Copper Mountain Snow Forecast

Visited Copper Jan 10th 2012 for 10 days. As has been stated, it's a long way to go for a week but we were lucky with the deal we got which meant 10 cost us the same as 7 in Europe! My wife and I could be the ultimate "mixed ability" group as she only skis gentle slopes and I like to think I can ski most terrain in a resort and at Copper Mountain that is the case. The way the trails have been cut etc means that the mountain moves from right to left getting progressively more difficult which means that unlike many resorts in Europe those skiers who are beginners or very timid will not find themselves on terrain they should not be on. The trails are well signposted and the larger chairlifts have a trail map printed on the safety bar as well. According to the locals they have not had the best snow year and had not yet been able to open many of the "off-piste" bowls etc, but on my humble opinion the "on-piste" was better than most European resorts I have visited . One of the most noticeable aspects is the friendliness and politeness of lifties, bar and cafe and shop staff, all seem to enjoy having you there unlike many French resorts where you are a necessary evil, service with a smile instead of a snarl. There are no full service hotels at Copper, it is all self catering and the accommodation can range from a simple one room two bed apartment up to houses the size of a small castle!! according to your budget. The apres is not like Europe and most bars and restaurants are quiet after 9 or 10 but the range of cuisine available is pretty good. I would recommend the Alpinista for breakfast and for a special night out the CB grill portions are big compared to Europe but I considered the meals to be of good value and quality, beware though Copper Mountain is very high compared to all European resorts and you must keep drinking the water and try and stay off the beer if possible for a couple of days at least. We loved the whole place and will be back soon.