Member-only story

Lost Ski Areas Of Colorado Front Range And Northern Mountains

Jimmy Butler

·12.2k Followers· Follow

Published in Lost Ski Areas Of Colorado S Front Range And Northern Mountains

6 min read

505 View Claps

74 Respond

Save

Listen

Colorado, renowned for its majestic Rocky Mountains and abundant snowfall, has long been a haven for skiers and snowboarders. While many world-renowned ski resorts thrive today, the state's winter sports history is intertwined with the rise and fall of numerous lost ski areas.

Lost Ski Areas of Colorado's Front Range and Northern Mountains

by Caryn Boddie

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	14232 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	208 pages

These abandoned or forgotten slopes, scattered across the Front Range and Northern Mountains, hold a captivating allure for history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking a glimpse into Colorado's skiing heritage. Here, we embark on a journey to uncover the stories, remnants, and legacy of these lost ski areas.

Berthoud Pass Ski Area

Nestled at the summit of Berthoud Pass, the Berthoud Pass Ski Area opened its doors in 1958 and quickly became a popular destination for skiers seeking adventure and stunning mountain views. The resort featured a chairlift and multiple runs, attracting winter sports enthusiasts from Denver and surrounding areas.

However, financial struggles plagued the operation, and the ski area closed its doors in 1985. Today, remnants of the lodge and lift towers remain, offering a glimpse into its former glory. The area now serves as a popular spot for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Cascade Ski Area

Perched on the slopes of Mount Evans in Clear Creek County, Cascade Ski Area operated from 1961 until the mid-1980s. The resort boasted three chairlifts and a variety of runs, offering both beginner and advanced terrain.

Unfortunately, like many ski areas of its time, Cascade struggled financially and closed its operations. Today, visitors can still hike the former ski trails, while the base lodge has been repurposed as a wedding and event venue.

Copper Mountain Ski Area

Copper Mountain Ski Area, located in Summit County, was a popular destination for skiers from the 1960s to the early 1990s. The resort featured a gondola, multiple chairlifts, and a variety of runs, catering to all levels of skiers.

In 1991, Copper Mountain Ski Area merged with the neighboring Woodward Ski Area, creating the combined Copper Mountain Resort that we know today. However, remnants of the original Copper Mountain Ski Area can still be found, including the base lodge and some abandoned trails.

Kirkwood Ski Area

Kirkwood Ski Area, situated near Winter Park in Grand County, opened in 1962 and operated for over two decades. The resort offered two chairlifts and a range of trails, making it a popular destination for beginner and intermediate skiers.

The ski area closed in the early 1990s due to financial reasons. Today, the lodge and some of the former ski trails remain, although they are primarily used for hiking and snowshoeing.

Loveland Valley Ski Area

Loveland Valley Ski Area, located near Georgetown in Clear Creek County, opened in 1961 and operated for over three decades. The resort featured a chairlift and a variety of runs, attracting beginner and intermediate skiers alike.

However, financial struggles plagued the operation, and the ski area closed in the early 1990s. Today, the base lodge and some of the former ski trails can still be found, although they are primarily used for hiking and snowshoeing.

Pikes Peak Ski Area

Pikes Peak Ski Area, perched on the slopes of Pikes Peak near Colorado Springs, operated from 1954 until 1995. The resort was known for its stunning views and challenging terrain, attracting skiers from across the state.

Financial difficulties and environmental concerns led to the ski area's closure. Today, the base lodge and some of the former ski trails remain, although they are primarily used for hiking and mountain biking.

The Legacy of Colorado's Lost Ski Areas

The lost ski areas of Colorado's Front Range and Northern Mountains stand as reminders of the state's rich winter sports history and the challenges faced by many early ski resorts. While they may not be operational today, their remnants and stories continue to captivate those who seek to explore the past and present of Colorado's beloved skiing culture.

These forgotten slopes offer a unique opportunity to connect with the history of skiing in Colorado, appreciate the challenges and triumphs of the past, and gain a deeper understanding of the evolution of this popular winter sport.

Lost Ski Areas of Colorado's Front Range and Northern Mountains

by Caryn Boddie

4.9 out of 5