Arapahoe Basin Turns 80: Here’s How It’s Celebrating

Featured Image: Curtis DeVore

One of Colorado's oldest, most cherished ski areas is celebrating one hell of a milestone this year. The 2026/27 season marks Arapahoe Basin's 80th anniversary. Founded in 1946, The Legend has consistently led by example in the ski industry, and they're making sure to usher in the party this winter.

From ownership to terrain expansion, new lodges and lift upgrades, a lot has changed at A-Basin over the last eight decades. But the heart and soul of the ski area haven't wavered in the slightest. "We are a mountain built around great terrain and passionate skiers and riders," remarked President and COO of The Basin, Alan Henceroth. "These immovable things that make us who we are have kept this place true to itself for nearly a century."

The more things change, the more they stay the same

Photo: Courtesy of Arapahoe Basin Ski Area

While the official anniversary of Arapahoe Basin's founding will be on the weekend of December 5, there are deals and events happening all winter long. For starters, A-Basin is paying it forward to those who've been with them through it all. All season, 80-year-old skiers can ride for free every Wednesday, plus the ski area's birthday weekend of December 5 and 6.

That special weekend will be host to a slew of exciting events and activities, starting with the Uphill 'n Chill on Friday, December 4. Beginning at 7 a.m., you can skin as many laps as your legs can take, with a hearty breakfast feast awaiting you at the Black Mountain Lodge near the top of the Black Mountain Express lift. You'll want to register soon, as spots are limited.

Saturday, December 5, will feature a free ski and board demo, free live music in the base plaza and A-Basin's 80th Anniversary Moonlight Dinner at Black Mountain Lodge. With a multi-course meal, film premiere and time capsule burial ceremony, tickets are sure to go fast once they're announced.

Lift tickets will also be $80 on Wednesdays for the entire 2026/27 season, with $50 tickets available both early and late season, though dates have not yet been specified. And the theme continues with the aptly titled 80 Day Scan Challenge. For the first 80 days of the season, every day you scan an A-Basin pass or an Ikon Pass, you'll be entered to win a slew of prizes, including a trip to Mike Wiegle Heli Ski .

More live music, deals and events are sure to be announced throughout the season, so keep your eyes peeled. We'll see you on the mountain at The Legend this winter.