Loveland Ski Area - Skiing & Snowboarding

Review

Intro

Loveland ski area remains one of many local’s favorite mountains. Only 53 miles away from Denver, this mountain 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.

What Makes It Great

Due to its lack of on-site lodging, it often has shorter lift lines and less-expensive lift tickets, particularly during midweek. Loveland sticks to its roots with simplicity. Don’t expect to find anything extravagant on this mountain, it is the perfect place for those that just simply want to ski and ride. The quaint town of Georgetown is only 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 ft. and is the second highest lift served area in North America at 12,697 ft. 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. 

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; the two are linked with a short shuttle ride that runs until 4:30. 

Directions, Parking, & Regulations

Getting to Loveland is easy! From Denver, take I-70 west to Exit 216, just before the Eisenhower tunnel.