It straddles both sides of the pass at the Eisenhower Tunnel, through which I-70 crosses the Continental Divide. Because it is situated atop the Continental Divide, Loveland is one of the first ski areas to open in the area every season. As of the 2005-06 ski season, it was the first ski area to open in North America for six consecutive years, though Arapahoe Basin won the race for the 2006-2007 season. Because it has not developed into a resort-style ski area like Copper Mountain or Vail, nor is it situated near a trendy ski town like Aspen or Telluride, it has gained a reputation in the area as a ski area for locals. As such, it often has shorter lines and less-expensive lift tickets, but also fewer trails and on-site amenities.