Permit System here.
Venture Out with an experienced local guide to East Meadow for incredible views of mountain peaks and witness the roaring water of Adams Falls. You’ll even have a chance to witness some moose feasting in the meadow if you’re lucky. Package includes entry fee and reservation to RMNP, snacks, and guided service. Book now to save 20% off lodging + 20% off your guided RMNP Hike.
Jeff ★★★★★
We had a great time [on the East Meadow Hike]. Emily is a very knowledgeable local resident. She paced the walk based on our abilities and pointed out a number of flowers along the way. She also volunteered to take photos of us with our camera. I recommend this tour and Emily, you will not be disappointed.
4) Cooper Creek Square
Venture to the town of Winter Park and explore Cooper Creek Square. A 3-story shopping center that captures the beauty of a Colorado mountain town. At Cooper Creek, you’ll be able to find a little piece of Winter Park for everyone to take home. The shops include a variety of sports clothing and boutiques, unique jewelry and accessories, home décor, toys, and our newest bookstore! And don’t forget about their FREE live music on Fridays throughout the summer from 6pm-8pm. Learn more about Music On The Square.
When you’ve shopped till you drop, grab a bite to eat at one of the unique restaurants with savory flavors from around the World. Enjoy American, Mexican, Nepalese, Chinese cuisine, and more. You’re sure to find a place that everyone will enjoy.
5) Aerial Adventure Park & Guided Rock Climbing
Just down the street from Winter Park Resort sits an Aerial Adventure Park that lets you climb up to 25-feet. Climbers get hooked into a state-of-the-art belay system that allows you to freely explore and play on 24 separate obstacles all set against a stunning mountain backdrop. From a friendly lower level to a jaw-dropping second story, their course is for everyone- you choose your level of challenge.
Adventure Quest offers guided outdoor rock-climbing tours in the Winter Park area. Their experienced guides can cater to beginners or more experienced climbers. All equipment is provided, and you’ll get to experience real rocks and real smiles in the Colorado Rockies!
*BONUS* White Water Rafting
Book a river trip with MAD Adventures for good times, big splashes, and even bigger smiles! They offer 2 different river trips that everyone can enjoy, the wickedly awesome class 3 and 4 rapids near Idaho Springs, or the relaxing family-friendly Upper Colorado float. MAD Adventures will give you the best rafting trip in Colorado!
After a day full of family adventures, it’s time for some much-needed relaxation. Head over to our Can’t Miss Summer Events or 100 Things To Do In Winter Park This Summer blogs for recommendations on what to do in Winter Park during the evenings with the family.