Araphoe East Ski Area was a small ski located on the south side of Interstate 70 in Golden Colorado, about 10 miles west of Denver. It was originally owned by Larry Jump, the same founder of Arapahoe Basin or A-Basin as it’s known. Arapahoe East opened up in 1972 and remained up until 1984. The lifts and towers remained in place until they were finally removed in 1996 (1).
The area was renamed Ski Golden in 1982 for its remaining two seasons of operation. Arapahoe East was closed in 1984 after the Colorado Tramway Board cited the ski area for multiple violations including staff drinking on the job. Arapahoe East had one double chair lift, a Poma lift, and a rope tow that gave skiers with the option of skiing during the day or night. They also had a base lodge with a cafeteria, ski school and a rental shop (1).
Trail map and information on Arapahoe East Ski Area.
A view of the old lodge at Arapahoe East Ski Area.
Where the double chair lift use to be at Arapahoe East Ski Area.
Lost Ski Areas 