Colorado Ski Areas Are Allowed To Stay Open Under New COVID-19 Restrictions

By Rebekah Gonzalez

November 19, 2020

Colorado is allowing ski areas located in counties that are at level red status to remain open, according to state health officials.

The new tightened restrictions, announced in a joint press conference by Governor Polis and Denver Mayor Michael Hancock on Tuesday, November 17, will go into effect this Friday, November 20.

The Denver Post reported that the Colorado State Joint Information Center sent an email declaring that the new COVID-19 dial level "does not affect ski resort on-mountain operations specifically."

Ski areas that are in level red counties will be mandated to cease indoor dining and provide takeout or outdoor seating, "but may still operate their lifts according to their approved plan."

The email also stated that facilities like restrooms and those "essential for health and safety" can remain open to the public. Skier are also allowed to go indoors to stay warm or "shelter from inclement weather."

Fifteen counties will be shifting to the new level red dial on Friday.

They include Clear Creek County where Loveland ski area is located and Summit County which is home to Keystone, Arapahoe Basin, and Breckenridge.

All four resorts are currently open and will have to adhere to new restriction starting Friday.

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