Best Half Day Resort: Loveland

Making fresh tracks on a snowmobile near the Continental Divide. Photo by Matt Inden at Colorado.com.

Loveland Ski Area is the first resort skiers and riders spot on the drive up Colorado’s Interstate 70. On heavy traffic days it’s difficult to resist pulling over and fleeing to their open slopes. Mix soft and sunny conditions with a local vibe and close location, Loveland is perfect for a quick zip for some afternoon skiing without the grueling traffic.

Half-day happiness

When Denver is slammed with snow, workers score half days and race to the closest ski area – Loveland. The mountain even offers a “Flex Pass”, a four-hour lift ticket valid any time of the day for $45.

To compete with big-name resorts Loveland offers special deals for skiers and riders. A Day Tripper package provides a lift ticket, rental and outerwear clothing for under $100. The Loveland Pass Card is a low-cost purchase granting the occasional skier and snowboarder a chance to hit the slopes at an affordable price.

Suitable stats

Loveland Ski Area is low in price but high in value. Over 1500 skiable acres are available, and terrain caters to mid-level and advanced skiers and riders. Ample space for beginners is a given, and intermediates will enjoy the challenge of progressive ungroomed blue runs.

Due to its nearness to the Continental Divide, lift access is just shy of the 13,000-foot mark and offers double blacks with deep powder, steep faces, and treeless runs perfect for telemark skiing and open riding. Backcountry is easily accessible and, when successful, skiers and riders exit along Highway 6 on Loveland Pass.

Loveland also upped its freestyle status and shapes a solid park with smooth jumps, fun boxes, rails and creative jibbs.

Always available

Locals particularly dig Loveland because the mountain aims to have skiable slopes by October. The base offers free parking and the lodge has a laidback family vibe throughout the season. When snowstorms create bumper-to-bumper traffic and whiteouts close the Eisenhower Tunnel, Loveland Ski Are is close by, open and ready to take in all skiers and riders.

Hotels near Loveland Ski Area

Hotel Chateau Chamonix: Located in Georgetown, Hotel Chateau Chamonix carries a French Alps look and is just 12 miles from Loveland Ski Area. The friendly hotel is complete with wireless internet, breakfast, a jacuzzi, and rooms are comfortable for large families and couples. Visit Hotel Chateau Chamonx.

Silver Queen Bed & Breakfast: Silver Queen is a beautiful and cozy bed and breakfast located in Georgetown and offering full gourmet mornings and Victorian-style accommodation. Decor is elegant and classy, dazzling clients and ideal for couples. Visit Silver Queen Bed & Breakfast.

Miners Pick Bed and Breakfast: Located in historic Idaho Springs, Miners Pick is a contemporary-style bed and breakfast with a countryside feel. Breakfast can be enjoyed either in the dining room or near the cozy fireplace, and each room is individually decorated with a touch of warmth. Visit Miners Pick Bed and Breakfast.