Think Winter Park is only a winter destination? Think again. When the snow melts, this mountain town transforms into one of Colorado’s best summer playgrounds. From world-class mountain biking to scenic hikes, live music, and fly fishing, there’s no shortage of things to do in Winter Park in summer. Here are the top activities and experiences to plan around.
1. Mountain Biking at Trestle Bike Park
Winter Park is the mountain biking capital of Colorado, and the Trestle Bike Park at Winter Park Resort is the crown jewel. The resort’s gondola and chairlifts operate all summer, ferrying riders and their bikes to the top for exhilarating downhill runs. With over 40 miles of lift-served trails ranging from beginner flow trails to expert-only terrain, there’s something for every skill level.
Beyond the resort, the greater Winter Park–Fraser Valley area offers hundreds of miles of cross-country and singletrack trails. The Vasquez Creek Trail, Flume Trail, and Tipperary Creek Loop are local favorites.
2. Hiking for Every Level
The hiking around Winter Park ranges from easy riverside strolls to challenging alpine summit hikes. Here are some standouts:
- Fraser River Trail — A paved, flat path perfect for families and casual walkers. It runs through town and connects to several parks and neighborhoods.
- Berthoud Pass trails — Just 15 minutes south of town, Berthoud Pass offers access to above-treeline hiking with sweeping views of the Continental Divide.
- Jim Creek Trail — A moderate out-and-back through wildflower meadows and aspen groves.
- Rollins Pass — A historic railroad grade that you can hike or drive, with panoramic mountain views at nearly 12,000 feet.
- Indian Peaks Wilderness — For more adventurous hikers, trails like Monarch Lake and Crater Lake offer pristine alpine lakes surrounded by towering peaks.
Pro tip: The Sawmill Haus location puts you within walking distance of several trailheads, so you can leave the car behind for morning hikes.
3. Fly Fishing and River Activities
The Fraser River and nearby Colorado River offer excellent fly fishing for rainbow and brown trout. Gold Medal waters are within a short drive, and local outfitters offer guided trips for beginners and experienced anglers alike. The Fraser River runs right through town, making it easy to cast a line between other activities.
For more adventure on the water, whitewater rafting trips on the Colorado River depart from nearby Kremmling and offer half-day and full-day excursions through scenic canyons.
4. Golf with Mountain Views
Pole Creek Golf Club, just minutes from Winter Park, is consistently rated among Colorado’s top public courses. The 27-hole championship course sits at 8,600 feet with views of the Continental Divide from nearly every hole. The thin mountain air adds about 10% to your driving distance — so expect to hit some of the longest drives of your life.
5. Scenic Gondola Rides
Even if you’re not a mountain biker, the Winter Park Resort gondola operates during summer months and offers scenic rides to the summit. At the top, you’ll find hiking trails, a restaurant with panoramic views, and photo opportunities that are hard to beat. It’s a great option for families with young children or anyone who wants summit-level views without the climb.
6. Live Music and Summer Events
Summer weekends in Winter Park are packed with events. The town hosts regular live music at Hideaway Park, farmers markets, art walks, and community festivals. The annual Winter Park Jazz Festival and various concert series draw visitors from across the state. Check our Winter Park events and festivals guide before your visit — there’s almost always something happening.
7. Day Trip to Rocky Mountain National Park
One of Winter Park’s biggest summer advantages is its proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park. The park’s west entrance at Grand Lake is about 45 minutes from Winter Park via US-40 and Trail Ridge Road — one of the highest paved roads in North America. The drive itself is a bucket-list experience, topping out at over 12,000 feet with views of alpine tundra, wildlife, and snowcapped peaks even in July.
Popular stops include the Alpine Visitor Center, Forest Canyon Overlook, and trails to alpine lakes. Make sure to reserve a timed-entry permit if required (check the park’s website for current requirements).
8. Horseback Riding
Several ranches and outfitters near Winter Park offer guided horseback rides through mountain meadows and along scenic trails. It’s a quintessential Colorado experience and a great way to see the backcountry without working up a sweat. Options range from one-hour rides to full-day pack trips.
9. Brewery and Restaurant Hopping
Winter Park’s food and drink scene has blossomed in recent years. Local favorites include craft breweries, farm-to-table restaurants, and cozy mountain pubs. The walkable downtown area makes it easy to sample several spots in one evening. When you’re staying at Sawmill Haus, you’re just steps from the best restaurants and breweries in town — no driving needed.
10. Alpine Slide and Family Fun
Winter Park Resort operates an alpine slide, mini golf, a climbing wall, a human maze, and other family attractions during summer. The resort’s base area becomes a family activity hub, perfect for keeping kids entertained on days when you’re not on the trail.
More Winter Park Guides
Planning your summer trip? See our guide to the best time to visit Winter Park, browse the full festivals and events calendar, or read our Winter Park vs Breckenridge comparison if you’re still deciding on a destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do in Winter Park in summer?
Top picks include mountain biking at Trestle Bike Park, hiking trails for every level, fly fishing the Fraser River, scenic gondola rides, live music and festivals, and a day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park.
Can you mountain bike in Winter Park in summer?
Yes. Winter Park is a premier mountain biking destination, home to Trestle Bike Park with lift-served downhill trails plus a large network of cross-country routes for every skill level.
Is Winter Park good for families in summer?
Very. Families enjoy the Alpine Slide, scenic gondola rides, easy hikes, and horseback riding — plenty of options for every age.
When is summer season in Winter Park?
Summer in Winter Park runs roughly from mid-June through September, with July and August offering the warmest weather and the fullest calendar of events.
Plan Your Summer Trip to Winter Park
Summer in Winter Park runs roughly from mid-June through September, with July and August offering the warmest weather and longest days. Temperatures typically range from 60°F to 80°F — a refreshing change from the heat in Denver and lower elevations.
Sawmill Haus is the perfect summer basecamp — a 3-bedroom mountain cabin with a hot tub, covered deck with grill, and a walkable downtown location. After a day of hiking, biking, or fishing, come home to mountain comfort.
Check summer availability and book your stay — the mountains are calling.