Quick Info
Season: June through September (snow-dependent). Terrain: Forest trails to alpine tundra. Elevation: 9,000-12,000+ feet. Access: National Forest and resort trails.
The Winter Park area offers excellent hiking in the warmer months. The Fraser Valley provides access to trails ranging from easy riverside walks to challenging alpine routes in the Arapaho National Forest. At elevation, summer is the hiking season - snow often lingers into June at higher elevations.
Resort Trails
Winter Park Resort operates scenic gondola rides in summer, providing access to high-elevation hiking:
- Ride up, hike down options
- Above-treeline access without the climb
- Panoramic views of the Continental Divide
The gondola provides a head start on elevation, making alpine terrain accessible to more hikers.
Popular Trails
Fraser River Trail: Easy riverside path good for families. Flat terrain along the Fraser River. Multiple access points and length options.
Berthoud Pass Trails: Access from the pass summit offers immediate alpine terrain. Current River, Stanley Mountain, and other routes start near treeline. Drive up, and you're already at 11,000 feet.
Jim Creek Trail: Moderate hike through forest with meadow views. Good workout without extreme elevation.
Flume Trail: Easy to moderate loop near Fraser. Well-maintained with interpretive signs about local history.
High Lonesome Trail: More challenging option for experienced hikers. Part of the Continental Divide Trail system.
Alpine Hiking
Berthoud Pass provides the easiest access to above-treeline hiking. Trailheads at the pass summit start around 11,300 feet, putting you in alpine tundra immediately.
Considerations:
- Altitude affects everyone - take it slow
- Weather changes rapidly above treeline
- Start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms
- Bring layers - cold and windy even in summer
The alpine terrain offers stunning views but demands respect for mountain conditions.
Hiking Tips
Altitude awareness: Winter Park sits at 9,000 feet; trails go higher. If you're from sea level, take it easy the first day. Hydrate more than normal.
Start early: Afternoon thunderstorms are common in Colorado summers. Be below treeline by early afternoon.
Bring layers: Mountain weather is unpredictable. Sun, rain, and cold can occur in a single hike.
Wildlife awareness: Bears, moose, and elk live in the area. Make noise on trails and know what to do if you encounter wildlife.
Leave no trace: Pack out all trash, stay on trails, and respect the environment.
Nearby Options
Rocky Mountain National Park: About 45 minutes north via Trail Ridge Road (when open). World-class hiking with more dramatic alpine scenery.
Indian Peaks Wilderness: South of Winter Park with permit requirements for some areas. Less crowded than RMNP.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can I hike?
Generally June through September, depending on snow. Higher trails may not clear until July. Check conditions before assuming trails are open.
Are there easy hikes?
Yes. Fraser River Trail and other valley-floor options are easy. The altitude still affects effort, even on flat trails.
Do I need a pass?
Many trailheads on National Forest land require a parking pass. Check requirements for specific trailheads.
Can I hike from the resort?
Yes. The gondola provides access to high-elevation hiking in summer. Fees apply for gondola rides.