A-Basin Children’s Skiing and Beginner Ski Trails
Arapahoe Basin is not a beginner skiing area. However, this is a popular ski area among locals who have children and there is a small amount of beginner ski terrain at A-Basin that is designed for young skiers and snowboarders.
Photo Above: Molly Hogan Terrain
Molly Hogan (Base Area)
The photo at the top of this page shows the Molly Hogan lift and the beginner ski terrain that is located underneath of the lift. The Molly Hogan ski trail is located at the base of the mountain. This area is also only a few steps away from the parking lot. In the photos below and to the right you can see the Molly Hogan surface carpet lift that is used to get children and beginners to the top of the beginner ski slope.
Beginner Ski Trails
Beginner skiers can also ride the Black Mountain Express lift. This chairlift ascends from the bottom of A-Basin up to the Black Mountain Lodge; conquering about 500 feet of vertical rise. Beginner ski trails that descend from here include; Sundance, Chisholm, and Wrangler. You can also get to the beginner terrain park from the top of this lift. Check out the Arapahoe Basin Trail Map to see where all of these ski trails are located.
Beginner Ski Terrain FAQ
Can parents walk onto the hill to bring their kids onto snow for the first time?
Yes, the area around Molly Hogan is located right next to “The Beach” parking lot. You’ll see plenty of dogs, children, and hippies running around this area on a nice sunny afternoon.
Can beginner skiers and snowboarders ski from top to bottom at Arapahoe Basin?
There are no beginner ski trails that ascend from the top of the mountain, but this does not necessarily mean that it is not possible. The Dercum’s Gulch ski trail has a gentle slope and this is the easiest way to make it from the top of the mountain to the bottom.
Are there discounted lift tickets that give access to the Molly Hogan Lift only?
No, but children ages 5 and under ski for free here. You can also find discounted lift tickets for adults through this page: Discount Arapahoe Basin Tickets.
