Wolf Creek Ski Resort

By Amanda May
Staff Writer
Rockies.com

This ski area is in the Rio Grande National Forest between the towns of Pagosa Springs and South Fork, in southwest Colorado.

Wolf Creek has been up and running for more than 70 years and take pride in having super friendly employees and lots of natural powder. By lots, they really aren’t exaggerating. On average, Wolf Creek receives 465 inches of the white stuff.

At its base of 10,350 feet, Wolf Creek is already considered a high alpine resort. The summit reaches 11,900 feet, so don’t forget your sunglasses or sunscreen, at this altitude you might be closer to the sun than ever before!

The total skiable area is 1,600 acres, spread along a ridge. There are also a few snow-capped peaks and chutes above the tree line. Glade lovers can bob and weave in the midst a pine forest at mid mountain, and beginners can take it easy on the 20% of the terrain that is classified easiest. Intermediate terrain takes up 35% of the mountain, 25% is advanced, and the last 20% is for experts only.

The Nova lift gets you to beginner terrain, Raven takes you to a mix of beginner and intermediate and the Bonanza and Treasure Triple service intermediate and expert slopes.

There are seven lifts in total; 1 double, 2 triples, 2 quads, 
1 high-speed poma lift and 
1 magic carpet. The lifts run from 8:30 a.m to 4:00 p.m. daily. Half-day ticket prices start at 12:30 p.m.

Join a free “Ridge and Beyond” tour to really explore the bowls and ridgeline terrain. The ski resort offers a free one-hour tour for intermediate to advanced skiers and snowboarders to explore the more difficult terrain on the mountain. The tour runs once daily, at 8:30 a.m.

Don’t miss the 1,000 acres at Wolf Creek Resort that are known as the Water Fall Area. Take the Alberta chair lift to reach this unspoiled natural area complete with double black diamond runs and steep chutes. There are also a few groomed runs and intermediate terrain, which makes the area friendly to almost anybody.

The newest and smallest skiers can sign up at the ski school and be part of the Wolf Pups program, which uses the magic carpet lifts and learning terrain low on the mountain.

There are great places to stay while visiting Wolf Creek in either Pagosa Springs or South Fork. Both towns have options that range from mountain cabins and cozy bed and breakfasts to hotels and condominiums. Visit Colorado accommodations for more lodging information.

Off the high slopes, there are 10 kilometers of cross-country skiing trails at Wolf Creek to take advantage of. Just take the ski road at the end of the lower parking lot to reach the two loops that take you past reservoirs and picturesque trees in the area.

To get to Wolf Creek, fly into the Colorado Springs Airport (192 miles away), the Albuquerque International Airport (212 miles away) or Denver International Airport (244 miles away). From there rental cars and shuttles are available.