Ah yes, spring: the time of the year when the days get longer and we all can reset, recharge, let loose, and soak up the sun. Instead of finding sand stuck in your shoes for the next six months, enjoy all the mountain adventures that come with springtime in the Rocky Mountains. Bring your crew, bring your family, bring your dog– and let’s go! Here are five things you can’t miss this spring. 

Bonus: While you’re reading, enjoy our funky springtime in the mountains playlist to set the mood.

1) Springtime Weather & Snow

Sun or snow? How about both! We welcome all kinds of spring weather here in the mountains! Bluebird skies and gentle snow falling means goggle tans and soft snow days during the spring. There’s something magical about springtime snow. Some say it’s the warmth on your skin as you slide down trails. Others say it’s the way the snow glows under bright blue Colorado skies. But if we had to choose just one thing that makes spring snow different, it’s that it’s softer, which can make for a smoother, more carefree ride. 

Also, unlike the winter season, spring typically means warmer weather, so you can pack that retro ski onesie or your favorite printed shirt for when you’re coasting down the mountain. 

Pro Tip: Sign up for our Snow Report emails to stay up to date on the latest weather with live updates.

2) The Laid-Back Mountain Town Scene

When your legs are tired from exploring the mountain for the day, you can give them a stretch in the town of Winter Park! Enjoy locally-owned restaurants like Denos Mountain Bistro, Pepe Osaka’s Fishtaco, and Hernando’s Pizza Pub. After stopping by for dinner, head to one of the local breweries, like our local Fraser River Beer Co., and Hideaway Park Brewery. Want to check out the shopping? There’s endless mountain wear and souvenirs to peruse at Cooper Creek Square! Whatever town experience you’re looking for, Winter Park delivers (along with a high five, a smile, and maybe a frothy beer). 

Pro Tip: Read our 100 things to do blog to see what else we have to offer in our beautiful town.

3) Trying Out A New Adventure

Have someone in your crew who’s more excited about the mountains than the skiing? Well, we can’t blame them– and we’ve got you covered! There are all kinds of adventures waiting on and off the mountain at all times of the day. Have you ever biked on snow? Been cosmic tubing? Made s’mores at 10,700 feet? Or seen the Milky Way with your naked eye? Whatever you choose, there a plenty of ways to spend quality time with the whole gang. Curious about all our non-ski activities? Read more about them here.

4) Longer Days, Sweeter Sunsets

As spring gives way to longer days, it’s even easier to take in the towering grandeur of our natural surroundings out here in Winter Park. Whether you’re at Doc’s Roadhouse sipping a margarita, or enjoying Mountaintop Après following your Gondola ride up to Sunspot, you can sink into some sunset colors, larger-than-life peaks, and breathtaking views of the valley while swapping stories from your mountain adventures that day. 

5) Good Times, Even Better Memories

It’s true, we have fun all winter– but spring is really when the mountain comes alive. Time your spring trip to Winter Park right and you’ll catch our can’t-miss spring happenings. Live music and events like High Fives Foundation Retro Shred-A-Thon, Bucket Banked, and our infamous Spring Splash all bring out a side of the mountain you’ll only see once a year. Pack your favorite spring skiing outfit (you won’t be alone!). 

Spring might be our favorite time of year (shhh, don’t tell mid-winter!). With a great town, world class terrain, and adventures of all kinds from sunrise to sunset, it’s hard to beat spring in Winter Park. Grab your sunscreen, a couple layers, and your sense of adventure. We’ll see you when you get here!