Copper Mountain Ski Resort (Guide + Key Info, By a Local)

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I’m a local in Colorado and experienced skier, and in this guide, I share exactly what to expect when visiting Copper Mountain Ski Resort.

Copper Mountain is one among the finest ski resorts in Colorado, providing over 140 trails for all ability levels and a diversity of amenities. You don’t need to travel far to find lodging, eateries, and further attractions.

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About Copper Mountain

Copper Mountain Stats

• 📍 The location is 209 Ten Mile Cir, Frisco, CO 80443
• 📞 (866) 841-2481
• 💻 Website
• 📅 The ski area is open from November 14, 2022 to April 23, 2023.
• 🎿 Lift Hours: 9 am to 4 pm 
• ⛰️ Summit elevation: 12,441 ft (3,792 meters)
• ❄️ Average Snowfall: 305 in (774 cm)
• 🗺️ Acres: 2,507 
• 🏂 Number of trails: 140+
• ⛷️ Vertical drop: 2,738 ft (835 meters)
• 🚡 Number of ski lifts: 24

Copper Mountain History

In 1954, District Forest Service Ranger Paul Hauk first proposed developing the valley as a ski area. Various developers considered it, but construction didn’t start until 1971. The project was led by Copper Mountain Associates, a group of 18 investors including Chuck Lewis.

Chuck Lewis was the imaginative person behind Copper Mountain. A serial innovator, he originated Thick and Thin Lumber Company and Pretty Lumpy Concrete Company. Both assisted in constructing Copper Mountain, reducing the costs of transporting building materials.

In 1972, Copper Mountain opened for skiing, offering 5 lifts and 26 miles of trails. Lodging and retail at Copper Junction, the resort’s first condo building, became available the following season. [ Source]

Copper Mountain Resort

Today, Copper Mountain is the largest of the ski resorts in the four located in Summit County. It has twenty-four chair lifts and more than one hundred and forty designated paths.

The terrain naturally divides into segments suitable for skiers of all abilities, offering fun for every skill level. Copper Mountain allocates 21% of its slopes for beginners, 25% for intermediates, 36% for advanced skiers, and 18% for experts. Accomplished skiers and boarders can also enjoy the back bowls in the high-alpine areas of Tucker Mountain accessible by hiking or a free cat-ski shuttle service available Fridays through Sundays from 10 am to 1:30 pm.

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Three communities make up Copper Mountain. The West Village is home to the ski school and several lifts, like Kokomo Express and Woodward Express. Beginners will find numerous green routes on the west side.

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Center Village features the American Flyer lift and American Eagle lift. They lead to beginning and intermediate trails, plus connecting lifts that ascend higher up the mountain. In Center Village, you’ll also find shopping, dining, lodging, and other attractions.

Amenities include the Rocky Mountain Coaster, one of the longest alpine coasters in North America. During summer, enjoy go-karts, zip lines, a climbing wall, and more in Center Village.

Lastly, the East Village at Copper is renowned for its testing terrain. On the east side, the Super Bee and Alpine Lifts grant access to blue, black, and double black routes.

Where to Stay Near Copper Mountain

Here are some highly-regarded lodging options near Copper Mountain:

• Element 29 Hotel – Luxurious and contemporary, this lodging offers ski-in and ski-out access along with convenient gear rentals.
• Lodging near ski runs at Copper Mountain – Also located steps from the slopes, this well-rated accommodation offers comfortable rooms and an outdoor hot tub.
• Frisco Lodge – Located 7 miles from Copper Mountain, this lodge provides evening wine and homemade breakfasts.
• Accommodation Frisco – Also situated 7 miles from Copper Mountain, Accommodation Frisco includes a communal library and an on-site bar, complete with a fireplace.
• New Summit Inn – Situated eight miles from Copper Mountain, this budget-friendly inn usually charges under $200 for an overnight stay.
• Browse Top Apartment rentals on VRBO
• Browse Top Apartment rentals on Plum Guide

Copper Mountain is approximately one hour and forty-five minutes from Denver International Airport, and one hour and twenty minutes from downtown Denver. Its proximity to the city makes it a popular ski resort among residents of Denver.

But whether you’re a local resident or tourist, all can appreciate lodging nearby and avoiding I-70 congestion.

For direct ski-in and ski-out access at Copper Mountain, travelers should explore Center Village. Here, guests will discover several pleasant lodging options, including Element 29 Hotel and New Village Copper Mountain. Numerous rental apartments also exist, making them a great choice for groups.

For quieter and more budget-friendly lodging, explore nearby mountain communities. Close to Copper Mountain is the charming village of Frisco, offering numerous activities. You can also find accommodation in Keystone and Silverthorne.

5 Things to Do Near Copper Mountain

Rocky Mountain Coaster

Glide down one of the longest alpine coasters in North America.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 968-2318 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 4 pm Daily | Entrance: $35 per person, free under 9

The Rocky Mountain Coaster is located at Copper Mountain in Center Village, near the American Flyer Lift. It’s one of the longest alpine coasters on the continent, measuring 5,800 feet. The track races to top speeds of 40 kilometers per hour!

To enjoy this thrilling ride, riders must be at least 9 years old and 52 inches tall. Companions are free but must be at least 3 years old and 36 inches tall.

Nordic Skiing

Glide smoothly across the scenic, groomed routes at Copper Mountain — free of charge!

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (866) 841-2481 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 4 pm daily | Entrance: free | 👉 Shop Cross Country Gear on REI

• TCS Amsterdam Marathon – Held every year in mid-October, this huge running occasion draws about 40,000 participants to the city. The course starts at Olympic Stadium and passes many of the most notable landmarks and attractions in Amsterdam)

  ❄️ Enjoy Nordic Skiing? Don’t miss the nearby Frisco Nordic Center, boasting 17+ miles of groomed trails.

  Tubing

  Race down this family-friendly attraction at Copper Mountain.

  

  📍 Google Maps location

  Most winters, the Copper Mountain sledding slope opens in late December. You’ll find this family-friendly attraction in East Village. During your 1-hour session, enjoy multiple groomed paths featuring stimulating banked turns and jumps. Be sure to arrive early for the safety briefing, and note the 36-inch height requirement.

  👉 Suggestion:Reserve online at least one day in advance for 10% off tickets! If the Copper Mountain tubing hill is booked, look into Frisco Adventure Park.

  Fat Biking

  Cycle between two mountain towns or on remote, alpine trails.

  

  📍 Google Maps | Phone: (970) 547-7889 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 3 pm Monday – Friday, Closed Saturday – Sunday | Entrance: $30 adults, $25 seniors over 65, free under 13 | 👉 Fat Bike Beer & Distillery Tour on Viator

  There are several places to fat bike near Copper Mountain, including the Gold Run Nordic Center. It’s one of the best things to do in Breckenridge, a nearby mountain town.

  Fat cycling can also be appreciated on the Breckenridge trail system and the winter Rec Path. This free, 8-mile trail connects Breckenridge with Frisco.

  Downtown Frisco

  Discover après ski entertainment in this picturesque mountain town.

  

  📍 Google Maps

  Appreciate après ski activities in downtown Frisco, located just 7 miles from Copper Mountain. On its charming main street, you’ll find several boutiques, gift shops, eateries, and bars. Personal preferences include Highside Brewing and BBQ and Ein Prosit, a Bavarian-style pub.

  Restaurants Near Copper Mountain

  

  The following details will help you plan a hiking trip to North Cascades National Park.

  • Ten Mile Tavern – Set in Center Village, this establishment offers a wide beer selection and hearty meals of comfort food.
  • Authentic Mexican Restaurant in Center Village – Another eatery in Center Village serving margaritas and generous portions of traditional Mexican cuisine.
  • JJ’s Rocky Mountain Tavern – Enjoy craft beers and simple dishes at this village pub featuring an outdoor fire pit and patio.
  • West Village Day Facility – Found near the family-friendly runs in West Village, this establishment offers pizza, burgers, chicken strips, and more kid favorites.
  • Solitude Station – This food court sits at the top of the American Eagle Lift, featuring a Cajun station, ramen bowls, and more.
  • Flyer’s Grill – Take the American Flyer Lift to this cozy shack that serves up beer, cocktails, brats, and steaming bowls of chili.
  • Highside Brewing and BBQ – Found nearby in Frisco, this neighborhood brewery includes meals, board games, and live performances.
  • Vinny’s EuroAmerican Cuisine – This countryside restaurant is one of my husband and my regular date night options. Expect delicious food and great service!

  As the largest ski resort in Summit County, it’s no surprise that Copper Mountain has several dining spots on-site. Find places to eat and drink in all three villages, as well as on the mountain. However, note that you might be paying a bit extra for comfort.

  For more affordable options and an even greater variety, head downtown to Frisco. Here, you’ll find delicious locally-owned restaurants, coffee shops, and breweries.

  Essentials to Pack for Copper Mountain

  My Colorado packing list goes over all the things you’ll need for a ski resort vacation. Be sure to bookmark it! But as a brief overview, here are a few items you might not think to bring, but are sure to improve your experience:

  My Favorite Accessory

Pelekas: Situated on a hilltop, Pelekas is a traditional village with panoramic island views. A brief drive from Corfu Town, this charming hamlet is known for its cozy taverns, narrow lanes, and nearby Glyfada Beach. The legendary sunset at the Kaiser`s Throne viewpoint is a short uphill walk from the town. Best hotel: Jimmy`s Pelekas