The closest ski resort to Denver is Eldora Mountain Resort (2861 Eldora Ski Rd. Ste. 140, 303/440-8700, www.eldora.com). Only an hour’s drive from Denver, Eldora offers more time on the mountain than driving there and back—and there’s regular bus service from Boulder directly to the resort. The motto on the resort’s website is, “Friends Don’t Let Friends Drive I-70,” in reference to the highway that leads to most other ski resorts in Colorado.

The drive up to the resort takes you through the quirky town of Nederland, which is worth a stop for a meal or a look around. But considering the resort’s proximity to Denver and Boulder, you can keep your hotel room or just have dinner back at home later.

Frozen Dead Guy Days

Bredo Morsteol passed away in his native Norway in 1989, and was subsequently brought to the United States to be a cryonics subject (a scientific method used to freeze people until they can be brought back to life somehow). Eventually Mr. Morsteol’s body ended up in his grandson’s Nederland storage shed, where he is still repacked in dry ice regularly.

At first locals were aghast when they learned of the frozen dead guy, but for nearly 10 years they have been hosting Frozen Dead Guy Days (www.nederlandchamber.org/events_fdgd-home.html) in March. The event includes a parade with people in mock coffins. It’s all in good fun in a macabre sort of way, and you can buy a Frozen Dead Guy T-shirt, hat, or tote bag.

Getting to Eldora Mountain Resort

From Denver, take I-70 West to Golden, then follow Highway 93 to Highway 72 until it meets with Highway 119; follow signs to Eldora Mountain Resort. Or take I-25 North to Highway 36 through Boulder and follow signs to the resort. There is regular bus service from Boulder to the resort (303/299-6000, www.rtd-denver.com).