Loveland Ski Area – Skiing & Snowboarding
Intro
Loveland Ski Area is one of Colorado locals’ favorite mountains. Only 53 miles away from Denver, Loveland offers a wide range of terrain from beginner to expert, without the headache of a crowded resort. Loveland is one of the first resorts to open every winter and typically one of the last to close, giving it a season from around October thru May. Loveland does not offer any lodging at the resort so everyone coming here to ski commutes. The A-Lodge can serve as your Boulder ski lodging with all the amenities you need to make that hearty breakfast in your suite for a big day of skiing and ease those sore legs with a soak in the hot tub all just moments from town for a great dinner and within an easy drive for a day trip to Loveland Ski Area.
What Makes It Great
Want more time on the mountain and less time in lift lines? Loveland is for you. Loveland sticks to its roots by providing excellent terrain without the excesses (and the high prices) of other ski areas. It is the perfect place for those that just simply want to ski and ride. The quaint town of Georgetown is 13 miles away and offers a wide range of lodging and restaurants, so if you want to make a weekend of it, you are certainly able.
There are great shops to rent gear from and reasonable rates on lessons. Loveland even offers childcare for kids 12 months to 12 years old.
Much of Loveland Basin is above tree line and it is easy to get into the backcountry if solitude is your venture. The area is one of Colorado’s highest ski areas with a summit of 13,010′ and is the second highest lift served area in North America at 12,697′. Free cat skiing is available off of chair 9—make sure to stop by the season pass office to sign a waiver and get a free ridgecat card in order to ride. The ridgecat typically runs Wednesday thru Sunday (weather permitting) from 10am- 2:30 pm. This terrain is only accessible by foot or cat.
Finally, a great addition to Loveland in the past few years is free access to uphill skinning and snowshoe traffic. You’ll need to pick up a free uphill pass from the ski patrol office before heading up and you must stay on the assigned routes, but it’s an excellent option for those who want to earn their turns.
Who is Going to Love It
Loveland Valley offers beginner terrain and lessons for those just learning to ski, while Loveland Basin offers everything from easy green runs to tons of accessible expert terrain. High above treeline, the gutsy bowls at 13,000′ are perfect for experts who want to go big. There’s an excellent mix of intermediate and beginner runs as well—laps off Chair 8 are perfect for those dialing in their skills. One more plus: Loveland is one of the very few ski areas in Colorado with reasonable food and drink prices at their cozy lodge.
Directions, Parking, & Regulations
Getting to Loveland is easy! From Denver, take I-70 west to Exit 216, just before the Eisenhower tunnel. Turn right off the exit to park at the main ski area (there is also a smaller lot for parking to the left for beginner terrain). Our Boulder ski lodging guests need simply take Highway 93 out of town straight to I-70 or take a right at Golden for a scenic and just as fast drive through Clear Creek Canyon and pop out on I-70 even closer to the resort.
Written by James Dziezynski for RootsRated and legally licensed through the Matcha publisher network. Please direct all licensing questions to [email protected].
Featured image provided by Dustin Schaefer
Asa Firestone was born with an entrepreneurial spirit and has cultivated hospitality expertise in the picturesque landscapes of Lyons and Boulder, Colorado. As the co-owner of the A Lodge, his journey epitomizes dedication, innovation, and a deep-rooted commitment to community.
Asa’s journey began with a profound appreciation for travel and exploration. His early experiences staying in lodges around the world ignited a passion for creating memorable experiences for others. Armed with this passion and a keen business acumen, he embarked on a mission to redefine hospitality in his own backyard.
In 2008, Asa’s vision came to fruition with the establishment of the A Lodge in Boulder, Colorado. Nestled amidst the majestic Rocky Mountains, this Boulder hotel quickly garnered acclaim for its blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Under Asa’s guidance, the A Lodge became more than just a place to stay; it became a destination where guests could immerse themselves in the unparalleled beauty of Colorado while experiencing genuine hospitality.
However, Asa’s ambitions didn’t stop there. Recognizing the growing demand for unique accommodations in Boulder, he expanded his footprint by acquiring and revitalizing a second property in the heart of Lyons. This expansion not only solidified Asa’s reputation as a visionary entrepreneur but also furthered his mission of providing exceptional hospitality experiences to a broader audience.
Beyond his role as a hospitality magnate, Asa Firestone is deeply invested in the communities he serves. Whether through supporting local initiatives, fostering sustainable practices, or championing the arts, he remains dedicated to making a positive impact at both the local and global levels.
Asa’s leadership exemplifies a harmonious blend of passion, innovation, and compassion. His unwavering commitment to excellence continues to set the standard for hospitality in Lyons, Boulder, and beyond. As guests continue to flock to the A Lodge, they are not only welcomed into a warm and inviting space but also into the visionary world of Asa Firestone.