Weekend Trips from Winter Park, CO

Winter Park, CO, is a destination in its own right, but its central location in the Colorado Rockies also makes it the perfect launching pad for a variety of unforgettable weekend getaways. Whether you're craving a relaxing soak in a hot spring, a cultural city escape, or a rustic mountain adventure, there's a road trip that fits the mood. Here’s a look at some of the most enticing weekend trips from Winter Park, CO, that blend natural beauty, adventure, and unique charm.

Just under a three-hour drive northwest of Winter Park, Steamboat Springs offers a relaxing yet adventure-filled weekend escape. Known for its natural hot springs and Western charm, Steamboat combines outdoor fun with small-town sophistication. Winter visitors can hit the slopes at Steamboat Resort, while summer weekends offer tubing on the Yampa River, hiking to Fish Creek Falls, or exploring the vibrant downtown filled with galleries, shops, and local eateries. Don’t miss a soak at Strawberry Park Hot Springs for the ultimate rejuvenation.

About two hours east of Winter Park, Boulder blends the energy of a college town with the natural splendor of the Flatirons. It’s ideal for those who want a bit of culture and cuisine to go along with their hiking boots. Spend your weekend hiking Chautauqua Park, enjoying live music at the historic Boulder Theater, or strolling along Pearl Street Mall. With award-winning restaurants, craft breweries, and a thriving art scene, Boulder is a refreshing contrast to the quiet of Winter Park, CO.

For a mix of scenic wonders and family-friendly attractions, Glenwood Springs makes a perfect weekend getaway just under three hours away. The town is famous for its Glenwood Hot Springs Pool—the largest in the world—and the thrilling Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, which sits atop a mountain. Whether you're rafting the Colorado River or hiking through Glenwood Canyon, this town offers a balance of relaxation and excitement that makes it a hit with travelers of all ages.

Only about an hour’s drive from Winter Park, Grand Lake is a hidden gem nestled at the western entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park. The lake itself is Colorado’s largest natural body of water, perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or lounging along the shore. The quaint downtown features wooden boardwalks, ice cream shops, and charming boutiques, while nearby trails provide access to breathtaking alpine scenery. Wildlife sightings are common, and the peaceful setting makes Grand Lake ideal for a quiet weekend escape.

A little over two hours from Winter Park, Leadville offers a unique blend of historic intrigue and outdoor adventure. As the highest incorporated city in North America, it’s a fascinating place to explore the legacy of Colorado’s mining past. Visitors can take the scenic Leadville Train, hike the Mineral Belt Trail, or tour the National Mining Hall of Fame. The surrounding peaks provide endless hiking and biking opportunities, and the cooler summer temps are a bonus for warm-weather escapes.

About three hours from Winter Park, Aspen is a luxurious yet welcoming mountain town known for more than just its world-class skiing. It’s also a cultural hub, with events like the Aspen Music Festival and a thriving food scene. Spend your weekend browsing upscale shops, exploring the Maroon Bells, or taking in contemporary art at the Aspen Art Museum. Aspen is perfect for a sophisticated mountain escape, offering indulgence and natural splendor in equal measure.

If your idea of a perfect weekend includes whitewater rafting and mountain views, Buena Vista should be high on your list. Located about 2.5 hours from Winter Park, this charming town on the Arkansas River is known for its outdoor recreation and laid-back vibe. Raft the rapids of Browns Canyon, soak in the Mount Princeton Hot Springs, or hike the nearby Collegiate Peaks. Buena Vista combines adrenaline and tranquility in a way that makes every trip feel refreshing and unforgettable.

While it may take a little longer to get to—around three hours depending on the route—Estes Park is well worth the drive. Serving as the eastern gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, Estes offers dramatic landscapes, wildlife encounters, and classic mountain-town charm. Walk the Riverwalk downtown, tour the historic Stanley Hotel, or take the aerial tramway for panoramic views. Estes Park is perfect for nature lovers, families, and anyone seeking an iconic Colorado weekend trip from Winter Park, CO.

Sometimes, a change of pace means swapping pine trees for skyscrapers. Just 90 minutes away, Denver offers a wealth of entertainment, shopping, and cultural experiences. Catch a show at Red Rocks, explore museums like the Denver Art Museum or the Museum of Nature & Science, and indulge in a food scene that spans from gourmet dining to hidden gems. Denver is an easy and energizing weekend destination that complements the laid-back lifestyle of Winter Park perfectly.

For those wanting a low-key getaway that’s still close to home, Hot Sulphur Springs is just 30 minutes from Winter Park, CO. This historic town is best known for its namesake hot springs, which have been soothing visitors for centuries. It’s a peaceful spot to unplug, read a book, or simply enjoy a massage and a soak with a mountain view. The town’s small size and slower pace make it the perfect place to unwind without spending hours on the road.

From lakeside serenity to vibrant cities and backcountry adventures, the options for weekend trips from Winter Park, CO, are as diverse as the Colorado landscape itself. Whether you’re a local looking for a quick change of scenery or a visitor hoping to explore more of what the Rockies offer, there’s no shortage of experiences within a short drive. These nearby escapes make Winter Park not only a great place to live or vacation—but also a strategic hub for exploring the best of Colorado.

For those looking to settle near adventure while enjoying the tranquility of mountain living, The Simple Life Colorado is ready to help. Their team offers expert guidance on real estate in and around Winter Park, CO, connecting clients to homes that fit their lifestyle and goals. With local insight and personalized service, The Simple Life Colorado makes it easy to turn this mountain town into a forever weekend escape.