The 5 Closest Ski Areas To Fort Collins

Ski season isn't over in Colorado. In fact, many people consider March to be one of best times to ski since the weather's warmer.

The Centennial State notoriously offers some of the best amenities for skiing and snowboarding in the country. According to On The Snow, there are 26 ski resorts across the state.

While Fort Collins might not be the first Colorado destination that comes to mind for skiing, there are multiple ski areas just a short drive away from FoCo that make great options for skiers and snowboarders alike.

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So whether you're a local to Northern Colorado or just passing through, consider visiting one of the five closest places to ski from our area next time you're looking to 'shred the gnar':

1. Eldora Mountain in Nederland (about 51 miles from Fort Collins) 

Eldora is a popular ski area among many, known for its small town feel while offering several dining options, a tap room for beer lovers, and 680 acres of immaculate terrain that are ski, snowboard, AT, XC and snowshoe friendly.

2. Winter Park Resort in Winter Park (61 miles from Fort Collins)

Winter Park is another favorite among Coloradans. The ski area is known for being a very family friendly resort and has terrain for all ability types. Winter Park has over 3,000 skiable acres that span across two mountains and is home to a majority of beginner and intermediate trails.

3. Echo Mountain in Idaho Springs (about 63 miles from Fort Collins)

Echo Mountain makes an ideal option for beginner skiers. Not only is it under a two-hour drive from Fort Collins, Echo Mountain features an expanded beginners area and a tubing hill. Many consider this ski area a good alternative to some of the mega resorts in the area.

4. Loveland Ski Area in Dillon (about 76 miles from Fort Collins) 

Loveland Ski Area is known as one of Colorado’s highest ski areas with a summit of 13,010 feet; it is also one of the first ski resorts to open every season. With two base areas - Loveland Valley and Loveland Basin - skiers and riders have access to 1,800 acres with an additional 100 acres of hike-to terrain.

5. Arapahoe Basin Ski Area in Dillon (about 77 miles from Fort Collins)

The Arapahoe Basin Ski Area, otherwise known as A-Basin or simply "The Basin", is a longtime ski area offering high-elevation terrain. A-Basin is a great option for all skiers, offering excellent expert terrain combined with long wide groomers and a learner’s slope for beginners.