Arapahoe Basin

The Legend of Colorado's High Country

Perched high in the Rocky Mountains near the Continental Divide, Arapahoe Basin—affectionately known as "A-Basin" or "The Legend"—boasts some of the highest and most challenging terrain in North America. With a summit elevation of 13,050 feet and a base elevation of 10,520 feet, A-Basin offers 1,428 acres of varied terrain that includes everything from family-friendly groomers to extreme double-black-diamond chutes. The resort is legendary for having Colorado's longest ski season, typically operating from October through June, thanks to its extreme elevation and favorable snowfall patterns. While over 70% of the terrain is rated as advanced or expert, A-Basin has cultivated a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere that eschews pretension in favor of pure skiing and riding. The resort's famous "Beach" parties in the spring have become legendary gatherings where skiers celebrate the extended season under bluebird skies at one of the highest ski areas on the continent.

A Pioneer's Spirit Since 1946

Arapahoe Basin holds the distinction of being Colorado's first post-World War II ski area and Summit County's oldest resort. Founded in 1945 by 10th Mountain Division veterans Larry Jump and Sandy Schauffler, along with Olympic ski team member Max Dercum, A-Basin opened for its first season in 1946 with a single rope tow accessed by Army surplus vehicles. That inaugural season attracted 1,200 visitors and left the fledgling operation $45,000 in debt, but the founders' passion kept the dream alive. Over the decades, A-Basin has evolved from its rustic beginnings while fiercely maintaining its independent spirit and commitment to authentic skiing. Major expansions have included the opening of Montezuma Bowl and the transformative Beavers terrain expansion in 2017-2018, which added 468 acres of expert and extreme terrain. Now owned by Alterra Mountain Company, A-Basin continues to honor its heritage as a skier's mountain, where challenging terrain, incredible snow conditions, and a genuine community atmosphere combine to create an experience unlike any other resort in Colorado.