Return of the Winter Park Ski Train?

Ski season is around the corner leaving many wondering if the iconic and historic Winter Park Ski Train will be retuning for the 2015 – 2016 ski season.

Started in 1940 the historic Ski Train transported thousands of weekend warriors from Denver to Winter Park for 69 years until it was shut down in 2009. Last season, two test Winter Park Express Rail rides were offered in March. Both sold out within a few hours of tickets becoming available, proving the demand is still alive.

The Winter Park Ski Train allows visitors to bypass I-70 weekend traffic, potentially challenging roads, and ensures that travelers will arrive at Winter Park Resort on time for a full day of skiing and riding. Additionally, the Winter Park Ski Train provides an affordable transportation option to the thousands of carless urbanites living in Denver, Colorado.

Another added tourism benefit is that the many visitors who visit Colorado for ski vacations could do so without renting a car. Visitors flying into Denver International Airport could take the new East rail to Union Station downtown, catch the Winter Park Ski Train to Winter Park, hit the slopes, and during their stay, utilize the public transportation system in place throughout Winter Park and Fraser.

Additionally, the Winter Park Ski Train would reduce traffic and congestion on I-70, in resort parking lots, and down town Winter Park, Colorado saving everyone time and money.

While the many advocates for the train see the benefits, time will tell if the Winter Park Ski Train will actually make a comeback. The final verdict should be released before the 2015 – 2016 ski season!