Estes Park is a popular tourist destination in Colorado known for its stunning natural beauty, wildlife, and outdoor recreational activities. Many visitors to Estes Park are avid skiers and snowboarders, which begs the question – did Estes Park ever have a ski resort?
The Early Days of Skiing in Estes Park
Skiing has been a popular winter sport in Estes Park since the early 1900s. In fact, the first recorded ski jump event in Colorado took place in Estes Park in 1913. However, skiing at this time was more of a leisure activity than a competitive sport with no established ski resorts yet.
The Birth of Hidden Valley Ski Area
In the late 1950s, local businessman Harold Dunning saw an opportunity to create a ski resort in Estes Park. He purchased a small hill on the eastern edge of Rocky Mountain National Park and began developing Hidden Valley Ski Area.
Over the years, Hidden Valley grew to include several chairlifts and runs catering to both beginner and intermediate skiers. The resort also offered night skiing and snowmaking capabilities to ensure great skiing conditions throughout the season.
The Closure of Hidden Valley
Despite its popularity among locals and visitors alike, Hidden Valley closed its doors in 1991 due to financial troubles. The resort struggled to compete with larger ski areas in Colorado such as Vail and Breckenridge.
Today, Hidden Valley is part of Rocky Mountain National Park and operates as a tubing hill for visitors during the winter months.
Other Skiing Options Near Estes Park
Although there are no longer any ski resorts within Estes Park itself, there are several options nearby for those looking for some skiing or snowboarding action.
The closest option is Eldora Mountain Resort located just over an hour’s drive from Estes Park. Eldora features over 50 runs spread over 680 acres, making it a great option for skiers of all levels.
Another popular ski area near Estes Park is Loveland Ski Area, which is about an hour and a half’s drive away. Loveland boasts over 1,800 acres of terrain and is known for its long skiing season that typically lasts from October to May.
Conclusion
While Estes Park may not have its own ski resort anymore, the town’s rich skiing history and proximity to several great ski areas make it a top destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for some leisurely tubing fun or an adrenaline-pumping day on the slopes, Estes Park has plenty of options to satisfy your winter cravings.