Amtrak Fraser-Winter Park Station

Frasier Park was another quick fresh air break on the California Zephyr, or a smoke break for those inclined. The station is basic, but the views are the real draw. This is the main stop for anyone wishing to travel on Amtrak in the region and is a fun way to avoid the highways and enjoy your trip.

Cant say much about the train station. This is just a spot for me on the way up to Glenwood to get off the train and stretch my legs before boarding again. The view is beautiful.

It was on my bucket list to travel by train from Fraser to Union Station in 2015. I recently moved to Fraser last summer and I drive to Downtown Denver once of twice a month. Instead of driving I wanted to take the train and see where it goes. It seemed like another great way to see and travel in Colorado. The Amtrak train travels everyday from Fraser at 3:50pm and arrives in Denver at 6:38pm and only costs $ 23 if you book early and get the value fare. I used my AAA card and my fare was only $ 20. You will need to book in advance as there isn’t anyone in the train office and it can sell out. There is a covered platform and it is cold — Fraser is known as the «Icebox of the Nation» Make sure you have a coat– I did not. It was freezing. The train was on time however with everyone’s ski’s it takes awhile to board as they have to scan your e tickets before you board and give you a seat.
I boarded the train and was surprised at how spacious and roomy the seats are. After everyone was settled and we went through the historic Moffat tunnel I went straight to the lounge car for a glass of wine. The large windows were impressive however this is where everyone wants to hang out. I found a seat near another girl reading a book and couldn’t take my eyes off the mountain scenery out the window. I settled in with my glass of wine and tried to read when I wasn’t admiring the views. I thought to myself, now this is the way to travel to Denver. It takes longer than driving but you can’t sip wine, read a book or really enjoy the views when driving so this is a great option to get Downtown. You avoid the I-​70 ski traffic too. The only downside is the schedule– it’s a 3:50 departure every day to Denver from Fraser. The Denver route to Fraser– is 8:05am — I am so not a morning person after partying in the city. If the schedule works for you I highly recommend this leisurely way to get to the city. Keep in mind for ski vacations once you arrive in Fraser you will need transportation to Winter Park– you can check the local bus schedule on stops but hiring Valley Taxi might be the best.
I am now a fan of the train and I am looking forward to taking it again when I want a little bit of city life. My husband works in the city sometimes– he can drive down in the morning from Fraser and I can take the train to meet him after work– then he can drive me back the next day. This was a really cool experience and I was happy to check off another item from the 2015 bucket list.