Less popular ski areas

TennesseeMatt · 02-13-2007

So I'm heading back out to CO for a week of skiing in March and have skied at many of the large resort areas. This time I'm considering visiting some of the smaller lesser known areas such as Solivista and Eldora. Does this sound like a worthwhile thing to do, both from a money spent and good skiing point of view? I'll be staying in the Denver area, but may be willing to drive a little. Any suggestions on areas that fit this description?

mjpowhound · 02-13-2007

Eldora is great, they've had a strong snow season so far. Solvista is a waste of time unless you're a beginner. Check out Loveland and A-Basin near Denver. For a longer drive (~150 miles), check out Monarch (Salida) and Sunlight (Glenwood)--two kick-ass little mountains.

jennifer · 02-13-2007

Definately try Loveland. They have something for everyone, minus the crowds and lift lines. Most travelers don't know about it, but it's a gem. Look for housing in Georgetown.

Sol Vista will be good if it's a family vacation and you prefer greens and easy blues, and don't want the family to get lost or separated on the slopes.

DanOrion · 02-13-2007

Monarch, Wolfie, Purg (in order of increasing distance)

robatnordic · 02-13-2007

Definitely check out Sunlight. Fun mountain, small, friendly atmosphere, cheap good eats. Stay in Glenwood and soak in the springs each night. You will rediscover the way we skied 30 years ago.

GoodTimes · 02-13-2007

It's a VERY worthwhile thing to do. Another plug for A-basin and Monarch, both great mountains. The drive down to Monarch from Denver might be a little long (2.5hr. or so) but you won't be at a loss for scenery.

COUNT · 02-13-2007

A-Basin is THE place to be. And it's in its prime in March. I would rather ski there than any of the big popular resorts any day of the week. Monarch's great, too. Purgatory and SolVista are definately worth checking out too if you have extra time.

COUNT

rhm · 02-14-2007

didn't purgatory change it's name to durango mountain several years ago? or do people just still call it purgatory even though the name has changed?

mjpowhound · 02-14-2007

Quote:

Originally Posted by rhm

didn't purgatory change it's name to durango mountain several years ago? or do people just still call it purgatory even though the name has changed?

Yes. Even Purgatory still calls itself Purgatory. By the way, it is ~6-7 hours from Denver.

DanOrion · 02-14-2007

Purgatory; it's just too perfect a name. Skiing purg isn't heaven and it ain't hell. Somewhere inbetween. Their new 6-pack chair is sweeet on a big powder day, top to bottom laps on the front-side steeps. You can get 10k vert in before the bar opens.