Scenic summer chairlift/gondola

Question

My daughter and I will be in Denver for several days in a few weeks, and we would like to go to a ski area and spend a day. We would like to take a lift or gondola ride, do some light hiking at the top, and maybe get some lunch. Which resort would you recommend?

Answer

For a scenic summer day trip from Denver that includes a chairlift or gondola ride, light hiking, and a mountain-top lunch, there are several excellent ski resorts within a 1.5 to 2-hour drive. These resorts operate lifts and gondolas in the summer to give visitors stunning views of the Rockies without skiing.

Here are some recommended options:

Arapahoe Basin: Known as “A-Basin,” it’s about 1.5 hours from Denver. In summer, the lift offers beautiful views of the surrounding peaks. You can do short hikes from the top and enjoy a picnic or grab food at the base area.
Loveland Ski Area: Roughly an hour from Denver, Loveland has a summer chairlift for scenic rides. Hikes at the top are generally easy to moderate, offering wildflowers and panoramic vistas.
Keystone Resort: About 1.5 hours from Denver, Keystone operates a summer gondola. The gondola ride provides spectacular views, and from the top, there are easy trails suitable for families. Keystone also has a mountaintop restaurant for lunch.
Breckenridge Ski Resort: Around 1 hour 45 minutes from Denver, the Breck Connect Gondola takes you up to 11,000 feet. There are several light hiking trails at the top, including scenic overlooks and wildflower areas. The gondola connects to the town, making lunch options convenient.
Copper Mountain: About 1 hour 30 minutes from Denver, Copper Mountain’s American Eagle lift and the new Summit House area offer panoramic views. Trails at the top are short and family-friendly, and there’s a café for lunch.

Tips for a summer lift day trip:

Check lift operating hours and ticket prices in advance; summer schedules can be limited.
Bring layers; mountain weather can be cool and windy even in summer.
Wear sunscreen and bring water, especially if you plan to hike at higher elevations.
Arrive early to avoid weekend crowds, especially at popular resorts like Breckenridge and Keystone.

Any of these resorts offer a scenic, relaxed summer mountain experience with the chance for light hiking, spectacular views, and a convenient lunch option at altitude. Breckenridge and Keystone are particularly convenient if you want the added charm of a mountain town to explore after the lift ride.

Scenic summer chairlift/gondola

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