Winter Park Express

Here’s the Winter Park train schedule at a glance: it typically runs weekends starting in mid-December, then expands to Thursday through Sunday from early January through late March — roughly four months of service each season. The morning train departs Denver Union Station at 7am, with an evening train back from Winter Park departing the ski area at 4:35pm. Peak dates (holidays, powder weekends) book up fast, so it's worth locking in tickets early once the season calendar drops (typically early November).

Tickets are booked directly through Amtrak, not through the hotel — Limelight Denver is your basecamp for the trip, not the ticket counter. Tickets typically go on sale in early November, so it's worth checking Amtrak's site as the season approaches. One-way fares start at $19 for adults and $9.50 for kids ages 2 to 12, with pricing that climbs on peak dates and weekends. Since seats are limited and popular weekends sell out, booking ahead is the move, especially if you're building a whole ski weekend around it.

Arriving early is typically ideal, especially on weekends and holidays. Aim to get there with time to hand off your skis or board to the volunteers at the platform, then find a seat that fits your crew. Your gear gets stored in racks beneath the train, just like at the mountain.

Once you’ve checked in your skis, head onboard with your bags and outerwear. No need to suit up yet—you’ll have time on the ride to layer up before arrival. If you can, wander over to the observation car for the best views in Colorado — panoramic windows, endless peaks, and all the anticipation that comes before a ski day.

Relaxed, scenic, and social — kind of like après before and after the mountain. The seats are roomy, the vibe is friendly, and the volunteers know their stuff. They’ll share insider tips, local stories, and maybe even point out wildlife along the way.

Downstairs, the café car serves coffee, snacks, and a few alcoholic beverages. The observation car is a fan favorite with wide windows, casual conversation, and perfect photo ops. Just remember, it’s a shared space, so keep your big gear stowed at your seats.

Your skis, poles, and boards ride below deck in the gear racks. No bags necessary, though you can bring one if you like. Smaller stuff — jackets, boots, backpacks—stays with you at your seat.

As the train approaches Winter Park, volunteers will give you a heads-up to get ready. Pull on your layers, stash anything you don’t need, and get set for the slopes. If you’re on a day trip, your seat will be waiting for the return ride, but valuables should stay with you. Lockers are available at the base area for peace of mind. If you’re not on a day trip, make sure to take everything with you off the train.

Absolutely. The ride itself is part of the experience, with mountain views and a trip through the historic Moffat Tunnel. Get off at Winter Park Resort to explore the base village, or stay on to Fraser for tubing, snowshoeing, and time in town. It’s an easy day trip: leave Denver in the morning, spend the day in the mountains, and be back at Limelight Denver by evening. You don’t need a lift ticket to ride, just a train ticket from Amtrak.

Feel free to bring your own snacks, but be respectful to other passengers and staff. The onboard café has plenty of solid options if you need fuel or a post-ski-day treat.

Most of the folks running the show are volunteers — locals who love the Winter Park Express and the community it connects. They’re happy to help, answer questions, and share a few mountain secrets along the way. So pack your gear, grab your crew, and catch the easiest ride from Denver to Winter Park.