Howelsen Hill
Howelsen Hill Ski Area, near Steamboat Springs of Colorado, is renowned as the training grounds for numerous Olympians. Also the oldest ski mountain in Colorado, Howelsen Hill has been in use since 1914. Receiving extensive snowfall and subject to excellent weather conditions, Howelsen Hill Ski Area is popular amongst experienced and beginner skiers.
Between the months of December and March, skiers as well as snowboarders can be seen tackling Howelsen Hill, also well-known for having the biggest natural jumps in North America. Howelsen Hill Ski Area stretches over 150 acres with a total vertical of 440 feet. Skiers and snowboarders of all levels will have a great time traversing the 15 ski trails, the longest run measuring in at 5 280 feet. Howelsen Hill’s ski runs are categorized as follows: 20% beginner, 30% intermediate and 50% advanced. Even though the majority of the terrain is usable only by experts, there is still plenty of place for newbies. Three lifts transport eager snow sports men and women up the white slopes to the various trails. Howelsen Hill also provides cross-country skiers with an interesting network of pathways. Night skiing allows for longer training and fun skiing. The half pipe adds an extra dimension for the adventurous types.
Howelsen Hill Ski Area plays a large role in the history of skiing. Skiers training at Howelsen have gone on to compete in numerous international events. Over 50 Olympians have come off the slopes of Howelsen Hill. Fifteen of these individuals feature in the Colorado Ski Hall of Fame and six in the National Ski Hall of Fame. Just picture yourself gliding down the same slopes that many an Olympian has felt beneath their skis.
Howelsen Hill has a lovely lodge and extensive accommodation is available at nearby Steamboat Springs. Howelsen Hill Ski Area is looking at installing open plastic Nordic jumps so that athletes can train throughout the year. Another exciting summer activity at Howelsen Hill is horseback riding.
If you are visiting Steamboat Springs this winter, be sure not to miss Howelsen Hill Ski Area, its a true adventure.
