Through the Tunnel and Over the Divide

On Friday morning we packed up the car and hit the road. We made a quick stop at Keystone to take some pictures, and then headed to Berthoud Pass.

Berthoud Pass is the U.S. 40 route that traverses and climbs the continental divide. The pass is the quickest way to the Fraser Valley, where Winter Park lays. It is also known as a popular backcountry ski destination because of its awesome snow, steep terrain and easy access for skiers to shuttle back up to the top. The road up the continental divide is steep, scenic, beautiful, and full of switchbacks. With the Autumn colors in full bloom, you can only imagine how gorgeous the drive was. Fortunately for you, I'm a "leafer" and took tons of pictures for you to feast your eyes upon.


At the bottom of the pass is the base of Winter Park, and laying less than a mile away, its sleepy little town. Kevin and I were famished when we arrived and quickly found ourselves eying Deno's, the restaurant next to our hotel. Deno's offers personal sized 12" gourmet pizzas, a variety of pastas, sandwiches, and delicious entrees. We quicky munched down our food, enjoyed our table next to the warm fireplace, and then headed back to the hotel to watch the presidential debates.


On Saturday, we grabbed some breakfast at Sharky's and began to introduce ourselves to every restaurant in town. Sharky's offers an amazing breakfast, very friendly staff, and a small town local vibe. We continued our day working hard and hunting down the 30+ restaurants in the Valley. Kevin and I instantly noticed that every person we met in Winter Park was more than generous with their time, their smiles, and their warmth. I have to say that this is the friendliest place on earth and if you are looking for mellow ski-get-a-way, look no further than the Fraser Valley!

After making friends with everyone we met, we were ready for dinner! We drove by a place called Hernando's, and noticed that the whole town was parked in front of the place. Obviously we couldn't resist investigating this popular hot spot. Hernando's is a very cool and family friendly Italian joint with over $20,000 in dollar bills wallpapering it's interior. That's right - everywhere you look there is a wall, ceiling, or column covered with taped on dollar bills! Not only that, but their Lasagna is fantastic. Just the right size, cheesy, and covered with the perfect sauce.

In the morning, we were told by a few locals to check out The Mountain Rose for breakfast. I can't speak highly enough about this place! The menu boasted unique breakfast choices, tons of vegetarian friendly items, and an enormous amount of healthy and generously portioned entrees. Kevin ordered the He-man Mountain Pie (from the Mountain side of the menu), and I tried the Venetian Goddess Frittata (from the Rose side of the menu). I only wish that there was a breakfast place like this in Park City, or anywhere within 50 miles of it! After happily devouring our breakfast and chatting with our incredibly awesome and friendly waitress, we got back on the road and pointed the Subi towards Steamboat Springs.

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