Arapahoe Basin

One of the longest ski seasons in the West, an authentic local vibe, and a new terrain expansion should land this homegrown Colorado favorite on your bucket list this season. From its throwback A-Frame base lodge to the Bacon Bloody Mary at Black Mountain Lodge, A-Basin is an homage to the very best parts of the sport. And the terrain: Bomb down the steeps of Pallavicini Face, test your mettle on East Wall, or sample the goods in the Steep Gullies—the most extreme terrain at a resort known for its extreme terrain: tight chutes, high vert, high consequence. Be prepared for a 20-minute hike back—just the way the locals like it.

Arapahoe Basin Stats

Arapahoe Basin Pass

Arapahoe Basin is on the Ikon Pass. Ikon Pass holders get seven days with no blackouts. Ikon Base pass holders get five blackout-restricted days. Ikon Session pass holders get up to four blackout-restricted days.

Trip Planning

This mountain is home to some of the toughest terrain in the West, and the house-smoked barbecue is pretty darn good, too. Here are the SKI editors top picks at Arapahoe Basin, Colo.

BRAGGING RIGHTS

The Steep Gullies are rowdy, narrow, and, well, steep. Be prepared for a wild ride and a hike out at the bottom.

APRÈS SPOT

The 6th Alley Bar & Grill in the A-frame base lodge is a classic. Try the bacon Bloody Mary.

DON’T MISS

The Beavers, 339 acres of former hike-to steeps, opened a few seasons ago, and is some of the most fun terrain at the resort.

LOCAL TIP

Every part of the mountain features intermediate through expert terrain, making A-Basin a great option for groups with mixed abilities to explore.