At nearly one and a half million acres Glacier National Park in Montana is impressive and boasts over 200 lakes and streams, 50 glaciers and more than 700 miles of wonderful hiking trails. These numbers are impressive, but they do not even start to convey the breathtaking beauty of this national park.

They do not begin to describe how the mountains around Lake MacDonald glow pink in the setting sun and almost force you to stand transfixed to this view until darkness falls. Neither do they describe the huge field of tall bear grass stalks with their white flowers which simply shout at you to roll back the years and run through the meadow like a child.

Just a short drive west of Denver’s metropolitan area, vacationers and winter sports enthusiasts alike commonly find themselves taking in the breathtaking sights and scenery of Winter Park, Colorado. This hidden Rocky Mountain gem plays host to thousands of visitors every year in search of a getaway from the city or fun for the entire family – or some enjoy surrounding themselves in sheer natural beauty. Winter Park has so much to offer, including charming boutiques to shop in, exquisite dining or exciting festivals in the town center. No matter what you’re after, surely it can be found in Winter Park.

Nestled in the awe-inspiring peaks of the Rocky Mountains just 90 minutes west of Denver’s city limits, Winter Park is home to some of the most desired ski slopes in the continental United States. Commonly known as “Colorado’s Highest,” Winter Park holds the highest elevation of any incorporated town in the United States at 12,060 feet above sea level. Early on, initial settlements first sprung up during the construction of the Moffat Tunnel when a local merchant named “Doc” Graves built 26 tourist cabins, a café and service station. Recognized for the site’s beauty and sheer potential as a getaway location, Graves powered the small mountain village by means of a water wheel he installed at the nearby Vasquez Creek. Enjoying rare economic prosperity during the ominous Great Depression, the Winter Park Ski Resort opened its doors to patrons in 1939. Thousands flocked to Winter Park over the years simply to hit the slopes on the resort’s three interconnected peaks – Winter Park, Mary Jane and Vasquez Ridge. Despite the tourist buzz and years of success, it wasn’t until August 1, 1978 that Winter Park, Colorado was officially founded.