Arapahoe Basin
Overview
Arapahoe Basin (A-Basin) is where Colorado skiers go when they want to ski without compromise. No resort village, no fancy lodging, no amenity theater - just a parking lot, a few lifts, and some of the highest skiable terrain in North America. The Pallavicini face on the east wal...
Ski Resort
Golf Course
Highlights
- 1,428 acres
- Longest season
- High altitude
- Ranch golf
Weather & Seasons
Plan your visit to Arapahoe Basin with our seasonal guide. Best months to visit: Oct - Jun
Winter
Dec - Mar
15-30°F
Peak powder season with consistent snowfall
Spring
Apr - May
30-50°F
Spring skiing with softer snow and longer days
Summer
Jun - Aug
60-80°F
Golf season with perfect weather conditions
Fall
Sep - Nov
40-60°F
Shoulder season with early snow and fall golf
Local Weather Reality
A-Basin sits at 10,780 feet base and 13,050 summit - the highest ski area in the US. Season can run from mid-October to early July in good years.
What Locals Actually Know
Insights from someone who has spent a decade calling Arapahoe Basin home. The things the resort brochures never tell you.
Local Perspective
Arapahoe Basin (A-Basin) is where Colorado skiers go when they want to ski without compromise. No resort village, no fancy lodging, no amenity theater - just a parking lot, a few lifts, and some of the highest skiable terrain in North America. The Pallavicini face on the east wall is a double-black pitch that locals have been lapping for 70 years. A-Basin opens in October and has skied into July in good years. It is the people's mountain.
The Zuma Bowl and Montezuma Bowl areas accessed from the Lenawee lift provide the best sustained above-treeline powder skiing on the Front Range. The 6th Alley area is new and dramatically expanded A-Basin's terrain. The beach tailgate culture in the parking lot at the end of a powder day is one of Colorado's great ski traditions.
Insider Tips
- 1The Zuma Bowl holds powder for days after storms because the aspect is north-northeast.
- 2The beach (parking lot) tailgate on spring powder days is a Colorado rite of passage - bring beer and a grill.
- 3A-Basin is independent (no Ikon or Epic) - budget separately for lift tickets.
- 4Keystone Ranch Golf Course is the closest quality golf - 20 minutes down the canyon.
Local Secrets
- The Pallavicini face is accessed via a short traverse from the top of Pallavicini chair - one of the steepest groomed runs in the US when groomed, terrifying powder when not.
What to Avoid
- Avoid the parking lot in spring on weekends - it fills before 9am on powder days.
Weather Reality
A-Basin sits at 10,780 feet base and 13,050 summit - the highest ski area in the US. Season can run from mid-October to early July in good years.
Hidden Gem
The Lenawee Chair area in late May when the lower mountain is closed but the upper bowls still have 8 feet of snow - spring skiing conditions that feel like you found a secret.
Ski Like a Local
- The 6th Alley terrain requires proper powder skills - the shots are serious.
Golf Like a Local
- Keystone Ranch Golf Course 20 minutes down the canyon is among Summit County's best courses.
Where Locals Eat
Apres-Ski Picks
Local Lodging Picks
Getting There
Denver International Airport is 1.5 hours via I-70. Located at the top of Loveland Pass near the Continental Divide.
Skiing
Arapahoe Basin
Difficulty Level
Intermediate to Expert
Terrain Variety
From gentle groomed runs to challenging black diamonds and powder bowls
Snow Quality
Consistent snowfall with excellent powder conditions throughout the season
Local Ski Tips
- The 6th Alley terrain requires proper powder skills - the shots are serious.
Golf
Keystone Ranch Golf Course
Course Design
Championship layout with strategic bunkers and water features
Scenic Views
Breathtaking mountain vistas from every hole on the course
Course Condition
Meticulously maintained greens and fairways year-round
Local Golf Tips
- Keystone Ranch Golf Course 20 minutes down the canyon is among Summit County's best courses.
Gallery
Skiing
Golf
Village
Dining
What to Expect
Accommodations
Arapahoe Basin offers a wide range of lodging options from luxury resorts to cozy mountain lodges, all with convenient access to slopes and golf courses.
Dining
Experience world-class dining with mountain views, from casual après-ski spots to fine dining restaurants featuring local and international cuisine.
Shopping
Browse premium ski and golf equipment, local artisan goods, and luxury boutiques in charming village settings.
Activities
Beyond skiing and golf, enjoy snowshoeing, spa treatments, mountain biking, hiking trails, and vibrant nightlife.
Where to Stay
Arapahoe Basin offers diverse accommodation options to suit every budget and preference
Local Recommendations
Keystone Resort Lodging
The most convenient lodging for A-Basin - ski both mountains on the same trip
Luxury Resorts
$$$$ - $400-800/night
- Ski-in/ski-out access
- Full-service spa and wellness center
- Multiple on-site restaurants
- Concierge services
- Premium amenities and room service
Mountain Lodges
$$$ - $200-400/night
- Cozy alpine atmosphere
- Close proximity to slopes
- Complimentary breakfast
- Fireplaces and mountain views
- Family-friendly amenities
Condos & Rentals
$$ - $150-300/night
- Full kitchen facilities
- Multiple bedrooms for groups
- Washer and dryer
- Living space and privacy
- Cost-effective for longer stays
Booking Tips
Book Early
Reserve 3-6 months ahead for peak season (December-March) to secure best rates
Package Deals
Look for packages combining lodging with lift tickets and golf rounds for significant savings
Shoulder Season
Visit in early December or late March for lower rates and fewer crowds
Location Matters
Ski-in/ski-out properties cost more but save time and transportation expenses
Nearby Attractions & Activities
Beyond skiing and golf, Arapahoe Basin offers countless ways to enjoy your mountain getaway
Apres-Ski Picks
Local Eats
Hidden Gem
The Lenawee Chair area in late May when the lower mountain is closed but the upper bowls still have 8 feet of snow - spring skiing conditions that feel like you found a secret.
Village Shopping
Browse boutique shops, ski equipment stores, and local artisan galleries in the charming mountain village.
Fine Dining
Experience world-class cuisine from casual mountain bistros to award-winning restaurants.
Spa & Wellness
Relax and rejuvenate at luxury spas offering massages, hot tubs, and wellness treatments.
Mountain Biking
Explore extensive trail networks for all skill levels during summer months.
Hiking Trails
Discover scenic hiking trails with breathtaking views and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Nightlife & Events
Enjoy après-ski entertainment, live music venues, and seasonal festivals throughout the year.
Wellness & Relaxation
Unwind after a day on the slopes
Apres-Ski & Nightlife
Experience the vibrant mountain culture
Travel Tips & Planning
Everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip to Arapahoe Basin
Getting There
Denver International Airport is 1.5 hours via I-70. Located at the top of Loveland Pass near the Continental Divide.
Best Time to Book
Book accommodations 3-6 months in advance for peak season. Early booking ensures better rates and availability.
What to Pack
Layer clothing for varying temperatures. Bring ski gear or rent on-site. Golf clubs can be rented at the course.
Budget Planning
Lift tickets range from $80-200/day. Golf rounds $100-300. Budget $150-400/night for lodging depending on season.
Dining Options
From casual mountain cafes to fine dining restaurants. Reservations recommended for upscale venues during peak season.
Safety & Insurance
Purchase travel insurance covering skiing accidents. Check weather conditions daily and follow resort safety guidelines.
Local Planning Tips
The Zuma Bowl holds powder for days after storms because the aspect is north-northeast.
The beach (parking lot) tailgate on spring powder days is a Colorado rite of passage - bring beer and a grill.
A-Basin is independent (no Ikon or Epic) - budget separately for lift tickets.
Keystone Ranch Golf Course is the closest quality golf - 20 minutes down the canyon.