Quick Info
Terrain: 480 acres, 26 runs. Vertical: 1,200 feet. Base: 10,500 feet. Vibe: Uncrowded, affordable, family-friendly. History: 10th Mountain Division training ground.
Ski Cooper is what Colorado skiing used to be: affordable, uncrowded, and unpretentious. Located atop Tennessee Pass near Leadville, this small resort charges a fraction of what Vail asks and delivers genuine mountain skiing without the crowds, the attitude, or the expense.
The mountain has historic significance beyond skiing. During World War II, the U.S. Army's 10th Mountain Division trained here for alpine warfare. Many of those soldiers returned after the war to build Colorado's ski industry. Ski Cooper honors that legacy.
The Terrain
Size: 480 acres with 26 named runs. Small by mega-resort standards but plenty for a full day of skiing.
Difficulty: 30% beginner, 40% intermediate, 30% advanced. Good balance for families and mixed-ability groups. Nothing truly extreme.
Vertical: 1,200 feet from base to summit. Not huge, but efficient lifts mean plenty of runs per day.
Snow: 260 inches average annually. High elevation (base at 10,500 feet) means cold, dry powder. Limited snowmaking—the mountain relies on natural snow.
Lifts & Facilities
Lifts: Four chairs serving the terrain. No high-speed quads—old-school fixed-grip lifts. The pace is mellow.
Base lodge: Basic but functional. Cafeteria, rentals, ski school. Don't expect spa facilities or gourmet dining.
Ski school: Excellent for beginners and kids. Personal attention that's impossible at crowded resorts.
Rentals: Full rental shop at the base. Equipment is serviceable but not high-end.
Pricing & Value
Ski Cooper's main draw is value. Lift tickets run 50-60% less than major resorts. A family of four can ski here for less than two adults at Vail.
Lift tickets: Roughly $75-90 adult, with significant discounts for kids, seniors, and multi-day passes.
No reservations needed: Unlike some resorts, you can buy tickets at the window. Walk-up skiing still exists here.
Parking: Free. Right at the base. No shuttles, no fees, no hassle.
Chicago Ridge Cat Skiing
For advanced skiers seeking more challenge, Ski Cooper offers snowcat-accessed terrain on Chicago Ridge. 2,600 acres of backcountry-style skiing with lift-like access.
The experience: Snowcat takes you above the lift-served terrain to untouched powder bowls and steeps. Guided groups, avalanche gear provided.
Cost: Premium pricing on top of lift ticket. Book in advance—limited daily spots.
Tips
Know what you're getting. This is not Vail. Limited terrain, basic facilities, old lifts. If you expect luxury, look elsewhere. If you want genuine mountain skiing without pretense, Ski Cooper delivers.
Stay in Leadville. The mountain is 10 miles north of town. Leadville lodging is cheaper than resort towns, and the commute is short.
Bring layers. The base sits at 10,500 feet. Cold is intense, especially on the lifts.
Great for kids. Short lift lines, patient instructors, affordable pricing. Ski Cooper is where kids learn to love skiing.
Check conditions. Limited snowmaking means natural snow dependent. Call ahead in lean years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ski Cooper worth it?
If you want affordable, uncrowded skiing and don't need luxury, absolutely. If you want extensive terrain and high-speed quads, choose Copper or Vail.
How far is Ski Cooper from Denver?
About 100 miles, 2 hours via I-70 and Highway 91. Slightly farther than the Summit County resorts.
What's the 10th Mountain Division connection?
During WWII, the Army trained ski troops here for alpine warfare. Camp Hale, the training base, was nearby. Many 10th Mountain veterans became ski industry pioneers.
Is there night skiing?
No. Ski Cooper operates daytime hours only.
Can beginners ski here?
Yes. 30% of terrain is beginner, and the ski school offers patient instruction. The uncrowded slopes make learning less intimidating.