A Guide To The Early Ski Season In Colorado
- Written By CBS4 Producer Garrett Boyd
DENVER (CBS4) - Ski season in Colorado is here! There is a lack of snow, but there is no shortage of people hitting the slopes, including me.
Even in the middle of the week, you'll find hundreds of people getting some turns in. Who could resist?
However, after spending time at some resorts that have opened, I've found there are things to keep in mind before jumping onto I-70 for early ski season.
No Beginners!
Don't be that person! Most of the terrain during early season is for people who ski at an intermediate level. If you're a beginner skier or snowboarder, I would wait for the resorts to open more runs.
For example, my wife is new to the sport. She underestimated the difficulty of the terrain. The icy conditions and crowded runs made it difficult for her in the beginning.
Snowfall
Know what you're getting into. All of the resorts are doing a great job of making snow. Some of the conditions are decent, but you will experience ice and slush. Bottom line: don't expect the snow to be incredible.
Be Prepared to Wait
Most resorts only have a couple of runs open and things can get crowded.
I was one of the hundreds of people who showed up for opening day at Arapahoe Basin on Oct. 17. It was a big party!
I figured the crowds would go down in the coming weeks, but I was wrong. Even on a Wednesday, lift lines are often long and the slopes are packed.
With more resorts opening, the crowds should begin to spread out. I noticed this trend with Keystone over the weekend.
Bottom Line
Sure, the snow is not great, but it's about having a good time and enjoying the mountains. How many people can say they hit the slopes before Thanksgiving? We are lucky to live in a place where that is possible. Take advantage of it!
Ski Report
Check the status of trails & lifts at Colorado ski resorts in the CBSDenver.com Ski Report section.
