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Winter Park Express Expands for 2025

The Winter Park Express, an essential train service operated by Amtrak, is set to create a smoother connection between Denver and Colorado's picturesque mountain adventures in 2025. This initiative, in partnership with the State of Colorado and the Colorado Department of Transportation, is poised to enhance accessibility for travelers eager to explore the slopes.

New Service Schedule

Beginning January 9, 2025, the Winter Park Express will run five days a week—from Thursday to Monday—until March 31. In addition to the regular schedule, special holiday services will be available on select dates in December 2024.
With a new stop in Fraser added just five minutes west of Winter Park, the train service will cater to both ski enthusiasts and those wanting to soak in the quaint charm of a mountain town. Tickets range from an affordable $19 to $39, making it more budget-friendly than ever.

Emphasizing Accessibility

The push for increased accessibility is echoed in the company's pricing strategy, with fares being 43% lower than previous years. Children aged 2 to 12 can avail themselves of a 50% discount on base fares, further encouraging family outings.
As Richard Scharf, President and CEO of VISIT DENVER pointed out, "The Winter Park Express reinforces Denver's status as a gateway to the Rockies."

A Scenic Journey

Passengers can now enjoy a scenic train ride directly from Denver International Airport to the mountains, eliminating the need for a car rental and allowing for more precious time on the slopes. This journey, lasting approximately two hours, allows skiers and snowboarders to leave in the morning, enjoy a full day of activities, and return to Denver for a delightful dinner, perhaps at one of the city’s acclaimed MICHELIN or James Beard award-winning restaurants.

Not Just for Skiers

The appeal of Winter Park extends beyond skiing. Non-skiers can revel in other winter activities such as snow tubing, exploring winter trails, or absorbing the breathtaking scenery of Fraser Valley. With adequate train capacity to accommodate up to 402 passengers, this expanded service ensures that adventurers can readily take advantage of the pristine Colorado wilderness.

The train itself prioritizes pleasure during travel with wide, reclining seats and large picture windows that allow for unobstructed views of the Rocky Mountains. A bi-level Sightseer Lounge offers panoramic vistas that will enhance the travel experience even further. Moreover, skiing and snowboarding gear can be transported at no additional charge.

Making Reservations

As part of the booking process, passengers are encouraged to reserve their seats early, especially for group travel options ranging from small parties to larger groups completing an exclusive occupancy request. Tickets can be conveniently purchased on Amtrak's website or mobile app.

Conclusion

The enhanced service of Winter Park Express not only highlights a commitment to sustainable travel but also contributes to a significant improvement in access to Colorado’s mountainous wonders. The allure of the Rockies, coupled with the ease of direct train service, is offering residents and visitors alike an invigorating alternative to traditional transportation. The seamless journey from Denver allows everyone to immerse themselves in the winter magic that Colorado has to offer, making this season of adventure more exciting and accessible than ever.

For more details or to purchase tickets, visit Amtrak.com/WinterParkExpress.