1 of 4

Write now Article Tools

Autumn of 2007 marked a lucky year for Colorado. Snow began falling in October, the Rockies made it to the World Series and Arapahoe Basin opened on October 13th. Affectionately known as A-Basin or simply "The Basin" by Summit County locals, Arapahoe Basin is often the first to open and the last to close. While closing date will vary according to snow conditions, A-Basin has been known to close as late as July 1st. This is just one of the reasons why it's a local favorite.

Although A-Basin can be reached by the free Summit Stage bus system, it is not directly on the general route. As a result, it does not get as crowded as the other Summit County resorts. Arapahoe Basin takes pride in being a ski area, not a ski resort. This means that it's not the ideal place for seekers of expensive restaurants, upscale hotels and a shop till you drop experience. On the other hand, if you're looking for great skiing at affordable prices, this no-frills ski area answers your dreams. While other ski areas boast fancy aprs ski lodges, Arapahoe Basin is famous for "The Beach, " which is located in the Early Riser Parking Lot. Come March, The Beach is the place to go for outdoor barbecues, live music and parties.

Arapahoe Basin's unique history adds to its appeal. In 1945, the Winter Sports Committee of the Denver Chamber of Commerce hired two men to explore potential sites for a new ski area: Larry A. Jump, a former member of the 10th Mountain Division and Sandy Schauffler, a member of the 1940 US Ski team. They gained credibility by asking Olympic Gold Medalist Dick Durrance to join their team. In 1946, this fortuitous union resulted in the opening of the Arapahoe Basin ski area. The first chairlifts were created from what is called military surplus "tinker toy" lifts, which were probably left over from Camp Hale, the 10th Mountain Division training camp.

This history is significant in that real skiers, as opposed to a huge corporation, created Arapahoe Basin. As such, its devotees call it the ski area that "still has its soul." You sense this the moment you drive up to Arapahoe Basin. Parking is right near the lifts. There are no exorbitant parking fees, and there is no need to take a shuttle bus to the lifts. Simply get out of your car, gear up and go. And what a place to go! With a summit elevation of 13,050 feet, and 2,257 feet of vertical, the Basin's 105 trails offer non-stop thrills for enthusiastic skiers and riders. Things are about to get even more exciting. Scheduled for the 2008 season, the 400-acre Montezuma Bowl expansion will increase A-Basin's terrain by 80 percent. The expansion includes blue, black and double black trails, totaling 36 new runs. To please the cruising crowd, some runs will be groomed nightly. Hike-back terrain will also be available for the adventurous skier or rider who wants to get a taste of backcountry skiing. If you seek an authentic skiing experience that is far from the madding crowd, consider Arapahoe Basin.

Learn more about this author, Lisa Marie Mercer.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about The elusive traveler's guide to the Arapahoe Basin ski area?
We want to hear your view. Write now!