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Copper Mountain, Colorado: Highest Mountains, Peaks, and Terrain
Ever thought about tackling the highest peaks in the Rocky Mountains? Copper Mountain in Colorado offers an unmatched skiing and snowboarding adventure. It's a winter paradise in Summit County, known for its stunning beauty and varied terrain. The resort sits at a summit elevation of 12,313 feet and a base elevation of 9,712 feet. It boasts a thrilling vertical drop of 2,601 feet.
Key Takeaways
- Copper Mountain spans 2,465 acres of naturally divided terrain, offering a wide range of slopes for all skill levels.
- The resort features 140+ trails, with 55% of the terrain facing north, providing optimal snow conditions.
- Copper Mountain's summit elevation of 12,313 feet and a base elevation of 9,712 feet create a dramatic vertical drop of 2,601 feet.
- The resort's terrain is divided into beginner, intermediate, advanced, and expert areas, catering to skiers and snowboarders of all abilities.
- Copper Mountain's unique layout, with distinct base areas and five renowned bowls, offers a truly diverse and challenging mountain experience.
Introduction to Copper Mountain
Location and Overview
Copper Mountain is in the middle of Summit County, Colorado, 75 miles west of Denver on Interstate 70. It's close to Frisco, just 8 miles east, on the southwest shore of Dillon Reservoir. The resort is in the stunning White River National Forest, surrounded by nature.
History and Ownership
Copper Mountain opened in November 1972. Over the years, it has had several owners. Apex Oil Company bought it in 1980 and ran it until 1988. Then, Horsham Corporation, a company from Toronto, took over in 1988.
In 1997, Intrawest, known for Whistler and Winter Park, bought Copper Mountain. Finally, in December 2009, POWDR became the current owner and operator.
Summit and Elevation
Copper Mountain sits in the Rocky Mountains, with a summit at 12,313 feet and a base at 9,712 feet. This gives it a vertical drop of 2,601 feet. Its high altitude makes it known for great skiing and snowboarding, with 305 inches of snowfall each year.
The resort is among the highest peaks in the U.S. Mount Elbert, the highest, reaches 14,440 feet. Mount Massive and Mount Harvard also top 14,000 feet. Other peaks like Blanca Peak, La Plata Peak, and Uncompahgre Peak offer stunning views and tough slopes for those who seek adventure.
| Peak | Elevation (ft) | Prominence (ft) | Isolation (mi) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mount Elbert | 14,440 | 9,093 | 671 |
| Mount Massive | 14,428 | 1,961 | 5.06 |
| Mount Harvard | 14,421 | 2,360 | 14.92 |
| Blanca Peak | 14,351 | 5,326 | 103.4 |
| La Plata Peak | 14,343 | 1,836 | 6.28 |
| Uncompahgre Peak | 14,321 | 4,277 | 85 |
Copper Mountain's summit, base, and drop make it a top ski spot in the Rockies. It offers a variety of terrain and slopes for all skill levels.
Terrain and Slopes
Copper Mountain is famous for its varied and tough terrain. It gives skiers and snowboarders a top-notch mountain experience. It has a base elevation of 9,600 feet and a peak above 12,400 feet. This makes it one of the highest in North America, offering lots of different terrain and slope types.
Trails and Acreage
The resort has 155 trails over 2,500 acres of skiable land. These trails are set up for everyone, from beginners to experts. Beginners head to the west, while intermediate and advanced skiers go to the center and east.
Experts can find their thrill on the east and backside. The trails are split into 25% beginner, 24% intermediate, 34% advanced, and 17% expert. This means there's something for every level of skill.
Bowls and Peaks
Copper Mountain has five terrain bowls and three peaks. These include Resolution, Spaulding, Copper, Jupiter, and Union bowls, and the Copper, Tucker, and Union peaks. Tucker Mountain has expert-only terrain that you can reach by cat-skiing for free.
| Terrain Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Trails | 155 total trails |
| Acreage | 2,500 acres of skiable terrain |
| Terrain Breakdown | 25% beginner, 24% intermediate, 34% advanced, 17% expert |
| Terrain Bowls | Resolution, Spaulding, Copper, Jupiter, Union |
| Peaks | Copper, Tucker, Union |
Copper Mountain has terrain for everyone, from easy groomed runs to tough high-alpine challenges. Its terrain is divided well, offering a great mountain experience for all skill levels. With its variety of bowls and peaks, it's a top choice for skiers and snowboarders.
Copper Mountain, Colorado: Highest Mountains, Peaks, and Terrain
Copper Mountain, in the Rocky Mountains, is known for its high peaks and varied terrain. It reaches up to 12,313 feet high. This ski resort is perfect for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.
The resort is set up so everyone can find trails that match their skill level. It goes from 9,712 feet at the base to 12,313 feet at the top. This means a drop of 2,601 feet for thrilling rides.
Copper Mountain covers a huge 2,465 acres, thanks to a lease from the U.S. Forest Service. It has over 140 trails for skiers and snowboarders. The trails are divided into different levels, offering something for everyone. The longest trail, Collage, stretches an exciting 1.7 miles.
| Terrain Features | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Skiable Terrain | 2,465 acres (10.0 square kilometers) |
| Trail Count | Over 140 trails |
| Trail Breakdown | 21% easiest, 25% intermediate, 36% advanced, 18% expert |
| Longest Run | Collage - 1.7 miles (2.73 kilometers) |
| Vertical Drop | 2,601 feet (793 meters) |
| Lift System | 23 lifts, including 1 Chondola, 3 high-speed six-person chairs, 3 high-speed quad chairs, 5 triple chairs, 5 double chairs, and 7 surface lifts |
| Annual Snowfall | 310 inches (790 centimeters) |
Copper Mountain has five terrain bowls and three peaks for skiers and snowboarders. This layout means everyone can find the right challenge. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, there's something for you.
"Copper Mountain offers some of the most diverse and challenging terrain in Colorado, from beginner-friendly slopes to expert-only bowls and peaks. It's a true skier's paradise."
Ski Resort Facilities
Copper Mountain in Colorado is a top ski spot with great facilities for all visitors. It has a strong lift system with 19 chairlifts and 6 magic carpets. This includes high-speed chairlifts like the American Flyer and American Eagle, and a special chondola lift. This lift system makes getting around the mountain easy, from beginner slopes to advanced runs.
Lift System
The lift system at Copper Mountain quickly moves skiers and snowboarders around the resort. It has a mix of chairlifts and High-Speed Quads. This means everyone, from beginners to experts, can easily get to where they want to go.
Base Villages
Copper Mountain has three Base Villages: East Village, Center Village, and West Village (formerly Union Creek). Each village offers something special for guests. The East Village is great for those tackling tougher slopes. The Center Village is a bustling spot with shops and restaurants. The West Village is perfect for families, with easy slopes for beginners.
| Facility | Description |
|---|---|
| The Fix Tune Shop and Gear Check | Provides services such as ski and snowboard tuning, waxing, base grinding, and edge sharpening. |
| Camp Hale Outfitters | The largest retailer at Copper Mountain resort, specializing in skis, snowboards, boots, and outdoor apparel. |
| McCoy's Mountain Market | Offers a variety of products such as fresh produce, meats, dairy, pantry staples, beverages, and prepared foods. |
| City Pop Gourmet Popcorn And Candy | Specializes in gourmet popcorn flavors, candies, chocolates, and bulk candy. |
| Eagle BBQ | Offers a large barbecue menu, including sandwiches, platters, and meat by the pound. |
| Jack's Slopeside Grill | Serves meals ranging from breakfast to dinner, including pizzas, burgers, and mountain fare. |
| Downhill Duke's | A lunch and Apres restaurant located between American Flyer and American Eagle, with an outdoor patio and fire pits. |
| Sawmill Pizza and Taphouse | Offers a variety of pizza options and craft beers for pairing with your meal. |
| El Zacatecano | Serves Mexican cuisine including tacos, burritos, and other Mexican dishes in the Center Village. |
Climate and Snowfall
Copper Mountain sits high in the Rocky Mountains, with a subalpine climate perfect for snow. The SNOTEL weather station at 10,550 feet shows us the winter weather.
It gets an average of 310 inches of snow each year, making it a snowy paradise. March and April are the snowiest months, keeping the snow base high all season. Winters are cool, with temperatures from 18°F in January to 54°F in July.
The high elevation and lots of snow make Copper Mountain great for skiing and snowboarding. Skiers and snowboarders enjoy a long season with plenty of snow. They can hit the slopes on well-groomed runs and explore the vast terrain.
| Resort | Summit Elevation (feet) | Skiable Area (acres) | Average Snowfall (inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Copper Mountain | 12,441 | 2,507 | 310 |
| Beaver Creek | 11,440 | 2,082 | 325 |
| Vail | 11,570 | 5,289 | 354 |
| Telluride | 13,150 | 2,000 | 280 |
| Breckenridge | 12,998 | 2,908 | 353 |
The table shows Copper Mountain's great snowfall and terrain. It's one of the top ski spots in Colorado for winter sports.
Copper Mountain's subalpine climate and steady snow make it a top choice for winter sports. It's a favorite among skiers and snowboarders.
Activities and Attractions
Copper Mountain in Colorado is a top spot for winter fun. It's not just about skiing and snowboarding. The resort has many other activities for visitors to enjoy in the snowy mountains.
Winter Sports
Copper Mountain is great for skiing and snowboarding. It has a 22-foot superpipe and several terrain parks for all skill levels. For those seeking thrills, cat skiing on Tucker Mountain is an option. Or, try snowshoeing for a peaceful winter experience. There's also an ice skating rink for fun on the ice.
Non-Skiing Activities
The Barn is a big indoor place with lots of fun activities. It has ramps, jumps, and trampolines for BMX, skateboarding, and more. The Mountain Coaster is another exciting option, letting riders go up to 25 mph on a long track.
There's more to do off the slopes too. Guests can hike, fish in the Blue River or Dillon Reservoir, or play golf at Copper Creek Golf Course starting in mid-June.
| Winter Sports | Non-Skiing Activities |
|---|---|
| Downhill Skiing | The Barn (Action Sports Facility) |
| Snowboarding | Mountain Coaster |
| Cat Skiing | Hiking Trails |
| Superpipe | Fishing |
| Terrain Parks | Golfing |
| Snowshoeing | Yoga Classes |
| Ice Skating | Special Events |
"Copper Mountain offers a wide range of winter activities beyond just skiing and snowboarding. From the thrilling Mountain Coaster to the indoor action sports hub of The Barn, there's something for every adventurous spirit."
Dining and Nightlife
Copper Mountain, Colorado, is a winter wonderland with top-notch skiing and snowboarding. It also has a wide range of dining and nightlife options. You can find everything from cozy breakfast spots to lively lunch places and vibrant après-ski spots.
For breakfast, check out the Log Cabin Café and Toast & Co. They serve tasty morning meals to get you ready for the slopes. For lunch or dinner, you can enjoy Mexican food at El Zacatecano, barbecue at Eagle BBQ, or tacos at Mahi's Street Tacos.
When the sun goes down, Copper Mountain's nightlife starts. The High Rockies Whiskey and Wine Bar has over 200 whiskeys, bourbons, wines, and beers. It's perfect for those who want a ski-in/ski-out après-ski scene. For a special experience, try the Moonlight Dine and Ski on select nights. It offers cocktails, fine dining, and live music, letting you ski or snowboard under the stars.
Copper Mountain has over 25 restaurants and bars in the village. This means there's something for everyone's taste in dining and nightlife. You're sure to have a great time during your stay.
| Dining Establishments | Nightlife Venues |
|---|---|
| Log Cabin Café | High Rockies Whiskey and Wine Bar |
| Toast & Co. | Incline Bar and Grill |
| El Zacatecano | Moonlight Dine and Ski |
| Eagle BBQ | |
| Mahi's Street Tacos |
Copper Mountain has a wide variety of Dining and Nightlife spots. There's something for every taste and mood. This ensures your off-mountain time is as fun as your time on the slopes.
Nearby Attractions
Copper Mountain is a big deal, but the areas around it are just as exciting. North of the resort, you'll find the Eagles Nest Wilderness. It's full of hiking trails and lets you dive deep into nature. The Gore Range Trail and Wheeler Lakes Trail are great for backpacking if you love the outdoors.
Then there are the towns of Frisco, Breckenridge, Keystone, and Arapahoe Basin. They're full of things to do and see. Frisco is just 8 miles from Copper Mountain and is a favorite spot for skiers and nature lovers. It's close to top-notch ski resorts.
| Nearby Town | Distance from Copper Mountain | Key Attractions |
|---|---|---|
| Frisco | 8 miles | Proximity to multiple ski resorts, Frisco Adventure Park |
| Breckenridge | 20 miles | Breckenridge Ski Resort, historic downtown |
| Keystone | 25 miles | Keystone Resort, extensive Nordic skiing trails, golf courses |
| Arapahoe Basin | 30 miles | Challenging terrain, extended ski season |
Looking for wilderness or a lively ski town? The places around Copper Mountain have lots to explore. You'll find stunning nature and a vibrant culture in this amazing area.
"The Rockies are the best thing that ever happened to anybody anywhere."
- John Denver
Conclusion
Copper Mountain, Colorado, is a top ski resort in the Rocky Mountains. It offers a great winter sports experience. With its wide terrain and high summit, it suits all skiers and snowboarders, from beginners to experts.
The resort is laid out to avoid feeling crowded, making it perfect for everyone. You can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, tubing, cat skiing, and indoor sports. It's great for those who love adventure or just want a family-friendly vacation.
From November to May, Copper Mountain is alive with events, festivals, and competitions. Its beautiful views, top-notch facilities, and focus on making guests happy make it a top choice for a memorable Rocky Mountain ski trip.
FAQ
Where is Copper Mountain located?
Copper Mountain is a mountain and ski resort in Summit County, Colorado. It's about 75 miles west of Denver.
What is the elevation of Copper Mountain?
The summit of Copper Mountain is at 12,313 feet above sea level. The base is at 9,712 feet, giving a vertical drop of 2,601 feet.
How big is the resort?
Copper Mountain covers 2,465 acres of terrain. This land is leased from the U.S. Forest Service, White River National Forest, Dillon Ranger District.
What is the terrain like at Copper Mountain?
The mountain is divided into three main areas. Beginners head to the west, while intermediate skiers go to the center. Experts tackle the east and backside areas.
There are five terrain bowls and three peaks to explore. This variety makes it great for all levels.
Who owns and operates Copper Mountain?
POWDR owns and runs Copper Mountain now. Over the years, it has been owned by Apex Oil Company, Horsham Corporation, and Intrawest.
What kind of winter activities can you do at Copper Mountain?
You can ski and snowboard downhill, or try cat skiing on Tucker Mountain. There's also a 22-foot superpipe, terrain parks, snowshoeing, ice skating, and tubing.
What non-skiing activities are available at Copper Mountain?
The Barn is a 20,000-square-foot indoor facility for BMX, skateboarding, and more. There's also a mountain coaster near the American Flyer lift.
What is the climate and snowfall like at Copper Mountain?
Copper Mountain has a subalpine climate. It gets an average of 310 inches of snow a year, mostly in March and April. This makes it great for skiing and snowboarding all winter.
What dining and nightlife options are available at Copper Mountain?
You'll find many dining and nightlife spots at Copper Mountain. Favorites include the Log Cabin Cafe, Toast & Co., El Zacatecano, Eagle BBQ, and the High Rockies Whiskey and Wine Bar.
What are some nearby attractions and towns around Copper Mountain?
Frisco is the closest town, just 8 miles east. Other ski resorts nearby include Breckenridge, Keystone, and Arapahoe Basin. The area is also full of wilderness, like the Eagles Nest Wilderness and Gore Range Trail.
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