A-Basin | The Beach & Gaper Day
Arapahoe Basin Ski Area, in Summit County, Colorado, is known for its unique and laid-back atmosphere. Unlike the more commercial ski resorts in the state, Arapahoe Basin offers a more relaxed and enjoyable experience for skiers and snowboarders.
It was founded in 1946 by a group of investors who wanted to create a ski area that would be accessible to people living in the Denver metro area. The ski area opened with just one lift and a handful of runs, but it quickly gained popularity due to its high-quality terrain and consistently good snow conditions.
One you will quickly notice that sets Arapahoe Basin apart from other ski resorts is the number of dogs that people bring with them. The resort is dog-friendly, and visitors are often seen walking their furry friends around the base area and even taking them on the slopes. This is a great way for people to spend quality time with their pets while enjoying the great outdoors.
Another aspect of Arapahoe Basin that adds to its relaxed vibe is the practice of grilling in the parking lot. During mid-day breaks, visitors can be seen firing up their grills, cooking up burgers and hot dogs, and socializing with each other. This creates a fun and lively atmosphere, and adds to the overall enjoyment of the ski day. These are typically held in the lower lot with the best spots needing reservations called “The Beach”.
Gaper Day
While Gaper Day antics happen at various resorts, Arapahoe Basin has become the unofficial epicenter, the spiritual home of the gaper celebration. Why? Several factors converge to make A-Basin the ideal venue:
Independent Spirit: As one of the few remaining large independent ski areas in Colorado (though now partnered with Alterra/Ikon Pass), A-Basin has always fostered a distinct, slightly rebellious identity that resonates with the Gaper Day ethos.
The Longest Season: A-Basin boasts one of the longest ski seasons in North America, often staying open well into June or even July. This naturally makes it a focal point for late-spring skiing and end-of-season celebrations when other resorts have long closed.
“The Beach”: A-Basin’s early-rise parking lot adjacent to the base area transforms into a legendary tailgate scene known as “The Beach.” On sunny spring days, especially Gaper Day, it’s packed with cars, grills, lawn chairs, music, and costumed revelers. It’s the social heart of the mountain and the perfect staging ground for Gaper Day festivities.
Spring Conditions: The high altitude keeps snow around longer, but the strong Colorado sun creates classic spring conditions – soft, forgiving corn snow in the morning turning to slushy bumps in the afternoon. Perfect for silly skiing and soft landings (usually).
The Vibe: A-Basin cultivates a unique culture. It’s known for its challenging terrain (“The Legend”) attracting hardcore skiers, but also maintains a laid-back, unpretentious, party-friendly atmosphere. It doesn’t take itself too seriously, making it the perfect place for people to dress ridiculously and act silly.
The Beach
The Beach is known for its lively atmosphere. Skiers can be seen playing games, grilling food, and having impromptu parties. With its relaxed and fun-loving vibe, The Beach is a great place to spend time with friends, make new ones, and enjoy the ski day.
Another unique feature of The Beach is its location near the bottom of the ski runs. This means that skiers and snowboarders can easily take a break from the slopes, grab a bite to eat, and then get back to skiing with minimal effort. This is a great way to recharge and enjoy the day without having to waste time getting to and from the base area.
To reserve your spot you need to place a down payment for your spot on the A-Basin website. It $200 and refundable if you cancel more than 2 weeks out.
How to Participate Like a Pro (Even if You’re a Gaper at Heart)
Ready to dive into the madness? Here’s how to make the most of your A-Basin Gaper Day experience:
- Costume is CRITICAL: This is non-negotiable for full participation.
- Thrift Stores are Goldmines: Start hunting early for neon ski suits, vintage jackets, prom dresses, old Halloween costumes.
- Group Themes Win: Coordinate with friends for maximum impact (e.g., characters from a movie, a pack of animals, matching retro outfits).
- Comfort (Sort Of): Remember you’ll be skiing/riding (maybe). Ensure you can actually move and see. Layers are still key – spring weather changes fast. A silly layer over your actual gear works well.
- Accessorize: Wigs, funky sunglasses, temporary tattoos, capes – go wild.
- Gear Up (or Down):
- Retro: If you have functional retro gear, flaunt it! Straight skis, snowblades, rear-entry boots get major style points.
- Modern: It’s perfectly acceptable (and often wiser) to wear your normal, functional skis/board and boots and just rock the costume over your shell. Safety first!
- Helmet: Strongly recommended, even if it clashes with your costume. Find a way to decorate it or wear something over it. Gaper Day can get crowded and unpredictable.
- Embrace the Spirit:
- Don’t Take Yourself Seriously: Laugh at yourself, laugh with others. It’s about fun, not performance.
- Be Social: Chat with people on the lift, compliment costumes, join the vibe on The Beach.
- Respect the Vibe: It’s a party, but still a ski area. Be cool.
- Master the Logistics (Crucial!):
- Find the Date: Gaper Day is unofficial. Check A-Basin social media, forums (like TGR), or ask around in the weeks leading up to April. It often solidifies close to the date.
- ARRIVE EARLY: This cannot be stressed enough. The parking lots, especially The Beach spots, fill up incredibly fast, often before the lifts even open. Like, really early. Dawn patrol early.
- Carpool or Shuttle: Parking is extremely limited. Pack your friends into one vehicle. Check if A-Basin or Summit Stage is running shuttles.
- Lift Tickets/Passes: Ensure you have your A-Basin or Ikon Pass. Buying tickets day-of can be hectic, do it online in advance if possible.
- Beach Etiquette:
- Claiming Space: Be reasonable. Don’t sprawl unnecessarily.
- Grilling: Follow A-Basin’s rules regarding approved grills (no charcoal usually) and locations.
- Pack It In, Pack It Out: Crucial. Leave The Beach cleaner than you found it. Bring trash bags.
- Music: Be mindful of volume wars. Keep it fun, not obnoxious.
Gaper Day Survival Guide: Tips for a Legendary (and Safe) Day
Gaper Day is a marathon, not a sprint. Here’s how to ensure you have maximum fun without ending up as a cautionary tale:
- Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate (with WATER): High altitude + Sunshine + Alcohol + Physical Activity = Dehydration recipe. Drink significantly more water than you think you need, starting the day before. Carry a hydration pack or water bottles. Alternate alcoholic drinks with water.
- Sun Protection is Non-Negotiable: The spring sun at A-Basin’s altitude is intense, reflecting off the snow. Apply high-SPF sunscreen liberally and often (face, neck, ears, lips). Wear UV-protective sunglasses or goggles. A hat for the beach is wise. Sunburns are the ultimate gaper move.
- Pace Yourself: It’s easy to get caught up in the party atmosphere, especially on The Beach. Be mindful of alcohol consumption, especially at altitude where effects are amplified. Eat food, drink water. Know your limits. Getting dangerously intoxicated puts yourself and others at risk.
- Know Your Skiing/Riding Limits: Slushy, bumpy spring conditions can be challenging, especially in a cumbersome costume or on unfamiliar retro gear. Don’t feel pressured to hit terrain above your ability level. It’s okay to cruise groomers or just hang out at the base.
- Respect the Mountain & Staff: Follow all ski area rules. Be courteous to lift operators, ski patrol, and other staff – they’re working hard to keep things running amidst the chaos. Don’t duck ropes or ski recklessly in crowded areas.
- Pack It In, Pack It Out: Seriously. Bring trash bags and dispose of all your waste properly. A-Basin allows the party, don’t give them a reason to shut it down. Respect the beautiful environment.
- Have an Exit Strategy: Plan how you’re getting home. Have a designated driver, know the shuttle schedule, or arrange for a ride. Do NOT drink and drive.
- Watch Out for Others: Keep an eye on your friends. Promote responsible behavior within your group.
Is Gaper Day “Official”?
It’s important to understand that Gaper Day is typically not an official, resort-sanctioned event. Arapahoe Basin generally tolerates and even subtly embraces the tradition, recognizing it as part of the mountain’s unique culture. They provide staff, patrol, and operations as they would on any busy spring day.
However, they also set clear rules and expectations, particularly regarding:
- Parking: Strict enforcement of parking regulations.
- Alcohol: Consumption allowed in designated areas (like The Beach for 21+), but irresponsible behavior, open containers on lifts, or skiing/riding under the influence can lead to pass revocation or other consequences.
- Conduct: Standard ski area safety rules apply. Reckless behavior won’t be tolerated.
- Environmental Responsibility: Emphasis on packing out trash.
Think of it as a massive, organic gathering that the resort manages. Respect their rules so the tradition can continue.
Beyond the Slopes
The fun doesn’t stop on the slopes. After a day of skiing or snowboarding, head to the Black Mountain Lodge for the après-ski festivities. Party music fills the air as skiers and snowboarders gather to share their stories and celebrate the day. It’s a chance to unwind, refuel, and make lasting memories.
So, if you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable experience, mark your calendar for April 1st and head to Arapahoe Basin for Gaper Day. Embrace the spirit of the day, don your most outrageous outfit, and get ready to experience the joy of skiing and snowboarding in its purest form.
Is Gaper Day family-friendly?
It depends. The on-mountain skiing during the day can be fun for all ages, seeing the costumes is certainly entertaining for kids. However, The Beach scene involves significant alcohol consumption and typical party behavior, which may not be suitable for young children, especially later in the day. Use your discretion. The vibe away from The Beach is generally more subdued.
What if I just want to ski/ride and avoid the party?
Gaper Day is probably not the best day for serious, focused skiing. Expect long lift lines, crowded slopes (especially groomers and base area runs), and distractions. If you want typical A-Basin spring skiing, maybe choose a different day. If you do go, head high early (Montezuma Bowl, Beavers) to get some good turns in before the crowds peak.
Do I have to dress up
No, you don’t have to, but you’ll likely feel out of place if you don’t! At least throw on a colorful accessory or a funny hat. Dressing up is key to fully embracing the spirit of the day. You can still ski/ride normally if you prefer, but expect a different kind of crowd.
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