# Arapahoe Basin Ski Area mountain guide

Source: https://skibudsapp.com/resorts/arapahoe-basin
Updated: 2026-11-04

Arapahoe Basin Ski Area is in Summit County, Colorado. Arapahoe Basin, usually called A-Basin, is a high-alpine Colorado mountain with a strong advanced-terrain identity. The resort presents its mountain as seven distinct areas, rather than one interchangeable set of runs.

- High-alpine mountain
- Seven terrain areas
- Pallavicini and East Wall

## Terrain and ability

Pallavicini, the East Wall and the Steep Gullies are named parts of A-Basin's terrain story. The field guide also separates beginner, intermediate and expert planning resources. Use the current map and terrain status to choose an appropriate area before following a friend uphill.

## Getting there

A-Basin is on Highway 6 over Loveland Pass, 5 miles east of Keystone; if Loveland Pass is closed, you can still get there via I-70 and the Eisenhower Tunnel. Do not park on the highway, where the Colorado State Patrol will tow your car. CDOT can put traction and chain laws into effect on any state highway, so check COtrip before leaving.

## Arrival, bases and lessons

For 2026/27, the resort says weekend parking reservations apply during part of the season. Check its current dates and lot requirements, along with transit and mountain conditions, before leaving.

## Plan a meetup

Pick a public base-area landmark and agree on whether the day is for groomers or more demanding terrain. The Beach is a named part of A-Basin's base culture, but your invitation should still identify an exact meeting location.

Use the [meetup message planner for Arapahoe Basin Ski Area](https://skibudsapp.com/guides/ski-buddy-meetup-checklist?resort=arapahoe-basin#meetup-planner) to agree on your date, terrain, pace and meeting point.

## Official sources

- Official mountain field guide: https://www.arapahoebasin.com/field-guide/
- Official mountain overview and status: https://www.arapahoebasin.com/
- Official parking and transit guidance: https://www.arapahoebasin.com/parking/
- Official mountain safety guidance: https://www.arapahoebasin.com/mountain-safety/
- CDOT traction and chain laws: https://www.codot.gov/travel/winter-driving/tractionlaw
- COtrip road conditions: https://www.cotrip.org/
- Official site: https://www.arapahoebasin.com