Arapahoe Basin

Arapahoe Basin was the first ski area to be built in Summit County. It has changed—but not a lot—since its construction in the 1940s, and most of A-Basin's dedicated skiers like it that way. It's America's highest ski area, with a base elevation of 10,780 feet and a summit of 13,050 feet. Many of the runs start above the timberline, ensuring breathtaking views (and the need for some extra breaths). Aficionados love the seemingly endless intermediate and expert terrain and the wide-open bowls that stay open into June (sometimes July). "Beachin' at the Basin" has long been one of the area's most popular summer activities. If you've got your heart set on slope-side accommodations or fine dining, look elsewhere: A-Basin has no rooms and serves only the most basic cafeteria food. You'll have to set up your base camp in nearby Keystone, Breckenridge, Frisco, or Dillon and shuttle in for the day.

Downhill Skiing & Snowboarding

What makes Arapahoe Basin delightful is also what makes it dreadful in bad weather: its elevation. Much of Arapahoe's skiing is above the tree line and when a storm moves in, you can't tell up from down.

If that sounds unpleasant, consider the other side of the coin: On sunny spring days, Arapahoe is a wonderful place because the tundra surrounded by craggy peaks is reminiscent of the Alps. Intermediate-level skiers can have a great time here on the easier trails. But A-Basin is best known for its expert challenges: the East Wall, a steep face with great powder-skiing possibilities; Pallavicini, a wide tree-lined run; and the West Wall, from which skiers of varying degrees of bravado like to launch themselves. After a long battle with the U.S. Forest Service, A-Basin won permission to install a snowmaking machine for certain trails. In 2006, the resort opened October 13, the earliest opening ever. Box 5808, 80435. 970/468-0718 or 888/272-7246. www.arapahoebasin.com. Late Oct.-mid-June or early July.

Facilities

2,270-foot vertical drop; 900 skiable acres; 10% beginner, 40% intermediate, 25% advanced, 25% expert; 1 quad, 2 triple chairs, 3 double chairs, 1 carpet.

Lessons & Programs

Contact Arapahoe Basin Central Reservations (970/468-0718) for information on regular classes and ski clinics.

Lift Tickets

$58, depending on the season. Multiday tickets can save you as much as 20%.

Rentals

Daily ski rental packages (skis, boots, and poles) start at $29, and snowboard packages at $35. Ski stores in Breckenridge, Dillon, and Frisco are even cheaper.