Home to some of North America’s highest-elevation terrain for skiing and snowboarding, Arapahoe Basin Ski Area is perhaps best known for its expert options – though there’s still plenty of variety that guests at all levels can have a fun time. To top it off, the entire A-Basin experience is wrapped up with a laidback and welcoming atmosphere full of festivities.

The resort features 1,428 skiable acres and is known for its long season, as it always aims to stay open as late as possible – some years, the season stretches from October to July. Guests can also enjoy the party atmosphere at “The Beach” parking area, where skiers and riders enjoy tailgating – and in late season, guests can try their luck on Lake Reveal – a naturally occurring pond that’s great for skimming.

Here’s a look at what to expect at the resort:

The most noteworthy terrain:

Molly Hogan Learning Area (Green) – this area is located at the base, and provides absolute beginners with two magic carpets and a gentle, isolated slope that is perfect for learning to ski.

Wrangler (Green) – this long, broad, and gentle run also includes turns through trees for beginners looking for adventure.

Sundance and Chisholm (Green) – these runs are also accessible green runs from the Black Mountain Express.

Lenawee Mountain (Blue) – this area provides high-alpine bowls for intermediates to hone their skills on runs like Larkspur and Columbine.

Blues in The Beavers (Blue) – intermediates will find plenty of great blue runs in The Beavers, including steeper blues like Loafer and Davis that will challenge intermediates looking to improve their skills.

Pallavicini Area (Black) – this area delivers steep, technical terrain including chutes, cornices, bumps, steeps, and more.

The East Wall (Black) – this area is famous for its extreme rocky lines and cliffs and usually opens later in the season after avalanche control.

The Steep Gullies (Double Black) – this series of hike-to, steep, narrow, and rocky chutes requires a mandatory 20-30 minute hike back out after your run.

Where to park:

Although parking at ski resorts can be stressful, Arapahoe Basin offers a different experience. The Beach offers prime ski-in/ski-out parking near the frontside lifts with a fun tailgating vibe. Other parking areas include the Early Riser Lot, High Noon, Last Chance, and Upper Las Chance Lots. Find more information on reservations for parking here.

Where to eat on mountain:

Il Rifugio – North America’s highest-elevation restaurant sits at 12,456 feet and serves European bistro fare, wine, local meats and cheeses, soups, salads, flatbreads, and espresso.

Black Mountain Lodge – Located mid-mountain, this restaurant offers BBQ, burgers, soups, and stunning views of the mountain from the deck.

6th Alley Bar & Grill – this is a lively base area spot that features a huge deck, nachos, burgers, bacon Bloody Marys, and great apres-ski vibes.

Where to stay:

AC Hotel Frisco – this hotel is located off of I-70 with easy access to A Basin. The Frisco Transit Station is across the street with complimentary shuttles to the resort via the Summit State.

The Block – This hotel and hostel is located in Silverthorne and owned and operated by friends of A Basin.

River Run Village – located in Keystone, this resort offers the most immediate access within a few miles of A Basin and on the shuttle route.

Events going on at Arapahoe Basin this winter:

Moonlight Dinner Series – this series of dinners include unique meals like “A Night in Vietnam” and “Havana Nights.”

6th Alley Dinners – This series includes Athletic Brewing night, Prime Ride Supper Clubs, and Wine Pairings.

STAY INFORMED: Get free Colorado news with our daily newsletter (Click here)