Ski Cooper is one of Colorado’s most historic and authentic ski areas. Located near Leadville, the resort originated during World War II as the training site for the legendary 10th Mountain Division troops stationed at nearby Camp Hale. Today, it remains a charming, affordable, and family-friendly alternative to the busy mega-resorts of the I-70 corridor, offering 100% natural snow and a laid-back, welcoming vibe without the long lift lines.
With a base elevation of 10,500 feet and a summit of 11,700 feet, Ski Cooper delivers a 1,200-foot vertical drop across 480 skiable acres. The mountain is serviced by 5 lifts, accessing 64 trails that are heavily skewed toward cruisers and families: 31% beginner, 35% intermediate, and 34% advanced. The front side is famous for gentle, rolling groomers like Trail Blazer, while the newer Tennessee Creek Basin features steep tree skiing and glades for experts. For an ultimate powder experience, Ski Cooper is also famous for its Chicago Ridge Snowcat skiing, opening up 2,600 acres of pristine backcountry terrain.
Keep an eye on the snow depths and bluebird skies at Ski Cooper with our live webcams. Checking the real-time feeds gives you a perfect idea of how the natural snow is holding up across the base and the slopes. Use these streams alongside the live weather conditions above to ensure you dress appropriately for the high alpine altitude.