Find the Ski Shack on Loveland Pass

Loveland Pass is probably the most skied backcountry terrain in all of the Rockies. On any given winter day you’ll find hoards of skiers and snowboarders waiting for a lift back to the top.

Arapahoe Basin Ski Area Beach — The Beach.

Arapahoe Basin Beach Flag — Flag at A Basin.

Last weekend I found myself at A Basin without a ski pass and even with a 2-for-1 deal, it was too late in the day to pay for a ticket. So we opted for a beer at the Beach, and then runs on Loveland Pass.

If you can’t handle tight tree skiing than Loveland Pass is not for you. If you start at the top, by the Continental Divide sign, and go right down into the woods, the runs should funnel out to the same pickup spot. This isn’t a guide to skiing it, so please be careful and err on the side of not doing it. The views from atop Chair 9 at Loveland Ski Area are even better than at this pass.

Loveland Pass Continental Divide — Loveland Pass crosses the Continental Divide.

Loveland Pass Backcountry Skiing Sign — Backcountry warning at top.

Always ski with a friend, be careful of conditions like new snow on old snow, and don’t bother traversing around the bowl. It’s dangerous. Just head straight down into the trees and know what you’re doing. Talk to locals up there and get a feel for what’s going on and the routes. Carry backcountry safety supplies, like a whistle and a cell phone, just in case.