Tag: Ski Colorado

Colorado Real Estate News

Ski Towns to Visit in Colorado This Winter

by Marketing

The snow has finally come down in Colorado which means ski season is back! If you’re itching to head to the mountains and hit the slopes, here are some of the best spots to ski and snowboard in Colorado this winter. And if skiing and boarding aren’t your thing, the resorts and nearby towns in the area have plenty of other winter activities and atmospheres to offer for those who are sitting this season out but want to be part of the crowd.

Keystone

Only a 45-minute drive from Denver lies Keystone, a ski resort hosting three mountain peaks that covers roughly 3,148 skiable acres. Known for its winter activities, Keystone provides access to skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing and snowmobile tours. Whether you are a beginner on the slopes or an expert looking for treacherous terrain, Keystone welcomes all.

Winter Park

Winter Park is the fourth largest ski resort in all of Colorado with a vertical drop of over 3000 feet. This resort prides itself on one of its three peaks, Mary Jane Mountain. This specific mountain is famous for its natural bumps and world-class tree riding. So if you are looking to find some tree lines this winter, Winter Park is the place to be starting on opening day, November 16th. Winter Park is also well known for its restaurants and shops so there are plenty of options for families.

 Loveland

As one of the highest elevated ski resorts in North America with a summit at just over 13,000 feet, Loveland averages over 400 inches of snowfall a year making it known for some of the best skiing in Colorado. Unlike other Colorado ski resorts, Loveland is made up of two distinct bases; Loveland Valley provides for beginners and Loveland Basin is recognized for its expert terrain. Having opened on Nov 3rd, Loveland awaits skiers and riders of all skill sets to join them on the mountains. If you’re taking the day off, head to the nearby breweries and restaurants in town that will be sure to keep you company until your friend or loved ones get off the slope.

Arapahoe Basin

Commonly called “The Legend” by locals because it attracts so many expert skiers, Arapahoe Basin hosts one of Colorado’s longest and steepest runs, Pallavicini. Overall, the terrain is rated 7% beginner, 20% intermediate, 49% advanced and 24% expert. If you find yourself craving a little extra adrenaline during your ride, or think you’re skilled enough to step up your game, Arapahoe Basin is where you need to be.

Non Skiers should probably sit this one out as there’s not a whole lot around the area to do if you’re waiting on someone to finish their run.

Breckenridge

Home to the highest elevated chairlift in North America, Breckenridge bounds a staggering five peaks to ski or ride. Along with its massive ski area, Breckenridge is also known for its luxury resorts, stunning mountain views, and exceptional Breckenridge Bowl. Welcoming skiers and riders of all types, Breckenridge invites you to join them on their opening day, November 12th. Have a beer or enjoy the food at The Overlook. Located atop Peak 9, The Overlook is easily accessible from either the Beaver Run SuperChair or the Mercury SuperChair and has a stellar view of the mountains.

From green to double black diamond runs, there’s a slope and ski resort for everyone in Colorado. These are our season’s top picks; visit as many as possible to find fresh snow and your relaxing resort this winter!

*Updated November 7, 2022

Colorado Real Estate News

Top Five Ski Resorts for Your Winter Escape

by Marketing

Vail, Colorado
Are you looking for a luxury skiing experience? As the largest ski area in Colorado, Vail is the perfect destination for an elegant getaway. According to the American Ski Index, this Colorado ski town is ranked number two in the country, and it is right at our fingertips! The seven back bowls and 767,716 feet of runs will keep you occupied all winter season! The ski town of 5,500 residents is inspired by Austrian villages and keeps visitors coming back for more. Don’t forget to check out Lionhead Village and Vail Town Center to be charmed by the fine-dining and shopping experiences! 

Aspen, Colorado
There is a reason The Kardashian’s and Jeff Bezos frequently visit here! While Aspen may attract shopaholics as much as the skiers, this enchanting town provides entertainment both on and off the mountain. Aspen contains four different mountains: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk and Snowmass. With distinct personalities, these mountains will feel like you’re skiing four resorts for the price of one. 

Breckenridge, Colorado
Looking for a challenge? Breckenridge’s Imperial Express SuperChair on Peak 8 is the highest lift in North America! With a widely spread terrain loaded with greens, blue and diamonds, Breckenridge provides unparalleled skiing opportunities for every level. Many individuals describe the town as relaxed yet vibrant, providing the opportunity to live luxuriously or affordably. And don’t forget to check out the iconic 2021 Ullr Fest held every year to celebrate the history of Breckenridge!

Telluride, Colorado
If you are looking for an easier terrain to refine your skills, Telluride is the place! With nearly 60% of terrain beginner and intermediate-friendly, this resort is ideal for kids or first-time skiers! Telluride is slightly off the grid compared to other resorts, making this remote town truly special. Whether it’s winter, summer or spring, Telluride can provide you with action-packed activities all year round! 

Winter Park, Colorado
If you are looking for a quick cure to ski jitters, Winter Park is the place to go. As the closest ski resort to Denver, Winter Park provides a one-day skiing adventure for you and your family or roommates. The accessible, relaxed and quaint village of Winter Park is the ideal day trip destination for all the beginner, intermediate and advanced shredders out there!

Colorado Real Estate News

Best Colorado Companies/Shops for Ski Gear

by Marketing
photo of snowboards and skis

Ski season has begun at Colorado resorts, and COVID-19 is not stopping Coloradans from bundling up and hitting the slopes! Since skiing and snowboarding were unfortunately cut short last spring, people are eager to get back into their favorite winter sport, and maybe even buy some new gear. Let us guide you through a few of our favorite options for buying new ski and snowboard equipment in Colorado, so you can shred the mountains with style this winter!

ONLINE: Backcountry
One of the most reliable online companies for new ski supplies is Backcountry. Their easy-to-navigate site makes for a fun experience searching through all of their awesome gear for the best deals! Backcountry offers a variety of categories, so whether you’re into cross country, alpine, park skiing or snowboarding, Backcountry has it all. Plus, they are always advertising new sales on winter apparel, so you can find items like jackets and pants for up to 40% off retail price!

COLORADO CHAIN: Epic Mountain Gear
Another great store for all your shredding needs is Epic Mountain Gear. They have an online site as well as stores ALL OVER Colorado, so you can visit and browse, try different options and find what works best for you! Epic Mountain Gear is great for beginner skiers who could use the guidance of experienced employees to walk you through trying on equipment, determining the best fit, and making sure you have everything you need to set off for the mountain. They also have an excellent rental program if you’re just visiting or only hit the slopes a few times a year!

SHOP LOCAL: AMR Ski Shop
If you want to shop smaller or find local shops by the mountains, you need to check out AMR Ski Shop in Breckenridge, CO. AMR focuses on selling prime ski gear to give you the best experience possible. They stick to American and European products, which are known to be the most reliable products in the industry. They also have special deals on Thursdays as well as pre-made ski equipment packages so you can go in with nothing and come out looking like a pro! AMR values the skiing community of Breckenridge, so you can visit them for the true experience of a mountain town local.

PREOWNED: Outabounds Ski and Boards
If you’re looking for affordable and upcycled equipment, Outabounds is the store for you. Outabounds features new ski and board hardware as well as lightly used items that are up to 80% off the retail price! They are a family-owned business out of Centennial, CO, and take pride in catering to all skiers, from beginners to experts as well as skiing families. Lightly used skis and boots like the ones sold at Outabounds are perfect for new skiers who need help finding the right fit or experienced skiers who want to try out some new styles before committing to a new purchase.  If you’re looking for new supplies gear this winter, Colorado has no shortage of options! You can stay at home and shop online, visit one of the many recreational chains throughout the state, shop local and have an authentic mountain town experience, and you can even shop for lightly used materials! The opportunities are endless, and no matter what you choose, get some equipment, get out to the mountains, and enjoy another great season on the slopes!

Colorado Real Estate News

10 of Colorado’s Hardest Ski Runs

by Kentwood Marketing

Colorado's Hardest Ski RunsColorado’s ski resorts are brimming with awesome terrain for any level of skier. But for those powder-hounds who are craving something more challenging than your average run, you have to search a bit harder if you want to get the goods. If you’re looking to shred some spine tingling, heart stopping lines this season, then these ten trails might just have what you’re looking for!

As a reminder – these trails are for experienced skiers! Know and respect your limits.

Rambo – Crested Butte

There is expert terrain. There is double black diamond terrain. And then there is Rambo. Rambo is the steepest lift-serviced, cut run in North America. While most notorious steep runs flatten out after the first few turns, Rambo maintains a pitch of 55 degrees from top to bottom. In fact, the run is so vertical that snow tends to roll downhill, leaving the top a bit rocky. Your ski tips will dangle over the edge and you’ll need to be fully committed to every turn. The entire run is a no-fall zone. Thankfully the Rambo is just 300 meters long.

Dihedral Zone – Telluride

There is no doubt that Telluride is home to some of the best hike-to terrain in the world. It’s also known for its box canyon vistas, Chair 9 bumps, and steep piste. Dihedral Chute, and the adjacent Dihedral Face, are in the Black Iron Bowl. Which is a signature area for in-bounds powder skiing where skiers can enjoy 1000 vertical feet in a number of couliors. Dihedral Chute offers classic San Juan extreme skiing terrain if you’re willing to hike the 15 – 20 minutes it takes to get there. This run is steep and rocky but provides opportunities to catch some air or to play it safe. And Dihedral Face has a north eastern aspect that keeps the snow at high quality.

The Six Senses – Breckenridge

Breckenridge is home to the highest chairlift in North American sitting at 12,998 feet above sea level. The Lake Chutes on Peak 9 and the majority of Peak 6 provide skiers with some more technical, extreme terrain. The Six Senses is an above-tree line area of hike-to terrain between Peak 6 and 7, but the trudge is well worth it. It’s a wide-open face with lots of cliffs and chutes where skiers careen through narrow gulches and around rocky outcroppings. The Six Senses offers a lot of variation allowing skiers to create the own adventure on the way down.

The Steep Gullies – Arapahoe Basin

A-Basin is home to some of the steepest terrain in Central Colorado. In the 2017/18 season they opened the Steep Gullies as part of their back country. These new steeps will be the most challenging skiing on the mountain. These steep, narrow chutes vary in pitch and width, and are rated double-black. A smattering of trees and boulders, and a lack of options put the Steep Gullies on the edge of reason. It’s also designated as “hike back” meaning you’ll need to hike 15 – 30 minutes back to the Pali chair after your run. The Steep Gullies are an expert skier’s dream. The kind of run you could ski every day, if you’re up for the challenge.

Prima Cornice – Vail

While Vail’s Back Bowls steal most of the attention on the mountain, some of the best expert terrain lives on the front side. There are cliffs, cornices, moguls, and varied terrain features scattered all over. Of those, the Prima Cornice is arguably the most challenging and steepest run on the mountain and should top the list of most-ski runs. The ridge-line provides a short vertical slope that can be a thrilling place for advanced skiers to score some deep powder.

Body Bag Glades – Crested Butte

The name, Body Bag, should really tell you everything you need to know about this run. But for those of you with morbid curiosity, Body Bag Glades drop 275 feet at 55 degrees. From the top, you can only see a horizon line, where the slope drops out of sight. There is no easy way down. And be sure you can stick the landing when you drop the mandatory 10-foot air at the bottom. It’s part of the resort’s “Extreme Limits” terrain that rightfully should be considered out-of-bounds, but this is Crested Butte.

Wild Child – Loveland

From I-70, Loveland’s terrain can appear tame. But don’t let that vantage point fool you. Loveland boasts a decent serving of extreme terrain hidden off Chair 9, which tops out on the Continental Divide at 12,700 feet. Wild Child surpasses 50 degrees and will give any sane person butterflies while perched on top of the mega-cornice that forms above the right side. Wild Child requires about a 10 minutes hike, which usually deters the masses, so the snow stays soft longer. This run is short and sweet, mellowing as it descends.

Senior’s – Telluride

Senior’s is big mountain terrain like you rarely find inbound in Colorado, and it’s not for the faint of heart. This hair-raising couloir drops off the summit of Telluride’s high point, 13,320-foot Palmyra Peak. The hike to get there is two hours up a boot pack that can feel precariously steep. Once you reach the top, the only way down is through a shoot wedged between two rocks on a slope measuring 52 degrees.

The Heathen – Sunlight Mountain

When thinking about Colorado’s extreme ski terrain, humble Sunlight Mountain isn’t often top of mind. But don’t brush it off until you’ve managed to tame this 52 degree slope off Sunlight’s East Ridge. The first 100 yards start off at a gentle decline. But after that, you’ll either need to commit to your turns or take a tumble. The Heathen is also known as a secret stash among locals.

High Life – Crested Butte

High life is considered by many to be one of the most intimidating and extreme inbound zones in the state. It’s located off the North Face Lift with a mandatory hike along a ridge marked with 150-foot cliffs and aggressive lines. When you reach the entrance, the views may leave you wondering what in the world you were thinking. You’ll be forced to choose an entry point. The first entry requires some stealthy moves through the cliff band. The second requires a side step down to a 100-foot cliff, with no clear path through until you reach the absolute edge of the cliff. Even the easiest option requires an extremely awkward mandatory air, with no option of turning around once you’re there.

 

Colorado Real Estate News

Colorado Ski Resort Opening Dates 2017

by Kentwood Marketing

Only a month into Fall and we already have one ski resort open here in Colorado, with a second opening coming up shortly. With this season gearing up to be one for the books, it’s time to start thinking about waxing your skis or snowboard in preparation for some serious pow!

Arapahoe Basin

Opening Date: October 13th

Founded by five pioneers of skiing, Arapahoe Basin Ski Area opened in December of 1946 with one tow rope and a $1.25 lift ticket. Since then, Arapahoe Basin has undergone two terrain expansions and several renovations and upgrades, but the ski area has maintained the same local, laid-back vibe.

Loveland

Opening Date: October 20th

Near to the hearts and homes of generations of Colorado skiers and riders, Loveland is Colorado’s true winter wonderland. Just 53 miles west of Denver, Loveland boasts 1,800 acres of remarkable terrain, free snowcat skiing along the Continental Divide, an innovative lesson program, and more snow than any Front Range or Summit County resort.

Wolf Creek

Opening Date: November 3rd

Located in the San Juan and Rio Grande national forest between Pagosa Springs and South Fork, Colorado, Wolf Creek Ski Area is known to have “The Most Snow in Colorado”. Spanning across a high alpine ridge, Wolf Creek receives an annual snowfall of 430 inches of natural powder and is known for its incredible hike-to terrain.

Copper

Opening Date: November 10th

Located just 75 miles west of Denver in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Copper Mountain Resort is an ideal vacation destination with a laid-back and inclusive vibe that represents the best of Colorado. During the winter months, Copper’s naturally-divided terrain offers world-class skiing and riding for all ages and abilities.

Keystone

Opening Date: November 10th

In winter, Keystone resort boasts more than 3,000 acres of ski-able terrain within the White River National Forest including three incredible peaks, five above-tree-line bowls, night skiing, and an in-bounds cat skiing program.

Winter Park

Opening Date: November 15th

With seven distinct ski and ride territories delivering on-mountain excitement for all levels, and a village and surrounding area full of countless off-mountain activities, Winter Park Resort is quite simply the hub of winter adventure in Colorado. Always offering more than you imagined.

Colorado Ski Resort Opening Dates

Eldora

Opening Date: November 17th

A summit elevation of 10,800 feet means there is plenty of natural snow. There are 680 acres of ski-able terrain with the longest run three miles long. Corona Bowl offers a double black diamond run for experts. There is 100 percent snow-making on groomed terrain. This is a low-key resort away from the madding crowds, offering an all-ability experience.

Telluride

Opening Date: November 17th

The Telluride ski experience offers a genuine mountain experience for all levels of skiers thanks to a mix of quality terrain at all points on the mountain. From refined groomed runs to challenging moguls, there truly is something for everyone. Even beginners and intermediate skiers can ride to the highest peaks and enjoy terrain and views typically reserved for the experts

Purgatory

Opening Date: November 18th

Carved by glaciers thousands of years ago, Purgatory is a unique blend of steep tree skiing trails and wide-open cruisers with stunning views. Averaging 260 inches of snow annually, Purgatory is known for consistent, dry powder from frequent storms, followed by sunny, bluebird days, which creates perfect conditions for pure alpine nirvana.

Echo Mountain

Opening Date: November 21st

Echo Mountain was originally open from 1960-1975 as Squaw Pass Ski Area. When the Eisenhower Tunnel opened in 1973 ski areas on the west side of the Continental divide began to expand. After closing in 1975, it changed ownership a couple of times and laid dormant until 2005 when it was resurrected as Echo Mountain Park with a sole focus on terrain parks.

Beaver Creek

Opening Date: November 22nd

Year after year, skiers of all levels flock to Beaver Creek and discover what they’ve always been looking for: legendary service, unmatched skiing, and the intimacy and relaxation of one of the best mountain towns in the West.

Monarch Mountain

Opening Date: November 22nd

Monarch Mountain is an authentic Colorado ski resort with high elevations, abundant snowfall, gorgeous scenery, and excellent terrain. The ski area is situated high along the Continental Divide in the Sawatch Range within the San Isabel National Forest near the towns of Salida, Buena Vista, and Gunnison. The resort features amazing tree skiing, wide open alpine bowls and long intermediate trails.

Colorado Ski Resort Opening Dates

Aspen Mountain

Opening Date: November 23rd

At Aspen Mountain you can ski down the same runs that hosted last year’s World Cup finals, ride through gladed powder stashes, chase after the snowcat-towed Oasis Champagne Bar, or put together one quad-burning top-to-bottom after another.

Crested Butte

Opening Date: November 23rd

Crested Butte Mountain Resort has a natural character that is both distinctive and exhilarating for any ability level. From the abundant wide open green and blue groomed trails to more advanced long cruisers and the famous extreme limits of the North Face and Headwall, Crested Butte has it all.

Snowmass

Opening Date: November 23rd

At Snowmass, you could spend your entire trip skiing and riding its terrain without covering the same ground twice. From the choice expert terrain of Burnt Mountain Glades, High Alpine and the Cirque, to the long blue groomers and impressive beginner facilities for newcomers, it is an easy choice.

Steamboat Ski Resort

Opening Date: November 23rd

Steamboat’s 2,965 acres of permitted terrain offer a diversity of trails for all levels of ability. Gladed areas of Pioneer Ridge, Sunshine and Storm Peak are Steamboat’s particular claim to fame, with legendary Champagne Powder snow in the trees for the most avid powder hounds.

Howelsen Hill

Opening Date: November 25th

Howelsen Hill Ski Area is owned and operated by the City of Steamboat Springs and holds a unique place in the history of skiing. It has sent more skiers to international competition than any other area in North America. Experience skiing history in the Yampa Valley!

Sunlight Mountain

Opening Date: December 8th

Sunlight gives you a full day of skiing for about half the cost of the mega resorts. You’ll park for free, walk to the lifts, and never stand in line. Without the crowds, the powder lasts for days. All 67 trails lead right back to the lodge where you can stow your brown bag lunch or pick up something hot at the grill.

Skiing 2

Buttermilk Mountain

Opening Date: December 9th

Buttermilk is one mountain with two personalities. Best known around the world for being home to the Winter X Games and the Red Bull Double Pipe event, the mountain has become an icon for freestyle riders and skiers, who hit up the Buttermilk Park to see what they’re made of. But the mountain is also easy-going for beginners and families, boasting uncrowded beginner terrain and The Hideout, an innovative learning center for young skiers.

Granby Ranch

Opening Date: December 15th

Granby Ranch is a family-owned ski resort, designed for skiers and riders of all ages and abilities. There’s no need to hunt for parking, or battle for space to turn on the slopes. Granby Ranch offers easy lift access, gladed skiing, and a terrain park with progressive features. Add to that wide-open terrain that includes beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs.

Hesperus

Opening Date: December 15th

Just minutes from downtown Durango—11 miles west on Highway 160—Hesperus Ski Area offers 26 trails on 60 ski-able acres, with 150 inches of annual snowfall. The double chair takes skiers and riders up to the 8,888 feet summit for over 700 feet of vertical. Best known for night skiing and riding, Hesperus also offers tubing, rentals, ski and ride school, and a snack bar and lodge.

Powderhorn

Opening Date: December 15th

Tucked alongside the northern edge of Western Colorado’s beautiful Grand Mesa, Powderhorn Mountain Resort offers breathtaking views and over 1,600 acres of mountain terrain.

Silverton

Opening Date: December 15th

One chairlift is all you need to access a high alpine environment surrounded by 1,819 acres of amazing descents in every direction. There are loads of bowls, chutes, cliffs, and wonderful natural terrain features to be discovered everywhere you look. Silverton Mountain is the highest and steepest ski area in North America with a peak elevation of 13,487 feet and with no easy way down.