Eldora Mountain Ski Resort - Nederland, CO

Eldora Mountain is a locals’ favorite for snowboarding in northern Colorado. It’s large enough to enjoy different runs all day and has a surprisingly good mix of skiable terrain.

Roughly the same distance as most Summit County resorts, it has one distinct advantage: you avoid I-70’s treacherous traffic. There are three main roots there from Denver, each about equal distance.

Terrain

Eldora Mountain Snowy Day — Windy day with fresh snow at Eldora.

Eldora has terrain for everyone: cruisers, steeps, bumps, trees, terrain parks, learning areas, and a Nordic center. Over 300 inches on average hit Eldora each season and if you’re a fan of long cruisers and bumps, you’ll find plenty.

Beginners will find the easiest terrain conveniently located near the base village. Eldora has an acclaimed Children’s Center, assuring fun for the whole family.

Eldora Ski Area. Photo: Richard Masoner / Cyclelicious

Experts will find enough single and double black runs to keep them entertained. There is some gate access terrain that requires a very minimal traverse (30 seconds) to get to the steepest double-blacks. From there, West Ridge provides steep bumpy runs and tree skiing. You’ll end up right at Corona Lift.

Village

Eldora Mountain Resort Parking Lot — Pulling up to Eldora Mountain Resort.

There is no town of Eldora, but the resort does have all the necessities: rental equipment, ski school, food, and drink. The Look-Out Cafe is situated at the top of the Corona Lift on the summit. It’s usually more of a warming hut though. Panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains expand in every direction, perfect scenery for a rest from the slopes.

At the base lodge, there is a big cafeteria offering affordable meals, an upstairs bar, and a retail shop. Parking is free and close to the mountain.

Nearby Nederland has a unique vibe with lots of cool shops and restaurants. This is also where would you find the closest lodging to Eldora. Boulder is only a twenty-mile drive from Eldora.