Ski Cooper is a small, family-run ski area just north of Leadville, the highest incorporated city in the US, and it has a history few resorts anywhere can match. It began life in 1942 as a training ground for the US Army’s 10th Mountain Division, the ski troops who trained at nearby Camp Hale during the Second World War and went on to shape the modern US ski industry.
Ski Cooper at a glance
- Location: Tennessee Pass, about ten miles north of Leadville
- Terrain: Around 480 acres, all natural snow
- Best for: Families, value, quiet slopes
- Lift passes: Cooper’s own tickets and passes, with one price online and at the window
- 2026/27 season: Tentatively opening 9 December 2026
- Nearest airport: Denver International, around two and a half hours
What’s New for 2026/27
The biggest news at Cooper is what hasn’t changed. The resort is once again holding its prices flat, so season passes and day tickets stay among the most affordable in Colorado. Cooper is planning to open on 9 December 2026, although that date is tentative and depends on the snow.
Buying a ticket is refreshingly simple, too. There is one price, whether you buy online or at the window, and the best value is midweek outside the peak holiday periods. See skicooper.com for current prices.
The Skiing
Cooper has around 480 acres, all on natural snow, with a good spread of groomed runs for beginners and intermediates and some more challenging tree skiing. There are no crowds, no rush and very little queueing. It is a lovely place for families, and for anyone who wants a quiet day away from the busy Summit County resorts.
For something more adventurous, Chicago Ridge Snowcat Tours takes small groups into untracked terrain beyond the ski area boundary, with a guide, on the powder days that Cooper’s altitude often delivers.
Getting There
Cooper is on US Highway 24 at Tennessee Pass, about ten miles north of Leadville. From Denver, it is a drive of around two to two and a half hours. Copper Mountain and Vail are within an hour, so it slots easily into a wider Colorado trip.
For more information visit skicooper.com.
Ski Cooper: Your Questions Answered
Where is Ski Cooper?
Ski Cooper is on Tennessee Pass, about ten miles north of Leadville, around two to two and a half hours from Denver.
Why is Ski Cooper famous?
Cooper began in 1942 as a training area for the US Army’s 10th Mountain Division, whose veterans went on to shape the modern US ski industry.
Is Ski Cooper cheap?
Yes. Cooper is holding its prices flat and is one of the most affordable ski areas in Colorado, with the best value midweek outside peak holidays.