However you like to get outside in the summer, there’s a way to do it right from Winter Park Resort. Located in the heart of the Fraser Valley, we’re your basecamp for high alpine adventure. You’ll find access to water, mountains, roads, and trails fit for the perfect summer daytrip– all within arm’s reach (or a short drive) of the resort. In fact, to show you *just* how much there is to access from Winter Park in the summer, we compiled a comprehensive list of outdoor activities you’ll find in the area. So read on and get to planning your future favorite summer vacation spot!  

A quick note: Some of the places and activities mentioned require additional passes/permits, gear, or knowledge of specific outdoor skills, so make sure to do your research as you plan your adventures. 
 

Backpacking In Winter Park 

A part of the Rocky Mountains, it’s hard to look around and not see peaks to explore in Winter Park. If your idea of a vacation is taking a backpacking trip and then treating yourself to some resort lodging for a hot shower, replenishing meals, and a comfortable bed to *not* set the alarm in—we’ve got you covered with ample trails nearby Winter Park Resort. 

Mirror Lake and Crater Lake Trail: Starting at the Monarch Lake Trailhead, you’ll take a dog-friendly 14.8 mile round-trip trail up to multiple high alpine lakes and views of the Indian Peaks Wilderness, where you’ll sleep under the stars for a night (permit required). 
Directions from the resort | 55 minutes  

High Lonesome Trail: If you’re looking to try out a section of the Continental Divide Trail, High Lonesome is for you. Dog-friendly and 12.1 miles point-to-point, this trail brings you from the Fraser Valley up to the Indian Peaks Wilderness. 
Directions from the resort | 45 minutes  

Beaches In Winter Park 

There are ample beaches around the lakes just north of Winter Park Resort. You’ll easily find a place to put your towel down and soak up some afternoon sun around Lake Granby, Shadow Mountain Lake, and Grand Lake. Below are a couple of our favorites: 

Shadow Mountain Picnic Site: On the shores of Shadow Mountain Lake, you’ll find a picnic area, parking, toilets, and beach access. 
Directions from the resort | 41 minutes  

Grand Lake Town Beach: A great place for enjoying the views and catching a few rays, Grand Lake Town Beach also boasts a fishing dock and ample room to set out in your kayak for the afternoon. 
Directions from the resort | 47 minutes  

Biking In Winter Park

For the casual biker, there are opportunities to get pedaling on non-technical pavement in Winter Park. 

Fraser River Trail: This 6.3-mile paved trail runs along—you guessed it– the Fraser River and connects the resort to the town of Winter Park (and beyond, into Fraser!) while weaving through trees and well-placed art installations. Bonus: you can access the Fraser River trail directly next to the resort.  

E-Bike Tours: Take an easy cruise for some mountain views on two wheels with a guided e-bike tour. This 90-minute tour departs directly from the resort and gives way to jaw-dropping scenery the entire way. (Pro Tip: Make sure to book your reservation in advance online.)

PS: Curious about mountain biking in Winter Park? Keep reading. 

Bird Watching + Wildlife Viewing In Winter Park 

Did you know that Colorado is home to an abundance of wildlife, including more than 400 species of birds? And since we’re a part of the Rocky Mountains, you’re bound to spot a good number of them (plus moose, pica, fox, and more!) if you head out birding in Winter Park! 

Windy Gap Reservoir: Seated next to the confluence of the Fraser River and the Colorado River, Windy Gap is the perfect spot to up your birding count. 
Directions from the resort | 38 minutes  

Arapaho National Wildlife Refuge: This 23.4k acre refuge supports nesting migratory and nesting birds, so all you need to do is bring your binoculars and you’ll be good to go! 
Directions from the resort | 1 hour, 23 minutes  

Monarch Lake: Monarch Lake includes hiking trails, gorgeous mountain views, boating on the lake, and opportunities to see wildlife. The trailhead gives access to the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area. 
Directions from the resort | 54 minutes  

Boating In Winter Park 

Surrounded by pristine bodies of water, there are opportunities for both motorized and non-motorized boating in the Fraser Valley. 

Motorized Boating 

Grand Lake, Shadow Mountain Lake, and Lake Granby: These three lakes north of the resort provide endless opportunities to explore and soak in the summertime boating vibes. Equipped with boat ramps and marinas at each, you’ll be all set for a day motoring on the water. (Pro Tip: need a motor boat rental? We recommend Beacon Landing Marina and Indian Peaks Marina!) 

Directions to Lake Granby from the resort | 36 minutes  
Directions to Shadow Mountain Lake from the resort | 41 minutes  
Directions to Grand Lake from the resort | 46 minutes  

Williams Fork Reservoir: Boasting 19 miles of shoreline, a picnic area, and a boat ramp, this off-the-beaten-path lake day could be your favorite yet. 
Directions from resort | 50 minutes  

Non-Motorized Boating 

Meadow Creek Reservoir: A small, moderately hidden body of water, Meadow Creek Reservoir offers peace and solitude with non-motorized-only boating, and easy hiking trail access. 
Directions from the resort | 45 minutes  

Willow Creek Reservoir: Just east of Lake Granby is Willow Creek Reservoir. Much smaller in size and open to only non-motorized watercraft, Willow Creek might be your new favorite summer spot. 
Directions from the resort | 41 minutes  

Fly Fishing In Winter Park 

There are some incredible spots for fly fishing in the Fraser Valley. From the Fraser River to the headwaters of the Colorado, there’s plenty of opportunity to cast a line (and hopefully get a catch or two).  

Fraser River (in town access): One of our favorites is along the Fraser River. In town, you’ll find easy public access in Fraser for a quick afternoon fly fishing session near Safeway. 
Directions from the resort | 9 minutes  

Fraser River Canyon: For a slightly longer day trip, you can head to the Fraser River Canyon Trailhead on public land just outside of Granby. 
Directions from the resort | 19 minutes  

Lone Buck: Located in the Hot Sulphur Springs State Wildlife Area, the gold-medal waters of the Colorado River in the Lone Buck area make for the perfect day of catch and release fishing.  
Directions from the resort | 41 minutes 

Fishing In Winter Park 

If you’re looking for some time with a rod and reel, the Fraser Valley is a fisher’s paradise! Here are a few of our top recommendations for catching a trout or two in Winter Park. (Please refer to the CO Parks & Wildlife Fishing Guide for all rules and regulations). 

Vasquez Creek: Vasquez Creek is near the town of Winter Park and provides some wonderfully summery vibes while you cast a line for some trout (shortest rods recommended!) at this low-key spot. 
Directions from the resort | 24 minutes  

Wolford Mountain Reservoir: Wolford Mountain Reservoir provides good fishing for rainbow and brown trout, kokanee salmon and a few other assorted native species such as roundtail chub. 
Directions from the resort | 1 hour, 4 minutes  

Point Park Fishing Pier on Grand Lake: This multi-purpose pier is an idyllic spot for fishing while taking in the views overlooking Grand Lake and the Continental Divide. 
Directions from the resort | 45 minutes  

Golfing In Winter Park 

When you’re playing golf on high alpine courses, you can literally watch your golf ball go a mile—all with the Rocky Mountains as a stunning backdrop, of course. And with *four* golf courses in the Fraser Valley, there are always plenty of rounds left to be played! (PS: Need some warm-up practice? Come check out our putting course!) 

Pole Creek Golf Club: Featuring 27 holes, Pole Creek is the only one of its kind in the Fraser Valley. Each 9-hole course has its own unique traits, including mountain views, native wildflowers, and water shots, so it’s sure to challenge golfers at every skill level.   
Directions from the resort | 20 minutes  

Golf Granby Ranch: Open to the public, golfers of all ability levels will enjoy this engaging course full of sand traps, ponds, and stunning views of the Fraser Valley. 
Directions from the resort | 30 minutes  

Grand Elk: This is the only “Heathland” style golf course you’ll find in Grand County, Colorado! Its rolling terrain will keep you flexing your creativity and finesse on the rugged green.  
Directions from the resort | 26 minutes  

Grand Lake Golf Course: This course is nestled right alongside Rocky Mountain National Park, so don’t be surprised if some curious wildlife join you as a spectator while you’re out for a round of golf! 
Directions from the resort | 48 minutes  

Hiking In Winter Park 

Whether you’re out to challenge yourself or to take an unforgettable stroll, you’re in luck in the Fraser Valley—hiking truly is a way of life here in the summer! Check out a few of our favorite trails below. 

Winter Park Resort: We have a true abundance of jaw-dropping hiking trails at the resort. From Jim Creek to Lower Roof of the Rockies and Fantast Meadow, you’re sure to enjoy some high alpine summer wonderland vibes taking a walk overlooking the Rocky Mountains. Pro Tip: Come in early summer to take in all of the wildflowers! 

Butler Gulch Trail: This popular 5.5 mile trail leads to an open bowl that’s perfect for wildflower admiring starting in late June or early July.  
Directions from the resort | 30 minutes  

Confluence Park: If you’re looking for an accessible trail with great views, check out Confluence Park. This interpretive trail is ADA-accessible and has incredible views of the confluence of the Vasquez and Fraser Rivers. 
Directions from the resort | 6 minutes  

Hot Air Ballooning In Winter Park 

Want to see the Fraser Valley from above? You’re in luck– float past the Rocky Mountains and see Winter Park with a bird’s eye view during a hot air balloon ride! 

Grand Adventure Balloon Tours: This year-round hot air balloon tour will enchant guests of all ages! 
Directions from the resort | 12 minutes  

Hot Springs In Winter Park 

Where there are mountains, we’re happy to say there are often hot springs. And from Winter Park, we’re lucky to be able to enjoy more than one in the Fraser Valley!  

Hot Sulphur Springs: Open 365 days per year and with 17 pools to choose from, Hot Sulphur Springs is a great way to start your morning or unwind after a day out adventuring in the mountains.  
Directions from the resort | 38 minutes  

Radium Hot Springs: Radium Hot Springs are a more rugged hot springs experience, with springs right along the riverbank for a comfortably warm soak and incredible views of the Colorado River. Note: No parking is permitted along Radium Road. To access the hot springs, you’ll need to walk in from Warm Springs Road located along Trough Road (CRI) between Pumphouse Recreation Site and Radium Road. 
Directions from the resort | 1 hour, 21 minutes  

Horseback Riding In Winter Park 

Whether you’re familiar with horseback riding or still learning how to get in the saddle, there are plentiful opportunities to trot your way through the beauty of the Fraser Valley. 

Thunder Horse Outfitters: Thunder Horse Outfitters offers rides and guided tours on horseback, and is also committed to community, sustainability, and horse rescue. 
Directions from the resort | 46 minutes 

Rocky Mountain Stables: Located in Granby, Rocky Mountain Stables offers a variety of tours for both kids and adults through the Fraser Valley.  
Directions from the resort | 23 minutes 

Winter Park Trail Rides: Looking for a guided horseback ride? Based in the nearby town of Fraser, Winter Park Trail Rides will set you up for success (kids as young as 8 can join, too!). 
Directions from the resort | 16 minutes  

Kayaking in Winter Park 

Whether it’s river or flatwater paddling, time in a kayak is absolutely possible (and encouraged!) during summertime in the Fraser Valley. 

Upper Colorado: If you’re looking for a fun and splashy 15-mile stretch of class II rapids, the “Upper C” is the perfect beginner whitewater kayaking experience. Put-in at Pumphouse Campground and take-out at the Highway 131 bridge. (PS: Need a river shuttle? Get in touch with Colorado River Rentals in Kremmling!) 
Directions to put-in from the resort | 1 hour, 19 minutes  

Lake Granby: You’ll be in awe on the waters of Lake Granby, the largest natural lake in Colorado. (Explore islands and post up on some shoreline for a bit if you need a break from paddling!) 
Directions from the resort | 36 minutes  

Kid-Friendly Adventures In Winter Park 

There are about a million ways to cure boredom in Winter Park, for kids and adults! These are a few of our favorites that the younger adventurers in your family might especially enjoy. 

Ropes Course 

Winter Park Resort: For high-flying fun at the base of Winter Park, check out our ropes courses. With two options– one designed for ages 2-6, and the other for ages 7-14– there’s fun for adventurers big and small. (Pro tip: Make sure to purchase your tickets in advance online.) 

Climbing Wall

Winter Park Resort: Help your kids reach new heights on our climbing wall! While this activity isn’t available for individual purchase, you can book an Unlimited Activities Day Ticket for your little explorers so they can go back again and again. (Purchase your Unlimited Activities Day Ticket here.)

Picnics 

Hideaway Park: Hideaway Park features everything from barbecue grills to a skate park. With picnic tables, restrooms on site, and a playground, there’s plenty of fun to be had in the park. Bonus: head to the park on Thursday evenings for free live music.  
Directions from the resort | 5 minutes  

Wolf Park: As the largest park in Winter Park, you’ll be able to find plenty to do including a playground, sandbox, volleyball court, and a tennis and basketball court. Wolf Park also features a large picnic pavilion for large gatherings. 
Directions from the resort | 10 minutes  

Geocaching 

Winter Park/Fraser: There are many geocaching spots in the Winter Park and Fraser area—approximately 774 to be exact! (Psst: New to geocaching? Head to their website and create a free account or download the app.) There are many geocaching spots in the Winter Park and Fraser area. Check out the geocaching map to find spots you’d like to find! Odds are there’s one incredibly close to where you are *right now*. 

Paintball 

Winter Park Adventure Quest: Ready to try your hand at paintball in the mountains? Head to Winter Park Adventure Quest for many fun outdoor activities, including paintball. You’ll play in natural terrain and be equipped will all of the equipment needed to play.  
Directions from the resort | 11 minutes  

Mountain Biking In Winter Park 

Summertime means it’s time to dust off the bikes and ride! From flows to jumps, Winter Park truly has an impressive (and growing!) network of trails—including Trestle, the largest full-service downhill bike park in the US. 

Trestle Bike Park: As the largest lift accessed downhill bike park in the United States and home of one of the largest rental fleets in North America, Trestle has something for every rider, though well known for its expert terrain. Trestle is located right here at Winter Park Resort all summer long! Once you have a bike and lift pass, head to the Gondola at the base.  

St. Louis Creek: For more trail and less downhill, you can ride at St. Louis Creek Trail. This 7.8 mile loop will have you smiling all afternoon! 
Directions from the resort | 19 minutes  

National Park Trips In Winter Park 

It’s on many a bucket list to head to Rocky Mountain National Park. We just happen to be lucky enough to have it in our backyard. 

Rocky Mountain National Park Guided Hikes: Adventure into Rocky Mountain National Park for a full day of hiking, without needing to do the planning. With flexibility to tailor your day to your wants and needs, you’ll be able to explore the park the way you want with the expertise of a guide. For more information and booking, visit our website. 
Directions from the resort | 46 minutes  

Off-Roading In Winter Park 

If your summer isn’t complete without a little extra throttle, you can set yourself up for some of the most stunning off-roading of your life during your stay at Winter Park. 

Side By Side ATV Tours: If you’re looking for an off-roading adventure for the family, check out off-road side-by-side ATV tours with Grand Adventures. On this tour, you’ll be able to drive your own machine while following a guide up the historic Corona Pass. At nearly 12,000 ft in elevation, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take pictures and enjoy Rocky Mountain views. 
Directions from the resort | 3 minutes  

Corona Pass: Corona Pass is well known for its history and beautiful views. You can bring your vehicle up to the summit or rent/bring a side-by-side to make the trip. Grand Adventures rents side-by-sides to take up the mountain. Careful taking your own vehicle up as the road is unpaved. 
Directions from the resort | 39 minutes  

Scenic Drives In Winter Park 

Road trip? Yes please! If you’re looking to see more of the area surrounding Winter Park, there are plenty of “oh my gosh” moments to be had on a scenic drive. 

Berthoud Pass: Berthoud Pass is well known for its views of the Continental Divide. With stopping points and overlooks throughout the drive, there are many opportunities to stop and take in the scenery.  
Directions from the resort | 16 minutes  

Rabbit Ears: For another scenic drive with views of the Rocky Mountains, head to Rabbit Ears Pass, located near Steamboat Springs and Kremmling. From the summit of the pass, look for Rabbit Ears Peak for two rock formations that look like rabbit ears. 
Directions from the resort | 1 hour, 24 minutes  

Stand Up Paddleboarding In Winter Park 

Stand up paddleboarding (SUP) is a unique way to tour bodies of water in the Fraser Valley while taking in views of the Continental Divide! 

Grand Lake & Shadow Mountain Lake: For panoramic views across the water and of the mountains, Grand Lake & Shadow Mountain Lake are both great areas to paddleboard. Looking for rentals? Head to Rocky Mountain SUP for all the gear you need to get out there, plus, direct access right to the water. 

Directions to Shadow Mountain Lake from the resort | 41 minutes  
Directions to Grand Lake from the resort | 46 minutes  

Trail Running In Winter Park 

If your vacations are best when they have some trail running in them, get ready to lace up your shoes. From mellow trails to challenging terrain, we’ve got you covered in Winter Park. 

Granby to Fraser Trail: For a relatively easy trail, take on as much or as little of the Granby to Fraser Trail. This 16.1-mile trail has multiple access points, which make it perfect for starting (and ending) wherever you like! 
Directions from the resort | 14 minutes  

Jim Creek Trail: If you’re looking for a more moderate trail, head to this 8-mile round trip trail. With 1,473 ft of elevation gain, this trail is known to take a bit longer than normal. This trail also features a waterfall. Bonus: you can access this trail directly next to the resort! 

Mary Jane Ski Trail: If you’re looking for steep elevation gain, head to Mary Jane Ski Trail. This 5-mile loop has an elevation gain of over 2,000 ft. Dogs are welcome on the trail as long as they are leashed. Located at the resort, head to the Mary Jane side and park in the Corona Parking Lot. 

Vistas In Winter Park 

It’s never a bad idea to stop and enjoy the view. And fortunately in the Fraser Valley, there are more than enough places to admire that mountaintop, summertime beauty we all will spend a few extra minutes standing in awe of. 

Sunspot: The Sunspot Mountaintop Lodge is an excellent location for easy access to 360-degree views, and it’s located right here at the resort! Simply head to the Gondola located at Winter Park Resort and you’ll arrive at Sunspot once you get to the top (with jaw-dropping views the entire way up). Enjoy a stroll around the top, take in the Mountaintop Happy Hour vibes, and when you’re all done savoring the view, hop back into the Gondola to float back down. (Need your Gondola pass? Grab yours here.) 

Moffat (Rollins Pass) Road: On this road, hiking and off-roading are great experiences with beautiful views, wildflowers, and photo opportunities at the top and on the hiking trails. 4WD or AWD not required but recommended. 
Directions from the resort | 39 minutes  

Bottle Peak: Another great area for views is Bottle Peak. With 1,700 ft of elevation gain and almost 6 miles out and back, you’ll be rewarded with views at the top. 
Directions from the resort | 1 hour  

Water Skiing & Wakeboarding In Winter Park 

Interested in trying a different kind of skiing this year? If you’re looking for some fun-in-the-sun water skiing and wakeboarding, look no further than Fraser Valley’s numerous, beautiful lakes. 

Lake Granby, Grand Lake, and Shadow Mountain Lake: Waterskiing is allowed in Lake Granby. It’s recommended to wear a wetsuit as water temperatures are typically cold. (PS: Looking to wakeboard? Never done it before? Check out WakeSesh, they will provide boats, wakeboards, wet suits and vests so you can get out there for a wakeboarding experience.) 

Directions to Lake Granby from the resort | 36 minutes  
Directions to Shadow Mountain Lake from the resort | 41 minutes  
Directions to Grand Lake from the resort | 46 minutes  

Wolford Mountain Reservoir: This reservoir features camping, boating, biking and more. Pontoon boats are available to rent, though you’ll need to bring your own waterskiing gear! 
Directions from the resort | 1 hour, 4 minutes  

White Water Rafting In Winter Park  

Winter Park is located directly between two incredible locations for white water rafting: Idaho Springs and Kremmling! Choose your own adventure and get on the river for a day to see the mountains in a whole new way. 

Upper Colorado: Nestled next to Rocky Mountain National Park and at the headwaters of the Colorado River, this mellow, easy-to-paddle daytrip is perfect for families. This guided tour is led by MAD Adventures. 
Directions from the resort | 40 minutes  

Clear Creek: Join a rafting trip down Clear Creek with MAD Adventures. These trips are available for most ages and are great for a family day trip. 
Directions from the resort | 40 minutes  

Windsurfing In Winter Park 

Who says you can’t surf in Winter Park?  

Williams Fork Reservoir: Head to Williams Fork Reservoir to get your fix of wind-fed summer fun. (Note: windsurfing with a full wet or dry suit is allowed, but all other water contact sports, such as swimming, scuba diving, or wading, are not allowed.) 
Directions from resort | 50 minutes  

Now that your summer bucket list is fuller than ever, come out to Winter Park to start checking a few things off. We’ll see you out here!