More Parking, More Snowmaking, and Avalanche Control: Arapahoe Basin Proposes Improvements

Arapahoe Basin (A-Basin), Colorado, hopes to expand its parking and snowmaking, alongside adding remote avalanche control systems, in a slew of projects that, according to a Forest Service document, are meant to accommodate early-season ski demand, increase staff safety, and make for an easier experience as skiers arrive at the mountain.

The proposal includes expanding A-Basin’s snowmaking by about 65 acres, with approximately 4.4 miles of new snowmaking lines. 

The snowmaking infrastructure would be installed on the ski area’s backside in Montezuma Bowl, on the Loafer and Davis runs in the Beavers, and on the frontside by the Lenawee Express and along parts of Shooting Gallery, Upper Wrangler, and Sundance.

“New snowmaking infrastructure and additional coverage would ensure more consistent snow surface throughout the year, maintain critical connections during low snowfall, and increase the amount of terrain open earlier in the season,” the proposal reads.

The document noted, however, that the location and number of snowmaking hydrants haven’t been finalized.

The same is true of the remote avalanche control systems (RACS), but the document said that, for the purpose of a forthcoming analysis, “an estimate of 17 Wyssen towers will be evaluated, including six towers within the Montezuma Bowl area and 11 towers within the East Wall area.”

Wyssen towers drop explosive charges in avalanche-prone areas and can be triggered from afar. While the proposal said traditional hand charges will still be used as a supplement, with the towers, the risk for employees of exposure in avalanche terrain and from handling explosives will be lower.

Parking would expand by about 400 spaces in two new areas, with a second pedestrian connection over U.S. Highway 6, per the proposal.

“A-Basin has successfully promoted and supported increased public transit use and carpooling over the past decade,” the document reads. “While these efforts have helped reduce single-occupancy vehicle trips, there remains a known demand for additional parking capacity, particularly during high-use periods.”

The full proposal is available on the Forest Service website. The agency is asking the public to submit comments by August 24, 2026. 

“Your comments and concerns on this proposal are important,” said Dillon District Ranger David Ilse in a release.

Related: Meet Lizzy Schofield, Arapahoe Basin’s First-Ever Female Ski Patrol Director