A ski vacation in Summit County can be expensive but with careful planning and some local knowledge, that ski vacation is within reach – and at Copper Mountain!
Copper is a great mountain for visitors on a budget, Offering free parking and several shuttle options that transport visitors between the three villages – West, Center and East. The resort shuttle stops at multiple locations in each village and runs 6 am to 11 pm.
Copper’s electric car service, Free Ride, is available from 8:30 am to 11 am and then again from 3 pm to 5:30 pm. If you are traveling with small children, struggling with your gear or still adjusting to the altitude, call 970-556-8687 to request a ride almost anywhere in the villages. Copper Coach Dial-a-Ride Service runs similar hours (and later into the evening) and services all areas of the Copper community based on a reservation system. Dial 970-368-2002 for a free and convenient ride!
If you’re already planning on getting on the mountain but not sure where to start, sign up for a free guided tour. A resort ambassador will share in their knowledge of the area, including how to get around, favorite trails, history of the area, wildlife you might encounter and more. Space is limited so be sure to sign up in advance.
Friends of the Dillon Ranger District offers free guided tours of the Summit County area throughout the entire year but Ski with a Ranger is not to be missed. Trained Ski Rangers lead guests on beginner and intermediate runs while stopping at certain points to discuss the area’s wildlife, geography, geology, weather, history and more. For those looking for a little slower pace or that don't want to purchase a lift ticket, enjoy a leisurely snowshoe stroll through the quiet and beautiful backcountry of Summit County. Take in excellent views while learning from local rangers and naturalists about the mountain landscape. Tours are free and snowshoes are provided as needed.
For the expert skiers and riders, Copper offers free snowcat rides to the legendary Tucker Mountain and Copper Bowl. Sweeping views of the mountain range, access to over 273 acres, 12,000 vertical feet and not many people, this snowcat access is a true backcountry experience. Choose your line and go – the snowcat will meet you at the bottom for a ride back to the top, free of charge. This is truly a luxury backcountry experience!
Copper loves snow and celebrates it any chance it gets. The resort will host the best freeski and snowboard athletes in the world December 8th to the 10th for the U.S. Grand Prix Halfpipe and Big Air competitions. As one of the last chances for competitors to qualify for an invitation to the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea, this competition will have all your favorite skiers, riders and big names of the industry. Free to attend, be sure to check out the vendor village and live music.
Copper knows how to party and always brings in the holidays with a visit from Santa, a torchlight parade down the mountain and kid’s glow stick pageant on Christmas Eve. Ring in the New Year with the torchlight parade kicking off mountainside fireworks!
Summit County is affordable on all budgets – including your lodging with River Ridge Rentals! With properties for all budgets and needs, you’ll be able to kick back and relax before enjoying a guided ski tour or cheering on the halfpipe competition at Copper Mountain. Browse our homes and book the ideal locations for you and your family!