Ski Cooper, Colorado Skiing

In Colorado Ski Country some of the best skiing and snowboarding is found off the beaten track, we refer to these as our GEMS and with less crowds and down-to-earth prices it is easy to see why. With a variety of terrain and a laid back atmosphere, it is no wonder that they are Colorado's hidden treasures. So get off the interstate and head to a mountain oasis free of paid parking, fancy après, and lift lines. And while the prices are not free the terrain, customer service, and smiles are worth it.

Quiet, unpretentious and family oriented, Ski Cooper is located on US Highway 24 between Minturn and Leadville in the scenic San Isabelle National Forest. With a base elevation of 10,500 and a Summit of 11,700, Ski Cooper offers 1,200 feet of vertical and 400 acres of lift served terrain. Ski Cooper is a refreshing getaway from its high priced, highly trafficked neighbors. With an average of 250 inches of snowfall per year Ski Cooper is a great place to try a new discipline or learn the basics.

Ski Cooper offers one of the friendliest learning environments in Colorado. Ski school offers classes and rental packages for the novice skier. Smaller classes and experienced instructors ensure an encouraging environment and personalized attention. Children and adults can take advantage of the specialized telemark and snowboarding classes as well.

If you are looking for big mountain skiing you will not find it inbounds at Ski Cooper. You will, however, find great wide open faces and long steep terrain on the adjacent, snow cat served, Chicago Ridge. With a peak elevation of 12,600 feet above sea level, Chicago Ridge feels like the top of the world. Runs ranging from 3,000 to 10,000 feet and a maximum vertical drop of 1,400 make Chicago Ridge a perfect alternative for the advanced to expert skier or rider looking for a peaceful, untracked day on the mountain.