Arapahoe Basin vs Palisades Tahoe
Comparing Arapahoe Basin (CO) and Palisades Tahoe (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
Palisades Tahoe
Olympic Valley, CA
Ikon pass
Window price$289
Online (advance)$189
Season pass$1,329
Side-by-side
| Stat | Arapahoe Basin | Palisades Tahoe | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Window lift ticket | $199 | $289 | Arapahoe Basin |
| Online (30+ days) | $79 | $189 | Arapahoe Basin |
| Season pass | $1,329 | $1,329 | Tied |
| Annual snowfall | 306" | 450" | Palisades Tahoe |
| Skiable acres | 1,428 | 6,000 | Palisades Tahoe |
| Vertical drop | 2,538' | 2,850' | Palisades Tahoe |
| Runs | 146 | 270 | Palisades Tahoe |
| Lifts | 9 | 42 | Palisades Tahoe |
| Summit elevation | 13,338' | 9,500' | Arapahoe Basin |
| Beginner terrain | 10% | 25% | Palisades Tahoe |
| Advanced terrain | 60% | 35% | Arapahoe Basin |
| Average lift wait | 10 min | 15 min | Arapahoe Basin |
The Match
Arapahoe Basin is cheaper at the gate ($79 vs $189 entry). Palisades Tahoe is significantly bigger (6,000 vs 1,428 acres). Palisades Tahoe sees more snow (450" vs 306"). Both are on the Ikon pass — same pass, same wallet.