Copper Mountain Colorado, CO

Copper Mountain, Colorado is probably the most newly developed area in Summit County. The village at the base of the ski area is actually only a few years old but makes visitors feel like they are really on vacation. The streets through the village are blocked off for pedestrian use only and there are many cafes, restaurants, bars, boutiques and equipment stores. The town has more or less grown as the ski area has grown more popular, and therefore centers around resort activities and backcountry access year round. The ski area has actually been nicknamed "the most nearly perfect ski mountain in the United States."

The great thing about Copper Mountain is that the terrain is naturally divided by difficulty. If you are a beginner and skiing or snowboarding on beginner runs, there is no way to get lost and find yourself on a run much past your ability level. Most of the ski area is facing north and therefore holds snow well in the winter. Old fires have left mountain sides sparse, making wide open spaces for winter recreation. Copper Mountain is really a great place for skiers of all abilities.

But Copper Mountain, CO isn't all about skiing. The village is bustling throughout the summer with live music, festivals, craft fairs, storytelling hour, laser light shows, and art showings. As Copper Mountain sits within Arapahoe National Forest, you can also access all sorts of trails for biking, hiking, horseback riding, and backpacking. There is also a popular golf course at the ski area base.

If you are traveling to Copper Mountain from Denver, head west on I-70 toward Grand Junction. Then follow CO 91 south toward Copper Mountain and Leadville. Most of Copper Mountain's lodging opportunities lay just footsteps away from the village area. You may not even need a car for your entire stay, however, as the Summit Stage, a free county bus, offers transportations within Copper Mountain and to surround towns and ski areas.