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Arapahoe Basin is a skier's paradise for those intrepid mountaineers who chose to avoid the "destination" resorts of the Colorado Basin. As a skier facing the challenge of the mountain for the first time one feels at awe. The beautiful natural terrain and elevation overwhelm the senses to the point of euphoria. Once the lift drops you off at the top, you feel as if you have been transported to another world. As you descend your chosen run, stop and take a break and look to the skyline, where Loveland Pass, Grizzly Peak and Black Mountain loom large above you. The un-groomed runs of some of the best open-bowl skiing in Colorado immerse you in several feet of virgin powder. Be sure to keep your ski tips up and lean back as you travel at high speeds and carve turns into the mountain. If you're into the pace and challenge of mogul skiing, choose the famous Palavicini. It's famous with locals for a reason, for it is a long, exciting, albeit bumpy ride to the bottom for those whose skills and fitness level match their propensity for seeking thrills. A quick drop over a steep cornice places you head on into huge moguls. Make sure you chose your line before you drop in or you'll be bouncing about like a pinball. However, with over 100 trails carved into the mountainside, skiers of all different levels can enjoy a full day of skiing. Whether you chose to go to the summit and ski black diamonds or stay near the bottom and ski the blue and green slopes, you will find satisfaction without paying a heavy price ($45 for an adult per day and $22-$39 for ages 6-19).

Arapahoe Basin is not a destination resort and you don't have to put up with long lift lines full of out-of-towners and posers. As an added bonus the planned expansion of the Montezuma Bowl for the 2007-2008 season will add 80% more terrain and 36 new trails that will curry favor with the adventurous spirit of any local or avid skier who choses to go off the beaten path.

Learn more about this author, Peter Ruzzo.
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