FAQs

StayWinterPark wants to help make your vacation experience enjoyable and easy!  We have compiled a short list of our most frequent questions.

If you are still looking and don't see the answer to your question, drop us a line at [email protected] - we're here to help answer all of your questions!


FAQs - Vacation rentals

StayWinterPark requires a 35% non-refundable deposit due at the time of booking.  The final payment will be due 14 - 21 days prior to your arrival date, depending on your specific dates of stay.

All monies, once received, are non-refundable. We do offer travel insurance with Red Sky Travel Insurance and strongly recommend purchasing the insurance to protect your trip.  If you are unable to come and did not purchase travel insurance, you will need to contact us in person so we are able to come to a reasonable resolution for both parties.  There is no guarantee of a refund or credit.

For more detailed information on our policies, please refer to this page


Great question - please refer to our Book Direct benefits page.

StayWinterPark is a locally owned and operated vacation rental company - we're here and not in a remote location so our response time is quicker. We also accept same day bookings an advantage over VRBO and Airbnb.

VRBO and Airbnb are listing sites and we do advertise our rentals here for additional booking exposure. 

A vacation rental experience may be new to you, but worth checking out!  

All of our rental offer a fully equipped kitchens to help with easy meal prep and save you money but not having to eat out while on your vacation trip.  Fireplaces - either gas or wood burning something to enjoy while in the mountains.  Amenities - depending on which rental you choose we offer clubhouse amenities, private hot tubs, garage parking, private deck/balcony or patio, pet friendly rentals.

Our large selection of rentals has something to offer everyone.

Due to our high mountain elevations, air conditioning is not standard in our vacation rentals.

Winter Park and Fraser Valley are located around 9,000 feet above sea level. Most guests stay comfortable by opening windows to let in the cool mountain air. Fans are available upon request—please contact our Guest Service Team if you’d like one.

We do have a few properties with air conditioning:

Arrow 202Arrow 213, and 67 Fireweed

Granby sits between 7,500 and 8,000 feet in elevation. Like Winter Park, these homes stay cool naturally, and fans are available upon request through our Guest Service Team.

Grand Lake is at 8,300 feet. Guests typically find that opening windows provides plenty of fresh, cool air, even during summer months.

We accept MasterCard, Visa, Discover and AMEX.

Guest can also make online payments with credit cards or E-checks from our Guest Portal.

We will send you a check-in confirmation via email or text 7 days prior to your arrival date with specific vacation rental information.  

The majority of our rentals have electronic door codes which you will be able to access in the Guest Portal.  

For any rentals that still require a physical key for entry, this will be stated on the vacation rental and guests will need to come to our local office for key pick up.

FAQs Check-in/Check-out

Our standard check-in time is at 4:00 pm and check-out time is at 10:00 am.

If you would like to request an early check-in or late check-out, depending on the availability of the vacation rental we may be able to accommodate this request and there may be an additional charge for this.

Contact our Guest Service Team at 970-726-6200.

Please refer to the check-out procedures within our Guest Portal.

FAQs - Pets

We offer several pet friendly rentals so you can enjoy your getaway with your furry friends.  All pet fees are included in the overall rental price.

Check out our Pet Friendly rentals.

FAQs - Cleaning and safety

We do not offer daily housekeeping services.  All of our vacation rentals are cleaned, inspected and set up for your arrival with all linens, towels, paper products, bathroom amenities and starter coffee/tea packets.

If during your stay you do need additional items to make your stay more comfortable, we have a local office at 50 Village Drive were you can pick up additional items, exchange your linens and towels.

StayWinterPark does have a number of cleaning procedures and guidelines for all of our rentals - you can learn more by reviewing this page on our website:  Cleaning and safety in your vacation rental.

Yes all rentals are required to have smoke detectors and CO2 detectors - depending on the size of rental will determine the number of these devices as well.

Our housekeeping inspection team will also check these devices after each guest's departure.

FAQs - Travel Insurance

Yes.  StayWinterPark has partnered with Red Sky Travel Insurance for guests wanting to purchase travel insurance.

Please refer to their website for more specifics.

FAQs - Area information

When you stay with us, you’ll have endless options for things to do in every season. In Winter Park and Fraser, guests enjoy world‑class skiing, snowboarding, tubing, hiking, mountain biking, scenic gondola rides, and a fun mix of restaurants, shops, and events. Granby offers family‑friendly skiing at Granby Ranch, access to Lake Granby for boating and fishing, golf, horseback riding, and a charming small‑town main street. Grand Lake sits right on the water and next to Rocky Mountain National Park, where you can boat, paddle, fish, hike, watch wildlife, and stroll the lakeside boardwalk lined with shops and dining.


You’ll have no trouble finding great food and drinks during your stay. Each of our mountain towns offers its own mix of casual cafes, family‑friendly restaurants, and date‑night favorites.

  • Winter Park
    Winter Park has the largest dining scene in the area, with everything from pizza, burgers, and BBQ to tapas, steak, and creative chef‑driven menus. You’ll also find coffee shops, bakeries, breweries, and lively après‑ski spots that stay busy year‑round.
  • Fraser
    Fraser offers a relaxed, local vibe with breakfast cafes, sandwich shops, breweries, and laid‑back dinner spots. It’s a great place for comfort food, craft cocktails or a local beer after a day of skiing, biking, or exploring.
  • Granby
    In Granby, you’ll find small‑town charm with diners, grills, taquerias, pizza, and family‑style restaurants. Many spots are kid‑friendly and perfect for a casual meal after a day at Granby Ranch, on the lake, or out on the trails.
  • Grand Lake
    Grand Lake features lakeside restaurants, bar‑and‑grill patios, ice cream shops, and cozy cafés along the historic boardwalk. In summer, many places offer outdoor seating with lake and mountain views, making it easy to pair a meal with a stroll by the water.

 

There are several dining options in our areas.  We have restaurants listed in our Guest Portal or the restaurant page on the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce website.

From hiking and biking to boating and festivals, there are activities for every age and energy level in Winter Park, Fraser, Granby, and Grand Lake.

  • Winter Park
    In summer, Winter Park Resort transforms into an adventure base with scenic gondola rides, an alpine slide, ropes courses, a climbing wall, putting course, and Trestle Bike Park for mountain biking. You can also enjoy miles of hiking trails, whitewater rafting, fishing, and free or low‑cost concerts and events in town parks.
  • Fraser
    Fraser is an outdoor playground with mountain biking and hiking trails, including the Fraser River Trail and surrounding singletrack networks. Families can also enjoy the community recreation center, nearby rivers for rafting, and easy access to activities at Winter Park Resort and Snow Mountain Ranch.
  • Granby
    Granby offers hiking, biking, golfing, and easy access to Lake Granby for boating, paddling, fishing, and lakeside relaxation. In town and nearby, you’ll find summer tubing, horseback riding, rodeos, live music, markets, and plenty of family‑friendly events all season long.
  • Grand Lake
    Grand Lake shines in summer with boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and beach time on Colorado’s largest natural lake, plus nearby Shadow Mountain Lake and Lake Granby. You can also hike and view wildlife in Rocky Mountain National Park, then return to enjoy the lakeside boardwalk, shops, ice cream, and outdoor dining with mountain‑and‑water views.

 

Winter in our area is all about snow, scenery, and getting outside. Whether you love skiing or prefer relaxed, off‑the‑slopes fun, there is something for everyone.

  • Winter Park
    Winter Park is home to a major ski resort with downhill skiing, snowboarding, terrain parks, and lessons for all levels. Off the slopes, you can go snow tubing, ice skating, snowshoeing, or take a scenic gondola ride, then warm up with dining, shopping, and après‑ski in town.
  • Fraser
    Fraser is known for classic Colorado winter fun, including popular snow tubing hills, sledding, and family‑friendly snow play. You can also find cross‑country ski and snowshoe trails, fat biking, and nearby options for sleigh rides or snowmobile tours.
  • Granby
    In Granby, guests enjoy skiing and riding at Granby Ranch, a great option for families and newer skiers. The surrounding area offers snowshoeing, Nordic skiing, snowmobiling, and visits to nearby guest ranches for winter horseback rides or cozy lodge experiences.
  • Grand Lake
    Grand Lake turns into a quiet winter wonderland with miles of groomed snowmobile trails and access to nearby Nordic skiing and snowshoeing. The frozen lake and snow‑covered streets create a charming backdrop for walks through town, hot drinks, and relaxed, small‑town winter evenings.

If you share what kind of winter activities you enjoy most, we can point you to specific areas, trails, or outfitters to make the most of your stay.

 

There are plenty of ways to mix up your trip beyond skiing, hiking, and biking, with options for relaxation, indoor fun, and unique mountain experiences across Winter Park, Fraser, Granby, and Grand Lake.

  • Relaxation, wellness, and rainy‑day fun
    Visit the Grand Park Community Recreation Center for pools, a lazy river, water slide, hot tub, sauna, gym, and climbing wall, which are great for families and rest days. You can also enjoy local spas, yoga studios, and wellness centers throughout the valley for massages and classes if you want a slower‑paced day.
  • Bowling, movies, and indoor entertainment
    Head to The Foundry Cinema & Bowl in Winter Park for bowling, billiards, shuffleboard, arcade games, wood‑fired pizza, and first‑run movies in reclining seats. Around the area you’ll also find art galleries, small museums, and craft classes that are perfect when the weather isn’t cooperating or you just want some time indoors.
  • Scenic drives and exploring the county
    Take a scenic drive along the Colorado Headwaters Scenic and Historic Byway or up toward Rocky Mountain National Park and Trail Ridge Road for overlooks, picnic spots, and wildlife viewing. You can also explore different towns—Winter Park, Fraser, Granby, and Grand Lake each have their own shops, galleries, breweries, and seasonal events worth a relaxed stroll.
  • Horseback riding, ranch visits, and unique tours
    Local guest ranches and outfitters in Grand County offer horseback rides, wagon or sleigh rides (in winter), and occasional western‑style activities like small rodeos or ranch dinners. Depending on the season, you can add things like hot‑air balloon rides, guided wildlife tours, lake cruises in Grand Lake, or mini‑golf and family attractions.

Our mountain communities are high‑elevation destinations with changing weather, wildlife, and rural mountain roads, so a little preparation goes a long way for a comfortable stay.

  • High elevation and altitude adjustment
    Winter Park, Fraser, Granby, and Grand Lake all sit between roughly 7,500 and 9,000 feet above sea level, which can affect breathing, sleep, and energy for some guests. Plan to drink plenty of water, limit alcohol your first day, and take it easy with activity until you know how you feel at altitude.
  • Mountain weather and packing
    Weather changes quickly in the Rockies, and temperatures can swing from cool mornings and evenings to warm, sunny afternoons in any season. Pack layers, a waterproof outer layer, sturdy shoes, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), and in winter, proper snow boots and traction if you’ll be walking on packed snow and ice.
  • Driving and road conditions
    Roads into and around Grand County are mountain highways with curves, changing grades, and, in winter, snow and ice. Check road and traffic conditions before you travel, allow extra time, and if you’re visiting in winter, make sure your vehicle and tires meet Colorado traction laws and be prepared for winter‑driving conditions.
  • Wildlife, nature, and safety
    It’s common to see wildlife such as elk, moose, and deer in and around town and along the roads. Enjoy them from a distance, never feed wildlife, and be especially cautious when driving at dawn, dusk, and after dark. When hiking or exploring outdoors, stay on marked trails, carry water and snacks, and let someone know where you’re going.
  • Services, reservations, and timing
    These are small mountain communities, so restaurants, activities, and rentals can book up during busy holiday and summer periods. Whenever possible, reserve key items in advance (lift tickets, bike or boat rentals, guided tours, popular restaurants) and check open hours, as some businesses are seasonal or have reduced off‑season schedules.

 We have provided a number of local resources and information that you can refer to help make your stay comfortable and memorable.

Getting around is easy, with a mix of free local transit, walkable areas, and driving options that connect Winter Park, Fraser, Granby, and Grand Lake. 

  • Free local bus (Winter Park, Fraser, Granby)
    The Lift is a free, year‑round bus system that runs between Winter Park Resort, the towns of Winter Park and Fraser, and as far as Granby. It’s a convenient way to reach the ski area, shops, restaurants, and some lodging areas without driving or worrying about parking.
  • Walking and biking
    In Winter Park and Fraser, many neighborhoods, trails, and parts of town are walkable or bike‑friendly, especially in summer. Granby and Grand Lake also have compact town centers where you can park once and explore shops, restaurants, the lakeshore (in Grand Lake), and parks on foot.
  • Driving your own car
    Having a car gives you the most flexibility for exploring different towns, lakes, and trailheads, especially if you plan day trips between Winter Park, Granby, and Grand Lake or into Rocky Mountain National Park. Roads are well‑marked, but in winter you’ll want to plan for snow, ice, and possible chain or traction requirements.
  • Shuttles, train, and regional transit
    Airport shuttles and private ride services operate between  Denver International Airport and Grand County towns like Winter Park, Fraser, Granby, and (with a short transfer) Grand Lake. Seasonal train options such as the Winter Park Express and the Amtrak Zephyr also serve the area, and regional Bustang Outrider buses connect Denver with stops in Winter Park, Fraser, and Granby.


Winter Park and Fraser are an easy day-trip distance from the western entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, with a scenic mountain drive connecting the two areas.

Clear distance and drive time

  • Winter Park and Fraser are roughly 45–60 minutes by car from the park’s West Entrance near Grand Lake, depending on traffic, weather, and road conditions.
  • The route typically follows US Highway 40 through Granby and on toward Grand Lake, offering straightforward driving with beautiful mountain and valley views along the way.

What this means for guests

  • Staying in Winter Park or Fraser, you can enjoy resort amenities, dining, and activities, then head out for a full or half‑day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park and be back the same evening.
  • Many guests plan a relaxed morning drive to the park for hiking, wildlife viewing, or a scenic drive on Trail Ridge Road, then return to Winter Park or Fraser to dine, shop, or unwind after their adventure.

 

Granby is a short, easy drive from the western entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, making it a convenient base for visiting the park.

Clear distance and drive time

  • Granby is approximately 20–30 minutes by car from the park’s West Entrance near Grand Lake, depending on traffic and conditions.
  • The route follows US Highway 40 north toward Grand Lake, with straightforward highway driving almost the entire way.

What this means for guests

  • You can stay in Granby and reach the park quickly for day trips, then return to enjoy Granby’s restaurants, shops, and family‑friendly activities in the evening.
  • From the West Entrance, you can connect to Trail Ridge Road and other scenic drives and trailheads, giving you access to the quieter west side of Rocky Mountain National Park.

 

Grand Lake is just minutes from the western entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park, making it one of the closest and most convenient base towns for exploring this side of the park.

Clear distance and access

  • Grand Lake sits about 1 mile from the park’s West (Kawuneeche) Entrance, so it’s only a few minutes’ drive from town into the park.
  • Many visitors think of Grand Lake as the western gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park because the town is immediately adjacent to the park boundary.

What this means for guests

  • It’s easy to make quick trips into the park for hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives, then return to Grand Lake for dining, shopping, and lake activities the same day.
  • Several trailheads near town, including East Inlet, East Shore, and North Inlet, provide direct access into the park from the Grand Lake area without long drive times.

FAQs - About Us

StayWinterPark has a local office at 50 Village Drive, Winter Park CO 80482.

Google Maps

Our office hours do vary throughout the year, but we do have our Guest Service Team on site to help with any questions or needs of our guests and owners.

StayWinterPark offers many services for owners that would like to have their unit on a short term rental program.  

Get more details and contact us if you would like an evaluation of your property and information to join our program.

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