Economical Ski Destination for Skiers

Echo Mountain bills itself as Denver's nearest, least expensive, and freshest ski and snowboard destination. It is located 35 minutes from downtown and is usually less crowded than destinations further away from the city. Prices are affordable, and their season pass is the cheapest you will be able to purchase. There are no blackout dates and no restrictions on the passes. You can also ski daily for the low rate of about $28, a rate so reasonable it won the park an award. Echo Mountain was named by Westword as the Best Ski Deal in 2009. They say they are the freshest because of their expanded area in the Westsie Glades, and the redesigned learning area with Magic Carpet. There are innovative features throughout the park and they host frequent events and competitions. Everything about this park tries to be hip and skiiers love having a great location so close to Denver to ski.

The lodge elevation is 10,500 feet. There is a vertical drop of 660 feet, and you can choose between 15 different trails. There are three lifts including the Milk Run Special, the Thumper, and Frog Legs. Average annual snowfall is 200 inches and the season runs from early December until the beginning of May.

Echo Mountain prides itself on the lessons it provides guests. Classes are organized by ability so you never feel intimidated by those with more experience than you. They further divide students by age to keep learning safe and fun. First time skiers attend Learning Center One which features a gently sloped mountain perfect for learning both snowboarding and downhill skiing. Moving onto Learning Center Two means learning turns and edges for snowboarders, and stopping for skiers, as well as using the Frog Legs handle-tow life. Level Three adds another snowboarding edge and ski turns. Level Four is linking turns and skiing parallel. The final level for snowboards is boarding and skiing on the entire mountain. Rental equipment is available for lessons and guests are encouraged to arrive at least an hour before the start of their lesson. You will need to register upon your arrival. Advanced reservations are required for lessons, as well as prepayment to hold your space. Classes typically fill up on weekend and holidays so you are encouraged to book your space early. Should you need to cancel your space, you will receive a full refund if done so 24 hours in advance of the scheduled lesson.

Echo Mountain is located in Idaho Springs, Colorado, a small town in Clear Creek County about 33 miles from Denver. This is an historic town with a museum, quaint shops, and guided gold mining tours. Following an afternoon skiing, stop into town for a bite to eat at the Wildfire Restaurant and Bar. You can also grab a burger or juicy steak from the Buffalo Restaurant and Bar. There are plenty of overnight options ranging from motor lodges to bed and breakfasts. If searching for a ski resort that focuses on ski and snowboard education, visit the Echo Mountain Park.