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Colorado is home to some of skiing and snowboarding's best-hidden treasures, but sometimes you have to get off the beaten track to discover them. These are the Gems. With diverse terrain, the Gems have something for everyone from families to fanatics. We know there is a Gem or two (or nine) that is sure to become your favorite. Free of crowds. Free of paid parking. Down-to-earth prices. Authentic experiences.

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Gems News:

2011-12 Gems Cards are on Sale Now!

Make sure to order your 2011-12 Gems Card now. The 2011-12 Gems Card offers cardholders great skiing benefits to all nine Colorado Gems ski areas. Click here for the complete list of deals and discounts for the 2011-12 seaon.

Gems Resorts:

 Arapahoe Basin:

Arapahoe Basin known as "The Legend" within Colorado, A-Basin is a laid-back, affordable, family friendly ski area with diverse terrain and all the conveniences and quality of a larger ski resort. New this season, Black Mountain Express, a high-speed quad chairlift, gives the skier and rider access to the upper mountain in less than three minutes. Convenient on-mountain services include Snowsports School, cafeterias, rental and repair shop, retail, free parking and shuttle services. Experience what makes A-Basin the Legend. ArapahoeBasin.com

Echo Mountain:

Echo Mountain is Colorado's newest ski and snowboard area. Just 35 miles from Downtown Denver, Echo is situated on 85 acres of terrain with a base elevation of 10,500 feet. Echo offers easy access from Denver and its many surrounding communities and is known for its affordability and laid-back atmosphere. Echo's fully-lit terrain glows into the night five nights a week with a sound system playing tunes across the slopes. And, as always, close-in parking and WiFi are always free at Echo Mountain. Echomt.com

Eldora Mountain Resort:

Among the closest areas to Denver, Eldora offers a short, no-hassle drive and is a quick 21 miles from Boulder. Besides its charming local flavor, Eldora is best known for its diverse terrain, cross-country center and outstanding children's SnowSports school. Eldora is one of Colorado's best-kept secrets for families. Kits of all ages love learning to ski or ride in the Eldorables and Ski & Snowboard Trek Programs. Eldora offers a variety of terrain that can challenge any skiing or riding ability level. Eldora.com

Loveland Ski Area:

Just 53 miles from Denver, locals love Loveland for its free close-in parking, 400 inches of snow each season, low-key atmosphere, lack of lift lines and 1,670 acres of varied terrain. Loveland Valley is a separate area with gentle terrain perfect for beginners while The Ridge provides intermediate and advanced snow-riders terrain just the way they like it- open, steep and deep. Come find out why there's more to love at Loveland. More snow. Fewer crowds. No fuss. Skiloveland.com

Monarch Mountain:

Located in South Central Colorado, Monarch Mountain is what you expect from a real Rocky Mountain ski area. Abundant natural snow (350+ inches) and friendly people are the two strongest attributes. Monarch also features convenient parking, reasonable prices and runs that flow naturally back to the base. At Monarch, you'll lose the crowds but not your friends. With Monarch Mountain's Snowcat Tours, you'll find great powder and 1,200 acres of expert terrain. SkiMonarch.com

Powderhorn:

Deep in the heart of the world's largest flat top mountain, the Grand Mesa, Powderhorn will elevate your expectations. Breathtaking views, a variety of terrain, slope side lodging, acres of glade skiing, and a stress-free atmosphere await at the gem of the western slope. Make it a weekend and enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and winery tours. Or visit in March and load your bike and golf clubs right next to your skis! Powderhorn.com

Ski Cooper:

Ski Cooper is both fun and affordable. Ski & ride long wide-open cruisers, tree gladed runs or short mogul shots on the backside of the mountain. Ski Cooper offers skiers and riders a unique and affordable alternative to the hustle & bustle of big resorts. Short lines and long runs are what we are all about. Our Chicago Ridge Snowcat Tours access over 2,400 acres of skiing & riding atop the Continental Divide for those who want a deep winter powder experience. SkiCooper.com

SolVista Basin:

Fun lesson programs, convenient access and affordable prices make SolVista a long-time family favorite. This mountain paradise is a genuine Colorado retreat with western charm and small-town friendliness that incites you to slow down and enjoy what's around you. SolVista Basin offers a variety of dining options including its famous 7 Trails Grille - which comes complete with a sun-drenched, south-facing patio featuring panoramic views to soak in while you sip your favorite winter drink. Solvista.com

Sunlight Mountain Resort:

Sunlight Mountain Resort is a unique winter playground that is affordable and family oriented. Sunlight features 67 named trails covering over 470 acres. In addition to miles of cruising intermediate terrain, Sunlight's East Ridge has one of the steeper runs in the state. Aptly named, The Heathen Falls beneath your feet at a breathtaking 52 degrees. Sunlight also hosts some of the best tree skiing in Colorado with many aspen groves untracked days after snowfall. Sunlightmtn.com