Bluebird skies and a mild overnight low of 29°F greet skiers at Ski Cooper this New Year’s Eve. Ski Cooper ski resort, located in Colorado, offers 39 trails that cater to skiers of all levels, with the beginner-friendly Molly Hogan and Old Rope Tow being standout options.
Wind
Humidity
With a snowpack depth of just 7 inches—nearly 60% below average—terrain is limited, and conditions are best suited for beginners and cruisers seeking well-groomed trails. Despite minimal snowfall in the forecast (less than half an inch expected over the next 72 hours), Cooper’s all-natural snow base still offers a classic alpine feel without the bustle of mega resorts. Packed powder and firm conditions dominate, so edges matter—bring sharp gear and prepare for early-season variability.
While the snow may be lean, the deals are deep: daily lift tickets are slashed to just $45, making Cooper one of the most affordable ski areas in the Rockies. This historic resort, nestled in the shadow of the giant Climax molybdenum mine, continues to charm visitors with its mining-town authenticity and laid-back vibe. With affordable cat skiing, scenic views of the Sawatch Range, and a family-friendly atmosphere, Cooper remains a hidden gem for those who value value and soul over glitz. It's a perfect spot to ring in 2026 with wide smiles, short lift lines, and a shot of genuine Colorado tradition.
Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) shows how much water the snow holds. This is ideal for year-to-year tracking of real snowfall and water resources. Measurements from Buckskin Joe.
Snowpack depth measures how much snow has accumulated in the area. This is a key indicator of powder quality, trail coverage, and how epic your runs are going to be this season at Ski Cooper.
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Ski Cooper impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
Ski Cooper ski resort in Colorado is situated in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. The resort is surrounded by several prominent mountain ranges, including the Sawatch Range, the Mosquito Range, and the Tenmile Range.
Some of the notable mountain aspects of Ski Cooper include:
1. Chicago Ridge - This ridge offers some of the best backcountry skiing in the area, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
2. Ski Cooper Bowl - This wide-open bowl provides excellent skiing opportunities for all levels of skiers and riders.
3. Cooper's Classic - This intermediate trail offers a scenic descent with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
4. Tennessee Creek Basin - This area is known for its challenging terrain and steep chutes, making it a popular choice for more advanced skiers and riders.
Overall, Ski Cooper offers a diverse range of mountain aspects and terrain for skiers and riders of all abilities to enjoy.
A lesser-known fact about the resort is that it was used for training by the 10th Mountain Division during World War II, and visitors can explore the nearby Camp Hale, where the soldiers trained. For après ski, the resort's lodge offers a cozy atmosphere with a fireplace and affordable drinks. However, for those looking for a more lively experience, the Leadville locals recommend Tennessee Pass Café, a rustic bar with live music, local beers, and delicious food. Overall, Ski Cooper offers a family-friendly and affordable ski experience with a unique historical background.
Night Skiing | No |
Lift Count | 4 Lifts |
Hourly Lift Capacity | 3300 per hour |
Base Elevation | 3200 Meters |
Terrain Park | No |
Acreage | 400 Acres |
Established | 1942 |
Run Count | 26 Trails |
The ski area received 0" of new snowfall since yesterday.
Weather today, mostly sunny, with a high near 41. breezy, with a west northwest wind 14 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 31 mph.
Northern Colorado is currently seeing the most significant snowfall accumulation in the state. The Tower SNOTEL site near Steamboat Springs is leading with a 14" 5-day snow forecast and an impressive 45" snowpack. Nearby Elk River and Lost Dog sensors are also forecasting 13–17" of new snow, aligning with strong upcoming totals for nearby Steamboat Resort. Columbine and Dry Lake ... Read more