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Even before we indulge in a Thanksgiving feast and deal with the annual Black Friday frenzy, many travelers are already dreaming of sunny escapes.
The leaves are still falling and menus continue to emphasize pumpkin spice concoctions, but winter adventures are just around the corner.
Some of us seek out sun-drenched shores, while others embrace the magic of winter by pulling out snowboards and skis from storage, ready to hit the slopes.
If the latter is more your thing, then you can’t miss Amtrak’s Winter Express train that travels through the majestic Rockies, taking you to a premier ski resort and a hidden gem in Colorado.
Better yet, the rates are as low as $19 if you act quickly. Moreover, it is absolutely necessary to take your own skis and snowboard as hand luggage free!
Departure from Denver
Set against the backdrop of the Rockies, Colorado’s largest city boasts riverside trails, vibrant green parks, trendy restaurants and a thriving craft beer scene, not just silver cans that glow blue.
Despite being a mountainous town called ‘Mile High’, it is actually quite pleasant in winter; Not nearly as icy as you might suspect.
To take advantage of a typical ‘white Christmas’ and satisfy your winter wanderlust, you have to go deep into the mountains.
And what better way than spending just $19 for one seating area with domed window to observe some of Colorado’s most beautiful landscapes as you glide through the snow-capped Rockies and carpeted valleys?
Whether you’re just passing through or a proud Denverite, hop on board Winter Express is the best option for a ski trip to avoid the slippery, winding mountain roads.
I mean, why bother with snow chains when you can have a conductor do all the work?
The train departs from Denver’s timeless Union Station. If you’ve never been, it’s worth visiting just to be awed by this Beaux Arts masterpiece.
You can buy tickets from Amtrak app or websiteor in person at the station.
Beginning December 20, 2024, the train will depart Denver at 7 a.m. and arrive at ski hotspot Winter Park Resort at 9:11 a.m. on weekends only.
The service will increase from January 9, 2025 to March 31, 2025 (excluding Tuesdays and Wednesdays).
Winter Park Resort: a top-class adventure
Winter Park Resort proudly boasts that they are the “Top Ski Resort in North America.”
This place is amazing and really has it all. From lush forestry, a gleaming snow-covered landscape and endless things to do, such as Snowcat Tours And Glow Night Tubeswhy would you go anywhere else?
The options are endless here, and it doesn’t matter how much experience you have on the slopes. In fact, their experts will you learn on location.
Stays vary from cozy lodges to spacious town homesmany of which are located near the gondola, giving you easy access to start your day with epic mountain views.
Visitors have the choice to purchase daily lift tickets or season passesdepending on how long you expect to stay here.
Try to book day tickets at least 48 hours in advance to score big savings!
The train arrives from Denver at the WPR station, where you can choose to disembark for an unforgettable ski trip or continue to the newest stop on the route, Fraser.
Last stop: Fraser, Colorado’s authentic mountain town
Fraser is a lesser-known mountain town that falls well under the radar for most travelers. Here you’ll find a charming village that isn’t curated just for tourists, unlike, say, the glitz, glamor and chain-laden eyesore of Aspen.
At Fraser, what you see is what you get, and you will like what you see. You can learn about the town’s history at the Cozens Ranch Museum and mingle with locals at their favorite eateries such as The Achterkomwhere brisket burritos are to die for.
However, Fraser can best serve as a gateway to winter sports. Expect cheaper stays at mid-tier chains and even the MeadowRidge Resort – but know that the nice police run things here and enforce a strict ‘no alcohol’ policy.
Don’t worry, though; you can enjoy adult beverages on the two levels of the train Visitor lounge It offers an elevated view at the top and snacks and drinks at the bottom.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
