Fraser’s small but growing mountain community
Fraser, Colorado, long called itself the “Ice Box of the Nation” due to being one of the most frigid towns in the contiguous United States. This small but growing community otherwise enjoys views of the mountain range and proximity to the Winter Park Resort’s ski slopes. In addition to its year-round activities, the town has a small art scene and several cafes, restaurants and breweries. “I don’t think I can live anywhere else. The community is very nice. There are great mountain bike trails and just about everything you want,” says Jack Castellion, the owner of Grand Adventure Balloon Tours. “And we’re really close to the ski area. I moved here to ski. They say the winters get us here, and the summers keep us here.”
Contemporary homes in the hills
The town has contemporary and mountain contemporary homes, some of which are nestled among the pine trees in the hills. These homes commonly feature upper decks and wood clapboard and log siding. Homes under 2,000 square feet run roughly between $700,000 and $1 million. The larger and more upscale options pass $1 million and reach up to $5 million. Many townhouses go from about $600,000 to $900,000, while larger units may hit $1.5 million. The town also has condos ranging from about $310,000 to $1.2 million.
Although International Falls, Minnesota, legally claims the Ice Box title, Fraser is still among the few places in the mainland United States with a subarctic climate. “I’m a mile down the road from Fraser, and it can be 20 degrees warmer at my place in the morning than it is down in Fraser,” says Castellion, who adds the area typically gets more than 200 inches of snow a year.
Espresso, breakfast and craft beers along Zerex
The town’s eateries line Zerex Street, where a few buildings are adorned with murals showing a moose, bear and lumberjack. Cafes include the Simple Coffee Co., popular for its espressos and pastries. Sharky’s Eatery offers classic American breakfasts and comfort foods. Fuego Azteca Mexican Restaurant & Cantina serves Hispanic cuisine in a yellow building with a Day of the Dead-themed mural. Craft beer fans may choose between the Fraser River Beer Company and the Camber Brewing Company. The two breweries are down the road from Fraser Valley Distilling and its craft cocktails. Safeway offers the nearest grocery store.
Hikes, Winter Park skiing and stopping by fishing ponds
Located 5 miles from Fraser, the Winter Park Resort’s skiing terrain accommodates all levels. Several hiking trails around town lead to views of the mountains and the pine and aspen forests. Anglers enjoy fishing the ponds off Zerex Street, while the seasonal Fraser Tubing Hill is a winter destination. The Grand Park Community Recreation Center provides indoor activities, and its amenities include a gymnastics facility, basketball gym and aquatic center. Grand Adventure Balloon Tours offers sweeping views of the region to its riders. “It’s just a beautiful place. I’ve flown all over the country, and this is my favorite place to fly,” Castellion says. “I’ve flown in probably 30 states and all over Colorado. This valley just provides great flights consistently, and the views are awesome. You can see into Rocky Mountain National Park.”
Fraser Valley Elementary’s strong rating
The community’s school is Fraser Valley Elementary, which gets a B-plus from Niche. The other public schools serving the area are East Grand Middle School and Middle Park High School, both located in the Grand County town of Granby. East Grand gets a B-plus from Niche, while Middle Park gets a B. Middle Park’s athletic program includes Nordic and Alpine skiing teams, which made top five finishes in their 2025 state tournaments.
Frasier Fire & Ice’s winter art
The town’s famously frigid weather and snow allow for popular activities like the annual Fraser Fire & Ice. Each February, many flock to the Lions Club Ponds area to see a variety of ice and snow sculptures, gather around a bonfire and watch fireworks. Over the years, the event has featured pieces like a snow chipmunk and ice boxes illuminated with flames.
Amtrak stop and new Middle Park Health hospital
Amtrak’s California Zephyr train stops near the Fraser Town Hall. The free Lift bus system also has some stops in town. Zerex Street becomes U.S. Highway 40, which travelers use to drive to Denver. Fraser is about 70 miles west of downtown Denver. The Mile High City is home to the Denver International Airport, the region’s hub for commercial flights. The Middle Park Health - Granby Campus is the nearest hospital, but the system plans to open a medical facility in Fraser in 2025.
