Eldora Mountain Resort Is Open: Here's What's New for 2015

Eldora Mountain Resort opened last Friday in the middle of a nice little snowstorm, which had residents of Boulder and Denver rejoicing, especially since going to Eldora means not having to negotiate I-70. The Cannonball/Challenge, Caribou, EZ, Indian Peaks, Little Hawk, Sundance and Sunkid lifts are all operating. More will open in the coming weeks.

You can read about every Colorado ski resort in the Edge, our winter sports guide, as we roll it out online. Each description lays out what's new, what the signature experience is, what to splurge on, how to go cheap and, of course, what to drink. 

ELDORA MOUNTAIN RESORT
eldora.com
303-440-8700

What’s new: “We’ve really been increasing our snowmaking capacity in recent years, and this season we’re able to cover 100 percent of the mountain, so we’ll have better coverage between storms,” says Eldora spokesman Michel Tapia. “Also look for a new bar in the Indian Peaks Lodge, and new food options at the base area. Oh, and don’t miss a new tradition that we started last year: The day before Christmas, we have a Best Christmas Sweater contest. It’s almost as much fun as our annual Retro Day in the Spring, when everybody throws on their one-pieces and neon junk from the ’80s.”

Signature experience: “If you’re watching the weather forecast and hear something about an ‘upslope’ storm over the Front Range, throw your gear in the car and come on up to Eldora,” Tapia says. “Those storms tend to stick over Eldora and spin around like a washing machine, and we’ll end up with over a foot while the rest of the ski areas get nothing. It happens quite a bit.”

Splurge: “The thing that comes to mind is private lessons,” Tapia says. “It’s a great way to improve your skills, and it’s also a good way to get a private tour of the mountain, for about half the price of a private lesson from a lot of our competitors up along I-70. If you’re looking to spend a few extra bucks, it’s a great value.”

Ski bum tips: “Just by coming to Eldora, you’ve already made the smart, affordable choice,” Tapia notes. “Once you’re here, true ski bums will want to head for the glades: We’ve got some beautifully spaced tree glades, and when we get powder, they really hold the snow well. Find a local to show you the good stuff, because you’re going to need to get off the groomers to get to it.”

Drink locally: The Corona Bar on the top level of the Timbers Lodge has fourteen beers on tap, most of them local. “We have live music there on the weekends, we always have the game on, and our taps include brews from New Belgium, Boulder Beer, Avery and — you guessed it — Upslope,” Tapia says.