Arapahoe Basin vs Big Bear Mountain
Comparing Arapahoe Basin (CO) and Big Bear Mountain (CA) on price, terrain, snowfall, and lift wait. Numbers from the 2026 season.
Arapahoe Basin
Keystone, CO
Ikon pass
Window price$199
Online (advance)$79
Season pass$1,329
Big Bear Mountain
Big Bear Lake, CA
Ikon pass
Window price$95
Online (advance)$64
Season pass$1,329
Side-by-side
| Stat | Arapahoe Basin | Big Bear Mountain | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Window lift ticket | $199 | $95 | Big Bear Mountain |
| Online (30+ days) | $79 | $64 | Big Bear Mountain |
| Season pass | $1,329 | $1,329 | Tied |
| Annual snowfall | 306" | 120" | Arapahoe Basin |
| Skiable acres | 1,428 | 748 | Arapahoe Basin |
| Vertical drop | 2,538' | 1,665' | Arapahoe Basin |
| Runs | 146 | 42 | Arapahoe Basin |
| Lifts | 9 | 17 | Big Bear Mountain |
| Summit elevation | 13,338' | 8,805' | Arapahoe Basin |
| Beginner terrain | 10% | 30% | Big Bear Mountain |
| Advanced terrain | 60% | 25% | Arapahoe Basin |
| Average lift wait | 10 min | 20 min | Arapahoe Basin |
The Match
Big Bear Mountain is cheaper at the gate ($64 vs $79 entry). Arapahoe Basin is significantly bigger (1,428 vs 748 acres). Arapahoe Basin sees more snow (306" vs 120"). Both are on the Ikon pass — same pass, same wallet.