Winter Park Day Trip from Denver

Winter Park is the most practical day trip from Denver - closer than any other major resort. At 67 miles and 90 minutes (in good conditions), you can ski a full day and be home for dinner. The key is planning logistics to maximize time on the mountain and minimize hassle.

Sample Day Trip Schedule

Driving option:

• 6:00am: Leave Denver (beat traffic)
• 7:30am: Arrive Winter Park (account for parking)
• 8:00am: Get ready, hit the lifts at opening
• 12:00pm: Quick lunch
• 3:30pm: Last run
• 4:00pm: Change, quick après drink or head out
• 4:30pm: Leave (avoid worst return traffic) or 6:30pm+ (wait it out)
• 6:00-8:00pm: Back in Denver

Ski train option:

• 7:00am: Depart Union Station
• 9:00am: Arrive Winter Park, ski
• 4:30pm: Return train departs
• 6:30pm: Arrive Denver

Driving vs. Train

Driving pros:

• More flexible timing
• Can leave when you want
• Often cheaper (especially for groups)
• Bring all your gear easily

Driving cons:

• Berthoud Pass requires attention in winter
• Parking logistics
• Traffic stress
• Can't drink at après

Train pros:

• No traffic or mountain driving
• No parking
• Scenic, relaxing ride
• Can enjoy après freely

Train cons:

• Fixed schedule (must catch return)
• Weekends only
• Sells out quickly
• Cost adds up

Day Trip Tips

Buy lift tickets online: Save money and skip ticket window lines. Have them ready on your phone.

Pack food: Bring snacks and lunch to save money and time. On-mountain food is expensive and crowded at midday.

Rent in advance: If renting, reserve online. Pickup is faster when your gear is ready.

Know the mountain: Study the trail map before arrival. Know where you want to ski so you're not wasting time figuring it out.

Check conditions: Road conditions (COTrip.org), weather, and snow report before departure. Adjust plans accordingly.

Fuel up in Denver: Gas is cheaper in the city. Fill up before you leave.

Pre-Trip Logistics

The night before:

• Check weather and road conditions
• Pack gear (everything ready to grab and go)
• Prep breakfast/snacks
• Set early alarm

What to bring:

• Ski gear (or rental reservation)
• Lift ticket confirmation
• Layers and extra gloves
• Sunscreen and lip balm
• Snacks and water
• Cash for parking (if needed)

Is a Day Trip Worth It?

For Denver residents or visitors staying in Denver, absolutely. You can get 6+ hours of skiing - a full day of runs. The 90-minute drive is reasonable, and Winter Park's terrain rivals more distant resorts.

Consider staying overnight if:

• You want multiple days of skiing
• Weather/road conditions are questionable
• You dislike early mornings
• You want to experience the après scene fully