Arapahoe Basin, Colorado Rockies

Arapahoe Basin: 5 things to know before you go

Colorado Rockies, United States πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ

Perched among the highest skiable terrain in North America, Arapahoe Basin tops out at almost 3,980 metres and runs one of the longest seasons on the continent, often turning lifts into June. This is raw, high-alpine skiing built around the legendary East Wall and Montezuma Bowl rather than fancy real estate. A-Basin keeps a stripped-back, day-use soul that locals fiercely protect. If you want steep lines, thin mountain air and a true Colorado powder culture, few places deliver like the Basin.

1.Is the snow reliable in Arapahoe Basin?

Yes. The base sits at 3286 m and the top reaches 3978 m, which puts snow reliability among the very best on our index (score 90/100).

2.Do you need a car, or can you ski in and out?

This is more of a valley base than a slopeside village, so expect a lift, train or shuttle to the snow each morning. Staying central, near the main lift, saves the most time.

3.How big is the ski area, and who is it for?

With 100 km of piste on 9 lifts, it is a mid-size area, easy to get to know over a long weekend. The terrain is balanced (10 green, 29 blue, 71 red, 35 black), which suits a mixed-level group skiing together.

4.What is the resort like?

Arapahoe Basin stands out for demanding terrain for strong skiers and snow-sure high-altitude slopes.

5.When is the best time to go?

The season usually runs Oct 22 to Jun 15 (about 34 weeks). For the most dependable cover, the deep-winter window of January to February is the safe bet. The altitude also holds spring snow, so late-season skiing stays good well into spring.

The full Arapahoe Basin guide

Hotels, piste breakdown, snow month by month, lift and rental info, map and more.

See the full Arapahoe Basin guide β†’

More questions, answered

How much vertical drop does Arapahoe Basin have?
About 692 m of vertical, from a 3286 m base to 3978 m at the top.
Is Arapahoe Basin part of a larger ski area?
No, it is a self-contained resort with its own 100 km of piste rather than part of a linked domain.
Is Arapahoe Basin good for beginners?
Yes. With 10 green and 29 blue runs, there is plenty of gentle terrain to learn on.

Where to stay

Hotels we like for ski access and value. Prices are indicative; check live availability.

The Block Hotel & Commons
4.71.1k reviews
€200
β˜… Top pick

The Block Hotel & Commons

Excellent Β· 1.1k reviews

Why we like it

One of the highest-rated places to stay in Arapahoe Basin, with guests singling out the service and comfort.

Guests rate this hotel as excellent (4.7/5 from 1,096 reviews). It sits about 17.3 km from the slopes. A upper-scale option for Arapahoe Basin, with live nightly rates shown for your exact dates so you always see the best price.

β‰ˆ 17.3 km to the slopesUpper-scale
From
€200/ night
Check availability β†’
Keystone Lodge & Spa, A Vail Resorts Property
4.31.3k reviews
€150

Keystone Lodge & Spa, A Vail Resorts Property

Very good Β· 1.3k reviews

Why we like it

A long-standing favourite in Arapahoe Basin, trusted by thousands of guests before you.

β‰ˆ 9.3 km to the slopesMid-range
From
€150/ night
Check availability β†’
Best Western Ptarmigan Lodge
4.31.3k reviews
€155

Best Western Ptarmigan Lodge

Very good Β· 1.3k reviews

Why we like it

A long-standing favourite in Arapahoe Basin, trusted by thousands of guests before you.

β‰ˆ 15.2 km to the slopesMid-range
From
€155/ night
Check availability β†’
Hampton Inn & Suites Silverthorne
4.3930 reviews
€170

Hampton Inn & Suites Silverthorne

Very good Β· 930 reviews

Why we like it

A long-standing favourite in Arapahoe Basin, trusted by thousands of guests before you.

β‰ˆ 16.6 km to the slopesMid-range
From
€170/ night
Check availability β†’

Ratings and review counts from Google Places. We may earn a commission on bookings.

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