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TOP 10 FREEBIES IN WINTER PARK, COLORADO

by Madelyn Miller

Looking for summer fun that won't cost a second mortgage?  Here are a few ways to explore Colorado's high country with a low budget.

10.)  MOOSE, FOX, PORCUPINE, COYOTE WATCHING.  Forget the zoo, that's for the birds.  There is an array of wildlife that can be spotted throughout the Fraser

Valley. 

9.)  STAR GAZING.  When the sun goes down, the stars come out.  Trillions of them.  A must see for urban dwellers.  Wishes on falling stars are also free.

8.)  STREAM SIDE PICNICS.  Need I say more?

7.)  FLY FISHING.  The area's backyard is filled with numerous lakes, streams, and ponds that are swimming with fish, but remember, it's BYOP (Bring Your Own Permit).  

6.)WINDOW SHOPPING.  It can be free ... but the self control is up to you.

5.)  A WALK THROUGH HISTORY PARK. Located in Fraser, history buffs can stroll among statues of pioneers from the past and get a good taste of Colorado history.

4.)  DRIVING TOURS.  Take a trip along the Continental Divide where long before the Moffat Tunnel, courageous crews braved one of the highest and most tortuous railroad routes in the West.  You too can drive Corona Pass, or what used to be called "The Top of the World."  The Winter Park Visitor Center offers a self-guided booklet directing you to the "Over the Hill" route.  Don't forget a camera!

3.)  ROLLERBLADING. The Fraser River Trail is a paved trail that goes from the town of Fraser through the town of Winter Park and ends up at the base of Winter Park Resort.  A favorite of blading enthusiasts.

2.)  HIKING. The Fraser Valley is loaded with miles of hiking trails ranging from a leisurely stroll in ankle-deep wildflowers to a steep climb up Byers Peak for a 360 degree view from the 12,804 foot summit. 

And the best free thing to do in Winter Park and the Fraser Valley:

1.)   MOUNTAIN BIKING. The Fraser Valley has been dubbed "Mountain Bike Capital USA" for good reason -- offering over 600 miles of old logging roads, jeep trails, paved paths, and single-track trails.

http://www.skiwinterpark.com
800-729-5813 

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