Open in 1936 and the first major ski area drivers hit while headed west down Interstate 70, Loveland Ski Area is only 53 miles from Denver and offers 1,800 skiable acres of family-friendly terrain. The resort boasts an average snowfall of more than 380 inches of light, fluffy powder.

With smaller crowds, a nice mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced terrain and affordable pricing, Loveland offers a classic Colorado skiing experience.

The most noteworthy terrain:

Loveland Valley (Green) – this separate area is dedicated to beginners with its own lifts and gentle slopes.

Zig-Zag (Green) – located in Loveland Valley, this is the area’s longest beginner trail and known as a smooth, wide-open area for learning.

Tango Road (Green) – once beginners are ready for more of a challenge after mastering the basics they can head up Lift 2 to enjoy this green run that offers more varied terrain.

South Chutes (Blue) – these runs off Ptarmigan Lift are known for good snow.

Zippity Split (Blue) – this area offers fun and less-defined cruising perfect for intermediates looking for more challenging terrain.

The Ridge (Black/Double Black) – this expert area includes open bowls and chutes with stunning views of the mountains.

Chet’s Dream (Black/Double Black) – this lift provides access to steep, lappable moguls.

Avalanche Bowl (Double Black) – holds the steepest run at Loveland.

The Chutes/East Ropes (Black/Double Black) – these areas off Lift 4 provide steep, technical tree skiing.

Where to park:

All parking is free at Loveland Ski Area. Free shuttles run every 5-10 minutes between the Basin and Valley areas.

Where to eat on mountain:

Loveland Grill – located in The Basin Lodge, this restaurant offers menu items like biscuits and gravy, burritos, waffles, and more for breakfast, and pastas, soups, chili, burgers, brats, and more for lunch.

Loveland Deli & Coffee Shop – also located in The Basin Lodge, this deli serves cold and hot sandwiches, grilled cheeses, flatbread pizzas, soups, and chili. The coffee and hot chocolate bar also offers fresh pastries, espresso drinks, gourmet hot tea, and hot tea.

Ptarmigan Roost Cafe – this restaurant offers house-made chili brats, hot dogs, snacks, coffee, hot chocolate, beer, and wine at the top of the Ptarmigan Lift. at an elevation of 12,050 feet, the cafe’s deck offers stunning 360 degree views of the surrounding mountains.

Loveland Rathskeller – located in The Basin Lodge, this ski bar serves up eight taps of brews, a cocktail menu, and tasty snacks.

Where to eat in the town:

Sunshine Cafe – this is a local favorite for delicious breakfasts in Georgetown to fuel up before hitting the slopes.

Dillon Dam Brewery – this restaurant offers good food and local brews for apres-ski.

Where to stay:

Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Georgetown Lake – conveniently located in the Georgetown area only about ten minutes away, this is a good family-friendly option.

Keystone Lodge & Spa – this lodge is part of the Keystone Resort and offers excellent amenities.

Events going on at Loveland this winter:

Toyota Days – Toyota is returning to Loveland this winter, and skiers can visit the Toyota tent to enter to win prizes and get some Loveland and Toyota “goodies.”

Ninety Pound Rucksack Challenge – this is an annual ski mountaineering event honoring the 10th Mountain Division, their historic World War II ascent of Riva Ridge, and their post-war contribution to American skiing. Participants ascend 1,500 to 2,500 feet and then ski back down.

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