Best Unknown Resort: Ski Cooper

Ski Cooper is a relaxed, fun and family friendly Colorado resort. Photo by Scott D.W. Smith

Tucked away in Colorado’s historical 10th Mountain Division district of San Isabel National Forest is Ski Cooper, a cozy skiing area ideal for those longing to escape busy lift lines and weekend crowds. Tickets are low-priced, terrain is undemanding, and the atmosphere defines the feeling of a relaxing vacation at Ski Cooper Mountain.

Beauty and solitude

Ski Cooper is located in the state’s Fourteener region, an area surrounded by Rocky Mountain peaks surpassing the 14,000 mark in elevation like Mount Elbert and Mount Massive. The 400 skiable acres at Ski Cooper scale to the top of Tennessee Pass and reach a high altitude of 11,700 feet.

The surroundings are a popular Colorado attraction and house a number of sleepy mountain towns, preserved wildlife, and incredible views of the Colorado Rocky Mountains. Conveniently, visitors can explore both San Isabel and White River National Forests on skis, boards or snowshoes via Ski Cooper’s own snowcat tours.

Historical frame

Ski Cooper’s antiquity thrives around all corners, beginning as one of the oldest Colorado ski resorts still in operation since 1942. The area was a prime training location for World War II ski troopers in the U.S. Army’s 10th Mountain Division. Ski Cooper has since evolved into an open ski area but maintains its appealing natural snowfall average of 250 inches per year.

Nine miles from Ski Cooper is Leadville, the country’s highest settlement in elevation (about 10,200ft). Leadville’s homey streets still carry character as one of Colorado’s oldest silver mining mountain towns. The town is now a popular place for lodging and dining among Ski Cooper visitors.

Satisfying slopes

This peaceful gem of a ski haven offers soft and simple slopes to cruise on, with touches of tree runs and powder pockets to enjoy with ease. The basic four lifts simplify meeting schedules, and the wide dining hall lodge perches above the modest mountain base for optimal mountain views.

Advanced skiers and riders should take advantage of Chicago Ridge Backcountry Ski Tours. Tours are run by snowcats climbing over 12,000 feet in elevation and averaging 1500 vertical feet of backcountry runs at 10 to 15 per day.

Hotels near Ski Cooper

Super 8 Leadville: A reliable hotel that’s clean, affordable and situated in nearby Leadville with a beautiful view. Call 1-800-780-5733 or visit Super 8 Leadville Co.

A Wolf Den B&B: A quiet homey bed and breakfast nestled in the mountains. A dreamy getaway for couples, the one-room cabin is situated right on a lake with a picture-perfect view. Located in Twin Lakes. Call 719-486-7262.

Grand West Village Resort: Quiet, secluded and clean, this resort rarely goes wrong. Beautiful cabins with large windows light up the cozy rooms and fireplace. Ideal for all visitors looking for the mountain feel. Located in Leadville. Call 800-691-3999.

Thunder Lodge: Located in Buena Vista. Warm and inviting, this lodge hosts cabins equipped with full kitchens and a comfortable atmosphere. Perfect for family getaways. Call 800-330-9194.

Windspirit Cabins: Located in Twin Lakes. This scenic and historic site never runs out of activity and life. Cabins are stocked with everything one would need for comfort. Call 719-486-8138.