Arapahoe Basin

Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding

Arapahoe Basin. 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. 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 and Programs

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

Lift Tickets

$65, 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.