SolVista Basin

By Amanda May
Staff Writer
Rockies.com

Solvista Basin is just 15 minutes past Winter Park, and is great for first-timers and intermediate skiers and snowboarders.

View of the night skiing at SolVista Basin at Granby Park.

What the resort lacks in size, it makes up for in friendliness and affordability. Basically, it’s a great family resort where you can get your feet wet before venturing on to Colorado’s mega resorts.

Right next to the Continental Divide in the Colorado Rockies, this ski area is just 87 miles northwest of Denver. It is located within Granby Ranch, a year-round tourism complex that offers great hiking, golfing, mountain biking and more.

The 406 acres of terrain is split on two peaks and 33 trails. East Mountain is ideal for beginners and intermediates, with long groomers perfect for timid turners. It’s peak elevation is 9,202 feet above sea level.

The West Mountain has more advanced terrain and has an elevation of 9,166 feet. Black diamond bowl skiing, steeps and moguls are there when you’re ready to graduate to this mountain at SolVista.

There is a whole area separate from the rest of the terrain for learners, which creates a fun, non-intimidating atmosphere. Group or private lessons are available for children as well as adults. It’s never to late to learn!

The new base lodge is where to go for rentals and/or to sign up for ski school. Their viewing deck is a great place to watch the kids come down the slopes. After a long day of skiing, you can drink hot cocoa snuggling around the fire pit at the base of the mountain.

On-mountain dining includes Seven Trails Grille and Higher Grounds Coffee Shop.

SolVista also has a Nordic Trail network, which boasts 40 kilometers of groomed trails for cross-country ski buffs. Rentals are available from the base lodge for both alpine and cross-country skiing.

The mountain has slopeside condominiums available by the night or week. If you are looking for a cheaper option, head to nearby Granby, Grand Lake or Winter Park for a dizzying array of nightlife opportunities as well as economic hotels.

To reach SolVista from Denver take Interstate 70 west. Take exit 232 and follow Colorado Highway 40 west to the ski area.