Top Solo Travel Deals Ski Trips Planes to Trains: Although I try to make an annual ski trip, the problem as a solo traveler is getting there. Most top ski resorts mean a long, costly flight and driving through icy roads. Another option? Sometimes terrifyingly small planes to remote areas. If there is a storm, the flights may not take off so you hope for a bus.
On my trip to Sun Valley, Idaho, I was surprised at the airport. They asked for all the kids twelve years and under to come up. Why was that? To have the weight set on both sides of the plane. At that point, I was ready to clutch a rabbit’s foot and hope to arrive in one piece.
On the East Coast closer to home, I have looked for ski buses and ski trains to little avail.
I was pleased to see this weekend that the Washington Post featured planes to trains in world class Winter Park, Colorado.
Off-Season/Spring Skiing:
More good news?
The slopes are open well into April.
With high temperatures comes low prices. Dust off your apres ski boots, and grab these deals now!
Not a full time athlete? See the other ways to spend your time!
How to Get There as a Solo:
Fly to Denver.
Drive or take the train to Winter Park.
Check schedules at Amtrak for prices and times. (Be aware that if you fly in to Denver you may need to take the commuter train in to town to spend the night and catch a 7 AM train out.)
Things to Do Beyond the Slopes:
Ice skate.
Go cross-country skiing.
Try out snow shoes.
Work out, or relax in the pool.
Take advantage of the hot tub to watch the snow fall.
Hike in warm layers.
Explore the quaint Old West style town.
Sample casual cafes, or enjoy fine dining.
Where to Stay:
From $109 the Vasquez Creek Inn has the look and feel of a Swiss Style Chalet. There is a hot tub to relax after a hard day on the slopes and free WiFi.
There is both an on-site restaurant and bar.
If you drove and skipped the train, there is free private parking as well.
Guest rooms have flat-screen TV with cable channels.
The Inn is 2.6 miles from the Winter Park Resort is 2.6 miles and 2.4 miles from the Olympia Express.
A second option: Vintage Hotel:
From $135 This 110 room pet-friendly property also has free Wi-Fi. You will have a choice of the outdoor pool and hot tub once you have your last run of the day. You can leave your equipment in the convenient ski storage as well.
The Vintage Hotel is set in the picturesque Arapaho National Forest. You can stroll through the ski shop for some great finds at the end of the day.
Large guest rooms include a coffee machine. Many have kitchenettes. Be sure to ask for a room with a wood-burning or gas fireplace.
Looking for more work outs? Try the fitness center available for guest usage.
In season, there is both an on-site restaurant and bar. The Five Mountain Tavern serves dinner. Guests can also enjoy drinks at the bar.
You will be only 5-minutes away from the Winter Park Resort. You will be sped there on the Free Village Cabriolet. For all year hikes, the Rocky Mountain National Park is just short of a 1-hour drive away.
Option 3: Valley Hi Motel:
From $99: The 18 room Valley Hi Motel is a close by bargain! It is only a 5 minute drive to the Winter Park Ski Area. You will have ski storage.
Guest rooms have Wi-Fi and a microwave and a refrigerator. The rooms are also equipped with a sitting area.
After you ski, you can take a break in the hot tub.
When you are free to stroll downtown Winter Park, you will find it is only a 5 minute drive. For long hikes, the Arapaho National Forest is just 2 miles away.
Visit Winter Park year-round for a great, well-priced vacation on or off the slopes!
For other ski packages, follow this link.