Season Of The Seven Territories

November 2014

Nestled 90 minutes from Denver, among breathtaking Colorado scenery is the beautifully unique and surprisingly vast Winter Park.

The second largest ski area in Colorado celebrates its 75th birthday this year, and although there are plenty of bars and restaurants to celebrate in, the only place to be found in Winter Park, is on the mountain. Aside from a short transfer time and superb value for money, Winter Park's huge ski area has a unique twist, making mountain the ultimate choice for families and mixed ability groups.

Season of the Seven Territories

This bright spark idea goes by the name of... ‘The Seven Territories’ … a structure which is sure to increase the manageability and safety of every marked trail on the mountain. The ‘seven territories’ structure means the mountain is clearly separated into 7 zones. Each zone features different terrain so you know exactly where to go to get the most out of your day on the mountain. From specific ski school and kid friendly themed zones, to backcountry powder steeps and cliffs, Winter Park's easy to follow system means maximum mountain time on the terrain you love and no nasty surprises.

Winter Park Territory; Perfect for mixed groups and families |Image: Ken Redding

The first Territory, 'Winter Park', found at the base of the mountain, is arguably the most favored and varied zone. Home to the Ski + Ride school, it is ideal family or mixed ability group skiing terrain. It even features an 'Alice in Wonderland' themed section, bringing a bit of magic into the learning process and giving kids the perfect balance of education and fun. At a similar altitude is, 'Vasquez Ridge' ; the best place to find hidden stashes of powder snow, avoid the crowds, and get off the beaten track. Right up top is 'Parsenn Bowl', boasts the ultimate view point. 360-degrees of pure panoramic heaven, no photos can do the amazing landscape justice. If you can stop staring at the views, you'll find yourself skiing some high altitude intermediates with great scope to challenge yourself if you’re feeling ambitious.

Mary Jane Territory: Serious moguls for serious skiers!

For those of us with the skill and style (or sense of humour) to tackle the moguls, 'Mary Jane' Territory will not disappoint! Even in this mogul specific area, there is still great variety. This piste range from bumpy blues like 'Bluebell' and 'Edelweiss' to the slightly more daunting 'Cannonball' or 'Drunken Frenchmen'. Although appropriate in these cases, don't be fooled by what the piste's name implies... there is absolutely nothing 'sleepy' about 'The Sleeper'. 'Eagle Wind' Territory, named after its Native American heritage is full of life and character. It creates the feel of being truly out in the wild, heavily tree lined and full of powder. This place gives provides all the perks of off piste, on piste, perfect for keen teens that want to try their hand at some wilder terrain.

Vasquez Ridge: experience the escapism in fresh powder | Image: Ken Redding

By far the most extreme of the Seven Territories lies in 'The Cirque'. Not for the faint-hearted, this is serious, world class, double-black diamond terrain. Never groomed, proper back-country skiing, but yet with the comfort blanket of being in a patrolled area. The last territory is made up of 6 'Terrain Parks' catering to all levels, including little rollers to practice popping off or if you're feeling confident, an 18ft super-pipe. Winter Park proudly boasts one ski area to encompass them all, and few would argue, but this enormous area has more advantages than just the skiing. A large variety of ski terrain means almost no lift queues, a huge mountain patrol team and ultimately a positive, friendly environment. There is room for everyone, and if that doesn't make for the perfect day on the mountain, the après-ski certainly aims to please.

Get in touch with one of expert reservations team for further information on holidays to Winter Park and a whole range of resorts in Colorado and beyond. Call 0131 243 8097 or request a tailor-made quotation online.