Situated 67 miles northwest of Denver, Winter Park, Colorado is surrounded by the beauty of the Vasquez Mountains. Winter Park Resort is fun central with its four distinct mountains-Winter Park, Mary Jane, Vasquez Cirque and Vasquez Ridge-and lively village setting the scene for play. Activities abound with cross-country skiing at Devil's Thumb Ranch, scenic snowcat tours and time with the horses at Cabin Creek Stables.
Winter Park things to do
Scenic Snowcat Tours
Those looking to take in resplendent scenes of Winter Park mountain can do so by way of snowcat. Scenic Snowcat Tours travel across all level of trails, with several photo stops along the way. An entire snowcat can be reserved for two hours, while private tours such as the Sundowner Tour, where the mountain is experienced at sunset, offer groups another enjoyable way to experience the outdoors. Visit www.winterparkresort.com/todo/winter_resort_activities/index.htm.
Snowshoe Tours
A tranquil walk for non-skiers and first time snow-shoers can be had on a Snowshoe tour. Adventure-seekers explore the backcountry with a knowledgeable tour guide, traveling off-the-beaten-path along wildlife game trails while learning about native plants and animals. Visit www.winterparkresort.com/todo/winter_resort_activities/index.html.
Snowmobiling
Nothing beats Grand Country for snowmobiling. Visitors who have a burning need for speed can book an adrenaline-rushing trip with Grand Adventures. The brave of heart will ‘ride the Divide' during these guided tours that top out at 12,000 ft and feature views of the entire Winter Park Ski area and Fraser Valley. Adventure awaits, with up to 250 snowmobiles to choose from and more than 600 miles of trails to explore. Visit http://www.devilsthumbranch.com.
Fly Fishing
Anglers of all levels are welcome at the Devil's Thumb Ranch. This extensive fly fishing experience includes a complete fly shop, guide services, fly fishing instruction and private water access. There are one-hour or two-hour experiences, with all rentals, flies and leaders included with the lesson price. Following the session, guests can put to practice what you've learned for up to two hours unguided.Visit http://www.devilsthumbranch.com.
Cabin Creek Stables
Cabin Creek Stables offers a variety of riding experiences on ranch roads. On Old McDonald, a 45-minute excursion for all ages, you'll learn about goats, hens, steers and more, groom and tack up a pony and decorate your own horseshoe as a souvenir. An authentic Western experience can be had on the Rancher's Ride, where you'll learn to cut, move and pen cattle under the watchful eye of a wrangler. There are horseback rides of varying lengths, pony rides, dinner wagon rides and much, much more. Visit http://www.devilsthumbranch.com.
