November 7, 2024
Amtrak’s Colorado ski train, the Winter Park Express, is returning for another exciting season with more trips than ever before, catering to increased demand for a convenient and scenic route to Winter Park Resort and Fraser, Colorado. Starting on December 20, 2024, the Amtrak Winter Park Express will operate 69 round trips this season—29 more than last year—allowing even more skiers, snowboarders, and adventurers to experience the Rockies without the hassle of mountain driving.
The Winter Park Express departs from Denver’s Union Station and takes passengers directly to the slopes, arriving at Winter Park Resort around 9 a.m. and Fraser at approx. 9:45 a.m. (check the actual link schedule below for exact times) This is perfect for getting in a full day on the mountain. The train will initially run from December 20 to December 22, then from December 27 to December 29, and from January 3 to January 5, 2025. After that, from January 9 through March 31, it will run five days a week (Thursday through Monday), giving travelers flexibility in planning their winter getaways.
For visitors to Winter Park, taking the Amtrak Ski Train is more than just a transportation option; it’s part of the adventure. The train features a bi-level Sightseer Lounge, offering stunning views of the Colorado Rockies. Passengers can relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about winter road conditions or navigating the mountain passes or the tunnel. With tickets starting at just $19 (or $9.50 for kids), the Winter Park Express is an affordable and family-friendly way to reach the mountains.
Choosing the Ski Train over renting a car can also be budget-friendly. During peak ski season, the average weekly car rental cost from Denver can range from $400 to $700—and that’s before factoring in gas, insurance, and parking fees at the resort. The Winter Park Express saves money and provides a relaxing, stress-free alternative to winter mountain driving. The Winter Park Lift ski bus will pick you up outside of 99 Stagecoach Way at several locations and drop you off directly at the resort.
Colorado Governor Jared Polis highlighted the benefits of the expanded service, noting that the train “saves time and money on your way to enjoying the outdoors” and is a “great opportunity for Coloradans and out-of-state visitors to explore Winter Park without having to navigate the Eisenhower Tunnel or uncertain mountain traffic.”
The Winter Park/Mary Jane Resort is a skier’s paradise, boasting over 3,000 acres of skiing terrain, nearly 200 trails, and an impressive 340 inches of annual snowfall. The resort is scheduled to open on November 8th this year, and is typically one of the earliest resorts in Colorado to open every year. There is an impressive new program at the resort to add to its snowmaking capability this year, so the base should start early. The mountain, now part of the Ikon Pass network (consider this for buying your ski pass in advance), offers a diverse range of trails and runs, catering to everyone from beginners to seasoned experts. With a base elevation of over 9,000 feet and over 3,000 feet of vertical drop, including some impressive backcountry skiing, Winter Park delivers some of the best and most diverse snow conditions in Colorado.
The Amtrak Winter Park Express is an ideal choice for travelers looking to avoid traffic, save some money, and make the journey part of the adventure. With regular service, affordable fares, and stunning views, this train ride transforms a simple trip into a memorable experience.
Check the Amtrak Ski Train schedule and book your tickets here and start planning your Winter Park adventure today!