Tenderfoot Mountain was one of Colorado’s earlier ski areas to open up in 1948. The ski area was located south of Pikes Peak and just two miles away from the town of Cripple Creek, Colorado. In its first year of operation, Tenderfoot Mountain had only a temporary rope tow but the following season, a more permanent lift was completed. Tenderfoot Mountain had a base lodge, warming hut at the summit of the mountain, a j-bar lift, and two rope tows (1).
There was only six total runs total with 75% of the mountain consisting of beginner terrain. It’s thought that the ski area was unsuccessful because of its inconsistent snowfall and it’s mostly novice trails. After it’s closure in 1956, the j-bar lift was relocated to Monarch Mountain.
A trail map of Tenderfoot Mountain.
The base lodge and rope tow in the 1950’s.
Reminisce of the j- bar tower at Tenderfoot Mountain.
Lost Ski Areas 