Loveland

Ahh Loveland—where the lifts are slow, the parking is still free, and skiing is as it was intended to be. As one of the last independently owned ski areas in Colorado—one without a resort-like base area and highfalutin’ amenities—Loveland Ski Area has flown under the national radar for decades. But those who know, know. Walk into Loveland’s base lodge and you’ll get the gist of the place: Old-timers wearing 40-year-old North Face jackets huddle in groups around the cafeteria-style tables and klatch about which runs are skiing well; dads use the communal microwave to heat up oatmeal brought from home for the kiddos; and never-evers up from the big city for the day clonk around in their jeans and rental boots.

The soulful gem of Colorado’s Front Range stepped it up a couple years back with over $5 million in upgrades, including the resort’s first high-speed quad. By speeding up ride time from eight minutes to a zippy three minutes, the resort has been able to disperse skiers higher on the mountain more quickly and get you from I-70 to the hill in no time.

The Ridge remains the go-to for blown-in powder that stays fresh for days after a storm, but this season skiers can expect expanded snowcat skiing in Dry Gulch on Loveland’s northern boundaries, too. Season pass holders have access to 32 partner resorts—Powder Alliance members and more—making Loveland a legit escape from the Epic and Ikon madness that surrounds it.

Loveland Ski Area Stats

Loveland Ski Area Pass

Loveland is part of the Powder Alliance, which entitles its season pass holders to three free days at the 14 other Powder Alliance resorts.

Trip Planning

Game Changer

Loveland’s first high-speed quad, Chet’s Dream, replaced Chair 1, a fixed-grip triple, increasing capacity and reducing ride time by five minutes.

Best Value

Loveland’s 4-Paks are the hottest deal in town. Purchase this unrestricted, transferable ticket bundle in advance and ski for $42.25 per day. Be sure to purchase them by Nov. 22 (not sold at ticket windows).