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 hike-to terrain; 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 snowmaking machines that supplement about 125 of the skiable acres. Daily snowboard and ski-rental packages (skis, boots, and poles) start at $45. Ski stores in Breckenridge, Dillon, and Frisco are even cheaper. Facilities: 145 trails; 1,428 acres; 2,530-foot vertical drop; 9 lifts. 28194 U.S. 6, Keystone, Colorado, 80435. 970/468–0718; 888/272–7246; www.arapahoebasin.com. Lift ticket from $99. Late Oct.–mid-June or early July.

Lessons and Programs

Arapahoe Basin Snowsports. Regular classes and ski clinics, including telemark skiing, snowboarding, alpine skiing, and private lessons for all ages, are available throughout the winter. Colorado. 970/468–0718; www.arapahoebasin.com/lessons-rentals/snowsports.