Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding

Loveland Ski Area. Because of its proximity to Denver (an hour's drive), lack of resort facilities and hotels, and few high-speed lifts, Loveland Ski Area is often overlooked by out-of-staters, but that's just the way locals like it. Loveland has some of the highest runs in Colorado spread across a respectable 1,800 acres serviced by 12 lifts. It's split between Loveland Valley, a good place for beginners, and Loveland Basin, a good bet for everyone else. Loveland Basin has excellent glade and open-bowl skiing and snowboarding, especially on the 2,210-foot vertical drop. Best of all, it opens early and usually stays open later than any other ski area except Arapahoe Basin. Facilities: 94 trails; 1,800 acres; 2,210-foot vertical drop; 12 lifts. Georgetown, Colorado, 80444. 303/571–5580; 800/736–3754; www.skiloveland.com. Lift ticket $89. Mid-Oct.–May, weekdays 9–4, weekends 8:30–4.

Lessons and Programs

Loveland Ski School. This ski school offers 2½-hour group "Newcomer Packages" beginning at 10 am and 1 pm for $140 including all rental gear and an all-day lift ticket. Advanced half-day lessons (a maximum of four people per group) are $140 or $155 with rental gear. Georgetown, Colorado, 80444. 303/571–5580; www.skiloveland.com.

Rentals

Loveland Rental Shop. Loveland Rentals has two on-mountain locations, at the basin next to the Sport Shop and in the valley next to the restaurant. You can purchase sport packages for $45, and performance packages for $55. Snowboard packages start at $45; helmets run $12. Georgetown, Colorado. 303/571–5580 ext. 113; 303/571--5580 ext. 155; www.skiloveland.com.