Woodland Park seeing tourism increase; businesses booming

After three years of decline, Teller County tourism is finally looking up.

Debbie Miller, President of the Woodland Park Chamber of Commerce, says they have seen a 12% increase in people coming into the Visitor Center this year.

Miller credits the boost to the re-opening of Highway 24, which allows cars to more easily pass through the area.

Woodland Park businesses also say they are noticing the increase, and more people in their restaurants daily.

“It definitely helps us to have them able to come up the pass and not get stuck. Because if they’re worried that they’re going to get stuck or it’s flooding, people aren’t going to come up here,” said Amber Baldus, BierWerks manager.

Baldus isn’t the only business owner who’s thankful for a mild season.

“We’re busier this year, so clearly there are more people coming up the pass and coming to Woodland Park,” said Adele Faber, Joanie’s Deli manager. “It’s been a wonderful summer, it’s been a wonderful year actually for us. Business is up. Tourism is up.”

The business owners say they hope the boom continues, and they always welcome visitors.

“Welcome to Woodland Park. We’re open we’re happy to see you and we’ll be good to you,” said Faber.