It has been said that fluffy white tufts of snow are as close as anyone can come to fulfilling childhood daydreams about walking on the clouds. At Loveland Ski Area, 400 inches of snow each year softly decorate the mountain in these childhood dreams, bringing fantasy to reality for all visitors, skiers and snowboarders alike.

Located 53 miles outside of Denver, just before the Eisenhower Tunnel in the Arapaho National Forest, Loveland Ski Area is the closest ski resort to Denver, and is as popular among tourists as it is among locals. Boasting 1,365 skiable acres, Loveland is also the tenth largest ski resort in Colorado. From the moment temperatures reach consistent lows, typically in late September, Loveland begins making snow; by mid to late October, sooner than almost every other resort in the country, this plush white heaven opens and provides all snow enthusiasts with a minimum base of 18 inches and full coverage on the 1,000 vertical foot opening day run. Once the weather begins to bring the fresh snow, this man-made snow provides the perfect base and reduces ice patches.

Loveland Ski Resort is a fantastic destination for everyone looking to experience the thrill of crisp, Rocky Mountain snow. This Denver ski resort is actually two ski areas, connected by a horizontal lift and shuttle bus and has terrain for all abilities. The south side is the best spot for milder slopes, while the north side is home to a slightly more aggressive terrain, with bumps, steeps and wide open bowls for everyone. Daredevils who love to fly down the mountain as if they’re on fire will find the black and double-black diamond runs to be more than able to satisfy their death defying sides. Intermediate skiers will find the perfect challenges around every corner at Loveland Ski Resort, and they will also enjoy being able to practice their moves at a stunning 12,280 feet on plush, white powder runs. Driving directions and a mountain map are available here.

For anyone who is new to snow sports or is just looking to improve their skills, Loveland offers a variety of programs for both children and adults. In a safe, fun and positive environment, tots and teens alike can learn the basics of snowboarding and skiing from some of the best instructors in Colorado. Adults can select from a variety of ski and snowboard programs, from newcomer lessons to Loveland’s newest program, ATAC, the All Terrain All Conditions clinic for advanced skiers.

Whether seeking a midday repast or a perfect end to a long day on the mountain, nothing is better than heading down to the lodge for a delicious, reasonably priced meal. Over hearty soups, sandwiches, Mexican food and savory pastas, everyone can sit back, relax and share their snow-tango stories. On warm weather days, the smoky, mesquite smell from the outdoor barbecue on the Basin deck beckons skiers and snowboarders all over the mountain with promises of a mouthwatering meal to be enjoyed in the sunshine.

If looking for the perfect Colorado ski vacation, Loveland Ski Resort is a wonderful destination for everyone from solo travelers to business groups. In addition to offering great group rates, ski pass and lift ticket specials, a day care center is available for little ones who are to young to brave the mountain, making this an ideal destination for families as well. Loveland Ski Resort is so confident in the quality of their snow that, if anyone is unsatisfied with the conditions, they need only return their ticket by 10am to receive a full refund.