Complete Guide to Skiing in Arapahoe Basin

Arapahoe Basin is a popular ski resort located in Colorado, known for its stunning mountain views and excellent skiing conditions. The resort boasts a wide range of ski runs, from beginner to expert, making it a great destination for skiers of all levels. The resort is also known for its long ski season, which typically runs from October to June, thanks to its high elevation and ample snowfall.

One of the things that set Arapahoe Basin apart from other ski resorts is its laid-back, friendly atmosphere. The resort is known for its welcoming community of skiers and snowboarders who come worldwide to enjoy the slopes and the stunning mountain scenery. In addition to skiing, the resort offers a variety of other winter activities, including snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and ice skating.


Overall, Arapahoe Basin is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a world-class ski experience in a beautiful mountain setting. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner, you’re sure to find something to love at this popular Colorado ski resort.

Location and Access

Arapahoe Basin is located in Summit County, Colorado, USA. It is accessible by car via US Highway 6 or by shuttle bus from nearby towns such as Keystone, Breckenridge, and Frisco.

  • Drive time from the nearest airport (Denver International Airport): approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes
  • Public transport links from the nearest city (Denver): there are several shuttle services available from Denver to Arapahoe Basin, with a travel time of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes
  • Drive time from the second closest airport (Eagle County Regional Airport): approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes

About the Skiing

Arapahoe Basin is one of the lesser-known Colorado ski resorts. The terrain here is varied, with a mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs. The views from the top of the mountain are breathtaking, with panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Some of the skiing highlights at Arapahoe Basin include:

  • The Beavers: This area of the mountain features some of the steepest and most challenging terrain at Arapahoe Basin.
  • Montezuma Bowl: This expansive bowl offers a variety of runs for intermediate and advanced skiers and snowboarders.
  • The East Wall: This area of the mountain is only accessible by hiking, but the views and the challenging terrain make it worth the effort.
  • The Pali Lift: This lift provides access to some of the steepest runs at Arapahoe Basin, including the infamous Pali Face.

Overall, Arapahoe Basin is a great destination for skiers and snowboarders of all levels, with a variety of terrain and stunning views.

Arapahoe Basin by numbers

  • Heights point: 13,050 feet / 3,978 meters
  • Resort level height: 10,780 feet / 3,286 meters
  • Vert distance: 2,270 feet / 692 meters
  • Total number of ski trails: 145
  • Combined distance of ski trails: 1,428 acres
  • Percentage of beginner trails: 7%
  • Percentage of intermediate trails: 20%
  • Percentage of expert trails: 73%

Lift tickets

At Arapahoe Basin, the lift ticket options and prices for a single day are as follows:

– Adult (ages 19-69): $99
– Youth (ages 15-18): $89
– Child (ages 6-14): $59
– Senior (ages 70+): $89

Please note that prices may vary depending on the day of the week and the time of the season. It’s always best to check the resort’s website or call ahead to confirm current pricing.

Accommodations

Arapahoe Basin offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors, including on-site lodging at the A-Basin Lodge and Mountain Goat Lodge, as well as nearby hotels, condos, and vacation rentals in the surrounding towns of Keystone, Dillon, and Silverthorne. Visitors can also choose to camp at the nearby Dillon Reservoir or in the Arapaho National Forest.

Cost

Arapahoe Basin is generally considered to be one of the more affordable ski resorts in the area, with lift ticket prices and other costs typically lower than many of the larger, more well-known resorts nearby. However, prices can vary depending on the time of year and other factors, so it’s always a good idea to compare prices and options before making a decision.

Dining and Après-Ski

Arapahoe Basin offers a variety of dining options for skiers and snowboarders. The main dining option is the Black Mountain Lodge, which is located at the top of the mountain and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The lodge serves a variety of food, including burgers, sandwiches, soups, and salads. There is also a full bar at the lodge, which serves beer, wine, and cocktails.

For those looking for a quick bite, there are several cafes located throughout the resort. The Legends Cafe in the A-Frame Lodge serves breakfast, lunch, and snacks. The 6th Alley Bar & Grill, located in the base area, serves burgers, sandwiches, and other pub fare.

After a day on the slopes, several apres ski options are available. The 6th Alley Bar & Grill is a popular spot for skiers and snowboarders to gather and enjoy a drink or two. The bar often has live music and other events throughout the season. The Black Mountain Lodge also offers apres ski options, including a happy hour with discounted drinks and appetizers.

1. Black Mountain Lodge: This mountaintop restaurant offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and serves up delicious American cuisine, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads.

2. 6th Alley Bar & Grill: Located at the base of the mountain, this casual spot is perfect for après-ski drinks and hearty pub fare, such as wings, nachos, and burgers.

3. Il Rifugio at Snowplume: This Italian-inspired restaurant is located at the top of the Beavers lift and offers panoramic views of the Continental Divide. The menu features classic dishes like pasta, pizza, and antipasti.

4. Legends Cafe: This cafeteria-style eatery in the A-Frame lodge serves quick and easy options like soups, sandwiches, and salads.

5. The Perch: This cozy spot is located at the summit of the mountain and offers grab-and-go options like coffee, pastries, and sandwiches. It’s the perfect place to take a break and enjoy the views.

Other Activities

  • In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Arapahoe Basin also offers snowshoeing, snowcat tours, and other winter activities.
  • During the summer, the resort offers hiking and mountain biking trails and scenic chairlift rides.

Planning Your Trip

Arapahoe Basin is a ski resort located in Summit County, Colorado. It is known for its high elevation and long ski season, often staying open until June or early July.

Here are some tips for planning a ski trip to Arapahoe Basin:

  1. Check the weather and snow conditions before your trip to ensure you’re prepared for the terrain and weather conditions.
  2. Purchase lift tickets in advance to save money and avoid long lines at the ticket window.
  3. Consider renting a car or taking a shuttle to the resort, as public transportation options can be limited.
  4. Bring appropriate clothing and gear for the weather conditions, including layers and waterproof outerwear.
  5. Take advantage of the resort’s ski school program if you’re a beginner or intermediate skier.
  6. Plan for non-skiing activities in the nearby area, such as snowmobiling or snowshoeing, to make the most of your time in the mountains.
  7. Research dining options in advance to find the best deals and avoid peak meal times.
  8. Look into lodging options in nearby towns, such as Dillon or Silverthorne, as they may offer more affordable options than staying at the resort itself.
  9. Consider visiting Arapahoe Basin during the week, as weekends can be more crowded and lift lines longer.
  10. Take advantage of season passes and other discounts to save money on lift tickets and other activities.

Wrapping up

Wrapping up, if you are considering a ski trip to Arapahoe Basin, you won’t be disappointed. This ski resort offers a unique experience with its high elevation and long ski season. With over 1,400 acres of skiable terrain, there is something for every level of skier or snowboarder. The resort’s laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff make for a welcoming environment. The on-mountain dining options are top-notch, and the après-ski scene is lively. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner, Arapahoe Basin is a must-visit destination for any ski enthusiast. So pack your bags, hit the slopes, and enjoy all this incredible ski resort offers.

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