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ski Arapaho Basin
Arapahoe Basin is one of the closest ski resorts to Denver. Easily accessible, one can fly in during the AM and be on the slopes that same afternoon. While close proximity to A-Basin (as it's called) is a boon, that's only the beginning of the story -- only one of the reasons why you're going to love skiing there.
The snow at A-Basin is good – very good. What's more exhilarating, though, are the heights. The highest ski-accessible peaks around, A-Basin's heart-stopping vertical drops are flat out epic! (The base elevation is at 10,780, with the peaks an astounding 13,050 feet!) The mountain rises, looms above, just about daring you to take the plunge! Of course, there are other trails and runs that aren't quite so death-defying, and they're a lot of fun! Just about everyone agrees that A-Basin is truly great skiing, sans the longer lines of the more cushy resorts. There's a terrain park, including half-pipe, as well. Intermediate slopes make up about 45 percent of the mountain, while beginners enjoy 15 percent. Advanced trails account for 20 percent, and the remaining 20 percent are double-black diamond – a natural phenomenon to be reckoned with! Loveland and Keystone are literally just down the road, while Breckenridge and Winter Park are each less than 20 miles away. You're literally at the heart of awesome skiing when you're at A-Basin! What's more, due to the high elevation, A-Basin can stay open much longer than any of the others, right on into the first or second week in June!
The ski patrol takes their job seriously, checking for avalanche potentials at least once a day, and working to ensure everyone's safety. The instructional staff at A-Basin are likewise highly capable professionals. Ski pros in Colorado are the best of the best. They can pick and choose where they work, and these folks choose A-Basin. Is it really any wonder why? Beginners are welcomed, while more advanced skiers are going to be thrilled every moment of the day. No one has ever accused A-Basin's slopes of being boring!
Nightlife and Apres-Ski begin at Keystone. Those after something a bit less commercial may want to make their way on over through Dillon to Frisco, or maybe even meet up with some folks at Breckenridge. There are plenty of fun pubs (and some serve grub as well,) and live music is a staple at these resorts. Both on the slopes and off, A-Basin is just an awesome time!
A word of advice: Twelve thousand feet is very high up. You'll be getting a lot less oxygen (the air is thinner) and a lot more UV rays. Dress appropriately; wear light layers, a breathable waterproof outer shell, a hat that covers your ears, ski mask, goggles, gloves (of course) and at least a neck gator. Go ahead and put on a little sunscreen, even if you don't think you'll burn. Taking these simple precautions goes a long way to ensuring that your ski vacation is the best it can be!
A-Basin is a bit underrated, and a bit less cushy than some of the resorts. For the avid skier at most any level of experience, it's an excellent choice, a great experience that's hard to beat!
