Ski Granby Ranch

Terrain:

Granby Ranch is a bit overshadowed by Winter Park because it is in the same area. But what it lacks in size it makes up for with its family friendly terrain. The resort is divided into two different areas. The Left side of the resort is a great area for families and beginner skiers. A majority of this terrain is green and blue, which is all at low angles. Thus the runs are not very steep or long, which is perfect if you are just learning to ski or board. These are great practice runs to perfect your riding. There are even some hidden tree runs on this size to work your way up to doing more blacks.

For more of the intermediate skiers and boarders, there is another section of the resort that is all blues and blacks, which is the right side of the mountain. This area of the resort includes a few mogul and tree runs. Desperado and Cornfield were some of my favorite runs on this side of the mountain because they were the steepest and most open, which gave me plenty of options to explore the terrain and find unique features to ski on.

The way the resort is divided helps separate the beginners and intermediate terrain for different levels of skiers and boarders. Thus the beginners do not have to worry about the intermediate riders zooming by as they are trying to learn. The beginner side of the mountain also has a small terrain park with XS jumps and a few rails. The jumps are good for beginner park skiers but the rails are more advanced. Most people stay out of the park unless they are doing a bit of exploring.

Overall, Granby Ranch is an amazing place for families to spend time together and learn to ski or board. If you are an advanced skier or boarder, stay to the right side of the resort and enjoy what Granby has to offer. Granby also has the appeal of a small resort with no crowds or lift lines.

Base Elevation – 8,202 ft

Peak Elevation – 9,202 ft

Number of Lifts – 5

Number of Trails – 38

Total Terrain – 406 acres

Easiest Terrain (Greens) – 24%

More Difficult Terrain (Blues) – 36%

Most Difficult Terrain (Blacks)  – 36%

Resort Hours – 9am-4pm Daily

Atmosphere and Locals:

Because Granby is a ranch, there is an atmosphere of western farming culture and hospitality. I was pleasantly surprised to hear all the southern accents from locals. Thus, everyone was quite friendly and welcoming at Granby. Although, some of the staff was a bit standoffish which was a bit off putting and less welcoming. The majority of the locals were families enjoying time together at this small homey resort.

Accessibility and Parking:

There is free parking at the base of the resort, but it is limited. Get there early on busy days. Granby Ranch is off the beaten path from I-70 so there is almost no crowds, traffic or lift lines to worry about. The resort is about two hours from Denver, past Winter Park. Thus, you would only have to deal with I-70 traffic for a brief time before heading to HWY 40.

Pricing: $$

Lift Tickets – 

Adult (13-64): $85 

Senior (65-79): $56 

Golden (80+): $15

Children (6-12): $54

Associated Season Pass – None 

Lessons – 

Adult Group Lesson (13+): $129

Youth Group Lesson (6-12): $139

Tyke Group Lesson (3-5): $149

Rentals – 

Adult Rental Package: $43

Junior Rental Package: $32

Child Rental Package: $14

For more information visit https://www.granbyranch.com/