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Resort Comparison

Arapahoe Basin vs Loveland

Loveland excels for families prioritizing beginner terrain. Loveland's ski school starting at age 3 may be decisive for families with young children.

The Verdict

Arapahoe Basin leads with 3 wins
Best for Families
Loveland

Ski school from age 3

Best Snowfall
Loveland

114" average season

Best Terrain
Arapahoe Basin

Impressive mountain

Best Value
Loveland

$99 day pass

Easiest Access
Arapahoe Basin

Most accessible

Best Village Vibe
Arapahoe Basin

Pleasant base area

Arapahoe Basin
Colorado, USA
$$Ikon
Loveland
Colorado, USA
$$Independent

Family

Ski School Age
4+
3+
Full-Day Program
Beginner Terrain
5.5
7.5
Walkability
7.0
6.0
Village Vibe
5.5
5.5

Mountain

Vertical
2,530'
2,210'
Skiable Area
1,428 ac
1,800 ac
Green Runs
10%
15%
Trails
147
94
Lifts
9
11

Getting There

Airport
DEN
DEN
Drive Time
1.5h
1.2h
Road Ease
6.5
5.5

Cost

Passes
Ikon
Independent
Day Pass
$149
$99
Cost Tier
Moderate
Moderate

Village

Dining
Limited
Limited
Grocery
Spa
Pool
Add a third resort to compare

Snowfall Comparison

Live conditions

Arapahoe Basin

108.8"

avg season

2024-25 season

107.1" total

98%

Loveland

114"

avg season

2024-25 season

107.6" total

94%

Season Accumulation (10-Year Average)

OctNovDecJanFebMarApr
114"57"0"
Arapahoe Basin
Loveland

Key Insights

Loveland excels for families prioritizing beginner terrain. Loveland's ski school starting at age 3 may be decisive for families with young children.

Key Differences

  • Loveland's beginner terrain score (7.5) exceeds Arapahoe Basin's (5.5), making it better for families prioritizing beginner runs
  • Arapahoe Basin's walkability score (7.0) exceeds Loveland's (6.0), making it better for families prioritizing walkability
  • Loveland's ski school accepts children from age 3, while Arapahoe Basin starts at age 4
  • Loveland has more beginner/intermediate terrain (55% green and blue), while Arapahoe Basin skews more advanced (60% black and double black)

Best For

Arapahoe Basin

  • Budget-conscious families
  • Parents wanting full-day ski school programs
  • Expert skiers (60% advanced terrain)

Loveland

  • Families with first-time skiers (good beginner terrain)
  • Parents with young children (ski school from age 3)
  • Budget-conscious families

More Comparisons

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Explore More

Regions

Colorado
Utah
British Columbia

Best For

Best for Beginners
Most Walkable
Best for Toddlers

Guides

First Family Ski Trip Guide
Best Time to Go Skiing