Media Contact: Gaylene Ore Ore Communications (970) 887-2536 e-mail:  gaylene@orecommunications.com     WINTER PARK, COLORADO Elev. 9110 Ft. Pop. 662   History:  The Winter Park/Fraser Valley area was settled in the 1880’s as a ranching, farming and lumber hub.  Completion of the Moffat Tunnel in 1937 made rail travel to Winter Park easier and faster, especially for sports enthusiasts interested in the newly-popular sport of skiing.  The Winter Park Resort was opened in 1940 with three runs and two jumps, and the area’s future was forever tied to outdoor recreation.    What to Do: Winter or summer, recreation is still paramount.  Today’s Winter Park Resort boasts 134 trails served by 21 lifts spread over 5 mountains, with many more backcountry acres available for alpine, snowboard, nordic or snowshoe adventures.  During the summer, the resort’s slopes become part of the 600 miles of multiuse trails favored by hikers and bikers.  For the rest of us, there’s golf, music festivals, arts and craft fairs, and more.   Lodging:  Lodgings are available to fit any budget, from rustic tent campsites to inexpensive motels and condos to upscale lodges and inns.    Events:  Dec. 24:  Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade and Fireworks Dec. 31:  New Years Eve Torchlight Parade and Fireworks JunePole Creek Classic Golf Tournament June:  American Red Cross Fat Tire Classic July:  Alpine Art Affair July: JVC Jazz Festical July: KBCO World Class Rockfest July: 103.5 The Fox Hawgfest August: Rocky Mountain Wine, Beer and Food Festival August: Parade of Homes     Fun Facts: ·        Byers Peak Ranch near Fraser was once known as the 'Western White House'.  President Eisenhower, President Hoover and other dignitaries visited the ranch to fly-fish and relax, Colorado-style. ·        Winter Park Resort is the birthplace of the first snow grooming machine, the 'Bradley Packer,' that revolutionized the ski industry in the 1950's.    For information about other Grand County destinations, contact the Grand County Colorado Tourism Board at www.grand-county.com, or call toll free (800)729-5821.