Industry News
In the age of mega passes and triple-digit day tickets, affordable ski areas are becoming a thing of the past. Purchasing tickets in multi-packs before the season starts can save money, but sometimes, narrowing down where to ski in a state like Colorado is hard. Often, smaller areas with fewer lift options and less vertical charge cheaper rates. Escape the crowds and save some cash by checking out these affordable ski areas within the Centennial state.
Purgatory Resort
Purgatory in Southern Colorado is now open for its 59th ski season. It is 25 miles North of Durango in the rugged San Juan Mountains. While ticket prices fluctuate depending on the day, they are generally within the $70-$90 range mid-season. Pair this with 1,605 skiable acres and an impressive 2,010 feet of vertical, and this mountain has the largest offerings in the “Most Affordable” category. Providing access to eight modern ski lifts and two surface lifts for beginners, they have something for everyone. When making the trip, you will surely see why this area is a staple of southern Colorado.
Wolf Creek Ski Area
Wolf Creek is entering its 85th season of operation, perched on top of the continental divide near Pagosa Springs. This Colorado gem offers an affordable lift ticket with ample snow and good terrain choices. Winter 2024-25 Adult tickets are $91, $60 for Seniors, and $45 for Children. Wolf Creek boasts 1,600 skiable acres and 1,604 feet of vertical drop. Access comes via three high-speed quad chairs, two fixed-grip quad chairs, two triple chairs, one double chair, and three surface lifts. “Wolfie,” as the locals call it, also offers military discounts, and seniors 80 years and older ski for free.
Powderhorn Mountain Resort
Powderhorn is operating in its 58th season and sits on the north side of Grand Mesa. Colorado’s furthest western chairlifts lack huge crowds and offer great value. Adult tickets here will set you back only $89, while children ski for $39. Powderhorn has 1,600 skiable acres while possessing a vertical drop of 1,650 feet. Lift infrastructure includes one high-speed quad chair, two fixed-grip double chairs, and two surface lifts. If you have never been, I suggest you try some of my favorite aspen tree skiing in Colorado.
Honorable Mentions
Loveland Ski Area is a wonderful place to bring the family, with a rich skiing history. The lack of lodging options allows them to focus on the skiable terrain and offer good value near Denver. Monarch Mountain has an incredible history and offers a reasonable ticket price away from the I-70 corridor. Sunlight Mountain near Glenwood Springs is also worth noting. This mountain provides some of the steepest terrain in Colorado at a budget-friendly price tag. Ski Cooper was started by 10th Mountain Division soldiers and is another great option for bringing the whole family. Wrapping up this list are Echo Mountain and Howelsen Hill, and while small on acreage, they make up for their small sizes with affordable day tickets and fun, family-friendly terrain.
These less-trafficked resorts mentioned here offer incredible value. They will make your bank account happy, while still enjoying yourself. Ski days are not always about how much vertical or which couloir was skied. Waiting in lift lines while breaking the bank on your day off is no fun. Enjoyment should be the bottom line, and affordability is the icing on the cake. So why not explore some of these hidden gems?
