Parking at Winter Park

Parking at Winter Park is generally easier than at I-70 corridor resorts, but prime spots fill early on busy days. Understanding your options helps you start skiing faster and avoid frustration.

Parking Areas

Winter Park Base: The main parking area near the village and gondola. Closest spots are premium (paid); general parking is further out but free. Shuttle service connects distant lots to the base.

Mary Jane Base: Separate parking area at Mary Jane. Closer to Mary Jane lifts but further from village amenities. Good option if you're focused on Mary Jane skiing.

Premium/Reserved: Closer spots available for purchase. More expensive but saves walking time. Can be reserved in advance for guaranteed close-in parking.

Costs

General parking: Free in most lots. You'll walk more or use shuttles from distant spots.

Premium parking: Paid options for closer access. Prices vary by proximity and demand. Check resort website for current rates.

Reserved parking: Available for purchase in advance. Guarantees a spot in premium areas. Worth considering for peak days.

Timing

Weekends and holidays:

• Arrive before 8am for close-in free spots
• By 9am, expect to park further out
• After 10am, be prepared for distant lots

Weekdays:

• Much easier parking
• Arriving by 9am usually sufficient
• Close spots often available all morning

Winter Park is generally less crowded than Summit County resorts, so parking pressure is lower on average days.

Fraser Alternative

Park in Fraser and take the free shuttle to the resort. Benefits:

• Free parking in town
• Regular shuttle service to resort
• Avoids resort parking fees
• Easier if you're staying in Fraser

The trade-off is shuttle time and schedule dependence. Works well if you're not in a rush to hit first chair.

Tips

Arrive early on peak days: Best spots fill fast on weekends and holidays.

Consider Mary Jane: If you want to ski Mary Jane anyway, parking there puts you right at those lifts.

Know shuttle schedules: If you park far out, note shuttle timing for end of day.

Pre-purchase premium: For guaranteed close parking on peak days, reserve in advance.

Skip the car entirely: The Winter Park Express train eliminates parking entirely.

Staying Nearby?

If you're staying at the resort base, you may not need a car at all. Village lodging offers ski-in/ski-out or very short walks to lifts.

Staying in Fraser or Granby means driving to the resort daily, but free shuttles help if you prefer not to deal with parking.