Wolf Creek, Colorado

By Amanda May
Staff Writer
Rockies.com

Wolf Creek Ski Area sits between the towns of Pagosa Springs and South Fork, Colorado and one mile east of Wolf Creek Pass Summit in the Rio Grande National Forest. Wolf Creek’s attractions are their inches and inches of powder snow and the slopes to contain them.

The powder-heavy slopes at the Wolf Creek Ski Area.

Wolf Creek lodging can be found in either Pagosa Springs or South Fork and have options that range from mountain cabins and cozy bed and breakfasts to hotels and condominiums.

This southwest Colorado ski area has been open for more than 70 years and pride them selves on having very friendly employees and tons of powder! Almost all of the Rocky Mountains get plenty snow, but Wolf Creek might just top of the list with a staggering 465 natural inches of snow each year! When the rest of Colorado is snow-deprived, head to Wolf Creek, they’ve probably got feet of powder to plunge into!

Considered a high alpine resort, Wolf Creek is at 10,350 feet above sea level at its base and 11,900 feet at the summit. Don’t forget your sunglasses and sunscreen, when you’re this high you really need it!

The terrain is versatile and spread across 1,600 acres along a high alpine ridge. There are a few snow-capped peaks, chutes and ridges above the timberline. These transition into areas of pine forest glades as the altitude gets lower. The overall terrain is classified as 20% easy, 35% intermediate, 25% advanced and 20% expert.

What makes Wolf Creek unique is the 1,000 acres called the Water Fall area. Serviced by the Alberta chair lift, this unspoiled natural area has everything from double-black diamond runs on the Knife Ridge chutes, to some challenging intermediate terrain, which will have you exploring glades. There are a few groomed runs that compliment the wild side of the Water Fall area as well.

The Nova lift services beginner terrain for children and new skiers. The newer Raven chair lift services primarily beginner and intermediate terrain, and the Bonanza and Treasure Triple Chairlift service intermediate and expert slopes.

Sign up at the Wolf Creek ski school for private or group lessons for children and adults. Classes available for both skiers and snowboarders. The smallest and newest skiers will get to ride the magic carpet lift as part of the adorable Wolf Pup Program.

The ski area also has 10 kilometers of cross-country skiing trails. Take the ski road at the end of the lower parking lot to Alberta Park to reach them. A four-kilometer loop goes around the natural meadows. Another loop will take you six kilometers, past the Alberta Reservoir and back through the trees. Tracks are groomed regularly for both classical and skate skiers. Snowshoers are also welcome. Use of the area is free, but it is not patrolled, so go in groups or partners.