Ski and Snowboard News, Deals, and Events

Echo Mountain is a rather minuscule resort by Colorado standards - just a couple of lifts and less than 1,000 feet vertical - but it does have several things going for it.

First, it's the closest lift-serviced ski and snowboard area to Denver, just 35 miles from LoDo.

Secondly, it has one of the lowest lift ticket rates in the state with a $43 daily tariff for adults (which includes most riders between 14 to 64 years old) and a $29 night riding option (good from 3:30 p.m. until closing time). Seniors (65-74), kids (6-14), and active military personnel can ride the lifts for $24.

Thirdly, it is Colorado's only all-mountain terrain park.

Need more enticements to get to Echo Mountain? How about entering their Team Challenge event Saturday, Feb. 21?

The format is simple: Get a couple of buddies, find some outrageous clothing or accessories at your local thrift store, don said apparel, and then test your skiing and snowboarding abilities on Echo's specially designed course.

Teams will be judged either on overall riding skill or team theme (i.e., choice of costume).

Or both.

A limited number of online entries are available for $18 per team; day-of entries will put you out $24 per team.