Although the calendar still reads that we are in the "fall" season, the attention for many Colorado residents has turned to ripping down steep faces, huge powder turns, or simply no turns at all on a fresh groomer.
The expansion and upgrades of ski resorts are certainly a hot-button issue. For many, you would just assume the stripped-down experience without high-speed lifts or sushi being served in the lodges. As a former employee at Vail Mountain, a little piece of me died when chair #10 (Highline Express) was replaced by a quad in 2007. That being said, change is inevitable, and the guest experience is always going to be paramount in an industry that has this much competition. As much as we like to reminisce about simpler times, there is a time to celebrate new traditions and experiences at Colorado's amazing resorts.
New Lifts
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Coney Express (Snowmass): A high-speed quad that will originate across from the Snowmass Mall and end at the top of Coney Glade trail. Coney Express will help move more skiers and riders out of the base area and alleviate congestion on busy days. The lift will also provide unloading for foot traffic at the midway station, for the first time allowing foot passengers access to Lynn Britt Cabin and Spider Sabich Race Arena.
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Timberline Express (Copper Mountain): Out with the old 4-person lift and in with the new six-passenger lift. The chair replacement is a continuation of the resort's Western Territory expansion and, once complete, will increase access to some of Copper Mountain's most sought-after groomed terrain.
New Lodges and Amenities
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Sundog Taproom (Winter Park): The new hot spot will soon be in the heart of the Winter Park base village. This casual eatery and taproom will add over 130 seats and 30 self-serve beer taps, providing a new gathering spot for skiers, riders, and families.
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Caribou Lodge (Eldora): A state-of-the-art facility designed to provide a comprehensive and enjoyable experience for young skiers and riders of all abilities. This energy-efficient building includes a cozy café, modern restrooms, a retail shop, and spaces for lessons and gear rentals. Its 52.65kW solar array generates more than enough energy to fully power the facility, ensuring a warm, welcoming, and environmentally conscious atmosphere for children and their families to learn and enjoy winter sports.
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Lynn Britt Cabin (Snowmass): This lodge underwent a major remodel and expansion this summer and will open this winter with an expanded outdoor patio, grill, and bar area. Renewed experiences, including après parties and specials, live entertainment, and the return of snowcat dinners, will be featured throughout the winter season.
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Powerline Pub (Vail): Located at the top of Gondola One, there will be a new on-mountain hangout spot to meet new and old friends. Catch a game, enjoy refreshing après cocktails, and grab a bite to eat in a space that pays homage to the history of Vail. Named after a past unofficial, ungroomed line for experts that cut through the trees for power poles, Powerline Pub is located next to Gondola One for easy upload and download and is accessible by foot.
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Steamboat Grand Hotel (Steamboat): Reopening this month after renovations that began on April 1, 2024. In addition to replacing the building's original water pipe infrastructure, the hotel upgraded elevators and guest rooms and expanded services, marking significant enhancements to the guest experience.
Family and Kids
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Telluride / Heritage Trail: Children will enjoy new ski-through features on the brand-new, immersive Heritage Trail, which takes skiers and snowboarders on a journey through the history, heritage, and evolution of the Telluride region.
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Keystone / Kids Ski Free: Keystone's long-standing Kids Ski Free program has been providing kids with free lift tickets since 2012. Kids 12 and younger ski for free at Keystone with no blackout dates when families book just two or more nights through Keystone Resort. Lodging accommodation options span from affordable hotel rooms to family-sized condominiums.
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Loveland Ski Area / Three-Class Pass: Let your little snow rider explore the mountain with one-on-one instruction from one of their expert instructors. Private Three-Class Pass for kids 3-6 years old. Includes (3) Two-Hour Private Lessons with no blackout dates.