Colorado — It had been a long time since the chairlifts operated at Cuchara Mountain Park. The chairlifts last spun in 2000, and the ski area was abandoned for many years. However, local efforts in the 2010s led to the revival of Cuchara Mountain Park as a backcountry ski spot and winter play area for sledders and tubers. People also began using it again for summer activities like disc golf and mountain biking.
To revive the skiing operations, the non-profit Panadero Ski Corporation has been leading the charge. The past few seasons had featured a way up the mountain via snowcat, but chairlift operations were still lacking. In recent years, work has been ongoing to repair and reopen Lift Four. Last January, that goal was achieved.
The 2025-26 Season
Back in January, Cuchara Mountain Park reopened Lift 4 for the first time since 2000. The fixed-grip double chairlift gives access to beginner and intermediate terrain. While this setup doesn’t give access to the full mountain, it provides a great experience for families or for those who want a chill day away from the I-70 mayhem. Skinners can access the rest of the mountain, though bringing avalanche gear is advised.
Colorado Public Radio reports that Cuchara Mountain Park had a successful relaunch season despite underwhelming natural snowfall.
“We got a little bit of a late start,” said Kevin Chapman, President of Panadero’s Board.“So ski season was very short for us, but it went very well. Opening day we had about 166 people. As the season progressed, we kept getting more and more people showing up.”
The ski area saw roughly 2,000 guests this past ski season, along with 100 season pass holders. Cuchara’s lift-served season concluded in March due to warmer-than-average temperatures across the West.
A surprise target market was Denver residents who want to spend a ski day away from I-70 congestion.
“We have had an uptick of people who have come through our store,” said Carlos Lopez, a Panadero board member and owner of Fishers Peak Outfitters. “Instead of people driving onward to another part of Colorado ski country, they’re now eyeing Cuchara Mountain Park as a new option for saving time and money and having a smaller family-friendly venue.”
Especially with people being more mindful of how they’re spending their dollars, trying to get more value out of their money. Cuchara is a viable alternative to the I-70 corridor ski resorts.”
Who’s Watching Me Now? The IRS?
However, the season wasn’t without its bumps. The Panadero Ski Corporation were not in good standing with the IRS as a nonprofit due to improperly filed paperwork. This business status allows them not to need to pay taxes, so finding a resolution was important. They have since filed new paperwork, and the IRS has reinstated their Section 501(c) (3) status. Cuchara has hired a CPA to avoid future issues.
Future Plans
In terms of offseason projects, Cuchara is eyeing snowmaking upgrades and a lift to serve a snow tubing park. Enhancements to the mountain biking trails are also planned. If you’re looking to help out Cuchara, you can donate to their cause here.
Some of the planned summer events include archery events, celebrations on Father’s Day and the Fourth of July, and hosting a bike camp.
Image/Video Credits: Cuchara Mountain Park, Sally’sQuest
