If you’re looking for 100 Things To Do This Winter, click HERE.
Okay, don’t tell anyone, but summer is one of our best-kept secrets. (Jk. You can shout it from the mountaintops.) We know our consistent snow and winter sports put us on the map, but trust us when we say, summers in the high country have just as much to offer. Not convinced? We’ll start you off with 100 things we love to do in Winter Park during the summer. And if you’re still not sold after that, take a short, 67-mile trip from Denver and come see for yourself.
- Ride the scenic Gondola. Ease into the summer action with an easy-breezy ride up to 10,700 feet. You’ll get incredible views of the Continental Divide and the Fraser Valley, plus access to mountaintop trails, snacks at Sunspot, and more.
- New this summer, join a mountain biking coach on the trails for 90 minutes of 1:1 coaching from $99.
- Head to TheBigWonderful for the perfect combination of a beer fest and bluegrass vibes, happening on June 29! Get your tickets here.
- Cool down with some mountaintop ice cream at Sunspot. Then, head outside, take a seat at a picnic table, and watch the hummingbirds flutter and sparkle in the sun.
5. Hike the Waterfall Trail at Snow Mountain Ranch. This 2.2-mile loop is great for all ages and abilities and takes you to a picturesque waterfall.
6. Grab some binoculars and go birding. Check out this list of Best Bird Watching Trails in Winter Park!
7. Unleash your need for speed at Trestle Bike Park. Race down over 40 miles of downhill mountain biking trails that range from beginner to expert level. Want to take things up a notch? Check the high-end rental fleet of premium bikes.
8. Drink a Mary Jane Ale after a day in the mountains. Fun fact: Winter Park Resort teamed up with Colorado craft brewer, Upslope Brewery, to create this one-of-a-kind namesake.
9. Enjoy small bites and big views on the Savor the View Hike. This guided leisurely hike is 3 miles roundtrip and includes delicious charcuterie and a crisp drink at the top of Mary Jane.
10. Celebrate summer with a full day of free fun at Venture Out Fest on July 13.
11. Try the new Riverside E-Bike Tour! Hop on an e-bike and take in the vibrant summer views on this 90-minute tour along the Fraser River Trail.
12. Try a local brew at Hideaway Park Brewery. This microbrewery features rotating taps and an unrivaled local pup scene. Sample brews and make some furry friends on their outdoor patio.
13. Learn about the critical role of Colorado rivers on the Headwaters River Journey. This self-guided adventure features 31 immersive exhibits.
14. Hike to Fantasy Meadow. Easily accessible from the top of the Gondola, this scenic loop offers fantastic wildlife and wildflower-spotting opportunities and serene moments along bubbling streams.
15. Learn to fly fish. Grab a guide and some rental gear to venture out on Colorado’s pristine waters!
16. Shop locally-made art and furnishings at Uptripping. From upcycled housewares to original paintings, you’re bound to fall in love with a piece from this local, environmentally-conscious shop.
17. Find your center at Mountain Moon Yoga. Stretch out those muscles after a day of mountain adventure with a relaxing yoga practice.
18. Get unlimited samples of wines from around the world, plus listen to live music and take in the stunning views at Rocky Mountain Wine Fest from September 20-21. More details coming soon!
19. Try the Panoramic Hike. Trek above treeline and experience the unfiltered beauty of the Colorado high country on this guided 3.5-7-mile hike.
20. Have a picnic by the pond. Head to the heart of the Village with a blanket and some snacks for an afternoon of sunny, pond-side relaxation.
21. Bike through the wooded Fraser River Trail. Great for all levels, this trail reaches from Winter Park Resort, through downtown Winter Park, and on to Fraser for 6.3 miles, following the river and ponds the whole way.
22. Meet the Winter Park Avalanche Safety Dogs. Life-savers by trade, good pups by nature.
23. Try a wild game hot dog or veggie carrot dog at Fraser Valley Hot Dog. This local staple is a must-try, located right next to Hideaway Park Brewery in downtown Winter Park. Talk about a two-fer!
24. Head to Sundog Taproom for a selection of 30+ taps, including beer, wine, and cocktails, plus delicious bites and a sunny patio.
25. Pick out Winter Park souvenirs at James & Parry’s in the Village. Find our official Winter Park logo wear, avalanche safety dog plushies, and more treats and trinkets to commemorate your mountain getaway.
26. Try the best pizza in Colorado at Pizza Pedal’r. With unique options like the Yardsale, featuring sweet potato French fries, you’re bound to find a delicious new take on your old favorites.
27. Savor the best margs in Colorado at Pepe Osaka’s Fishtaco. With infused tequilas and a Mex-Asian flair, we wouldn’t blame you if you tried everything on the menu. Honestly, we’ll join you.
28. Raft the Upper Colorado. Get ready for an unforgettable whitewater adventure with MAD Adventures.
29. Soak in the natural hot springs at Hot Sulphur Springs Resort. Seven natural springs feed hot, mineral-rich water through 22 pools and private baths at this mountain destination for relaxation. Not to mention, they’ve got a full suite of spa services.
30. Take a hike in the legendary Rocky Mountain National Park.
31. Work on your short game at our 18-hole putting course. A little friendly competition never hurt, so head to the green for a little challenge everyone will love.
32. Don your cowboy hats and head to High Country Stampede Rodeo every Saturday night in Fraser starting in July.
33. Explore via ATV. Ride 15 miles up the historic Corona Pass Road to the Continental Divide and Corona Pass at nearly 12,000 feet in elevation with Grand Adventures.
34. Give summer tubing at Snow Mountain Ranch a whirl. Slide right into summer with this unique adventure.
35. Stay trailside and have a relaxing day in your mountain digs! Cook meals, have family movie night, or take advantage of the rest of our lodging amenities.
36. Head up Corona Pass to see the railroad trestle. This spectacular piece of history at one time connected Winter Park directly to the Front Range via Rollins Pass.
37. Check out one of Winter Park’s newest breweries, Big Trout Brewing! With plenty of space, eats, and events, it’s a perfect place for the whole family!
38. Spot wildlife in Rocky Mountain National Park. Elk, moose, mountain goats … you never know what you’ll see on a drive through our favorite National Park.
39. Vicious Cycle Brewing is always a great time in Fraser. Like running? Vicious Cycle hosts Run Club every Wednesday night and all are welcome!
40. Enjoy live music at Winter Park Resort every Saturday at the Village Gazebo from 1-3pm from June 29-August 31 during the Summer Music Series presented by Rendezvous Colorado.
41. Identify wildflowers on Serenity Trail. Hop on this mellow trail right at the base of Winter Park Resort and keep your eye out for Colorado’s state flower, the Columbine, as well as Elephant Head, Chiming Bells, and more.
42. Grab your tickets and enjoy some Tacos & Margs in the Mountains on August 24th!
43. Paddleboard on Grand Lake. Head to the beach for rentals and enjoy a paddle around Colorado’s largest natural lake.
44. Join us for Coca-Cola Family Movie Nights. This family-friendly event takes place every Friday from June 22 to August 24 with a range of movies like Disney classics, popular 90’s flicks, and new favorites, so kids and adults alike can enjoy!
45. Go rock climbing with Winter Park Adventure Quest. Challenge yourself and experience the Colorado outdoors like never before on a half-day guided climbing adventure.
46. Take in the sunset at East Inlet. The trailhead is located on the West Side of the National Park by Grand Lake.
47. Sleep in a little and have brunch at Sharky’s. This breakfast favorite features classics, southwestern plates, and Sharkbait Jam that you can’t miss out on (not to mention their award-winning bloody Marys!).
48. Hike to Adams Falls. This 1-mile hike is suitable for all ages, taking you to spectacular rushing falls.
49. Sip a signature cocktail on the riverside patio at Volario’s. Located at the Vasquez Creek Inn, this charming patio gives you a front-row seat to said Vasquez Creek.
50. Sing your heart out on Wednesday nights at Devil’s Craft for weekly karaoke.
51. Play a round of golf at Pole Creek. Hit the links at this nationally-ranked Golf Course in the heart of the Fraser Valley.
52. Sip wine at Winter Park Winery in their quaint tasting room full of small-town mountain charm.
53. Shop curated vintage and original designs at Lavender Elephant. One-of-a-kind vintage selections, handmade designs, and creative workshops await in this environmentally-conscious design house in downtown Winter Park.
54. Try local spirits at Idlewild Distillery. Get a peek at the on-site distilling process and then sit back for masterfully crafted cocktails and small plates. (Psst: You have to try the crispy Brussels sprouts. Thank us later.)
55. Enjoy coffee, sweets, sandwiches and more at Moon Frog Coffee Shop. Grab a cappuccino and kick back among dozens of colorful plant pots in this intimate coffee shop.
56. Pamper yourself at Yellow House Massage and Bodywork. Feel your stress melt away in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
57. Keep the fun going all day long with our Unlimited Activities Day Ticket! Enjoy access to scenic gondola rides, our 18-hole putting course, and a thrilling ropes course and climbing walls for kids.
58. Channel your inner artist and create your next masterpiece during an outdoor painting session called Paint the Peak at Winter Park Resort.
59. Get a pedicure at the Winter Park Salon. It’s ok to take a little break from all of your rugged adventuring to get those nails lookin’ polished.
60. Try your hand at archery at Snow Mountain Ranch. (We volunteer as tribute to try it with you!)
61. On Fridays and Saturdays, head up to Sunspot for Mountaintop Happy Hour starting at 4pm. Celebrate a successful day of exploration with food and drink specials, live music (Saturdays), and gorgeous views.
62. Roast s’mores. You can’t come to the mountains and not roast s’mores. (Pro Tip: Add some peanut butter to those bad boys.)
63. Eat a burger smothered in green chili at the Ditch on 40. To really live the full Ditch experience, chase it down with a fresh margarita and staple a dollar on the wall. (It’ll make more sense when you get there.)
64. Browse local art at Elizabeth Kurtak Art Gallery. Splurge on original artwork, or take your pick from her incredible Fraser sticker designs.
65. Have your kids test their agility on the Ropes Course! Kids ages 2-6 will love the Chickadee Ropes Course, while kids over 39″ tall will appreciate the added challenge of the Camp Robbers Course. Both courses are located right at the base of Winter Park Resort.
66. Calling all kids! Enroll your little rippers in 3 back-to-back days of adventure, new friends, and plenty of big sends during the Trestle Kids Mountain Bike Camp.
67. Hike to Columbine Lake. This 7.3 mile out-and-back trail winds along wildflower-filled meadows to a stunning alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks.
68. Go bowling or catch a movie at the Foundry. Stay entertained on rainy days or later in the evening at this hub of fun-for-all activities.
69. Take some quiet time at the Fraser Valley Library. Peruse some magazines, cozy up with a picture book, or expand your music taste with a vast collection of mediums right at your fingertips.
70. Challenge yourself on the Byer’s Peak hike.
71. Cool down with a Cosmo Slushie at Fraser Valley Distilling. There’s nothing better on a warm summer day than a slushie … but for adults.
72. Grab a drink on the lawn and watch Trestle riders. Trailblazer Bar is the perfect outdoor hangout for kicking back with a cold one in the middle of the action.
73. Learn to mountain bike with a private lesson. Our expert instructors will meet you where you’re at and have you racing past your goals in no time.
74. Make something cool! Visit the Snow Mountain Ranch Craft Shop for tie dye, jewelry making, leather stamping, pottery painting, and more!
75. Hike up Mount Flora and watch the sunrise over the Front Range. You won’t regret your early wake-up call for this breathtaking hike, accessed via the Continental Divide Trail at the top of Berthoud Pass.
76. Try mountain biking in the Fraser Experimental Forest. Try the Creekside/Flume Loop, winding along St. Louis Creek and through aspen groves for 5 scenic miles.
77. It’s taco time! Head into Gravity Haus and try out their brand-new restaurant, Terrain Taco, featuring delicious options like Green Chile Chicken and Mystic Mountain Mushroom.
78. Go camping. Check out tons of great campgrounds, such as Idlewild Campground, St. Louis Creek Campground, or Stillwater Campground for a night under the stars.
79. Get your pup (or hamster, or goat, or cat) a souvenir pet pass. Your donation goes directly to Grand County Pet Pals, a non-profit organization associated with the Grand County Animal Shelter.
80. Grab a charcuterie board to-go from Adventures Decanted and enjoy some fancy snack time al fresco.
81. Have a picnic at the base of Mary Jane. Grassy meadows and frequent wildlife make it a magical place in the summertime.
82. Want to work on your cannonball skills? Visit the Grand Park Community Recreation Center for a swim in their indoor aquatic center. Make sure to try out the slide while you’re at it!
83. Relax on the Timberline chairs and enjoy the fresh mountain air. You just might be tempted to swing the day away right there in the heart of the Village.
84. Take the Gondola up to Sunspot to view the Heniiniini’ art installation, and learn about the intersections of water, land, and recreation. Learn more about the “There Is Snow On The Ground” project and our partnership with @NativesOutdoors here.
85. Spot a moose from afar. The base of Mary Jane, Rocky Mountain National Park, and the Fraser Experimental Forest are all great places to check out.
86. Join a local expert for a two-hour astronomy tour where you’ll learn all about planets, constellations, galaxies, and more with the help of a telescope. Keep an eye out for shooting stars!
87. Explore the shops at Cooper Creek Square. From fudge and souvenirs to fine jewelry and authentic Nepalese cuisine, window shopping is just the beginning.
88. Relax by the fire and get a cup of coffee at Rocky Mountain Roastery.
89. Explore the wall murals in Granby. Rky Mtn Walls Mural Festival invited 16 artists to create works of art throughout the town, check out the beautiful urban art for yourself!
90. Challenge yourself on the Devil’s Thumb Trail. Not only will you get incredible views, but there are tons of wildflowers along this route, too!
91. Kick back with a crisp brew, tasty bites, and live music at Sundog Happy Hour on Sundays from 2-4pm at the base.
92. Take a stroll down sweet street at Treeline Treats. (Don’t worry, there are also savory options for you salty snackers out there, plus toys and games!)
93. Take your tastebuds on a trip abroad. Enjoy Nepalese food from Durbar or Spanish cuisine from Paella’s.
94. Grab a drink and line up your (virtual) shot at The Birdie Lounge, a golf simulator bar located in Fraser.
95. Pull up a seat at hand-painted picnic tables and sip refreshing brews at Camber Brewing Co.
96. Hike to Nederland. Don’t go around the mountains, go over them! Find out about this incredible trek here.
97. Walk down the boardwalk in Grand Lake. You’ll find art galleries, ice cream shops, one-of-a-kind souvenirs, and more.
98. Get a game going. Stop by the Fraser Valley Sports Complex to start a pick-up game of soccer, softball, hockey, or just hit the playground.
99. Learn all about the history of the Fraser Valley during a trip to Cozens Ranch Museum right across from the Grand Park Recreation Center.
100. Build your bouldering skills. Located just down the block from the Moose on Rendezvous Way, check out the climbing wall (then take the slide on the way down). The outdoor wall is free and open to the public!
And There You Have It!
It was hard to narrow it down, but those are some of our favorite things to do during summer in the high country. If you need a few days to tackle your top picks, head to our deals & packages page to find your perfect summer basecamp up here at Winter Park.
And finally, don’t forget to follow us on social to stay in the loop on all things Winter Park!
Great list….