Nov 10, 2024 - Sports
Where to ski in Colorado for the best snow
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Photo courtesy of Sarah McLear/Breckenridge Ski Resort
Most skiers and riders have their favorite "stashes" — where you go for the best terrain, greatest snow or smallest crowds.
Yes, but: It's also fun to go exploring.
State of play: We asked Jonah Drescher — the manager at Christy Sports in Arvada and a former U.S. Ski Team member — for his favorite stashes in Colorado.
What he's saying: "The first thing to do is not where, but when," he explains. "Crowds are always less on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesdays. So, if you can ski and ride on weekdays, not weekends, you always have a better chance of finding those hidden open runs."
Here's what he shared (edited for length).
- Arapahoe Basin: Check out the Allies and the Beavers. These runs are North-facing and tucked into the trees, so they hold soft snow and stashes a few more days after a storm.
- Telluride: If you are a seeker of great, soft bumps, check out the area under chair 9. Also, check out the Rasta Chutes off the back side to see one of the most beautiful places you can ever find and see in the world.
- Winter Park: If you are willing to put in a little work, take a hike over to Vasquez Ridge and ride some of the best steep stuff while looking at the Continental Divide.
- Ski Cooper and Monarch: I am not going to give you a run but an experience. These operations are great for all skier abilities.
- Steamboat Springs: If you are willing to hike a little, are an experienced backcountry skier, and have the appropriate gear, check out "The Golf Course." Before you head to this run, please seek out information about the area. Know the conditions and risks.
- Wolf Creek: This ski area gets the most snow in Colorado and is a hidden run in Southern Colorado, known for short but awesomely steep runs outside of Pagosa Springs.