Are you planning to do some skiing near Summit County?
If you are in Denver, the closest skiing area to you is the Loveland Ski Area. Many snowboarders and skiers skip this spot on their way to Vail or Breckenridge, leaving the slopes empty.
Numerous generations of Colorado skiers hold Loveland close to their hearts. The terrain is remarkable, and the slopes don’t get too crowded. When you put free parking and a seasonal average of 400 inches of snow into the mix, Loveland is a no-brainer if you are looking for some serious skiing in the area!
Let’s take a closer look at what Loveland Ski Area can offer to you from October through May. In this guide, you’ll learn about the best trails, ticketing, and local food options!
The Basics: Loveland Ski Area
The ski terrain of Loveland is situated on the continental divide’s eastern side. It spans the Eisenhower tunnel entrance that zips right through the divide. Opting for Loveland’s chairlifts means that you can reach the heights of The Ridge.
The Ridge is the ultimate spot in Loveland. As a skier, once you have reached The Ridge, you are able to pick from a variety of alpine bowls. This is exactly the place where you’ll find the most advanced terrain in the area.
Many runs on The Ridge require short hikes. Others are accessible by traversing. Even if you must hike, a clear sunny day means that you won’t even notice the minutes flying by. The scenery is amazing. Hiking can be so much fun!
If the conditions are right, Loveland can shuttle skiers down The Ridge in a snowcat. This service is called The Ridge Cat. The snowcat gets you to some of the mountain’s top sustained pitches.
The terrain is above the treeline. Since you are constantly subject to the elements, it’s better not to ski The Ridge in poor visibility, including snowstorms. Poor-visibility terrain is available between Chairs 4 and 8, however.
Are you just in the middle of honing your skills? Try the training grounds provided by the Bennett’s Bowl of the Ptarmigan chair. Additionally, some beginner trails make their way throughout the lifts.
Some of the biggest fun can be had by intermediate skiers in Loveland. If you are one of these people, checking out Chairs 4 and 6 is a great idea. These chairs allow you to access many intermediate runs.
Some skiers are interested in a family-friendly learning area. Loveland has many opportunities for families. You can hop on a free shuttle that departs from the main base surroundings. That shuttle takes you to a perfect spot for some beginner’s training grounds.
What Are the Ticket Options?
You can buy lift tickets under the following categories: early season, regular season, and late season. The early season lasts from the opening through December 11, while regular season ticket prices last December 12 through April 11. The late season starts April 12 until the official closing.
Opting for a season pass means that you can choose between three different types of passes. The Midweek Season Pass is valid from Monday to Friday. The season pass renewal is another option and it’s cheaper than getting a regular new season pass.
Season passes provide great value at prices between $449 and $519 depending on whether you get a new one or purchase a renewal. Discount passes are available for seniors, children, and young adults. The Midweek Passes are under $400 for both new passes and renewals.
The regular passes include three free days at Powder Mountain, Monarch Mountain, Nordic Valley Resort, and others. Additionally, you get 10% off Child Care Monday, regular priced Sport Shop purchases over $20, and Ski & Ride School lesson packages.
Where Can You Eat & Drink Near Loveland Ski Area?
Whenever you are craving a post-ski snack or drink, you’ll find plenty of options in the food outlets at Loveland Ski Area.
However, if you’re looking for something more substantial and you’re staying in Summit County, check out some of the local favorites below!
Mint Steakhouse
Located in Silverthorne, a short 16-minute drive from Loveland Ski Area, is a slice of Summit County history known as The Mint. The building itself was built in 1862, and it has been relocated to Frisco, Dillon, and finally, to Silverthorne. The Mint offers a unique dining experience: grilling your own steaks! Their menu features a variety of other delicious options, with daily specials, and it’s fun the whole family can enjoy.
Sunshine Cafe
Another local spot in Silverthorne, Sunshine Café has been a gathering spot in the community for 40 years and counting! Featuring all day breakfast and a hearty lunch menu, this mountain café is sure to win you over with its “altitude”.
Last Chance Pizza Co
Last Chance Pizza Co is a friendly and fast pizza place in Dillon with some of the most popular food in Summit County! The nightly specials and an expansive menu that features salads and desserts is an excellent choice on your way to or from skiing. For more Dillon, CO. restaurants, check out our post here!
The Argentos Empanadas & More
This cool and cozy spot in Silverthorne is known for serving up authentic Argentinian fare, including their beloved empanadas! Their focus on quick, handheld meals for skiers makes them an excellent option before hitting the slopes. What’s more, their menu is seasonal, with many of their dishes purposefully packed with calories to carry people through their chilly activities.
In a Nutshell: The Loveland Ski Area
Are you looking for a great skiing spot close to Denver? Loveland Ski Area is a superb skiing destination for skiers of all levels with their beginner, intermediate and expert skiing trails. Loveland Ski Area has nice seasonal passes that you can use to get the most value out of multiple visits.
Located less than 20 minutes from Summit County, this overlooked spot offers plenty of winter fun and cozy lodgings! For more suggestions on skiing in Summit County, check out our guide here.
You can find an array of dining and drinking options in near the Loveland Ski Area and its surroundings. If you don’t have accommodation yet, click here to take a closer look at some of the best rentals available in the area.
