Arapahoe Basin Ski Area
Arapahoe Basin Ski Area Near Frisco, Colorado
Arapahoe Basin—often called A-Basin or simply The Basin—is located in the White River National Forest, approximately 15–18 miles from Frisco Inn on Galena. Set just south of Loveland Pass along U.S. Highway 6, Arapahoe Basin is legendary for its long ski season, high-alpine terrain, and authentic mountain culture.
A-Basin often opens as early as October and regularly stays open into June or even July, making it one of the longest-running ski seasons in North America.
High-Alpine Terrain & Longest Season in Colorado
Arapahoe Basin is widely known for its elevation and north-facing terrain, which helps preserve snow conditions well into spring and early summer.
Highlights include:
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Summit elevation of 13,050 feet
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One of the highest in-bounds skiable areas in North America
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Spectacular views of the Continental Divide, Lake Dillon, and surrounding Summit County resorts
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Minimal grooming and a focus on natural snow conditions
The Basin attracts skiers and riders who appreciate challenging terrain, fewer crowds, and a relaxed, non-commercial atmosphere.
Terrain Overview: From Beginners to Extreme Experts
While A-Basin is best known for its expert terrain, it also offers beginner and intermediate runs, making it accessible to a wide range of abilities.
Beginner & Intermediate Terrain
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Served by Molly Hogan, Molly’s Magic Carpet, and Black Mountain Express
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Gentle learning areas and progressive groomed runs
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Ideal for families and first-time skiers
Advanced & Expert Terrain
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Pallavicini Lift: Famous for steep moguls and sustained double-black runs
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Exhibition & Lenawee areas: Classic A-Basin steeps and bumps
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Montezuma Bowl (Zuma Lift): Wide variety of blue, black, and double-black terrain
The Legendary East Wall
The East Wall represents some of the most demanding in-bounds terrain in Colorado:
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Lower East Wall (black diamond): Lift-accessible when open
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Upper East Wall (double black extreme): Requires a hike and advanced mountaineering skills
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Features chutes, cornices, and narrow lines that are avalanche-controlled and ungroomed
This terrain is not to be taken lightly and is best suited for expert skiers with strong alpine experience.
Lodges & On-Mountain Amenities
Arapahoe Basin offers a simple but well-designed lodge experience:
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Base Lodge with cafeteria, bar, and coffee bar
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Snow Plume Refuge near the summit of Lenawee and Norway lifts
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Black Mountain Lodge, accessed via the high-speed Black Mountain Express, featuring alpine bistro-style dining
The focus remains on skiing first, with amenities designed to support long days on the mountain.
A Brief History of Arapahoe Basin
Arapahoe Basin was founded in the 1940s by Max Dercum and Edna Dercum, making it one of Colorado’s earliest ski areas. True to its roots, A-Basin has retained its independent spirit while steadily expanding terrain and lift infrastructure.
Notable milestones include:
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Frequent recognition as the first ski area to open in North America
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Major terrain expansion into Montezuma Bowl during the 2007–08 season
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Installation of its first high-speed detachable quad, Black Mountain Express, in 2010
Today, A-Basin remains a favorite among locals and advanced skiers seeking authentic, challenging terrain.
Arapahoe Basin Stats at a Glance
Elevation
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Base: 10,780 ft
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Summit: 13,050 ft
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Vertical rise: 2,270 ft
Terrain
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Skiable area: 960 acres
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Trails: 109 total
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Longest run: 1.5 miles
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Average annual snowfall: 350 inches
Lift System
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8 lifts total, including a high-speed quad, fixed-grip chairs, and surface lifts
Stay in Frisco for Easy Access to A-Basin
Many guests choose to stay in Frisco to enjoy A-Basin’s challenging terrain while returning to a quieter mountain town at the end of the day. Frisco’s central location also allows easy access to Keystone, Breckenridge, Copper Mountain, and Vail, all within a short drive.
If A-Basin is on your must-ski list, Frisco Inn on Galena provides the perfect boutique basecamp for your Summit County adventure.
