Arapahoe Basin Ski Resort's 10 Best Trails

With one, mid-mountain rope tow that skiers reached in an Army weapons carrier, pulled by a four-wheel drive vehicle, Arapahoe Basin opened for business in 1946. They reported 1,200 skier visits in opening season Each visitor paid $3.00 to access the mountain for the newest Colorado recreational activity.

With over 30 ft of average snowfall, Arapahoe Basin is still on top for great places to ski or snowboard. Arapahoe Basin has gotten over 200 inches of snow fall already, this season. Opening in late October and not closing until late June or Early July, the resort has one of the longest seasons in the country. The summit sits at 13,050 ft, overlooking 500+ acres of fantastic powder for all levels of experience. Instead of breaking the trails into 3 levels, they have graded them in 4 categories.

EASIEST: 10%

*Wrangler Trail-The longest, simplest beginner trail. This trail offers smooth snow packed sloping hills. Scenic and fun.

*Sundance Trail-Short, easy to manuveur trail. Perfect for younger skiers and snowboarders.

*High Noon Trail-Another short and easy trail. Arapahoe Basin seems to know what it takes to get people started in the sport of skiing. All the beginner trails are ideal for those just learning.

MORE DIFFICULT: 50%

*Norway Mountain Run-This trail runs part of the way, parallel to Dercum's Gulch. Even though not as difficult as some of the runs, this one offers the thrill of traveling along the ridge of the Gulch. Part of the West Wall area, Norway Mtn Run is advised for well trained skiers.

*Lenawee Face Trail-Fun trail that runs into the Decum's Gulch Trail. Experience skiers and boarders only please.

MOST DIFFICULT: 20%

*Mountain Goat Traverse-The name says it all. This trail runs along the ridge then makes several sharp descents through various other trails, such as Tieze's Trail. Sharp, jagged rocks throughout the run, make this one of the most difficult runs in the area.