Eldora Mountain Resort, located less than 40 minutes from Boulder, provides away runs, pristine powder and winter fun all year long. This mountain resort sits just above the quaint and quirky little mountain town of Nederland at the mouth of Boulder canyon, so popping down for a beer at their local brewery after your winter workout is no trouble. Don't have any of your ski gear because you're traveling? Never fear, for they've got you covered.
On the way up to Eldora — Photo courtesy of Eldora Mountain Resort
Rent gear
It's no secret that skiing and boarding can be expensive, but, luckily, you don't have to completely invest in the gear to spend a few days on the slopes. Eldora offers day passes for the following:
- Adult (ages 16-64) full day - $79
- Junior (ages 6-15) full day - $46
- Senior (ages 65+) full day - $46
Eldora also rents gear by the day, or as a multi-day package. Prices vary, but they are reasonable and will get you on the slopes in the latest equipment and styles.
Here's what you'll need (for you first-timers): boots, skis or board, ski pants, ski jacket, warm and/or waterproof gloves or mittens, wool ski socks, goggles, warm base layers and a helmet.
Note: A helmet is NOT optional. Always wear one, no matter what friends or family members tell you. They can save your life.
Buy gear
If, however, you figure that you're in a ski mecca and you might as well purchase your gear, then there are several spots in Boulder that can help you achieve just that, including Sports Authority, Boulder Ski Deals and Play it Again Sports (open only during ski season). Bringing your own gear but need your bindings adjusted or a waxing? Boulder Ski Deals is your place.
Learn your lesson
For only $119, you can have your very own lesson at Eldora. Their package for first-timers includes a four-hour group lesson, rental equipment and a Little Hawk Mountain lift ticket. The lesson meets at 9:45 a.m. and starts promptly at 10:00 a.m., with a break at noon for lunch (not included in package). The lesson continues again at 1:00 p.m. (Meet back at 12:45 p.m.) and ends at 3:00 p.m.
Sweet turns atop the mountain — Photo courtesy of Eldora Mountain Resort
Gnar-gnar, pow-pow!
Or, in skier and boarder speak, get out there and have fun on the gnarly and awesome powder!
To get to Eldora from Boulder:
Take Canyon Blvd. West (Canyon Blvd. is Hwy 119.). Follow 119 to Nederland. Turn left at the Roundabout. Continue south on 119 for one mile. Turn right on 130 and follow the signs to Eldora. The total drive is approximately 21 miles (or 35 minutes).
