Eldora Mountain in Nederland, Colorado.

Painted in 1997

Colorado ski areas might have a reputation for their size and glamor, branded as a state to make that dream ski vacation come true. But for every mega-resort, skiing needs a hometown hill, somewhere that feels special for different reasons - somewhere with personality and soul. And for a lot of people in Boulder and Nederland, Eldora is that place. It’s not the biggest ski hill around, or the snowiest, or the steepest. But for many people, it’s the closest to home, and that’s what really counts. And with 300 inches of snow per year, and almost 700 acres of skiable terrain, Eldora is nothing to sneeze at. Its close proximity to Boulder means it’s easy for visitors to find lodging, and in addition to 53 named runs and 7 chairlifts, Eldora is also home to a huge nordic ski network with over 40 kilometers of groomed trails for skate and classic skiers.