Arapahoe Basin Ski Area Altitude: Visit A-Basin & Avoid Altitude Sickness

Arapahoe Basin, also known as A-Basin, is a popular ski resort located in Summit County, Colorado. It offers breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and attracts skiers and snowboarders from all over the world. However, due to its high elevation, visitors may experience altitude sickness if they are not careful.

What is the highest elevation of Arapahoe Basin Ski Area?

The highest elevation at the Arapahoe Basin Ski Area is 13,050 feet (3,978 meters) at the summit of Lenawee Mountain. The top of the mountain provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

What is the elevation of the base area of Arapahoe Basin?

The base elevation of Arapahoe Basin is 10,780 feet (3,286 meters). This means that even the lowest point on the mountain is still at a relatively high altitude.

Arapahoe Basin vertical drop

The vertical drop at Arapahoe Basin is 2,530 feet (771 meters). This means that there is plenty of terrain for skiers and snowboarders to explore and enjoy throughout their visit.

Can you get altitude sickness at Arapahoe Basin ski resort?

Altitude sickness can be a concern for visitors to Arapahoe Basin ski resort due to its high elevation. Symptoms can include headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and shortness of breath. It’s important to note that altitude sickness can affect anyone regardless of age or fitness level.

What are the symptoms of altitude sickness? 

Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), is a condition that can occur when you rapidly ascend to high altitudes without giving your body enough time to adjust. The symptoms of altitude sickness can vary but commonly include headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, loss of appetite, and difficulty sleeping. In more severe cases, individuals may experience shortness of breath at rest or with minimal exertion, confusion or disorientation, and coughing up pink or frothy sputum. It’s important to recognize the symptoms of altitude sickness and descend to a lower altitude if they become severe or do not improve with rest.

How do you prevent altitude sickness at Arapahoe Basin?

To prevent altitude sickness while skiing or snowboarding at Arapahoe Basin ski resort, follow these tips:

1. Gradual ascent: Allow your body time to acclimatize gradually by ascending slowly and steadily, especially when you reach elevations above 8,000 feet. For every 1000 feet of elevation gained, take a rest day or two before continuing your ascent.

2. Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids (at least three to four liters per day) to stay hydrated. That’s because the air at high altitudes is dry and causes increased water loss through respiration.

3. Avoid alcohol and smoking: Avoid alcohol and smoking as they can worsen symptoms of altitude sickness.

4. Medication: Consult with your doctor about taking Diamox (acetazolamide) or other medications to help prevent altitude sickness.

5. Proper nutrition: Eating a diet rich in carbohydrates, protein, and fats can help provide the energy needed for your body to adjust to higher altitudes.

6. Restful sleep: Get enough restful sleep at night since lack of sleep can worsen symptoms of altitude sickness.

7. Descend if necessary: If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness despite preventative measures, immediately descend to lower elevations until you start feeling better.

Remember that everyone reacts differently to high altitudes. As a result, it’s important to listen to your body and take appropriate actions if necessary.

What is the highest altitude ski resort in Colorado?

The highest altitude ski resort in Colorado is Silverton Mountain, with a peak elevation of 13,487 feet. However, Loveland Ski Area has the highest base area elevation at 10,800 feet and hugs the Continental Divide.

Can beginners ski Arapahoe Basin?

Yes, beginners can ski at Arapahoe Basin. While the ski area is known for its extreme terrain and steep glades that are popular among experienced skiers, it does have 7% green and 20% blue trails that are skiable for beginners. Additionally, Arapahoe Basin’s seven distinct areas with adventurous in-bounds terrain appeal to skiers of all levels. However, beginners should still exercise caution.

Is Arapahoe Basin hard to ski? (Skiing at Arapahoe Basin)

Yes, Arapahoe Basin Ski Area is considered to be hard to ski. With a difficulty score of 81.1, it is one of the hardest ski areas in the United States. It ranks in the top 10% of most difficult ski resorts in North America. This is mainly because 73% of its trails are rated as expert-level, and the ski area has a vertical drop of 2,530 feet. While advanced skiers may enjoy the challenge of expert terrain, there are green and blue trails that are suitable for beginners.

Is Arapahoe Basin good for kids? 

Yes, Arapahoe Basin is good for kids. The resort offers a variety of activities and programs for children, including ski and snowboard lessons, daycare services, and family-friendly events. The ski area offers a wide variety of runs, including those for beginners. However, parents should be aware of the high altitude in the area and take necessary precautions to prevent altitude sickness in their children.

When does Arapahoe Basin close for the season? (A-Basin Closing)

Arapahoe Basin Ski Area is open daily until at least June 4th. However, the exact closing date depends on weather conditions.

Arapahoe Basin trail map

You can find a trail map for Arapahoe Basin on their official website or by visiting the ski resort’s ticket office. A-Basin’s trail map is also available at various locations throughout the ski area.

Arapahoe Basin lift tickets

Arapahoe Basin lift tickets can only be purchased online at A-Basin’s official website.

On weekdays, lift tickets cost $59 for children aged 6-14, $79 for juniors aged 15-18, and $89 for adults aged 19+.

Lift tickets on the weekends cost $69 for children aged 6-14, $99 for juniors aged 15-18, and $109 for adults aged 19+.

Season passes are also available and cost $169 for children aged 6-14, $459 for juniors aged 15-18, $619 for adults aged 19-69, and $379 for seniors. Arapahoe Basin accepts Ikon Passes.

Arapahoe Basin stats

Depending on weather conditions, the Arapahoe Basin Ski Area is open for winter from October to June, which is the longest ski season in Colorado. It is often one of the nation’s first ski resorts to open and the last to close. The mountain receives an average snowfall of 350 inches (889 cm). It has some of the highest skiable terrain in North America with a base elevation is 10,520 feet (3,206 meters) and a summit elevation of 13,050 feet (3,978 meters), making it the third-highest ski-area peak elevation in North America. It has over 1,400 skiable acres of terrain and 125 acres of snowmaking capacity. The ski area has opened as early as October 9th and closed as late as August 10th. 

The ski area has one high-speed six-pack lift (Lenawee Express takes you to mid-mountain), two high-speed quads (Black Mountain Express lift and Molly Hogan lift), two fixed-grip quads (Zuma and Beavers), one fixed-grip double lift (Pallavicini lift), two conveyor lifts (Molly & Pika Place carpets), one surface lift (Lazy J Tow), with a total lift capacity of up to 11,300 people per hour. Lift tickets are only sold online.

Amenities include five dining options located on-mountain or at the base area, a ski & snowboard rental shop, and a retail store called Arapahoe Sports retail store with tuning services available. Ski & snowboard lessons and a Kids’ Center for children’s activities are also available. Bathrooms, lockers, and water bottle filling stations are available, along with brown-bag lunch areas on the second floor of A-Frame and Black Mountain Lodge. There’s no village lodging, but nearby options are available in Keystone, Silverthorne, and Frisco.

Arapahoe Basin offers seven distinct skiing areas: frontside, Pallavicini, The Beavers Montezuma Bowl, The Steep Gullies, The East Wall, and Molly Hogan, making it great for exploring different terrains. There are seven terrain parks: Banana Park, Treeline Terrain Park, Moonwalk Park, High Divide Terrain Park, and Molly’s Magical Park.

How is the snow quality at Arapahoe Basin?

Arapahoe Basin is known for its high-altitude terrain and receives an average of 350 inches of snow annually. The snow quality is generally good but can vary depending on weather conditions and temperature fluctuations. Always check the latest snow conditions from the ski resort’s website or local weather forecasts before planning a visit. 

Arapahoe lodging

Arapahoe Basin ski area offers a variety of lodging options for visitors. These include the A-Basin Lodge, which is located at the base of the mountain and offers hotel rooms, suites, and hostel-style bunk rooms. Several nearby towns offer lodging options, such as Keystone Resort, Breckenridge, Frisco, and Dillon. Visitors can also find vacation rentals in these areas or choose to stay in one of the many hotels or motels in Summit County.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Arapahoe Basin ski resort offers spectacular views and an exhilarating skiing experience, it’s important to be aware of the potential for altitude sickness. By taking proper precautions and listening to your body, you can enjoy all that this ski resort has to offer while staying safe and healthy.