****RESERVATIONS REQUIRED!! LINK BELOW***** The Mount Evans Scenic Byway is the highest paved road in Colorado, at 14,130 ft. Colorado’s “New Switzerland” opened by 1930. It was built as a result of Pikes Peak Highway and Denver’s competition for tourists. Mount Evans Byway is a rare chance to drive into a different world. There are many highlights along the 14 mile trip to over 14,000 feet, including high alpine lakes and stunning wildlife. https://www.recreation.gov/timed-entry/10087438
The west side entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park is 35 miles or ~45 minutes from Winter Park. Great hiking trails and views. If you want to make a day of it drive Trail Ridge Road to Estes Park. This would be a great activity prior to a late afternoon flight home!
Grand Lake is a cute, lakefront, mountain town nestled just outside the west entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. It is about 35 miles or ~45 minutes from Winter Park. Enjoy water activities, quaint shops and restaurants. Rent paddleboards, fish, kayak! The possibilities are endless.
Whitewater rafting, off-roading and UTV tours are other good ways to get outside and explore the Rocky Mountains! This company comes well reviewed. Also close by are: Mile-High Rafting (milehighrafting.com / 303-567-0717) Rafting and UTV Colorado River Runs (coloradoriverruns.com / 800-1081) Rafting Slingshot Rentals (onthetrailrentals.com / 970-627-8866) UTV Grand Adventures (grandadventures.com / 970-726-9247) Off-Road Tours On the Trail Rentals (onthetrailrentals.com / 970-627-0171) ATV rentals