Winter Park Resort's Special 70th Birthday Present - by Ron Owens

Congratulations Winter Park on your fabulous 70^th Birthday! May I say youve never looked better than you do today. With all your recent on-mountain improvements and your classy new base village your future looks very bright indeed; and, you dont look a day over 29! What better birthday present could you get than to have your partner for the last 70 years the Winter Park Ski Train join in your celebration? Well guess what: It is now official - the Iowa Pacific Railroad, operating under the corporate name of Rio Grande Scenic Railroad, has begun selling tickets for the ski train service to Winter Park Resort! Iowa Pacific President Ed Ellis proudly announces on the Rio Grande website: The Ski Train to Winter Park is Back! Train service will run from December 27, 2009 through March 28, 2010. Carriage cars will contain comfortable seats and large windows designed to maximize each passengers safety and viewing pleasure. A variety of ticket prices are available. They start at only $34.00 for the Early Bird special and, $44.00 for a regular fare. A ten ride pass is available for $290.00; and, a season pass is available for $600.00. A special Ride and Glide pass is only $79.00. These special ride and ski tickets must be purchased by December 24, 2009 and must be used by February 7, 2010. (Note to Santa these would make great Christmas stocking stuffers). In addition, a variety of other services from continental breakfast to aprs ski snacks are available.Plus, the ski train will have two caf lounge cars where passengers can purchase snacks and drinks (both alcohol and non-alcohol). Guest parking is available at Denver Union Station (1701 Wynkoop St.). Parking rates start at only $5.00. Trains depart the station at 7a.m. They leave Winter Park at 4:15 p.m. (thereby affording you a full day of world class skiing) and, arrive in downtown Denver at approximately 6:30 p.m. - just in time to have a wonderful dinner at one of Lodos fine restaurants. Currently, the Iowa Pacific Railroad has permission to run the Winter Park Ski Train servicefor 2009-2010 only. Whether they operate next year depends upon you and me Buying a Ticket! Please, help this wonderful and affordable family tradition continue