Colorado is known all over the world for its beautiful mountains and premiere skiing destinations. Denver, the capital and largest city of Colorado, lies at the base of the Rocky mountains and is within easy driving distance of several ski resorts. Although some of Colorado's best known resorts, such as Vail and Aspen, are further away from Denver, the resorts closest to the city still provide excellent opportunities to ski and snowboard.
Located just 67 miles west of Denver, Winter Park is among the closest ski resorts to Denver. Ski season at Winter Park typically runs from mid-November until mid-April. The resort has five main mountain slopes; the largest one, Mary Jane, has a vertical drop of 2,610 and a run length of 4.5 miles. The resort also features a mountain village with winter sports and apparel shops. Several restaurants specialize in different types of cuisine including Mexican, Italian, and American.
Winter Park Resort
239 Winter Park Drive
Winter Park, CO 80482
303-316-1546
www.skiwinterpark.com
Loveland is the closest ski resort to Denver, Colorado. According to the resort's official website, the resort is a mere 53 miles from Denver. For the 2009/2010 season. Loveland was the first ski area to open in the country. With approximately 400 inches of snow each year, slopes at Loveland can remain open from October through May. The mountain has a vertical drop of 2,210 feet, although the longest run is only two miles. Eating options at the resort are fairly limited. Cafeterias and a deli serve soup, sandwiches, pasta, and Mexican food.
Loveland Ski Area
Exit 216 Interstate 70
Georgetown, CO 80444
303-569-3203
www.skiloveland.com
Over 400,000 skiers visit Arapahoe Basin every year. The ski slopes at this resort receive about 350 inches of snow a year and there are over 100 different trails to choose from. Most of the trails are on the same mountain, which is 13,050 feet in elevation. Trails run down both the back and front sides of the mountain. In addition to downhill slopes, Arapahoe also has terrain parks with snowboarding half pipes. The resort's dining options include a sit down restaurant in addition to a café, coffee shop and bar.
Arapahoe Basin Ski Area
28194 US Hwy 6
Keystone, CO 80435
970-468-0718
www.arapahoebasin.com
