17/18 Uphill Access Policy Change: Uphill access is no longer permitted during operating hours (8am – 4pm)
Uphill Access is not permitted during snowmaking operations. Snowmaking will be in progress until mid-december.
All uphill access at Loveland Basin requires users to have a current Uphill Access Card available at no charge at the ski patrol headquarters during normal business hours. Please read the uphill access policy below and pick up your Uphill Access Card at the ski patrol headquarters prior to accessing the mountain. Passes are available for pick-up from 8:30am-3:30pm daily. Uphill access is not permitted during operating hours (8am – 4pm). Uphill users are prohibited from entering closed terrain at any time. It is the user’s responsibility to know what terrain is closed. Please direct any questions regarding closed trails or terrain to the ski patrol 303-571-5580 at ext. 134 during normal business hours. CLICK HERE to view our trail report.
• Note: Uphill access at Loveland Valley is not allowed with the exception of travel from base area to race venue finish on Twist (see explanation below).
Uphill Access Routes
There are two designated routes for uphill users: Route A goes to the top of Ptarmigan and Route B goes to The Ridge. There are signs on the trail map at the bottom of Lift 2 indicating which routes are open. There is additional signage at the A/B split on Creek Trail.
- Route A goes to the top of Ptarmigan via the following trails: Home Run, Tango Road to A/B Split at Creek Trail intersection turn left up Turtle Creek to Fire Bowl and continue to the top of Ptarmigan.
- Route B goes to the top of the Continental Divide via the following trails: Home Run, Tango Road to A/B split at Creek Trail intersection, continue straight on Creek Trail to Apollo, turn left on Rookie Road and continue to the top of The Ridge.
Winch Cat Operations (blue flashing light)
Uphill users should stay well away from grooming equipment in general, but especially winch cat grooming activities. When winch cat operations are anticipated or underway, a blue flashing light will be activated on the trail map board at the bottom of Lift 2 located immediately west of the ticket office in the Loveland Basin base area. Winch cats can be identified with their blue flashing lights on the top of the cab. For your safety, stay clear of all winch cat operations. When in use, the cable is difficult if not impossible to see in between banners and flashing lights. Any trail where winch cat operations are being conducted should be considered CLOSED.
Snow Safety Activities (amber flashing light)
Avalanche mitigation can take place at any time during the winter operating season. An amber flashing light will be activated on the trail map at the bottom of Lift 2 immediately west of the ticket office in the Loveland Basin base area when avalanche mitigation is in progress and Route B is affected.
Reflective Materials, Headlamps, and Whistles
It is strongly recommended that all Uphill Access users utilize reflective materials on ski poles, clothing, and/or packs to heighten visibility. In addition to headlamps, flashing lights such as those commonly used on bicycles make it easier for other users as well as ski area personnel to see you and your party in the dark. Lastly, a whistle can be beneficial if the need arises to send an audible warning or signal.
Uphill Skiers / Riders
Uphill access users are considered “skiers” under the Colorado Ski Safety Act and as such are required to adhere to and obey all posted information and to be aware of trail closures and other operational considerations. Be especially aware of other skiers and riders approaching from above. Snowmobiles, snow cats, snowmaking hoses and equipment may be encountered at any time. Skiing or riding that occurs outside of daylight hours calls for greater caution if descending on a trail other than the ascent route. It is recommended that a groomed route be taken on the descent. No Ski Patrol services are available outside of normal operating hours. Uphill users are prohibited from entering closed terrain at any time. It is the user’s responsibility to know what terrain is closed. Please direct any questions regarding closed trails or terrain to the Ski Patrol 303-571-5580 at ext. 134 during normal business hours or CLICK HERE to view our trail report. Terrain parks are not to be accessed and are to be considered closed outside of normal operating hours.
Dogs
Dogs under voice command are allowed before and after operating hours at Loveland Basin. Please cleanup after your dog and dispose of waste properly. Dogs are not allowed at Loveland Valley.
Loveland Valley Uphill Access
Uphill access at Loveland Valley is prohibited except for viewing access to race finish on Twist. From base of Lift 3, proceed up ascending right side (west) of Switchback Trail. Continue along rope line under lift past tower 4 and onto race finish on Twist. Return same route. No card necessary.
