Arapahoe Basin

About Arapahoe Basin

Arapahoe Basin, affectionately known as A-Basin or A-Bay, is a beloved ski resort nestled in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. Unlike many larger resorts, A-Basin maintains a more intimate atmosphere by limiting daily visitors, ensuring short lift lines and a true local vibe, which is cherished by its loyal fans. The mountain features seven distinct areas with diverse terrain that offers challenges for skiers and riders of all levels. A-Basin is also famous for its delicious food options and homemade Bloody Marys—an ideal way to kick off a day on the slopes.

With a friendly, small-town feel, the resort provides free parking and a conveniently navigable base village filled with bars, restaurants, and shops just steps from the lifts. Even the parking lots add to the fun, particularly the "beach" parking and the ski-in, ski-out Early Riser lot, known for hosting lively après-ski parties. Visitors often dress up, grill out, and enjoy cold beers during sunny spring days. Located in Summit County, Colorado, A-Basin is close to other popular mountain towns and ski resorts such as Keystone, Frisco, and Breckenridge, offering plenty of activities and sights to explore in the surrounding area.

How to get to Arapahoe Basin

A-Basin is situated approximately 87 miles west of Denver International Airport (DEN) via I-70 and US-6, easily accessible by car or shuttle, which takes about two hours without heavy traffic. Keystone, located just 10 miles to the west, is the nearest population center and a popular destination for visitors to A-Basin. Other airport options include Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) and City of Colorado Springs Municipal Airport (COS), 76 and 122 miles away respectively. You can expect a commute of approximately one hour 30 minutes to two hours 30 minutes. Shared services like "Colorado Mountain Express" to reach the resort are also a great option, with prices typically ranging from $60 to 100 USD per person each way, departing from Denver International Airport (DEN). All three airports account for car rental services and bus transfers. Private transport can be arranged with anticipation.

Getting around

Free parking is available for guests, with lots conveniently located near the mountain and village area, making it easy to access on foot. The compact village features four large buildings, and it only takes a few minutes to walk to the lifts. If you're staying in nearby towns, A-Basin is accessible via The Summit Stage Swan Mountain Flyer bus service, which connects Breckenridge, Frisco, Dillon and Silverthorne.

Skiing in Arapahoe Basin

A-Basin is a favorite among many Summit County locals, thanks to its extensive advanced terrain, friendly atmosphere, and low crowds. It boasts the longest ski and ride season in Colorado, allowing for skiing into the summer months, with openings as early as October and closings as late as August. To maintain a relaxed environment, A-Basin limits daily skiers through restricted parking and does not sell day passes, making it easy to get first tracks on powder days and feel like you have the mountain to yourself.

With 1,428 skiable acres, A-Basin offers terrain for all skill levels, from beginners to daring experts. The mountain is divided into seven distinct areas: the Front Side, which caters to all levels; Pallavicini, The Beavers, and Montezuma Bowl for intermediate to expert riders; Steep Gullies featuring all double black terrain for experts; the East Wall with advanced and expert options; and Molly Hogan, designated for beginners. This layout ensures that skiers of all abilities can easily navigate the mountain.

Don’t forget your oxygen canister—A-Basin offers some of the highest-elevation skiing in Colorado, with a summit reaching 13,050 feet, ensuring epic snow conditions. If you have the opportunity to ski here on a powder day, you won't be disappointed!

Beginner Skiing in Arapahoe Basin
A-Basin provides a relaxed atmosphere, stunning views, and low crowds, making it an ideal place to learn to ski. The resort features numerous beginner-friendly green runs with wide spaces and gentle slopes, perfect for developing your skills. The Molly Hogan Learning Area offers discounted lift tickets and includes magic carpets and its own lift, creating a dedicated space for beginners with all-green terrain. Once you're ready to explore more, The Front Side has additional green and gentle blue runs. Sundance and Wrangler are particularly popular, as they are long, gentle green runs that beginners love to cruise down once they've mastered the basics.

Family vacations in Arapahoe Basin

With a compact village area and free, convenient parking, it’s easily accessible and walkable to the lifts, ski school, and rental shops, making navigation a breeze. The mountain features terrain suitable for all skill levels—whether you are a complete beginner on the Molly Hogan learning hill, someone who enjoys cruising down long, groomed blues, or an adrenaline-seeking person looking for hike-to terrain. A-Basin’s small base area and low crowds make it easy to keep your group together without navigating busy slopes.

Additionally, A-Basin's unique location provides plenty of family-friendly accommodations nearby, including Keystone, Frisco, Silverthorne, Dillon and Breckenridge—all within a short drive and offering a variety of family-friendly activities.