With Breckenridge opening Friday, Denver Post ski writer John Meyer skied Loveland, Arapahoe Basin, Keystone and Copper Mountain on Thursday to get a feel for what kind of ski experience those areas are offering. His report:
While the terrain they offer is extremely limited, the snow quality is excellent at all four areas. The surrounding mountains are mostly brown, Loveland Pass is almost barren and the only trails open are covered with man-made snow. But if you’re itching to make some turns, I think it’s worth going.
Loveland and A-Basin each have one lift open with two fairly short trails and a terrain park. Keystone has one trail open, from top to bottom, and a terrain park. Copper Mountain has one trail open from mid-mountain. Despite the limited terrain, I had a great time at all four areas, especially Keystone and Copper.
Also, with Veterans Day on Sunday, check out for resorts that offer discounts to military members for this weekend as well as through the season.
Ski area opening dates
(Subject to change based on conditions)
Open: Arapahoe Basin, Copper Mountain, Keystone, Loveland
Friday: Breckenridge
Wednesday: Winter Park
Nov. 16: Eldora, Vail
Nov. 21: Beaver Creek, Crested Butte, Monarch, Steamboat
Nov. 22: Aspen Mountain, Ski Cooper, Snowmass, Telluride
Nov. 23: Purgatory
Dec. 1: Silverton, Howelsen
Dec. 7: Sunlight
Dec. 8: Aspen Highlands
Dec. 12: Ski Granby Ranch
Dec. 13: Powderhorn
Dec. 15: Buttermilk
TBA: Wolf Creek
