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Ski Cooper: Affordable, Family-Friendly, and Close to Denver

Fun in the Snow at Ski Cooper


If you're searching for an authentic mountain experience filled with fun in the snow, Ski Cooper near Leadville, Colorado, is your perfect winter destination. Here's why this hidden gem stands out among Colorado's ski areas.

1. A Charming Alternative to Big Resorts


Escape the crowds and corporate vibes of larger resorts. Ski Cooper offers a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere with a cozy lodge that feels like home. It’s a classic Colorado experience that rivals smaller resorts like Monarch, Sunlight, Powderhorn, and Wolf Creek—all while being closer to Denver. Plus, with non-holiday Mon-Thurs pricing at $45 and the most expensive day at $110, it’s one of the most affordable options in the state. Parking is always free.


Don’t miss grabbing a juicy burger at
Ridgeview Cafe—it’s the perfect treat after a fun day on the slopes, especially when the sun is shining on the outdoor deck.

2. Perfect Natural Snow


Ski Cooper is blessed with exceptional natural snow. Unlike resorts reliant on snowmaking, Cooper’s powder is entirely natural, offering a true alpine skiing experience. With an average of 260 inches of pure, untouched powder each season, every run feels like a fresh adventure. Our high-altitude environment ensures light, dry snow that’s a dream to ski on. Combined with Cooper’s unique grooming philosophy—preserving natural terrain while keeping key trails in prime condition—you’ll enjoy a softer, more forgiving snow surface that keeps you carving all day long.

3. Self-Powered Skiing Adventures


Step into history and experience the mountain like the legendary 10th Mountain Division soldiers who trained here—self-powered and fueled by adventure. Ski Cooper offers a unique uphill skiing experience, blending backcountry-style exploration with the safety and management of a resort environment. Earn your turns on designated uphill routes while enjoying the rewarding challenge of skinning up the slopes. A day pass or season pass is required between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., and all participants must sign the uphill waiver and follow designated routes. For full details, visit Ski Cooper’s Uphill Access Information.

4. Family-Friendly Winter Fun


Ski Cooper, only 15 minutes from downtown Leadville, offers a full-family winter wonderland packed with fun in the snow. Explore the
Dutch Henry sledding hill, cross-country skiing trails, and fat biking paths. Huck Finn Ice Rink is a family paradise, complete with a warming hut, bathrooms, benches, a fire pit, rentals, and even a concession stand.


Cooper is ideal for young families, offering wide-open beginner terrain with gentle slopes, making it easy for first-timers to build confidence. The EZ Street magic carpet is one of the longest conveyor lifts in the state, providing an expansive area for beginner skiers and snowboarders. Kids will love Leprechaun Lane, a fun, family-friendly tree skiing trail where they can search for hidden leprechauns along the way. Affordable private and semi-private lessons are available for children as young as three, ensuring that even the youngest family members can join in on the winter adventure.

5. A Living History Museum


Step into a piece of history at Ski Cooper’s lodge, which is essentially a 10th Mountain Division WWII museum. Discover fascinating photos, artifacts, and a historical video. The entrance to the resort is also home to the 10th Mountain Division Memorial.


Mark your calendar for Friday, February 21st when Cooper celebrates 10th Mountain Division Day with a special ski parade honoring the brave ski troopers who trained at Cooper and Camp Hale in the mid 1940s and ultimately played a large role in defeating the German forces. This year’s celebration marks its 50th anniversary! This event takes place miles from the nation’s newest monument, the
Camp Hale – Continental Divide National Monument.

Brand New!  Free Shuttle Service Connects Leadville and Ski Cooper


Starting January 4, 2025, visitors and residents can take advantage of a new, free shuttle service connecting Leadville with Ski Cooper. The shuttle will operate on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the winter season, offering an easy and convenient way to access the slopes without the hassle of driving.

The shuttle service, operated by
Downtowner, will run on weekends from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., with a break from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. It will make round trips every 30 minutes, and the frequency is subject to weather conditions and traffic. The shuttle will pick up at the 3rd and Harrison Avenue bus stop in Leadville near the Tabor Opera House and drop passengers off at the unloading zone in front of the ticket window at Ski Cooper. The return service will operate in reverse. This is the same shuttle that operates the Leadville transit in town, Monday-Friday. Click here to see bus location


The service will run through April 6, 2025, and is designed to make visiting Ski Cooper more accessible for everyone, whether residents or visiting from out of town.


Shuttle Schedule:

  • Hours of Operation: Saturdays and Sundays, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. (no service between 12 p.m. and 1 p.m.)
  • Route: 3rd and Harrison Bus Stop in Leadville to Ski Cooper’s unloading zone near the ticket window
  • Frequency: Every 30 minutes, subject to weather and traffic conditions. :00 in Leadville, :30 at Ski Cooper Click here to see bus location
  • Parking: Free daytime parking in city lot behind the Tabor Opera House


Whether you’re chasing powder, making family memories, or stepping into history,
Ski Cooper has it all. Experience the magic this winter and discover why locals and visitors alike cherish this Colorado treasure.

March 1, 2025
You can now visit the Leadville Irish Miners’ Memorial , which speaks to the hopes and dreams of immigrants across the world. This new memorial honors Leadville residents whose names had been lost to time. 
February 25, 2025
While much of Colorado welcomes the budding warmth of spring, here in North America’s highest city, winter likes to linger a little (or a lot) longer. At 10,152 feet, Leadville isn’t quite ready to trade snowflakes for sunshine just yet. But that’s part of the magic—our long winters mean more time to enjoy roaring fireplaces, warm drinks, and cozy mountain vibes. So, whether you’re fresh off the ski trails, wrapping up a day of exploring, or just looking for a snug spot to soak in Leadville’s charm, here are the best places in town to warm up by the fire.
February 20, 2025
No matter when you visit Leadville and Twin Lakes, you’ll find yourself two miles above sea level (ok, technically 1.9 miles, but who’s counting?). When you visit in March, you’ll be even closer to the glorious Colorado sun because by this time of year, Leadville and Twin Lakes have typically received around two meters of snow! Yes, meters. Here are some great ways you can enjoy the abundant snow and sun! 1) HIT THE SLOPES AT SKI COOPER Like to ski or ride? Check out Ski Cooper for affordable access to uncrowded slopes. Cooper is open seven days a week through Sunday, April 13, 2025. To learn to ski or board or to improve your skills, sign up for lessons for the whole family. 2) RIDE THE TRAIN Hop aboard the Leadville Railroad Winter Express for a 2-hour train ride through some of the area’s most spectacular scenery. The Winter Express runs until April 13th, departing Thursdays through Saturdays at 1:00 p.m plus daily at 1:00pm during spring break from March 9th through March 29th. This is a popular attraction and reservations are required! Book your seats here . 3) GO SNOWMOBILING Snowmobile and ATV tours are a great way to explore Leadville’s historic East Side Mining District, Turquoise Lake Recreation Area and the surrounding hills. A variety of tour styles are available with options for experienced adventure seekers to beginners and families. Vroom, vroom! Local outfitters include: Leadville ATV , Leadville Offroad Adventures and White Mountain Snowmobiles 4) GO DOGSLEDDING Want a spring break story that’ll make your friends jealous? Hop on a sled and let a team of energetic, tail-wagging huskies whisk you across the snow! You'll glide through stunning mountain scenery with your new four-legged crew leading the way. Dogsledding is a thrilling, unforgettable adventure—and fun for the whole family! 5) GO SNOW ZIPPING Have you ever wanted to zipline in the winter? Now’s your chance! Experience the thrill of our 2-hour Winter Mountain Zip Line Tour , where you’ll descend not one but six exhilarating zip lines, spanning over 8,000 feet of fun. Extend your adventure with the Zip Line and Snowmobile Combo Tour . Get the full scoop on rates, reservations, and restrictions here !
February 20, 2025
If you love deep snow, bluebird skies, and zero lift lines, then March in Leadville and Twin Lakes are calling your name. While other Colorado ski towns are packed this time of year, this high-altitude haven stays refreshingly quiet—meaning more powder, more solitude, and more space to explore safely. Whether you’re carving fresh turns at Ski Cooper, venturing into the pristine backcountry, or enjoying a peaceful après-ski with no wait at the bar, this is your chance to experience winter without the chaos. But with all that extra room comes extra responsibility—so before you head into the untouched snow, let’s talk backcountry safety tips.
February 5, 2025
GIDDY UP! March 1-2, 2025 Every winter, Leadville transforms into a high-octane winter wonderland with the annual Leadville Ski Joring & Crystal Carnival Weekend . This two-day event is packed with adrenaline-pumping sports, winter races, and community fun. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a thrill-seeker, or simply looking for a unique winter experience, Leadville is the place to be! This weekend always draws a crowd! Book a place to stay today .
February 5, 2025
In Leadville and Twin Lakes, we want to help you fall head over heels (hopefully not literally) with winter in the mountains. Whether you’re exploring solo, surrounded by family and friends, or with your special someone, come to Leadville-Twin Lakes to spark or rekindle your love of winter.
February 5, 2025
Ah, February. That special time of year when you can’t remember what it feels like to be warm outdoors and spring is still oh so far away. It’s the worst, right?  At Leadville and Twin Lakes, we invite you to turn that February frown upside down and experience how amazing winter in Colorado can be (yes, even in February).
January 2, 2025
Fat biking has surged in popularity over the past decade, and nowhere is this more evident than in Leadville. With stunning mountain landscapes and groomed winter trails, Leadville has become a premier destination for fat biking enthusiasts. Its growing reputation helped bring the Fat Bike World Championships back to Colorado in 2024. This year, the event is staying in Colorado for a second year in a row, returning to Crested Butte (where it all started), marking its 10th anniversary. 
January 2, 2025
Hello outdoor adventurers! Winter fun in Leadville and Twin Lakes starts with knowledge and preparation—let’s make your adventures safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable.
December 23, 2024
While Leadville-Twin Lakes, Colorado, is known for abundant winter activities, it also offers plenty of great things to do inside. When you need a winter warmup, explore these off-the-beaten-path indoors options!
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