Winter Park is the closest major resort to Denver and the only one you can reach by train — a family-friendly base paired with Mary Jane, home to some of the most legendary bump and steep terrain in Colorado.
Skiing Winter Park at a glance
| Pass | Ikon |
|---|---|
| Terrain | Seven territories — family-friendly Winter Park plus Mary Jane’s famous bumps and steeps |
| Ski train | The Winter Park Express runs from Denver Union Station on winter weekends |
| Base elevation | ~9,000 ft |
| Getting there | Closest major resort to Denver (~67 mi) via US-40 over Berthoud Pass — or the ski train |
The terrain
Winter Park is really two experiences. The Winter Park side is approachable, family-oriented cruising with great schools; connect to Mary Jane and you find some of the best mogul and steep tree terrain in the state (“No pain, no Jane”). The ski train from Denver is a genuinely unique way to arrive — no I-70, no parking.
Lift tickets & passes
Winter Park is on the Ikon Pass. If you’ll ski more than about five days in a season, a season pass almost always beats walk-up day tickets, which are expensive here. Our Epic vs. Ikon guide helps you choose, and lift-ticket/pass affiliate links will live here as they’re added.
What to pack
Cold, high-altitude sun, and long days on snow make layering and eye protection essential. Bring solid goggles, warm gloves, and merino base layers — our full Colorado ski & ride packing list walks through the whole kit, and the Altitude & Sun Kit covers the high-country essentials.
Getting there & altitude
Give yourself a buffer for weekend traffic and winter weather, and respect the elevation — base areas here sit high and lifts climb higher. Arrive a day early if you can, hydrate, and read up on altitude sickness. For the drive, see our I-70 ski traffic guide and carry a winter car kit.
Skiing Winter Park FAQ
Which pass do I need for Winter Park?
Winter Park is on the Ikon Pass. See our Epic vs. Ikon guide.
Can you take a train to Winter Park?
Yes — the Winter Park Express runs from Denver Union Station to the base area on winter weekends and holidays, one of the few ski-by-train options in the U.S.
What is Mary Jane known for?
Legendary moguls and steep tree runs — hence the local saying “No pain, no Jane.” It shares a lift network with the more beginner-friendly Winter Park side.
How far is Winter Park from Denver?
About 67 miles via US-40 over Berthoud Pass — the closest major resort to the city. It avoids the worst of I-70, though Berthoud Pass has its own winter driving demands.
Is Winter Park good for families?
Yes — the Winter Park side is very family-friendly, while Mary Jane keeps advanced skiers in the group happy. See the Winter Park guide.