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17 Top Colorado Ski Resorts

Experience world-class winter sports across the Centennial State.

Courtesy of Vail Resorts

Expect spectacular powder days and stunning mountain views on your next Colorado ski trip.

When you think of Colorado , sparkling ski slopes and epic terrain parks might come to mind. The Centennial State is known for its world-class ski resorts , from picturesque Telluride to the quintessential ski town of Steamboat Springs . You don't have to hit the slopes to enjoy all that a Colorado ski resort has to offer, either: Many ski resorts include luxurious ski-in/ski-out lodging options, bars and restaurants perfect for an après-ski, and fun family-friendly activities like snowmobiling and dog-sledding.

Before planning your Colorado ski resort vacation, you'll need to identify your experience level and determine which passes or tickets to buy. Pass options include the Ikon Pass, Epic Pass and Passport Ski Program. Learn about the pass prices and more in the planning section below .

(Note: Some of the following Colorado ski resorts and locations may be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. New policies may be in place, including requirements for proof of vaccination, capacity restrictions, reservation requirements or mask mandates. Check with your chosen establishment and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention before your visit.)

The Top Colorado Ski Resorts

The best colorado ski resorts for beginners, the best colorado ski resorts for advanced skiers, the best colorado ski resorts for families, steamboat resort: steamboat springs.

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Located about 160 miles northwest of Denver , Steamboat Resort boasts nearly 3,000 acres of permitted terrain, 17 lifts and 170 named trails, of which 14% are beginner slopes and 42% intermediate. The resort has an annual snowfall of 314 inches, giving skiers and snowboarders plenty of opportunity for powder days. With terrain parks, private and group ski and snowboard lessons, and adaptive programs for those with disabilities, Steamboat makes skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels feel at home. The resort is also working to champion diversity through its Steamboat Ski Resort Scholarship, a $2,500 scholarship for people of color studying resort management, ski area operations, tourism or hospitality.

As a full ski town – in fact, it's nicknamed "Ski Town USA" – Steamboat offers a variety of restaurants, activities and lodging. After a day spent hitting the slopes, relax at Routtie's Barbecue for an après-ski. When you're in need of a ski break, take up snowmobiling or a cozy sleigh ride. If you're staying in town, consider the elegant Steamboat Grand , where guests praise the plethora of amenities including hot tubs and a gym. Lodgers also appreciate that the gondola is only a short walk away from the hotel.

Howelson Hill, known as the oldest operating ski area in North America, is also owned and operated by Steamboat Springs. Though this ski destination is small, with only four lifts and 17 alpine trails, its history is powerful: Howelson Hill has provided training grounds for more than 100 Olympians and is home to one of the largest natural ski jumping complexes in North America. Today, it's one of the most affordable ski resorts in Colorado, and it even offers free skiing on Sundays.

Passes: Ikon, Ski Passport Program Address: 2305 Mount Werner Circle, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487

[See more of Steamboat Springs: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Copper Mountain Resort: Frisco

Less than 80 miles west of Denver, Copper Mountain is home to about 2,500 skiable acres and 24 chair lifts. Of the 140 marked trails at Copper, 21% are at the beginner level and 25% are intermediate, making this ski resort a great choice for beginners. The resort also sees an average annual snowfall of 305 inches. Once you're finished skiing, you can enjoy other winter activities like ice skating, snow tubing and riding Copper's alpine coaster.

If you're looking to enjoy a few days of mountain adventures, Copper includes three villages – East, Center and West – for lodging. Consider booking a stay in the West Village for easy access to beginner terrain.

Passes: Ikon, Ski Passport Program Address: 209 Ten Mile Circle, Frisco, CO 80443

Eldora Mountain Resort: Nederland

Courtesy of Eldora Mountain Resort

Located around 20 miles from Boulder , Eldora is the perfect ski destination for University of Colorado Boulder students looking to learn a new sport. Students can even receive a discount on tickets, as well as use their free RTD bus pass to get to the mountain. Eldora is home to 10 lifts – including two magic carpets for beginners – and 680 skiable acres for all ages and skill levels to enjoy. With green and blue runs accounting for more than 60% of the park, resortgoers learning how to ski or snowboard will find plenty of opportunity to safely practice. More advanced skiers can still enjoy a variety of difficult terrain, such as a number of double black runs and eight terrain parks featuring box, rails, jumps and more.

Eldora does not have on-site lodging, but nearby Boulder is home to a number of impressive hotels . Recent guests of Hotel Boulderado admire its rich history and enjoy its restaurants and bar options, as well as its proximity to the attractions of downtown Boulder .

Passes: Ikon, Ski Passport Program Address: 2861 Eldora Ski Road, Nederland, CO 80466

Beaver Creek Resort: Beaver Creek

At Beaver Creek Resort – just over 10 miles from Vail – visitors will experience 167 trails over more than 2,000 skiable acres, 24 lifts and 325 inches of average annual snowfall. If you've never skied before, sign up for group or private lessons through the resort's ski school. Or, spend the day at Haymeadow Park, where you'll have access to magic carpets as well as a beginner gondola and lift; you can also celebrate your learning with an ice cream stop at The Parlour. Once you've learned the basics, head to McCoy Park and tackle its 17 runs – most of which are green. Consider enrolling the kids in the BEAVO Development Program, a multiday youth ski and snowboard program that fosters an inclusive learning environment for skill development.

After a day on the mountain, visitors can explore the village of Beaver Creek's shops and restaurants. Book a stay at The Osprey for an outdoor pool and hot tub, ski valet, quick access to the village and more. For a more private stay, consider Trapper's Cabin, which sits among aspens at 9,500 feet of elevation.

Passes: Epic Address: 210 Beaver Creek Plaza, Beaver Creek, CO 81620

Powderhorn Mountain Resort: Mesa

Skiers and snowboarders can explore 1,600 acres of skiable terrain – 70% of which is beginner or intermediate – at Powderhorn. The resort is also home to two terrain parks and world-class Nordic skiing, as the Grand Mesa (the northern edge of which Powderhorn sits) is the world's largest flat-top mountain. If you're new to the slopes, Powderhorn offers private and group ski and snowboard lessons, as well as children's multiweek programs. Resortgoers who have never skied or snowboarded before are eligible for the Bob Beverly Program, where participants can learn to ski for free.

To get to Powderhorn, expect a 230-mile drive west from Denver or fly in to the Grand Junction Regional Airport. You can lodge in the nearby towns of Mesa, Palisade or Grand Junction, or stay in the rental Tiny Homes at Powderhorn. Guests love the location close to the ski lift but warn that the Wi-Fi isn't up to par.

Passes: Ski Passport Program Address: 48338 Powderhorn Road, Mesa, CO 81643

Telluride Ski Resort: Telluride

Telluride , a stunning ski town and one of the state's best places to visit , is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway in Colorado . Telluride Ski Resort boasts more than 2,000 skiable acres and 19 total lifts, half of which are high-speed. Of the 148 trails, 41% are for advanced and expert skiers. With terrain parks, peaks to climb up and ski down, and Nordic trails, travelers will find plenty of challenges at Telluride Ski Resort. You can also try your hand at a number of other winter activities in Telluride including snowshoeing, dog-sledding, helicopter skiing, ice skating, ice climbing and more. Book your tickets for the end of February to enjoy Telluride Gay Ski Week, an inclusive celebration for LGBTQ skiers and snowboarders.

After you've worked up a sweat on the slopes, grab an après-ski either in Mountain Village or down in the town of Telluride. On the mountain, skiers can enjoy American or French cuisine at Allred's Restaurant or Bon Vivant. Head into town for pizza at Brown Dog Pizza. One top lodging option is The Peaks Resort & Spa, where guests love the stunning views and appreciate the excellent service.

Passes: Epic (limited to seven days), Ski Passport Program Address: 565 Mountain Village Blvd., Telluride, CO 81435

[See more of Telluride: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Keystone Resort: Keystone

With 49% of its 130 trails being classed as advanced or expert and only 12% as beginner, Keystone is definitely the Colorado ski resort for those seeking more difficult terrain. Keystone Resort features 20 lifts, more than 3,000 skiable acres and 235 inches of annual snowfall on average. Explore three peaks and hike-to terrain for an extra workout. If you're a beginner, don't worry: Keystone still offers child and adult ski and snowboard lessons, as well as multiweek programs. The ski resort also partners with Keystone Adaptive Center to provide instruction for skiers and snowboarders with disabilities.

Stay at the Lone Eagle for ski-in/ski-out availability or at the Keystone Lodge & Spa for spa treatments, in-room dining, private ski shuttle transportation and more. Recent guests at the Keystone Lodge & Spa appreciated the many amenities, but some warn that the property is a bit outdated.

Passes: Epic Address: 100 Dercum Square, Keystone, CO 80435

Winter Park Resort: Winter Park

Courtesy of Winter Park Resort

Opened in 1940, Winter Park Resort is the longest continually operated ski resort in Colorado. The resort receives an average of 345 inches of snow every year for epic powder days; it features 166 trails and 23 lifts over more than 3,000 skiable acres. Only 8% of the terrain is beginner-friendly, with another 18% intermediate, 19% advanced, 52% most difficult and even 3% "expert only." But don't worry if you're not ready for the more challenging runs: Winter Park comprises seven territories, and the Winter Park Territory gives access to the Ski + Ride School. Other territories include Parsenn Bowl, where you can see the top of Longs Peak ; Terrain Park, which features an 18-foot superpipe; and Mary Jane, the perfect place for practicing mogul runs.

Other Winter Park activities include snowshoe tours, snowcat tours, ski bike tours and tubing. There are more than 20 lodges available in the Base Village and the town of Winter Park, one of which is the highly rated Iron Horse Resort. Lodgers commend the ski-in/ski-out availability, though some caution that beginners may not be able to handle the skiing needed to get back to the lodge.

Passes: Ikon, Ski Passport Program Address: 85 Parsenn Road, Winter Park, CO 80482

Arapahoe Basin Ski Area: Dillon

Ian Zinner | Courtesy of Arapahoe Basin Ski Area

Arapahoe Resort is perhaps best known for the length of its ski and ride season, which is the longest in Colorado. In fact, A-Basin (or A-Bay) often stays open from October through June. The resort was even open for skiing on the Fourth of July seven times, the most recent of which was in 2019. The latest it has ever stayed open was Aug. 10 in 1995.

Arapahoe Basin includes nearly 150 trails over more than 1,400 skiable acres, with 49% black diamond runs and 24% double black diamonds. Only 7% of runs are beginner-friendly, so this ski resort isn't for the faint of heart. If the skiing and snowboarding is a bit too challenging, consider taking a snowshoe tour instead. When visiting in the summer, don't forget to attempt North America's highest via ferrata, a guided-only climb that reaches 13,000 feet. A-Basin does not offer onsite lodging, but Breckenridge hotels are only 20 miles away.

Passes: Ikon (limited to seven days), Ski Passport Program Address: 28194 U.S. Route 6, Dillon, CO 80435

Vail Mountain Resort: Vail

Jeff Andrew | Courtesy of Vail Resorts

With more than 5,300 skiable acres, Vail Mountain Resort is one of the largest ski resorts in Colorado. Over half the terrain is designed for advanced and expert skiers, so you'll have plenty of access to challenging terrain parks, bowls, basins and peaks. If you're a beginner, take advantage of ski and snowboarding lessons available; the Vail Nordic School offers snowshoe, cross-country ski and backcountry ski lessons for all skill levels if you want a change of pace.

Vail Mountain Resort is also host to the 2023 National Brotherhood of Skiers Summit, where thousands of people of color from across the country gather to enjoy skiing together. NBS works to support athletes of color in winter sports.

In the town of Vail, explore a variety of shopping and dining . Lodge at The Arrabelle at Vail Square , one of the ski resort's signature properties, for luxurious accommodations and amenities. Recent visitors appreciate the friendly staff and excellent service, as well as the location (only a short walk from the village).

Passes: Epic Address: Vail, CO 81657

[See more of Vail: Things to Do | Hotels | Resorts | When to Visit | Photos ]

Silverton Mountain: Silverton

Courtesy of Silverton Mountain

Silverton Mountain offers a unique ski experience, in that there is only one chairlift but nearly 27,000 acres of skiable terrain. This ski destination is truly for advanced and expert skiers and snowboarders; in fact, 0% of the terrain is classed as beginner- or intermediate-friendly. Silverton Mountain is the steepest ski area in North America with the easiest run at a 35-degree slope. The resort boasts more than 400 inches of annual snowfall on average and caps the number of unguided skiers at 475 a day, meaning you'll have plenty of access to fresh powder. In fact, the mountain regularly sees less than 80 skiers per day.

If you're not an expert but you're in the area, don't worry; the town of Silverton won't let you down. Try your hand at guided rock, ice or alpine climbing, or you can touch up your safety skills with an avalanche course. Travelers can enjoy tasty breakfast burritos, artisan pizzas and local craft beer at a variety of eateries and breweries. Consider booking a stay at the highly rated Villa Dallavalle Historic Inn, where recent visitors praised the homemade breakfast and hot tubs.

Passes: None listed in this article are applicable. Address: 6226 state Highway 110, Silverton, CO 81433

Aspen Snowmass: Aspen, Snowmass Village

Dan Bayer | Courtesy of Aspen Snowmass

Explore four mountains – Aspen Mountain , Aspen Highlands , Buttermilk and Snowmass – and two ski towns on your Aspen Snowmass ski trip. With approximately 5,500 skiable acres in total, Aspen Snowmass has something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Aside from skiing and snowboarding, other family-friendly activities include tubing, snow biking, snowshoeing and riding the Breathtaker Alpine Coaster, which can reach up to 28 mph. While the kids are taking ski or snowboarding lessons, adults can always enjoy a small romantic getaway by taking a snowcat up Aspen Highlands for dinner at the Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro or Lynn Britt Cabin.

Aspen Snowmass works to include and support a variety of causes within the community, including racial justice, sustainability and support for LGBTQ communities through the annual Gay Ski Week. Another well-known Aspen event is the X Games, where the world's top athletes compete in 14 disciplines including Snowboard SuperPipe and Big Air. The event is free to attend.

Explore condominiums, ski-in/ski-out options, pet-friendly properties and vacation homes at the Aspen Snowmass lodging website . Top-rated hotels include Aspen's The Little Nell – where guests rave about the cuisine and service – and Viceroy Snowmass , which recent lodgers recommend for those seeking a quieter and more laid-back environment than downtown Aspen.

Passes: Ikon (limited to seven days), Ski Passport Program Address: 601 E. Dean St., Aspen, CO 81611 (Aspen Mountain); 120 Lower Carriage Way, Snowmass Village, CO 81615 (Snowmass)

[See more of Aspen: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Crested Butte Mountain Resort: Crested Butte

Though Crested Butte lies about 200 miles southwest of Denver, the drive (or flight to Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport) is well worth it. The ski town and resort offers a stunning mountain escape perfect for a family vacation . On the mountain, visitors will find 236 inches of average annual snowfall, two terrain parks and 121 trails – 14% beginner, about 50% intermediate or advanced, and 37% expert – over more than 1,500 skiable acres. Crested Butte Mountain Resort offers a selection of child, teen, adult and private lessons so everyone in the family can feel their best on the slopes.

Crested Butte is truly a ski town, with no traffic lights, chain stores or high-rise buildings. Partake in a variety of dining and shopping options when you've finished skiing for the day, or explore the 1.7 million acres of the surrounding national forest through hiking, snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Travelers can stay at the Grand Lodge Hotel and Suites for spacious suites and oversized hotel rooms (some of which are pet-friendly) or lodge at The Plaza in a unique condominium setting.

Passes: Epic Address: 12 Snowmass Road, Crested Butte, CO 81225

Breckenridge Ski Resort: Breckenridge

Brent Clark | Courtesy of Breckenridge Ski Resort

Head to this destination in Colorado for not only top-notch skiing but also restaurants, breweries and other winter activities. Explore 187 trails and just under 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, half of which consists of groomed trails. Of the 35 lifts, 11 are magic carpets for beginners. Consider participating in one of the signature programs at Breckenridge Ski Resort , such as Women's Camp or Breck Belles, which are designed by women for women; seasonal youth programs for children of all ages; and adaptive programs for individuals with disabilities.

The town of Breckenridge offers a plethora of dining , shopping and spa options. Winter activities for the whole family include snowshoeing, snowmobiling and dog-sledding, and don't forget to buy your tickets for the International Snow Sculpture Championships. For an overnight stay, travelers might consider booking a room at The Lodge at Breckenridge. Recent visitors praised the spacious rooms and appreciated that pets were welcome.

Passes: Epic Address: 1599 Ski Hill Road, Breckenridge, CO 80424

[See more of Breckenridge: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Cooper Hill Ski Area: Leadville

Not to be confused with Copper, Cooper is located near Leadville – the highest incorporated city in North America – about 100 miles from Denver. Cooper is one of the smaller ski resorts in Colorado, with less than 500 skiable acres, five lifts and 64 trails, but don't let its size deter you: The resort is perfect for a family weekend getaway . Cooper Hill Ski Area boasts few lift lines and plenty of powder days, with 260 inches of annual snowfall on average and a unique philosophy of not over-grooming terrain. Plus, if you want more to explore, Cooper offers snowcat skiing tours on Chicago Ridge, giving you 2,600 more acres for cold weather adventures.

If you're a beginner, Cooper's Ski School hosts private and semiprivate ski and snowboard lessons for all ages. Families can even take lessons together at a discounted rate. Even more, Cooper boasts the longest magic carpet in Colorado. There are no lodging options at the resort itself, but Leadville offers plenty of hotels, inns, bed-and-breakfasts and more. For a unique experience, book a stay at Tiny House Leadville. Recent lodgers love the comfort and coziness of a tiny house, but some warn about poor Wi-Fi.

Passes: Ski Passport Program Address: 232 County Road 29, Leadville, CO 80461

Loveland Ski Area: Dillon

Courtesy of Loveland Ski Area

Family-owned and -operated Loveland Ski Area, located about 55 miles west of Denver, features 1,800 skiable acres, nine lifts and free snowcat skiing along the Continental Divide. You'll be treated to plenty of powder days as the resort receives a yearly average of 422 inches of snowfall, the most of any Front Range or Summit County resort. What's more, Loveland is the first ski area on the Interstate 70 corridor – so you won't have to sit in the traffic as long as with other ski resorts.

The resort comprises two ski areas: Loveland Basin and Loveland Valley. Loveland Basin is the main area, featuring terrain for all ages and skill levels as well a variety of family-friendly events. At Loveland Valley, a separate area just for beginners, you won't have to worry about running into more advanced skiers and snowboarders. Loveland Valley is also home to Loveland's Ski & Ride School. Though on-site lodging is not available at Loveland, nearby Georgetown, Silver Plume and Idaho Springs offer plenty of options.

Passes: Ski Passport Program Address: I-70, Dillon, CO 80435

Wolf Creek Ski Area: Pagosa Springs

Located in Pagosa Springs about 230 miles southwest of Colorado Springs , Wolf Creek Ski Area boasts the most snow in Colorado with 430 inches of annual snowfall. The resort's 1,600 skiable acres and fairly even distribution of difficulty – 20% beginner, 35% intermediate, 25% advanced and 20% expert – mean Wolf Creek's slopes can be enjoyed by every skill level. If you're new to skiing or snowboarding, consider taking a Wolf Creek professional group or private lesson. Book an overnight stay at The Springs Resort & Spa in Pagosa Springs for your family getaway. Recent guests recommend soaking in the springs after a long day skiing and praise the friendly staff.

Passes: None listed in this article are applicable. Address: E. Highway 160 E., Pagosa Springs, CO 81147

Planning Your Colorado Ski Resort Vacation

Before planning your next Colorado ski trip, you'll need to identify your experience level and determine which passes or tickets to buy.

Experience level

The difficulty of a ski run is often classed by color: Green runs are wide and easy, blue runs are slightly steeper and moderately difficult, black diamonds are steep and difficult, and double black diamonds are very steep and very difficult. If you're just starting to learn, you'll be spending most of your time on bunny hills – ski areas set aside for beginners – and conveyer belts (often called "magic carpets") before progressing to greens and perhaps a blue run or two.

There are a variety of pass and ticket options for every Colorado ski resort. Check each resort's website for season passes; day, multiday or family tickets; and discounts or free day options at partner resorts.

If you'd like access to multiple ski resorts across the state as well several other countries (including Canada , Australia , Switzerland and more), consider purchasing either the Ikon Pass or the Epic Pass. And, if you have a child in grades three through six, don't forget to check out the Ski Passport Program.

• Ikon Pass: At $1,179 for adult skiers and snowboarders of the 2022-23 season, the Ikon Pass includes access to more than 50 ski destinations, including six Colorado resorts; Boyne Mountain, a top Michigan ski resort ; Windham Mountain, a top New York ski resort ; and even Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley in the stunning French Alps . The pass also includes lift ticket discounts for friends and family, lodging deals and more. Check the Ikon Pass website for pass prices for kids and young adults, and pay only $839 for the Ikon pass if you're a college student, nurse or military member.
• Epic Pass: The Epic Pass, $879 for adults in the 2022-23 season, grants access to more than 60 ski resorts across the state, country and world, such as Arlberg, Austria ; Verbier 4 Vallées, Switzerland; and Hakuba Valley, Japan . The pass also includes discounts on food, lodging, lessons, rentals and more, as well as discounted tickets to share with friends or family. Visit the Epic Pass website for the full list of pass options, including the full Epic Pass, one- to seven-day passes, regional passes and child passes.
• Ski Passport Program: Available for third to sixth graders, the Ski Passport Program gives access to 20 ski areas – with four days at each participating resort – for only $59. Check the website for blackout dates and other helpful information.

Note: Prices are subject to change.

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Tags: Travel , Colorado Vacations , U.S. West Vacations , US Vacations , Skiing

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How to Plan an Amazing Colorado Ski Trip You Won’t Forget

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Colorado is known for some of the best skiing in North America. With famous ski resorts like Vail Village, Aspen Mountain, and Beaver Creek, there are no shortage of amazing options to choose from. 

Whether you’re planning a family ski trip to Colorado or a large group vacation, this guide is for you. 

Spend your days on the ski area with groomed trails and apres ski afternoons. Or relax your stresses in a hot tub or with some retail shopping.

Colorado ski resorts have a plethora of options for all ages and skill levels.

Since the stunning Rocky Mountains are right on my doorstep, I’ve learned a lot of expert tips for planning the best ski vacation. 

Related: The Best Spring Break Ski Deals in Colorado

Choose the Best Colorado Ski Resort

Colorado has some of the most beautiful ski towns which makes for amazing ski trips you won’t forget.

But the real secret to an epic ski trip vacation is to find the right one based on your and your family’s skill level.

Thinking of living in Colorado? This guide will help you avoid costly mistakes and remove the stress of planning so you can experience the joys of mountain living.

Colorado ski resorts are categorized using different colors to indicate certain skill levels.

Green is the color that is used on Colorado ski slopes to indicate trails and resorts that are perfect for novice or beginner skiers.

Steamboat Ski Resort , for example, is a great place for small children and novice skiers. It is one of the largest ski resorts in the country and offers lots of different trails for beginners.

Their bunny slope, or a gentle ski slope perfect for learning how to ski or snowboard, is very popular for young kids and adults.

Keystone Resort is another family favorite thanks to a massive snow fort and fun night-time activities for kids.

A blue ski resort caters to a more intermediate skier and offers a mix of beginner and challenging trails.

This type of ski resort is perfect for older families, groups of friends, college-age kids, or anyone seeking a more laid-back experience.

Requiring a mid-level of skill, some popular ski towns in Colorado that are perfect for intermediate levels include Copper Mountain, Crested Butte, and Winter Park .

At these resorts, there are lots of options for kids, teens, and adults who want to enjoy a day out on the slopes. And there are plenty of trails for all types of skill levels.

Beaver Creek Resort is another popular choice thanks to groomed trails, carved mogul runs, and heated walkways throughout the city. 

However, the prices at Beaver Creek are a bit higher than some other ski resorts in Colorado. 

Black 

If you’re an experienced or advanced skier, you’ll want to seek out a ski resort with black runs.

Ski towns in Colorado that are perfect for advanced skiers or adrenaline junkies include Vail Ski Resort and Telluride Ski Resort .

Telluride is one of the most beautiful towns in Colorado, and offers an incredible gondola ride up the side of the mountain.

Vail Mountain offers lots of black-diamond variety trails as well as famous back bowls and steep runs.

In addition to well-maintained trails, many black-diamond ski resorts in Colorado offer waist-deep backcountry terrain. 

This allows advanced skiers to enjoy a custom cross-country skiing or snowshoeing experience.

Choose the Perfect Travel Dates

Once you have decided on the perfect Colorado ski resort, it’s time to choose the perfect travel dates.

Colorado ski resorts operate under two different seasons: peak season and off season.

Ski season for many resorts in Colorado starts as early as October, with nearly all the ski towns opening by mid-November. 

The off season typically begins towards late February into early March until the season is closed for the year.

If you want to avoid the crowds and the high tourist prices, the best time to go skiing in Colorado is during shoulder seasons. 

This is either very early in the season, like November or December, or very late in the season, March or April.

Staying on a weekday can also save you money versus higher weekend rates, but you may have to take time off work for the trip.

Consider your family’s preferences and schedule to find the perfect travel dates for your Colorado ski trip. 

If you’re looking to save money on your next vacation, check out our Colorado Trip Planner in-depth guide. 

Pack the Top Ski Essentials

You can’t plan your next Colorado ski trip without packing the top ski essentials. 

The clothing that you wear on the mountain needs to be both functional and fashionable. And you likely want to do it without spending a lot of money.

The basic ski essentials that everyone needs when going on a ski trip includes thermal base layers, a waterproof ski jacket, and protective eyewear or helmet.

A quality ski backpack is also extremely useful for long days on the slopes, as well waterproof gloves and warm socks.

And don’t forget to pack your swimsuit so you can soak in one of Colorado’s natural hot springs pools or enjoy a few hours in a sauna.

For an in-depth list, check out our must-have ski essentials for beginners that are easy to forget to pack.

Compare Colorado Ski Passes

There’s no denying that lift tickets in Colorado aren’t cheap. But you can save a good amount of money by purchasing a local ski pass.

Your savings will depend on a few factors: how often you go skiing every year and the location of your trip.

The IKON Pass offers unlimited access at 13 different destinations or up to 5 days at 34 locations within the United States. 

The IKON Pass includes five main ski resorts in Colorado! If you plan to ski often, then this pass can really help you save big. 

You’ll get more flexibility on dates and travel times which can help reduce the trip’s overall cost.

Epic Local Pass

If you’re planning to ski mostly in Colorado, the Epic Local Pass is a great deal. 

Get unlimited ski access every day in Breckenridge, Crested Butte, or Keystone. Or ski a total of 10 combined days at Vail Mountain and Beaver Creek Resort.

The Epic Pass also comes with 20% off food, beverages, loding, equipment rentals, group ski lessons, and many other snowy activities.

But don’t wait if you want to secure the best prices for lift tickets as prices go up mid-to-late November. 

Mountain Collective Pass

For a more budget-friendly option for ski passes in Colorado, check out Mountain Collective .

Enjoy two days at any ski destination and get up to 50% off the regular rate. Right now the passes are limited to two ski towns in Colorado:

• Arapahoe Basin
• Aspen Snowmass

This pass is a great alternative if you want to ski in Colorado as well as close states like Utah or New Mexico.

Rent the Right Kind of Car

If you’re used to driving in the snow and winter conditions, then you probably don’t need this tip. 

However, if you’re someone who was raised in low altitude or flat driving conditions, keep reading.

The Colorado mountains can be treacherous anytime of year, but even more so when they are covered in snow and ice. 

When researching the right kind of rental car, look for a vehicle with all-wheel drive (AWD) or 4-wheel drive (4WD). These will be the safest for driving in unpredictable winter conditions and give you the most control.

Before hitting the road, make sure the tires are properly inflated and have plenty of tread left.

Snow tires are also highly recommended when driving in cold weather versus all-season tires.

Expert tip: Aim to reserve your rental car well in advance as all-wheel drive and 4-wheel drive vehicles get reserved quickly in winter.

Prep to Avoid Altitude Sickness

Another expert tip is to give yourself an extra day to acclimate to the altitude before heading to the slopes. 

This will help you avoid altitude sickness and ensure that your Colorado ski trip is a fun one.

There’s nothing worse than booking money on a vacation and then spending all of your time sick in the hotel.

Take one extra day at the beginning of your tip and stay in Denver to help your body acclimate to the higher elevation. 

If you’re looking for things to do, check out the Denver CityPASS for ideas on activities for exploring the city.

Before and during your trip be sure to drink lots of water to stay hydrated and fuel your body with healthy snacks. 

Get plenty of rest so you’ll be set for the fun ski trip ahead. You don’t want to be dehydrated, gasping for breath on the mountain. 

Other Colorado Ski Trip Attractions

Yes, of course your Colorado ski trip has to include days for skiing and snowboarding on the slopes. But what about your off days?

For every two days of skiing, we like to build in an off-day for relaxing and resting. This is the perfect time to book other winter activities like snow tubing, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing.

Spend a day soaking in one of the hidden hot springs or enjoy a spa day at the club. In the evenings, enjoy a delicious meal or relaxing night at the pub with friends.

Colorado has a lot to offer outside of the ski resorts, so take a day or two to explore them while you’re visiting.

I hope these expert tips from a local will help you when planning your next Colorado ski trip.

Colorado Native & Personal Chef

Ryan Nicholson is a homegrown born and raised Colorado native. Being a rare unicorn to have grown up in CO, he has a unique perspective on the changes here and knows all the hidden spots to get outside in this state. Ryan's a classically French trained chef so he LOVES to try new foods and places to eat. When he's not experimenting in the kitchen or working as a personal chef along the Front Range, he loves to get outdoors and away from it all hiking, camping and backpacking.

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12 Top-Rated Ski Resorts in Colorado, 2023/24

Written by Lana Law Updated Nov 7, 2023

Colorado offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the United States , and snowfall amounts during major storms can be spectacular. Ski resorts range from top-end, world-class resorts with seemingly endless terrain to single-lift, family-run operations that deliver skiers to groomed runs and some of the best hike-to possibilities in the country.

Finding the right resort typically comes down to personal taste, skiing preferences, skill level, budget, convenience of location, and even what time of year you want to ski in Colorado. Unlike some of the ski resorts in Utah , all the resorts in Colorado are open to both skiers and snowboarders.

Several of the major Colorado ski resorts are near Denver , including Breckenridge, Keystone, Arapahoe Basin, Copper, Vail, and Beaver Creek. Aspen and Steamboat are slightly further afield but still within range of Denver. These two also have airports with direct flights to destinations in the US.

In the more remote southwest region of Colorado are Purgatory, Telluride, and Silverton, along with a number of other smaller resorts.

Opening and closing dates of the ski resorts are often dependent on conditions. Some resorts stay open as long as the season permits and open as soon as conditions are good enough; others have planned closing dates regardless of conditions. Several of the major resorts have invested heavily in snowmaking equipment to extend the season, and now open much earlier than in previous years. Many of the dates you see listed below are the ski resorts' estimates.

Get inspired and plan your winter trip with our list of the best ski resorts in Colorado.

1. Vail Mountain Resort

2. aspen snowmass, 3. telluride ski resort, 4. beaver creek resort, 5. breckenridge ski resort, 6. keystone resort, 7. steamboat ski resort, 8. purgatory resort, 9. copper mountain, 10. arapahoe basin, 11. silverton mountain, 12. wolf creek ski area, other ski resorts to consider, ski passes and deals, tips for skiing in colorado, frequently asked questions about skiing in colorado, when is the best time to ski in colorado, how far is vail from denver, map of top-rated ski resorts in colorado, the best ski resorts in north america and europe.

The seven back bowls are enough to occupy skiers for a whole season. This is if you manage to drag yourself off the long groomed runs, which stretch along the front side, overlooking the town of Vail. And certainly, there are people who never do venture into the back bowls.

The Mountain:

When it comes to skiing in Colorado, Vail is the biggest name around. This is one of the largest resorts in the world and home to some of the best terrain in Colorado.

The extensive and varied terrain means the resort can easily accommodate all levels of skiers, from beginners to experts , and you can almost always find good conditions somewhere on the mountain regardless of the weather. Beginners and intermediates tend to enjoy the groomed runs on the front, while more advanced skiers and experts will find excellent tree skiing, moguls, and steeps on the back.

Vail is not as high as some of the other resorts in the area but still receives a heavy amount of snow, with more than 350 inches per season. The resort has also recently completed a huge snowmaking enhancement project, which has led to a longer season.

Spread over 5,289 acres, the hill has 31 lifts, three terrain parks, and does an extensive amount of grooming. It is a great place for beginner and intermediate-level skiers.

In 2023 Vail replaced the current quad in the Game Creek Bowl with a six-person high-speed chair. This has significantly increased the number of skiers being transported and now allows for more laps of this amazing terrain. The new Sun Down Lift has also eased the pressure on Lift #5 (always a bottleneck) and makes accessing Sun Down Bowl easier.

Day lift ticket sales at Vail are limited to a set number of skiers. This is an effort to maintain the user's experience on the hill. EPIC day pass and EPIC season pass holders, as well as patrons of the ski school, will be exempt from this limitation. Quantities available per day will be posted on the resort's website.

Vail is part of the EPIC ski pass program.

Opening and Closing: The 2023/2024 ski season is expected to run from November 10, 2023, to mid-April 2024.

At the base of the mountain, just off Interstate 70, is the town of Vail . It caters largely to high-end travelers, with luxury accommodations, fine dining, and upscale shopping.

By ski village standards, Vail is big. Along the interstate, you'll see exits for East Vail, Vail Town Center, and West Vail. Vail Town Center , including Lionhead Village immediately to the west of Town Center, is where all the action is located. Town Center or Lionhead Village is also where you will likely want to park for a day of skiing, and where you will find dining and shopping. These two areas are essentially connected to each other.

East Vail is quite removed from the action and is mostly occupied by homes and condos. Staying here will require figuring out transport to the ski hill. West Vail is a little more accessible and offers easy access to grocery stores, fast food restaurants, and more everyday shopping. You will still have to take a shuttle to the mountain.

Nearby Towns and Accommodation Options:

Staying in Vail is pricey, but more affordable accommodation can be found in the surrounding towns, from Silverthorne and Frisco over to Avon and Eagle. Many visitors fly into Denver and drive or take a shuttle to Vail. The closest airport is actually the Eagle Vail Airport, about a 40-minute drive from Vail.

Official site: www.vail.com

Vail Historical Climate Averages

Aspen Snowmass is actually a combination of four ski areas around Aspen and Snowmass Village. The four mountains together, which consist of Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk, cover a massive amount of terrain, rivaling Vail in sheer size. Note that these are all separate ski areas that you must drive between, they are not connected mountains.

The Mountains:

Snowmass , with more than 3,300 acres of terrain, dominates in terms of size. The base elevation is just over 8,100 feet, and the top elevation is just over 12,500 feet. It is largely a family-oriented hill with great intermediate skiing.

Last season's installation of the new $10.7-million-dollar high-speed quad chairlift, which replaced the old Big Burn lift, has made a big difference in skier flow and uphill capacity. The base area is also much improved with new restaurants, infrastructure upgrades, and new shops. The snowmaking capacity increase and additional high alpine lift improvements will bring big smiles to the faces of skiers and boarders.

At the base of the mountain, Snowmass Village has a very traditional ski village atmosphere, with pedestrian-only streets lined with shops and restaurants. This is a good place to base yourself if you plan on skiing at Snowmass.

Snowmass started a tradition of offering free s'mores between 3:30 and 4:30 daily at the Base Village fire pits and at the Snowmass Mall.

Buttermilk , although it has a relatively small amount of terrain (less than 500 acres), has gained notoriety by frequently hosting the Winter X-games. It has a large number of beginner and intermediate runs.

Aspen Mountain , by contrast, has no beginner runs, this is for intermediate or advanced skiers. This mountain is accessed directly from the town of Aspen. You can see the runs as you walk through town. Like Buttermilk, it is a smaller ski area with less than 700 acres of skiable terrain.

Aspen Highlands is known for its advanced and expert runs, although it does have beginner and intermediate skiing. It has a little over 1,000 acres. All mountains seem to be packed these days but Aspen Highlands is known for having fewer people and a good place to escape the crowds.

Aspen Snowmass will be hosting the best downhill racers in the world, with the men's Audi FIS Ski World Cup on March 1-3, 2024.

Aspen Snowmass is part of both the Mountain Collective Ski Pass program and the IKON Ski Pass program.

Opening and Closing: Snowmass opens on November 23, 2023, and closes on April 14, 2024. Aspen Mountain opens on November 23, 2023, and closes on April 21, 2024. Aspen Highlands opens on December 9, 2023, and closes on April 7, 2024. Buttermilk opens on December 9, 2023, and closes on March 31, 2024.

The town of Aspen, at the base of Aspen Mountain, has long been known for its high-wattage celebrity status. Many famous people, ranging from Hollywood superstars to famous athletes, own property in the area. It's a popular place for a weekend getaway from Denver, even if you are not a skier. There are several ways to get from Denver to Aspen , even if you don't want to drive.

This is not just a resort that has been developed around a ski hill. It began as a mining camp, and as a result, has an authentic mountain town feel. You can find a full range of hotels and resorts at the base of the slopes or a little farther back. Aspen also offers plenty of things to do for non-skiers.

Official site: www.aspensnowmass.com

Aspen Historical Climate Averages

In a remote setting in the San Juan Mountains, Telluride is one of the most scenic ski towns in the United States. Add to that a top-end ski resort with incredible terrain and consistently good snowfall amounts, and it's no wonder Telluride has become such a popular resort destination.

If you are looking to log a serious amount of vertical, this is one of the best places to ski in Colorado. The resort has more than 2,000 acres of terrain, a base elevation of 8,725 feet, and a maximum elevation of 13,150 feet (4,425 feet vertical drop).

The mountain offers a good mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs, and experts will find a substantial amount of hike-to terrain for more extreme skiing. The annual snowfall amount is about 300 inches.

The new chair installed last season on lift #9 (The Plunge) has cut the ride time almost in half to seven minutes from the former 12 which allows for even more shredding in this fantastic area.

A free gondola moves people between the town of Telluride and Mountain Village, meaning skiers staying at the village can come into town whenever they like, and it's easy for skiers staying in town to access the ski hill. You don't have to be on skis to hop a ride on the gondola; anyone can go up and have a look around.

Skiers staying in Telluride, rather than Mountain Village, can ski all the way down to the town when they are done skiing, or download using the gondola. The runs from the top of the gondola down to the town are not green runs and are steeper than some skiers want to attempt, particularly at the end of the ski day.

Telluride is part of the EPIC Ski Pass program.

Opening and Closing: Telluride opens on November 23, 2023, and closes in mid-April 2024

Telluride is a true ski town, not a company-owned resort town. The scenic main street is lined with interesting stores, restaurants, and coffee shops. You don't have to be a skier to enjoy a stay here, and the town is as enjoyable from spring until fall as it is in winter. The town hosts events and interesting things to do throughout the year , making it a great getaway anytime.

Telluride is one of the best ski towns in Colorado and the best option is to stay in Telluride. You can find accommodation in town or on the mountain. Due to the demand in the high season, prices can be high. Also, if you are traveling with a furry companion, finding a hotel that accepts pets can be very difficult.

For better prices, pet-friendly accommodation, and a lively ski culture, you may want to consider staying in Durango , about two hours away, and commuting. Even locals in Durango who have the option of skiing at Durango's Purgatory Resort make day trips to ski Telluride. Another option is to stay in Montrose , about a 90-minute drive away, although it does not have the same ski town atmosphere.

Official site: www.tellurideskiresort.com

Telluride Historical Climate Averages

Owned by Vail Resorts, Beaver Creek Resort lies just a short distance down the highway from Vail, and only two hours from Denver. This resort is known for its high level of customer service, groomed runs, and friendly atmosphere.

With over 1,800 acres of skiable terrain, this hill offers a full range of runs for all abilities but it is one of the best ski resorts in Colorado for beginners . The resort does an exceptional amount of grooming, creating perfect conditions for new skiers.

Two new quad chairs service the McCoy Park area of the mountain and skiers have loved the new quicker access to 250 acres of high-altitude terrain suitable for intermediate and beginner skiers.

Each afternoon at 3pm the smell of fresh-baked treats wafts through the air as chocolate chip cookies, served by staff in chef's hats, are handed out to skiers coming off the hill or lingering around the base.

Escalators take guests up several flights of stairs from the town to the chairlift, and attendants are always around to help tired and struggling skiers carry their skis down the escalators and to the bus stop at the end of the day. The town sidewalks are heated, so there is never a buildup of ice.

The mountain has the lowest elevation of the big resorts in the area , with a base elevation of 8,100 feet and a summit elevation of 11,400 feet. This makes it a good option for people flying in from lower elevations and worried about altitude sickness. If you are planning a multi-day trip and visiting several ski hills, starting at Beaver Creek will help lessen the effects of the altitude.

At Beaver Creek, day lift ticket sales will be limited to a set number of skiers. This is an effort to maintain the users' experience on the hill. EPIC day pass and EPIC season pass holders, as well as patrons of the ski school, will be exempt from this limitation. Quantities available per day will be posted on the resort's website.

Beaver Creek is part of the EPIC Ski Pass program.

Opening and Closing: Beaver Creek opens on November 22, 2023, and closes mid-April 2024.

At the base of the ski resort is the quaint Beaver Creek Village. After a day of skiing or snowboarding, this is a nice place to relax at an outdoor table and watch the last remaining skiers come down the slopes.

Behind the restaurants and establishments lining the mountain is a pedestrian-only area with a lovely outdoor space. Here, you'll find seats, fire pits, and a large outdoor skating rink in the center. Surrounding the open space are shops and restaurants.

About 10 minutes down the hill from Beaver Creek Village is the town of Avon , which can also serve as an excellent base. You can often find more affordable accommodation options and a full selection of restaurants and retail shops, like sports stores, grocery stores, and a pharmacy. Free shuttle buses run regularly, taking guests from their hotels in Avon up to Beaver Creek.

For upscale dining with a semi-casual atmosphere and great food, check out Vin 48 or Blue Plate in Avon. A local favorite for breakfast is the Northside Kitchen, where you can sit down and enjoy a tasty meal or grab some takeaway pastries from the front counter.

Official site: www.beavercreek.com

Beaver Creek (Avon, CO) - Historical Climate Averages

Breckenridge is the complete package, from groomed runs through the trees to extraordinary high alpine bowls that you can access with a lift. And with even a minimal amount of hiking off the Imperial Chairlift, you can find some outstanding terrain. The exposed bowls may look intimidating from a distance, but they offer unparalleled skiing opportunities for advanced skiers. This is the place to come for anyone looking to push their skill level beyond intermediate.

Breckenridge has terrain for everyone, with green, blue, and black diamond runs lower down on the mountain, moguls here and there, and beginner-friendly areas. This mountain is fairly easy to navigate, largely due to the fact that it is spread out along the front side of a series of peaks. Also of note, the on-mountain dining is always quite good at Breck.

The skiing here is high, with a base elevation that begins at 9,600 feet. The Imperial Chairlift on Peak 8 is the highest lift in North America , and the hill's summit elevation is 12,998 feet. On spring days, when the bottom of the hill is soft, the top of the hill often has full-on winter conditions with excellent snow.

For late-season skiing, Breckenridge can be a good option. Keep in mind, that if you are flying to Colorado from a much lower elevation, the altitude can sometimes be challenging, especially on day one.

Breckenridge has undergone several recent upgrades, including a new guest-service facility, with a new children's ski and snowboarding school, childcare facilities, and new equipment rental facilities.

The installation of the new Freedom SuperChair last season has dramatically relieved the lines typically experienced at the Independence SuperChair. Another improvement, more targeted at beginners, is the replacement of Rip's Ride. The old fixed grip double chair is gone and in its place is a brand new high-speed quad. And the investment continues unabated; a new upgrade to the 5-Chair has now transformed it into a new, high-speed quad and a new name: the FIVE SuperChair. This new chair completes the vision of Peak 8 being entirely serviced by high-speed equipment.

Breckenridge will be limiting day lift ticket sales to a set number of skiers. This is an effort to maintain the user's experience on the hill. EPIC day pass and EPIC season pass holders as well as patrons of the ski school will be exempt from this limitation. Quantities available per day will be posted on the resort's website.

Breckenridge is part of the EPIC Ski Pass program.

Opening and Closing: Breckenridge opens November 10, 2023, and closes the 1st week of May 2024

Breckenridge is a fun, small town with a cute main street offering great après ski opportunities. On a spring day, you can grab a snack and sit on an outdoor patio in town watching the late afternoon sun hit the mountain you just skied.

The gondola accessing the mountain leaves from town, and you can park right here. This makes the whole process of getting on the mountain extremely simple and convenient. Parking is relatively inexpensive compared to other resorts in the area.

Breckenridge is an enjoyable place to stay, and you should make this your first choice if you are skiing Breck.

If you can't find accommodation here, nearby Silverthorne often has some moderately priced hotels. Frisco is another good option in the vicinity. This is a cute town with plenty of restaurants, coffee shops, hotels, and attractions .

Official site: www.breckenridge.com

Breckenridge Historical Climate Averages

Keystone is spread over three mountains, each taking you back farther into the wilderness, away from the resort. As a result, the deeper you go, often the less crowded the skiing becomes. This is a large resort with 21 lifts and terrain to suit every ability, making it perfect for families.

The runs on the first mountain, Decorum Mountain , are primarily groomed cruisers and beginner runs. Beyond this is North Peak with slightly more advanced terrain, including moguls and steep runs. At the back is The Outback , with the resort's highest peak at just under 12,000 feet. This area is also designed for intermediate and advanced skiers and boarders.

There's huge excitement at Keystone for the 2023/24 season; construction has been completed on the new six-passenger lift in the Bergman Bowl. This new lift has opened up 555 new acres and skiers will find 16 new trails targeted to intermediate plus ability in both the Bergman and Erikson Bowls.

Other recent improvements include a replacement of the aging quad Peru chair with a new six-passenger version. This has increased uphill capacity by 25 percent and made a big difference in skier flow in the Mountain House area.

For those looking for even more adventure, the resort offers CAT skiing , providing access to a number of bowls. Keystone Resort also lays claim to "Colorado's longest ski day" due to its night skiing schedule.

Keystone limits day lift ticket sales to a set number of skiers. This is an effort to maintain the users' experience on the hill. EPIC day pass and EPIC season pass holders, as well as patrons of the ski school, will be exempt from this limitation. Quantities available per day will be posted on the resort's website.

Keystone is part of the EPIC Ski Pass program.

Opening and Closing: Keystone is targeting an unbelievable mid-October, 2023 open date and will close in mid-April 2024

Keystone has two villages: River Run and Lakeside. River Run Village is the main village at the base of the mountain. For skiers, this is the heart of the action. It offers a variety of relaxed dining options, just perfect following a day on the hill.

The parking here is convenient and free, making the whole process of spending a day skiing at this resort easy and more affordable than some of the surrounding resorts, like Vail, where parking is at a premium, and rates are correspondingly high.

Lakeside Village is, as the name suggests, set around a small lake. In winter, it's frozen over and becomes a huge skating rink. Shops, restaurants, and condos surround the lake.

Keystone Resort does a great job of entertaining guests who choose to stay in the area. Activities beyond skiing, snowboarding, or skating include horse-drawn sleigh rides, snowmobiling, yoga, an art studio, and more.

Official site: www.keystoneresort.com

Keystone Resort Historical Climate Averages

Steamboat Ski Resort is centered around Mount Werner , just outside Steamboat Springs. The mountain receives ample snow each year, averaging 334 inches annually. The resort has trademarked the term "Champagne Powder Snow" which refers to the dry fluffy powder Steamboat is known for.

The elevation ranges from 6,900 feet at the base to 10,568 feet at the summit. By Colorado standards, this is not particularly high and it can be a good option for people concerned about the effects of high altitude.

With 2,965 acres, Steamboat is a big resort with plenty of terrain and is particularly well-known for its fabulous tree skiing.

It's hard to believe that the resort could get bigger. Last year an incredible 355 acres of new terrain was added in the Pioneer Ridge area, opening up some steep and deep powder stashes that were, up until now, locals-only secrets. If you feel like a bite to eat and want a bit of history on the side, check out the newly renovated Hazie's restaurant, one of Steamboat's most famous eateries.

The new terrain and restaurant renovations are just the start of huge changes at Steamboat. Alterra, Steamboat's owner, is investing over $200 million in new infrastructure over the next four years. When they are done in 2024/25, you won't recognize the place.

For 2023/24, you'll notice that the base area is a major construction site. Gone are all the old buildings, and in their place are new and innovative shops and restaurants. Steamboat Square has undergone a major change, making it more user-friendly, a new skating rink has been added for post-skiing family fun.

The most exciting addition to lift infrastructure is the new Wild Blue gondola. Work is ongoing, for the 2023/24 season; it will be operational to the top at Sunshine Peak. This huge investment will move an additional 4,000 skiers from the base area on an hourly basis.

You may wonder where the Christie Peak Express Lift went. Don't worry, it hasn't been demolished; it has just been moved. However, the mini golf and mountain coaster ride have been removed and will not be replaced.

Another huge upgrade is the installation of the Mahogany Ridge Chairlift. This long-anticipated expansion will see 650 acres of advanced to expert terrain added to Steamboat's total making them the second-largest resort in Colorado .

Lessons have been moved uphill to the new 14-acre Greenhorn Ranch Learning Center. Everything up here will be brand new, including a chairlift, four magic carpet surface lifts, and its own dedicated snowmaking.

Less noticeable but still important to note is that the resort has also added two new groomers, new snowmaking capacity, and an upgrade to the Sunshine Express lift.

You may not even want to bring your old skis. The rental shop has received $500,000 in the latest new equipment. The Ski Patrol will have a new look, with new gear and clothing.

Steamboat is part of the IKON Ski Pass program.

Opening and Closing: Steamboat opens on November 22, 2023, and closes the second week of April 2024.

Steamboat Springs is set off on its own, well off the I-70 corridor and a fair distance from the other major ski resorts in Colorado. The town has a strong Western heritage and cowboy culture, which gives the area a casual and Wild West feel. Festivals, events, and other things to do in Steamboat Springs are often based around this theme.

Steamboat Springs is a three-hour drive from Denver, but it has an airport with direct flights from several of the major airports around the USA.

Official site: www.steamboat.com

Steamboat Ski And Resort - Historical Climate Averages

Purgatory Mountain Resort, formerly known as Durango Mountain Resort , is primarily a family-oriented ski hill just outside of Durango, in the San Juan Mountains. This is a local's mountain with a friendly atmosphere and old-school attitude, although facilities are being upgraded on an ongoing basis. It is also known for offering decent value, with reasonably priced lift tickets and amenities.

The terrain at Purgatory has traditionally been heavily skewed towards beginner and intermediate level skiers and boarders. However, those with advanced skill levels have always been able to find places to challenge themselves here. In recent years the resort opened up new intermediate and advanced terrain and new areas for tree skiing.

One great money-saving program for parents: all kids under 12 years of age ski for free with no blackout dates . Those children who qualify are issued a free season pass.

Purgatory has a range of accommodation options in the area surrounding the resort, but there is no town at the base of the mountain. Many people stay in Durango , about a 20-minute drive away, and commute.

A former mining town, Durango is a lively tourist town with restored historic buildings lining the downtown. It also has wonderful old hotels, trendy restaurants, and numerous ski shops.

Purgatory is about a 2.5-hour drive from Telluride. If you want to base yourself here for your trip, you can day trip up to Telluride to check out some new terrain.

Opening and Closing: Purgatory opens on November 18, 2023, and closes the first week of April 2024.

Official site: www.purgatoryresort.com

Purgatory Resort Historical Climate Averages

Copper Mountain is a popular family-focused resort a little more than an hour's drive from Denver. As you are driving along Interstate 70 towards Vail, you can see the runs trailing down the mountainside.

With 23 lifts spread across 2,465 acres, there is plenty of terrain for skiers and boarders to explore and good carrying capacity. It has a decent mix of runs for all levels, including advanced skiers.

Ski conditions are generally on par with the rest of the ski resorts in this area. Copper is high , with a base elevation of 9,712 feet and a summit elevation of 12,313 feet. You can sometimes see feet of fresh powder after a storm, but the mountain has plenty of grooming capacity to ensure everyone gets their fair share of morning corduroy.

Copper is part of the IKON Ski Pass program.

Opening and Closing: Copper Mountain opens on November 13, 2023, and closes in mid-April, 2024.

The mountain empties onto an adorable little village, with shops and restaurants. Places like the City Pop, serving gourmet popcorn and candy, are fun stops for families, but you'll find plenty of adult restaurants and entertainment options as well.

The village is divided into East Village, Center Village, and West Village, each of which has chairlifts, but these areas are all very close together. Center Village, where all the action is, centers around the main plaza at the base of the lift, and West Lake is tucked in behind.

Official site: www.coppercolorado.com

Copper Mountain Resort - Historical Climate Averages

Known more commonly as " A-Basin, " Arapahoe has the distinct advantage of being high. Located on Loveland Pass, the summit elevation reaches 13,050 feet and the base elevation is 10,780 feet. This allows the resort to stay open into June and sometimes even later, well beyond the April closing dates of the surrounding mountains. Arapahoe is one of the best places in Colorado for spring skiing.

At Arapahoe, you can expect to find beautiful open runs, some steep, and others designed for beginners. Runs flow down two sides of a ridge, meaning you can usually find good conditions regardless of the day. This can be a windy mountain, but usually, one side or the other is sheltered on any given day.

The resort has traditionally not been known for having an excessive amount of terrain, especially compared to the surrounding Vail Resorts, but that's all changing. The resort is in the process of a multi-year expansion, which includes the Beavers and Steep Gullies expansion for "hike-to" skiing. This new area has proved to be very popular with advanced skiers.

The relaxed, fun, and old-school atmosphere at Arapahoe is also one of the mountain's big attractions. On warm spring days, people set up their barbecues on picnic tables at the edge of the parking lot at the base of the mountain and watch the skiers make their way down the runs. Kids, dogs, and the whole family come out to enjoy the day, whether they are skiing or not.

Arapahoe Basin is easy to reach from Denver , has good value, and is included on several of the multi-resort and multi-day passes. They also offer many of their own specials , which can be excellent deals if they correspond with your ski plans. Even if you don't plan a full vacation to A-Basin, it's definitely worth checking out if you are skiing at some of the surrounding resorts.

Arapahoe will be limiting day lift ticket sales to a set number of skiers. This is an effort to maintain the users' experience on the hill. EPIC day pass and EPIC season pass holders, as well as patrons of the ski school, will be exempt from this limitation. Quantities available per day will be posted on the resort's website. Note also that day lift tickets must be purchased in advance, online. No tickets will be sold at the resort.

Arapahoe is part of the EPIC, Mountain Collective, and IKON Pass programs.

Opening and Closing: Arapahoe's opening and closing is based on snow conditions. They usually open in October and close in June.

Since Arapahoe Basin does not have a town at the base, you'll need to find accommodation in the surrounding area. From Arapahoe, it is a 10-minute drive to Keystone and a 30-minute drive to Breckenridge.

If you are looking for reasonably priced hotels, it's best to look in Silverthorne , about a 20-minute drive from the mountain. Just slightly farther away, but with a more lively atmosphere and a good selection of hotels, is the town of Frisco .

Official site: www.arapahoebasin.com

Arapahoe Historical Climate Averages

No article on skiing or snowboarding in Colorado is complete without a mention of Silverton Ski Resort. This mountain is not for everyone but it does offer a completely unique experience that many people dream about. This resort was featured in the Warren Miller ski movie, Timeless .

A lone, old, double chairlift takes skiers and boarders up the mountain to hike-to terrain. It's essentially backcountry skiing with a lift. This resort is only for advanced and expert skiers and snowboarders , and people come here specifically for the powder. The area gets an exceptionally high level of snowfall, with annual totals of about 400 inches, and there are no groomed runs.

Everyone is outfitted with avalanche gear before they head up the mountain. Old school buses pick up guests where they come off the runs, a kilometer or so down the road from the lodge, and shuttle them back to the base.

The base "lodge" is little more than a home-built, tent-covered yurt. This is not a resort that screams posh. What it does have is great skiing, a strong following of skiers who live for this type of terrain and experience, and an atmosphere like no other ski hill in Colorado. Everyone here is pumped up for a great day of skiing, and the rustic ambience is embraced.

If it all seems a bit overwhelming, don't be dismayed. Silverton has a program that will pair you up with a local (for a fee) who will ski with you all day and show you the best snow on the mountain.

Silverton Mountain also offers heli-skiing and heli-boarding . This includes six runs in areas reserved for heli-tours. The heli-skiing season starts much earlier than the lift-serviced season; generally, you can get that untouched powder beneath your skis by late November.

Have you always wanted to rent out a ski resort for you and 40 of your closest friends? For the relatively reasonable price of $9,990, which breaks out into $250/per person, it's all yours! Availability ranges throughout the season, but mid-week days are always open.

Opening and Closing: Silverton Mountain opens December 28th, 2023, and closes mid-April 2024.

Silverton Mountain is just outside of the tiny town of Silverton. This former mining town is today a largely summer-focused tourist town and many of the establishments here close in winter. It sits at over 9,300 feet and in winter is piled deep with snow. In winter, much of the accommodation here is motels, but a couple of small historic inns offer a bit of boutique luxury.

In good driving conditions, Durango is a little over an hour's drive from Silverton. In snowy conditions, plan on much longer. If you are looking for a little more action than Silverton, Durango is the place to base yourself. There is also much more accommodation here.

Official site: https://silvertonmountain.com

Silverton Historical Climate Averages

This is one of the best places to ski in Colorado if you're looking for epic powder skiing !

Outside of Pagosa Springs in the southwest corner of Colorado, Wolf Creek Ski Area is set in the San Juan Mountains and known for huge amounts of snow. It receives a mind-boggling 430 inches (over 35 feet) of snow annually and proudly claims to have "the most snow in Colorado." Much of it comes down in major storm events. When snow storms roll through this area, you can expect to be floating down feet of snow at Wolf Creek.

The ski area has a base elevation of 10,300 feet and a summit elevation of over 11,900 feet. The mountain offers a mix of beginner and intermediate runs, but advanced and expert terrain makes up almost half of the runs . The mountain offers 1,600 acres of skiable terrain and 1,604 feet of vertical.

New for 2023/24 is the installation of the fixed grip quad Tumbler Chair. This unique chair operates at half the speed of a regular chairlift and is targeted at beginner skiers.

Opening and Closing: Wolf Creek usually opens in late October, and closes mid-April.

There isn't one. Wolf Creek Ski Area is set on a high mountain pass. A day lodge at the base of the mountain serves good food, but you will have to look elsewhere for accommodation.

On the west side of the pass, the nearest place to stay is at Pagosa Springs , about 35 minutes away. On the east side of Wolf Creek is South Fork , about 25 minutes away, where you will also find a decent assortment of hotels.

Official site: https://wolfcreekski.com

Wolf Creek Ski Area - Historical Climate Averages

• Crested Butte : Close to the middle of the state, and some people say in the middle of nowhere, Crested Butte is another favorite destination for skiers, but its remote location and distance from any major center takes some trip planning. This is not a large resort by Colorado standards. The mountain offers a little over 1,500 acres of skiable area. The town itself is fun, and the reason many people choose this destination for their skiing. Crested Butte is part of the Epic Pass program.
• Value Ski Resorts: A number of smaller or lesser-known resorts are spread around the state, and many of these offer good value. These are perfect for families on a budget. Some ski resorts to consider in this category are Winter Park , Eldora , Loveland , Ski Cooper, Powderhorn , and Sunlight Mountain . For a complete look, see our guide to the best cheap ski resorts in Colorado .
• Epic Pass: The Epic Pass is the best pass for skiing in Colorado. It allows unlimited access to all of the resorts owned and operated by Vail Resorts in Colorado, plus access to many others across North America and around the world. In Colorado, the Epic Pass covers Vail, Beaver Creek, Keystone, Breckenridge, Arapahoe Basin, Crested Butte, and seven days of skiing at Telluride . You can also buy limited Epic Passes, which are good value if you are only skiing in certain spots in Colorado or skiing for a limited number of days.
• Six other regional Epic Passes are available as well. With recent technological improvements you can now download the myEPIC app on your phone, and purchase your tickets online and Bluetooth technology will allow you to ride the lifts (with your phone of course!)without ever having to visit a ticket booth.
• Ikon Pass: The Ikon Pass offers access to 58 destinations globally, but some of this is restricted. In Colorado, it includes unlimited access to Steamboat, Winter Park, Copper Mountain, and Eldora . It also allows for seven days of skiing at each , Aspen Snowmass and Arapahoe . Ikon also offers a base pass, which includes blackout dates.
• Mountain Collective: The Mountain Collective is a much more restrictive pass, allowing for two days of skiing at 24 ski resorts, up to a total of 48 days with no blackout dates. In Colorado, it includes Aspen Snowmass and Arapahoe . It can be good for skiers and boarders doing a larger tour of ski resorts in the US and Western Canada.

Dealing with Altitude: Skiing in Colorado means skiing at high altitudes and this is something first-time visitors may not be prepared for. Many Colorado ski resorts, particularly some of those just west of Denver, are set at incredibly high elevations. In some cases, you can expect to be skiing between 11,000 and 13,000 feet. For some perspective, Sunshine Village, the highest ski resort in Canada, has a top elevation of only 8,960 feet.

If you are flying in from much lower elevations , you will feel the effects of altitude. Consider allowing some time to acclimate before hitting the slopes, especially if you are planning on skiing in destinations like Arapahoe Basin, Breckenridge, and Keystone. If you are planning to ski at a few different resorts, plan to ski your first day at the lowest-elevation mountain . Learn more about how to avoid altitude sickness .

Weather Report for Skiers: For the best and latest snow reports and detailed ski forecasts, you can't beat meteorologist Joel Gratz' Snow Report .

Finding the Right Skis for You: Wondering what length of ski you need, or maybe what type of ski? Your height, weight, intended ski conditions, skiing ability, and a number of other factors are things to consider when buying skis. Have a look at this buyer's guide to skis for some ideas.

The ski season in Colorado begins in October and November and builds, with January, February, and March seeing the most snow. Overall, the best month for skiing in Colorado is February . Spring skiing generally runs from mid-March to late April. Some resorts start closing in late March or mid-April, and many are closed by the end of April. A couple of higher elevation ski resorts stay open later, such as Arapahoe Basin, which can be open until June or even July.

Skiing in Colorado in December, as a general rule, can be hit and miss, but most resorts have a reasonable amount of snow by Christmas .

If you are planning your ski trip and trying to hit the best month for snow, your best bet is February. Snow amounts are peaking at many resorts around this time. In January, temperatures can be cold and in March, resorts are busy due to spring break.

Lower elevation ski resorts, like Steamboat, tend to peak in February, with spring-like conditions building near the end of the month and into March. Telluride, on the other hand, usually sees its peak snow conditions in March.

While there are many ski resorts near Denver, Vail is the most visited, and it's easy to reach. Vail is just under 100 miles from Denver , and about 120 miles from Denver International Airport . Drive times can vary depending on traffic and road conditions. Without traffic and in good conditions, you can count on less than a two-hour drive from Denver to Vail .

Interstate 70, which runs from Denver to Vail, goes over the Vail Pass, which reaches an elevation of 10,666 feet. During snowstorms, the conditions can be treacherous, and the highway is sometimes closed to traffic.

If you are coming directly from Denver International Airport, which is on the east side of Denver, allow an extra 20 minutes, and more if you are heading out at rush hour.

Whether you are driving yourself or looking for an easy alternative, see our guide to getting from Denver to Vail . This will give you a complete look at shuttles, buses, and more.

Ski Utah & California: Just one state over from Colorado, you'll find another great playground for skiers and boarders. Check out our article on the Top-Rated Ski Resorts in Utah to discover more of the best ski destinations. Ever wonder what skiing is like in California? Have a look at the Best Ski Resorts in California or zero in on the ski resorts around Lake Tahoe . There's more to this area than just Squaw Valley.

Ski Canada : The mountains in western Canada offer some of the best skiing in North America. Eastern Canada also has a surprising number of ski resorts, and many of Canada's most famous Olympic skiers have come from and trained in this area. For details on skiing from coast to coast, see our list of the Best Ski Resorts in Canada .

Ski the Eastern USA : If your skiing is taking you east this year, see our article on the Top Ski Resorts on the East Coast for a complete overview. For a more detailed breakdown of the best ski resorts in each state, have a look at our articles on the Top-Rated Ski Resorts in Vermont , New Hampshire , North Carolina , and Michigan .

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• Destinations

7 Best Colorado Ski Towns

From upscale Aspen to family-friendly Snowmass Village, these Rocky Mountain towns are some of Colorado's best ski destinations.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

It takes more than good terrain to be a truly great ski town. When you're walking in ski boots and lugging your equipment around, easy access to the mountain makes all the difference. And while you're probably booking the trip to make some turns, some would argue that a bustling après-ski scene, good eats, and non-ski-related activities — from shopping and spas to snowshoeing and sleigh rides — are just as important as a reliable snow base, spacious groomers, and powder days.

Chances are you want it all, so we narrowed things down from the many towns that serve as basecamps for Colorado's 28 ski resorts to a superior few that offer both charm and excellent skiing. These destinations will keep you entertained from sunup to sundown while offering beautiful views and, of course, great skiing.

Steamboat Springs

Best for: Soaking and skiing

You can't possibly leave a place nicknamed "Ski Town USA" off a list of the best Colorado ski towns. Steamboat Springs has not one but two ski resorts — the larger, more established Steamboat Ski Resort (with 23 lifts and 182 trails) and Howelsen Hill Ski Area , a tiny slope in downtown Steamboat that holds the title as the oldest ski area in continuous use in Colorado.

If you're not into skiing, rent a pair of snowshoes and explore one of the local trails, book a sleigh ride that includes dinner, or explore the downtown area. The town itself has a Wild West feel, a few different natural hot springs, and more than 100 restaurants and bars. Our advice: ski, soak, repeat.

Where to stay: Steamboat Grand is conveniently located at the base of the resort and has everything you might need for an epic ski vacation, from a spa and a small market to a sleek dinner spot.

Best for: Glitz and glamour

Aspen is as appealing to die-hard skiers as it is to those who come for high-end shopping, glitzy après, and five-star hotels. And then there are the views. It certainly doesn't hurt that you can ski four mountains with a single lift ticket purchase. When you've mastered Aspen Mountain, the closest to town, check out Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, or Snowmass, which are all a short drive or free bus ride from Aspen proper.

Where to stay: For easy ski access, book the five-star St. Regis Aspen Resort right at the base of Aspen Mountain, so you can throw your skis over your shoulder and make your way to the mountain without much fuss.

Crested Butte

Best for: Small-town charm

Crested Butte has a smaller population than most of the ski towns on this list, but you'll find everything you need (and then some) in this snow lovers' paradise. From downtown, it's about a three-mile drive or six to seven minutes on the Mt. Express shuttle to get to the base of Crested Butte Mountain Resort . The ski area has an impressive 15 lifts and 121 runs, including one that's 2.6 miles long.

Where to stay: If you're in town primarily to ski, you can save yourself a daily commute by booking a stay in the resort's mountainside accommodations , but if you want to experience the best of Crested Butte's dining and bar scene, base yourself downtown. We recommend the eye-catching Eleven Scarp Ridge Lodge .

Breckenridge

Best for: Easy access from Denver

It should be said that most of the ski towns on this list require long drives from Denver, so if you have your heart set on spending time in the city on your Colorado ski trip, Breckenridge — about 80 miles west — might be your best bet. This ski town offers more than just easy access from the state capital — its historic downtown is lined with colorful buildings, boutiques, and restaurants.

Where to stay: Booking a room at Crystal Peak Lodge (base of Peak 7) or One Ski Hill Place, a RockResort (base of Peak 8) makes skiing at Breckenridge a breeze. Oh, and don't miss a well-deserved post-ski beer at Robbie's Tavern .

Snowmass Village

Best for: A family ski trip

This European-style ski town sits at the base of Snowmass ski area. Although often overshadowed, this village offers skiers unmatched proximity to the mountain and ski-in, ski-out access that's hard to top — especially when you're skiing with kids. The ski area, one of the four mountains that make up Aspen Snowmass , has plenty of family-friendly intermediate terrain and a great ski school. When you aren't on the slopes, you can ice skate, challenge yourself on the climbing wall, or warm up with a beverage from the multitude of hot chocolate spots around Snowmass Village.

Where to stay: Keep things easy with a stay at the ski-in, ski-out Limelight Hotel Snowmass , where guests keep cozy as well as entertained with live music, a kids' room, and fire pits in the pool area.

Best for: Views and steep terrain

Telluride is quite a drive (360 miles) from Denver, but the views as you pull into town are worth commuting from the capital. And then there's the skiing: Telluride Ski Resort boasts 19 lifts and 149 runs — including plenty of hike-to and extreme terrain. When your ski legs need a break, book a sleigh ride dinner on the historic family ranch west of town or shop your way down Telluride's wildly picturesque main street.

Where to stay: For residential-style lodging right at the base of the ski area, check out the Fairmont Heritage Place Franz Klammer Lodge , or stay downtown at the New Sheridan Hotel (also home to a popular restaurant and bar).

Best for: Fun in the villages

The town of Vail runs along a major interstate, but don't think it's devoid of a proper ski village. In fact, there are two main separate-but-connected ski villages at the base of the expansive Vail Ski Resort (which has 195 trails and 32 lifts). You can walk or hop on the free shuttle to get around.

Thanks to Vail's size, you'll also find plenty to do off the slopes — go Nordic skiing east of Vail Village, hit the spa, or spend the day shopping and eating your way through town.

Where to stay: Book your stay at the Four Seasons Resort and Residences in Vail Village or The Hythe, a Luxury Collection Resort in the quieter village of Lionshead for upscale comfort that comes with easy access to the slopes.

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Colorado Ski Vacations

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• Colorado Ski Vacation Packages

The Rocky Mountains provide the perfect setting for a thrilling ski vacation in this western US state. Gear up for downhill action at top Colorado ski vacation package destinations like Aspen Snowmass, Breckenridge Ski Resort and Vail Ski Resort.

Only a 1.5-hour drive from Denver, the old mining town of Breckenridge is the gateway to Breckenridge Ski Resort . With over 180 runs, including the 3.5-mile-long 4 O’Clock, high alpine trails and terrain parks, it’s popular with skiers and snowboarders alike. Another top choice is Vail Ski Resort . More than half of the 5,300-acre terrain here is dedicated to advanced skiers. If you’re new to the slopes you can master the basics on the Practice Parkway and Ledges runs first. A buzzing après-ski scene awaits at places like Vail Brewing Company, located in the resort’s Swiss-inspired ski town. No Colorado ski vacation package is complete without a visit to Aspen and the renowned pistes of Aspen Snowmass . Discover over 300 trails spread across four mountains and four resorts — all accessible with one single lift ticket. Prices for a one-day adult pass start from $204. Buttermilk Mountain , the host venue for the Winter X Games, is an awesome spot for freestylers as well as beginners and families. If you’re an experienced carver, check out the black diamond runs at Aspen Mountain .

Top Ski vacation packages in Colorado

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Top reasons for your vacation to Colorado

• Breathtaking Mountains : Colorado's mountainous landscape offers stunning views and world-class ski resorts, providing an unforgettable skiing experience.
• Diverse Activities : From shopping to hiking, Colorado offers a plethora of activities for all interests. Explore picturesque rivers, enjoy family-friendly attractions, and immerse yourself in nature.
• Vibrant Live Music Scene : Colorado's live music scene adds to the charm of its scenic beauty, offering a lively and entertaining atmosphere.
• Charming Mountain Towns : Experience the small-town charm of Breckenridge, Vail, Aspen, and Telluride. Each town offers its own unique atmosphere and attractions.
• Outdoor Adventure : Salida provides opportunities for river rafting, hot springs relaxation, hiking, biking, fishing, and more, surrounded by stunning mountain views.

Book a Package and Save Money on Your Colorado Vacation

A travel package combines flights with hotels or car rental, making it convenient to book everything in one place. It saves time and potentially money, as you can find deals that suit your preferences and budget. With Expedia's price and theme filters, you can customize your Colorado ski package and find a great deal.

Booking a ski package vacation in Colorado is the perfect idea for a memorable vacation. With stunning mountains, world-class skiing, great shopping, hiking trails, delicious dining options, beautiful rivers, family-friendly activities, breathtaking nature, live music, and scenic views, Colorado has everything you need for an unforgettable ski trip.

How to Save Money on a Vacation to Colorado

• Take advantage of Expedia's OneKey program to save money on your ski package vacation to Colorado.
• Consider booking your accommodations and transportation together to get a better deal.
• Look for ski packages that include lift tickets and equipment rentals for added savings.
• Save money on local transport by using public buses or shuttles instead of renting a car.
• Check for discounted lift tickets and ski rentals at local ski shops or online.
• Pack your own snacks and drinks for the slopes to save money on food and beverages.
• Take advantage of free or low-cost activities and sightseeing options in Colorado, such as hiking or exploring scenic areas.
• Consider visiting Colorado during the shoulder season for cheaper rates and fewer crowds.

Where to Stay in Colorado

Colorado offers a variety of exciting areas for a ski vacation. Aspen is a popular destination known for its luxurious resorts and lively downtown. Vail is renowned for its world-class skiing and charming village atmosphere. Breckenridge offers a historic town with diverse terrain. Telluride is known for its stunning mountain views and vibrant arts scene. Steamboat Springs is famous for its natural hot springs and western heritage.

• Salida : Experience the beauty of the mountains, rivers, and hot springs while enjoying activities like rafting, hiking, biking, and fishing. The friendly people and vibrant art scene add to the unique atmosphere of this charming town.
• Breckenridge : This ski resort town offers world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Take in the stunning mountain scenery, enjoy shopping and dining, and indulge in the local beer. Breckenridge is the perfect destination for adventure and relaxation.
• Aspen : Known for its luxurious ski resorts, Aspen also offers a thriving business scene and a variety of outdoor activities like hiking, golfing, and snowboarding. Enjoy the adventurous atmosphere, go roller skating, listen to live music, and explore the scenic riverside.

Explore the best places to visit in Colorado

Colorado is the ultimate destination for a ski package vacation. With its breathtaking mountains and world-class ski resorts, it offers an incredible skiing experience. In addition to skiing, you can enjoy shopping, hiking, and dining in charming mountain towns. Explore pristine rivers and immerse yourself in nature. Colorado also offers a family-friendly atmosphere, with various activities for kids. Don't miss the live music scene and the stunning scenery that will leave you in awe. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.

• Breckenridge Ski Resort : This ski resort offers an unforgettable experience with its breathtaking mountain views and world-class skiing facilities. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, you can enjoy thrilling snowboarding adventures or take scenic hikes to explore the stunning scenery. Additionally, you can indulge in exciting excursions, such as river rafting or touring the local breweries. Don't miss the chance to relax by the serene lake and immerse yourself in the beauty of Breckenridge.
• Winter Park Ski Resort : Known for its exceptional ski slopes, Winter Park Ski Resort is a paradise for snow enthusiasts. You can enjoy exhilarating ski and snowboarding experiences or try out roller skating and biking during the warmer months. The small-town charm combined with adventurous activities like sledding and horseback riding make Winter Park a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the scenic beauty, embark on thrilling excursions, and create everlasting memories in this picturesque location.
• Vail Ski Resort : Vail Ski Resort is a haven for ski and snowboarding enthusiasts, offering a wide range of slopes for all skill levels. Apart from the thrilling winter sports, you can also enjoy rock climbing, snowmobile riding, and scenic tours. Immerse yourself in the small-town charm of Vail and witness the stunning beauty of the surrounding mountains and rivers. With its picturesque scenery and exciting activities, Vail Ski Resort promises an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Best months to visit Colorado

Colorado boasts a year-around average temperature of 34.1°F, peaking at 54.1°F in July, its warmest month, and dipping to an average low of 16.7°F in January, December, the coolest. Rainfall averages at 26.3mm annually, with August seeing the heaviest showers and January being the driest month.

Planning your Colorado ski vacation

What are some things i should consider when booking a colorado ski trip package.

Yes, you want pristine powder and perfect runs, but take a moment to consider how close you want to be to the slopes, what extras you want from your resort, and—of course—how much après ski you intend to indulge in.

How can I find cheap Colorado ski packages?

Right now, ski trips start at just $312. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Can I book a beginner ski package in Colorado?

Yes! Head for the green runs—wide, sweeping slopes—for a gentle introduction to snow life in Colorado. Book lessons so you can gear up to take on the rest of the mountain with confidence. Après awaits for all after an eventful day in the snow.

How much does a ski trip to Colorado cost?

Sensational ski trips to Colorado start from $312. Use the budget filter to find powder at your perfect price. As always, prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

When’s the best time of year to plan a ski trip to Colorado?

The best time to hit the slopes in Colorado depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re all about powder-packed pistes and brilliant blue-sky skiing conditions, aim for the middle of the season. Alternatively, if you’re willing to take a chance on start or end of season snow, you’ll bag much cheaper prices —just make sure there’s a spa or après bar to shelter in on white-out days.

Can I book Colorado ski packages with airfare?

Save money on your snow time by booking your accommodation, airfare, and car rental in a brilliant bundle. It’s both convenient and cash-flow friendly.

Can I book a Colorado ski trip with free cancellation and/or flexible dates?

Flexibility is always a bonus when you’re flying down the slopes—and it makes for an easier booking process, too. Check the payment option filter to find trips with free cancellation as well as buy now, pay later options.

Why should I book a ski package in Colorado with Expedia?

Simple search and fantastic filters make it easy to find, build, and book your dream Colorado ski vacation in just a few clicks. It’s ‘snow’ joke, it really is that easy.

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Jamie Hergenrader is the Commerce Director of the Travel Group at Dotdash Meredith where she leads the content strategy of product reviews and recommendations for the company's travel brands. She joined the company in 2018 and has nearly a decade of experience writing and editing for travel and lifestyle publications.

Colorado is home to some of the best skiing in the country and across the world. Base yourself in Denver for easy day or weekend trips to resorts like Vail, Breckenridge, or Winter Park; escape some of those day trip crowds by venturing out farther to Steamboat or Aspen; or take a scenic road trip to the San Juan Mountains in the southwestern corner of the state to experience a more rugged and minimalistic ski scene. Whether you’re a novice to the slopes or a mogul master, Colorado has a resort for you.

Breckenridge

Breck is a great option for skiers and boarders of all levels. The ski resort comprises five separate peaks, each offering unique terrain and difficulty. Many skiers start the day on Peaks 8 or 9, which are easily reached from the base area and are dominated by green and blue runs toward the bottom with some black options if you make your way all the way to the summit. (The Imperial Express SuperChair that takes you to the top of Peak 8 is the highest ski lift in North America). Intermediate-to-advanced skiers can make their way to Peaks 6 and 7, which hold more blue, blue-black, and black runs; and advanced skiers will find enough of a challenge at Peak 10, which is strictly black and double-black diamonds . Navigating the mountain and bouncing from peak to peak is relatively easy, so it’s also possible to explore the entire resort in just one day if that’s all you’ve got. Breck is also a fun ski town with lots of lodging, dining, and apres ski, or nearby Frisco is comparable in charm at typically lower prices.

Silverton Mountain

Courtesy of Silverton Mountain

Thrill-seekers, this one’s for you. In fact, this one’s for advanced skiers only. This resort in southwestern Colorado’s San Juan Mountains only has one two-seater lift to take you to a point where you’ll have to hike up for another 15 minutes to an hour to reach the prime black-diamond, backcountry terrain. All visitors must ski with avalanche gear (beacon, shovel, and probe), and you can also opt to ski with a professional guide to help you navigate the terrain safely. With about 400 inches of snowfall annually (on the higher end for Colorado) and no groomed or maintained runs, this is a paradise for powder hounds who love to ski the snow just as it falls. And if you still aren’t sure that the details above are enough of a challenge for you (you daredevil), book a heli-skiing or heli-boarding adventure at Silverton. You can stay close to the slopes in the minimalistic, former mining town of Silverton, or some choose to stay an hour away in Durango where you’ll find more options of lodging and amenities, and make the day trip.

Colorado’s ski resorts and mountain towns range from no-frills and minimalistic to plush and pampering, and perhaps not surprisingly, Vail fits into the latter category. While it is one of the more expensive options in the state from lodging to skiing—an adult day lift ticket can run you up to $219 at the window during peak times (though you can find discounts online for advance purchases)—it’s one of the best in the world for several reasons. Vail is one of the largest resorts in the country with 5,317 skiable acres (about half of that comprising some great back bowl terrain) that’s divided up pretty evenly for skiers of all levels. It’s also got a few kid adventure zones for families, such as Chaos Canyon and Porcupine Alley, and two terrain parks for those looking for boxes, rails, jumps, and pipes.

Beaver Creek

Another luxurious ski experience in the state, Beaver Creek is perfect for those who like to be pampered both on and off the slopes. After a long day of skiing, make your way down to the base area where you might catch a whiff of freshly baked cookies; you’re not delirious—at 3 p.m. every day, warm cookies are handed out to treat those wrapping up their day (or to re-fuel those looking to catch last chairs). While you savor your cookie, one of the available attendants will also help you carry your gear to the town. Oh, and you won’t have to watch where you step too carefully—sidewalks in the town are heated, so there are no icy patches. Beyond the world-class service, Beaver Creek’s ski experience also makes it a worthwhile trip, especially for beginners, with plenty of groomed terrain, the Haymeadow gondola that takes you to beginner-only trails, a variety of ski school options for first-timers, and a lower elevation (about 8,000 feet at the base) than other resorts to help lessen the effects of altitude.

More winter Olympians have come from Steamboat than any other ski town in the country, so you know this resort is home to some top-quality terrain. Add to that it’s trademarked “Champagne Powder,” the name for its snow that averages only six percent water content, making it softer and lighter than that of other locations, and it’s hard to resist the unique powder experience you’ll find here. In 2019, Steamboat is also opening up a new gondola (in place of the previous one) that will shuttle visitors from the base to the slopes even faster—the ride is less than 10 minutes, and the addition of new cars also means less wait time in line. It’s three hours from Denver, so you can make the drive from there after landing at Denver International Airport, or Steamboat/Hayden Airport (about 20 miles from the resort) has nonstop flights to and from 14 major airports around the country. 

Skiers of all levels will find something to love about Keystone’s three main peaks. Advanced skiers will find enough of a challenge particularly on the blue and black runs of North Peak and the tree runs and nearby bowls on The Outback. Families will love the large area of green runs on Dercum Mountain; its longest run, Schoolmarm, is four miles and designated as a family ski trail because it’s a long, wide, spacious green, perfect for taking the time (and space) to learn how to transition from “pizza” to S curves. A major draw to Keystone is its night skiing. While other resorts are shutting down the lifts, Dercum Mountain at Keystone is lit up for you to get the most out of your daily lift ticket. If you happen to be skiing on a Saturday night, don’t miss the fireworks from the slopes!

Winter Park

At 80 years old, Winter Park is Colorado’s longest continually operated ski resort, and its seven territories offer a variety of options for visitors. A few highlights: Winter Park Territory is great for an easy day on the slopes cruising down groomers, Mary Jane is where you’ll find the resort’s famous moguls and tree skiing, and Vasquez Ridge is the place for powder and backcountry skiing. To get to Winter Park, you exit I-70 sooner than you would to visit other resorts farther down the interstate (Vail, Beaver Creek, Breck, and Keystone), so you aren’t fighting that day trip traffic. However, navigating the winding switchbacks of Berthoud Pass to get up to Winter Park can also be tricky, especially in bad weather. One method of transportation to consider is Amtrak : catch a train from Denver’s Union Station to Winter Park on weekends from January to March.  

For those who love a day with fresh powder (ahem, snowboarders), Wolf Creek in the San Juan Mountains is your spot. It boasts the most snow in Colorado, getting about 430 inches annually, so you can shred to your heart’s content. That amount of snow also means that it’s typically one of the earliest to open and latest to close for the season. The 1,600 acres of skiable terrain is divided up pretty evenly for levels with 45 percent dedicated to advanced and expert runs and the other 55 percent making up beginner and intermediate runs. It’s also a great budget-friendly option, as lift tickets for the season are $76 for adults and even cheaper for seniors and kids. There’s no town right at the resort, so you can stay in surrounding Pagosa Springs (lodging options are about 20 to 30 minutes away from the resort), Alamosa (an hour away), or Durango (about 90 minutes away), and you can either drive or use the available shuttle services from those nearby towns or airports for a fee. It might take more planning, but its remote location is also one of its major draws for those looking for fewer crowds and awesome terrain.

Telluride is a scenic mountain town located in the San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado. More than half of its 2,000 acres is dedicated to beginner and intermediate skiers, but more advanced skiers will still appreciate the amount of challenging terrain, especially the hike-to options. You can stay in Telluride or in Mountain Village, both of which are walkable areas, and there’s a free gondola that connects the two for easy round-trip transportation. One of the best parts about Telluride is the views—walking down Main Street (where you’ll find lots of shops and dining), the backdrop of the mountains behind the town is stunning, and the sunsets here are incredible. Make time for some apres ski in town to take in the views while kicking back with a drink.

Aspen Snowmass

The town of Aspen is actually surrounded by four different ski resorts—Buttermilk, ideal for beginners and also host of the X games since 2002; Aspen Mountain and Aspen Highlands, which are known mostly for their advanced and expert terrain; and Snowmass, probably the most well-known and biggest of the four with 3,100 acres of skiable terrain (out of the combined 5,517 acres). While all are worth a trip, Aspen Snowmass is the most popular due to its varied and expansive terrain. However, you could base yourself in Aspen and hit all four during your trip.

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Arapahoe Basin

Aspen highlands, aspen mountain, copper mountain, echo mountain, granby ranch, howelsen hill, loveland ski area, purgatory resort, winter park.

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Carpool on the weekends and park for free in the Early Riser lot. Plus, kids under 5 ski free all season long!

Did you know that your lift ticket gives you access to all four Aspen mountains? Ski multiple mountains in one visit—or one day! Plus, new this season, sign up for push notifications through the Aspen Snowmass app to stay in the know and on the go.

On Site, Off site

This winter, Aspen Mountain will host the best alpine skiers in the world as they go head-to-head in the World Cup slalom and giant slalom, March 2–3, 2024. Be there but don't blink—or you'll miss some of the fastest humans on the planet.

Book your lift tickets seven days in advance to receive discounted pricing and keep an eagle eye out for ski product specials bundled with lodging. Then take your savings and sample some aprés at Buttermilk's new Backyard bar.

$30 Thursdays are back, January 11–February 29. Plus, watch for other weekday specials set to debut in the new year!

Copper's terrain gets increasingly challenging as you move across the mountain's front face from west to east. Start your day off at the resort village best suited for your abilities: West for greens; Center for blues; and East for the steep slopes.

Book ahead: whether you need rental equipment or want the best ticket price, visit our website before you come. And if you're new to snowsports, our Ambassadors are there for you, with free tips and advice about everything from where to find beginner terrain to what to get at the Grille (definitely the Waffle Fries).

Check out our Two-Lesson Tuesdays: buy any adult or junior morning lesson and get an afternoon sesh 50% off, January and February only. New to the snow scene? Our SunKid Covered Carpet Lift takes beginners of all ages to Granby's funnest (and forgivingest) terrain.

Parking at Howelsen Hill is free, free, free! But be sure to head there early on Ski Free Sunday to secure a spot in the lot. Parking fills fast on this fun-filled day!

Loveland's free Ridge Cat gives passengers amazing 360-degree views as it whisks along the north side of the Continental Divide—to say nothing of the views on the way down some of Loveland's most exciting terrain. Looking for another great deal? Visit https://goldenevergreenhotel.com/specials/ski-package/ for a great deal on ski and stay hotel packages.

Gems Discount Card, Gold Pass, Kids' Ski Passport

Check out the newly remodeled main lodge and don't miss local craft food and cocktails with a view at the Umbrella Bar.

Opening day complimentary pancakes. Need we say more? (We needn't but also: check out the upgrades to Dante's Lodge and Powderhouse, the free parking lot expansion, and new equipment in the Rental Shop.)

Silverton Mountain features world-class guides who will show you how to ski safely in the best terrain you’ve ever seen. Expect to get in anywhere from 3-6 runs on some of nature’s finest black diamond slopes.

If you're traveling from the Front Range, stay in Glenwood Springs to avoid the ski traffic, and you can aprés in one of the town's hot springs. But whether you come from near or far, parking at Sunlight is free, free, free!

Thanks to the pedestrian gondola, there's no need to rent a car in Telluride. Got wheels? Parking in the Mountain Village is free during the day, and the Telluride app will show you available spaces at other garages around town.

Colorado is home to abundant snowfall, the world’s best skiing and snowboarding, and views that will take your breath away. Whether you’re looking for thrilling steeps, plenty of powder, gorgeous groomers, or approachable beginner slopes, Colorado Ski Country USA has #AMountainForEveryone.

Kasyno na prawdziwe pieniądze to temat, który budzi wiele kontrowersji. Nie bez powodu. Przecież stawienie w nim swoich pieniędzy to ryzyko, a szansa na wygraną jest wcale nie tak wielka. Jednakże doświadczeni gracze wiedzą, że jeśli świadomie podejdą do tematu i wybiorą odpowiednie kasyno, to ich szanse na zwycięstwo znacznie się zwiększają – pl.kasynopolska10.com/kasyno-na-prawdziwe-pieniadze . W dzisiejszym wpisie postaram się wam pomóc w wyborze najlepszego kasyna online na prawdziwe pieniądze. Przedstawię wam najważniejsze kryteria, jakie należy brać pod uwagę przy wyborze kasyna, jakie są obecnie najlepsze kasyna na rynku i jakie bonusy oferują. Najważniejszym kryterium przy wyborze kasyna na prawdziwe pieniądze jest bezpieczeństwo. W żadnym wypadku nie powinniśmy ryzykować swojego kapitału w nielegalnym lub przestarzałym kasynie. Musimy upewnić się, że wybrane kasyno działa zgodnie z prawem oraz posiada odpowiednie licencje. Najlepszym wyborem są kasyna posiadające licencje europejskie, np. z Maltai, Wielkiej Brytanii czy Gibraltaru. Oprogramowanie kasyna to jedno z najważniejszych kryteriów przy wyborze. Dobre kasyna powinny oferować swoim graczom najnowszą technologię, dzięki której gra będzie płynna i wygodna. Warto zwrócić uwagę na to, czy kasyno działa na systemie mobilnym, czyli czy gra poza komputerem będzie równie wygodna. Dobrze jest także zwrócić uwagę na wybór gier. Kasyna powinny oferować szeroki wybór gier, od klasycznych slotów, po gry stołowe i ruletkę. Przy wyborze kasyna na prawdziwe pieniądze musimy pamiętać o metodach wpłat i wypłat. Najlepsze kasyna oferują szeroki wybór metod płatności, w tym szybkie wypłaty. Dobra praktyka to wybór kasyna, które oferuje metody transakcji, do których mamy dostęp. Warto sprawdzić, czy dana metoda jest dostępna dla polskich graczy.

You’re in the perfect place to start planning your Colorado winter getaway. Here you’ll find everything you need to start planning where to go, how to get there, and what other outdoor activities are available for snow lovers and winter sports enthusiasts. Find endless possibilities for your next winter vacation below.

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Ski Keystone | Vacation Packages

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About Keystone

If convenience, affordability and terrain options for every type of skier top your ski vacation docket, then Keystone, Colorado it is! A Keystone ski vacation truly offers slices of heaven for every single penchant, both on and off the mountain. From tubing, to fine dining or quick (and cheap) eats, to après drinks, to world-class cat skiing and perfect family friendly trails, Keystone has it all.

Keystone is opportunely located just under 100 miles from Denver International Airport, the drive along I-70 takes a little over an hour and a half, so you can easily arrive in the morning and sneak a half-day of skiing in. All the Keystone restaurants are handily located in the base village or just across Highway 6. On sunny afternoons Keystone has a lively après scene, making it a great place to have a beer and mingle.

in one of Summit County's many premiere accommodations

Some of the longest groomed runs in the state of Colorado

by flying into Denver International Airport

Views of nearby 14'ers, Greys and Torreys Peak

High mountain terrain off Wapiti Peak

fine dining served alongside Rocky Mountain hospitality.

yourself to a tour of Summit County's best breweries

Experience...

ice skating on Keystone Lake

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Evergreen Condos

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Skiing keystone.

Every level of skier will find their own section of the mountain to call their own. Beginners will love the “learning area” off of the Ranger chairlift, as well as all the green runs off of River Run Gondola. Children of all levels, will squeal with delight in Keystone’s many Kidventure Zones, which are fun, zippy tree trails and mini-themed camps. Intermediate skiers will find they can ski all three of the lift-accessed mountains, but the best blue trails are to be found off of the River Run Gondola, with epic, sustained cruisers like Frenchman and Irishman. Expert skiers and boarders have nearly 50 percent of Keystone’s 3,000 acres to themselves, and can enjoy moguls, glades, steeps and small chutes. Powderhounds will delight in all the snowcat-accessed terrain off of Independence Mountain and Wapiti Peak.

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CUSTOMER REVIEWS (31)

Overall customer experience*, what the experts are saying.

Night Skiing at Keystone

Just a great ski trip overall! Lucky to have the 3-feet snow storm right before our visit (and getting out of Denver before it happened!), the snow was awesome. The week of Feb. 7 - 14 was an excellent time to be there with short lift lines and not very crowded restaurants. And all the Keystone staff were very friendly and helpful.

Keystone is charming ! Keystone is a charming community . There are lots of activities for children and adults. The villages have great restaurants and shopping. Lots within walking distance . Tubing was a blast - make a reservation !

lovely condo We enjoyed the entire occassion. The resort is the prettiest and all resturants are great. The transport back and forth to airport was nice. The condo was excellent, clean and updated. Getting the lift tickets was a breeze. We will be back.

Mardi Gras 2019 Our trip was so much fun! During the week there was no line for the lifts and the slips were not packed which was so enjoyable. Friday was a little more packed but the resort still had everything running smoothly.

great time Great place to ski. Had a great time the bus system is fantastic.

Bucket List...... It was my first time out west and to Colorado EVER. This has been on my bucket list for years..... Finally I got to go!!!! It was just an amazing trip!!! OMG! First tracks Friday...AHHHHHH..... amazeballs!! The condo was warm and inviting, clean, and the beds were very comfortable. The food and the all the places to eat, drink, shop were at our fingertips. The ski rentals were walking distance and the staff was so good to us. All they wanted to do was give us the best experience possible, and they succeeded. Fav places were Inxpot-amazing coffee and whiskey, 9280 Taphouse-delicious beers, the gas firepits in the courtyard, the hot tubs and sauna, Spoon Cafe-great burgers, Kickapoo Tavern-amazing fish tacos, and the best homemade guac! LOVE! I want to go back.... We thoroughly enjoyed every moment we had there.

Overall Keystone the resort was fun Walking to lifts, restaurants, ski tuning and bar was very convenient

Family ski Lovely place. Perfect snow and fun for the family.

Great ski resort Resort is so convenient; has great runs, and wasn't crowded on a Sunday afternoon or during the week. Check in was a breeze.

Keystone was surprisingly a great mountain We decided to go to Keystone this year because we got a very favorable price. We anticipated that the skiing would be pretty good and were surprised to find a very impressive mountain with a number of challenging runs. We were particularly impressed with the tree runs/glades. We found that the variety and extent of tree runs was better than Breck and Vail. While Breck and Vail have more difficult terrain in general than Keystone, we found Keystone to be a lot of fun and we needed 4 days to ski all of Keystone.

EXPERT REVIEWS (1)

• 3.0 Nightlife
• 5.0 Intermediate Skiing
• 3.0 Accommodations
• 4.0 Activities
• 5.0 Family Vacation
• 3.0 Luxury Vacation
• 4.0 Budget Vacation
• 5.0 Expert Skiing
• 4.0 Beginner Skiing
• 5=Excellent

Night Skiing at Keystone 4.0 Good 4.0 4.0 4.0 4.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 NR NR NR NR NR Keystone was the first resort I ever visited out West for night skiing and what a blast it was! Since that time they have added an adventure park at the top of the River Run lift. It has its own conveyor lift! If you choose to try tubing, be prepared to laugh until your sides hurt. It's really fun. While you are on the mountain be sure to schedule some time to visit the huge ice castle with ice sculptures inside on Dercum Mountain. There is so much to do at Keystone, even for experts. There are even snow cat trips that you can take to ski or snowboard untracked powder. My favorite places to stay in Keystone are River Run, The Springs, The Timbers and Lone Eagle. All are well located and really nice. I have had a couple of incredible meals at the Keystone Ranch, which is located in the original ranch homestead. It is well worth the extra expense to dine there. (It's a bit pricey.) Call or email me today and let's discuss a package to Keystone!

12 best family ski resorts in the US

W hether your child is a snowboarding teen used to shredding powder or a newbie headed to ski school for the very first time, many mountain resorts across the U.S. are perfect for a family ski trip .

Skiing can be a terrific family activity in winter , as the apres-ski scene provides just as much fun as time spent on the slopes. Many resorts also offer alternative snow-related activities — such as tubing, ice skating, snowshoeing and even sleigh rides — so the whole family can enjoy the mountain experience.

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The best ski resorts for families are usually the ones that offer on- and near-mountain lodging, ski schools with a variety of programs, beginner- and intermediate-friendly terrain and some quality non-ski activities.

Ski and snowboard lessons can fill up well in advance, so if ski school — or even on-mountain child care — is a must-have for your vacation, double-check the options to ensure they fit your ski vacation goals. Just note that you most likely won't be able to book ski school until the fall, at the earliest.

Once you decide on the best resort for your family, price out lift tickets and pass options ahead of time. You may be surprised at how much more affordable it is to buy ski passes in advance rather than purchase individual lift tickets — even if you are only skiing for a day or two. Buying ski passes earlier than later will ensure you get the best pricing; they will only get more expensive as the year goes on.

Some mountains also offer kids-ski-free programs , which can help keep the trip cost down. Additionally, many ski resorts have capacity limits, so you'll want to make sure you purchase your tickets before arriving (or make advance reservations at select mountains).

With all these nuances in mind, here are some of our favorite ski resorts for the whole family.

Beaver Creek Resort, Colorado

Why beaver creek is a good ski resort for families.

This may be surprising for those who are only familiar with the mountain's luxury reputation, but Colorado's Beaver Creek perhaps offers some of the friendliest slopes for family ski trips. About a two-hour drive from Denver International Airport (DEN) or 30 minutes from Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) in Gypsum, this resort is relatively easy to reach, assuming you have good road conditions.

Beaver Creek has been upping its already solid family ski game even more lately, thanks in part to the relatively new, 250-acre, lift-served expansion called McCoy Park. This offers even more terrain for beginner and intermediate skiers and snowboarders; it also elevates the mountain experience with an additional 17 groomable trails, plus two more chairlifts.

Here, you'll also find the Beaver Creek Candy Cabin , which is a great addition to the Ice Cream Parlour at the top of the Haymeadow Express Gondola. At Red Buffalo Park's Cookie Cabin and at the bottom of the Centennial Express and Haymeadow Lift, you'll also be able to experience the mountain's famous 3 p.m. cookie time.

After a long day of skiing, you can enjoy ice skating in the village. On Thursday nights, kids and adults who are at least level four skiers can participate in a glow stick ski. For a unique experience, take an open-air, snowcat-led sleigh ride to Allie's Cabin , Zach's Cabin or Beano's Cabin — three different mountain-top dining options.

The mountain also ensures that teens are fully entertained. This past season, the new Hawk's Nest Cabin opened in Beaver Creek Village, where teens can enjoy the coolest underage club. There, those between the ages of 10 and 18 enjoy craft nonalcoholic beverages, music, interactive technology, arcade and table games, a ski simulator, lounge spots and more.

Lift tickets for Beaver Creek don't have to cost a ton if you plan in advance and lock in an Epic Pass of some sort.

Where to stay at Beaver Creek

Winter rates start at $800 or 35,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Winter rates start at $970 or 112,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Winter rates start at $450 or 77,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

TPG tip : You can add up to 15,000 Marriott Bonvoy points to certificates with fixed prices. Should you find any nights that cost 100,000 points or less, you can use the 85,000-point certificate awarded annually by the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card if you are willing to add some points.

Keystone Resort, Colorado

Why keystone is a good ski resort for families.

Out of all the great Colorado ski resorts (and there are plenty), Keystone is the hot spot for kids of all ages. There are the usual dog sledding, snow tubing, ice skating and sleigh ride activities, but the piece de resistance is the resort's kids programs and accommodations.

There are plenty of fun on-mountain experiences, such as snowcat skiing and night skiing (on weekends and holidays). Tykes should also like the famous Snow Fort. In fact, this past year, the mountain even had two snow forts to pick from: one up on Dercum Mountain and one in the Mountain House base area.

Additionally, the resort offers a ton of family conveniences, such as free preferred family parking for those with kids 12 and younger, as well as red wagons to help tow skis, boards or even tired kiddos.

This past season, Keystone added another 550 acres of diverse terrain among 16 new trails, bringing the total up to 3,500 acres. With so much terrain, your family can experience a wide range of trails, including the 3.5-mile-long Schoolmarm — a timeless run for the family to work on turns.

Best of all, kids 12 and younger ski free when staying at one of the resort's properties for two or more nights. (There are no blackout dates.)

Where to stay at Keystone

Winter rates start at $300 or 12,000 World of Hyatt points per night. This property is a great use of the Hyatt Category 1-4 certificate that's available annually for those with the World of Hyatt Credit Card .

Winter rates start at $825 per night for a four-bedroom accommodation, with 20% discounts available to those with an Epic Pass.

Snowmass, Colorado

Why snowmass is a good ski resort for families.

Snowmass is one of the mountains in Colorado's swanky Aspen ski area, so you can check a high-end ski resort off your bucket list while entertaining the kids at the same time.

A bit less showy than its big sister Aspen, Snowmass notably includes the Treehouse Kids' Adventure Center, a licensed kids club for children between 8 weeks and 4 years old. Children at least 2.5 years old can also hit the slopes, as the mountain offers many ski school options.

On top of that, Snowmass allows kids to ski free all the way through age 6, which makes it a more affordable choice for a young family than most mountains; other areas typically start charging kids by the time they turn 4. For those 7 and up, know that the mountain participates in both the Ikon and Mountain Collective ski passes.

Other kid-friendly Snowmass activities include on-mountain snow tubing , alpine coasters , ice skating , snowshoeing tours and even an indoor climbing wall . During select dates throughout winter, Snowmass will offer a nighttime winter wonderland party called Ullr Nights filled with evening activities for families. This includes a gondola ride to Elk Camp, bonfires, tubing, alpine coaster rides, snow biking, s'mores and hot chocolate.

Where to stay at Snowmass

Winter rates start at $620 or 58,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night. This means you could add Marriott points to a 50,000-point free night certificate on select nights.

Winter rates start at $750 per night.

Related: Yes, you really can visit Aspen on a budget. Here's how

Copper Mountain, Colorado

Why copper mountain is a good ski resort for families.

If you are looking for a Colorado ski resort experience with lower prices than its neighbors, Copper is a great choice. This resort has family-friendly written all over it, and it offers an array of activities for all ages.

In addition to skiing in what are often prime snow conditions, you'll have the Rocky Mountain Coaster , plenty of snow tubing , ice skating on West Lake in Center Village and even daily complimentary ambassador ski tours .

Additionally, whenever there is a full moon, Copper Mountain will offer ambassador-guided Full Moon Snowshoe Tours in the evenings. For an off-mountain activity, the 19,400-square-foot Woodward Copper Barn serves as an indoor action sports facility, offering many unique activities at Copper Mountain.

For the past three years, Copper has also featured a Snow Maze , which we should see return for the 2024-2025 season as well. Near the base of the Super Bee lift in Copper's East Village, this maze is extremely fun for kids, as it's made entirely of snow.

This past season, visitors were able to experience the resort's brand-new mid-mountain lodge, Aerie. This 25,000-square-foot building offers more dining options and a beautiful 270-degree view. Best of all, the gondola unloads right at the lodge's deck.

Copper is also continuing to make improvements to its Western Territory Expansion. This area is on the far west side of the mountain and is designed to inspire beginner skiers, kids and families to connect with Copper's history and heritage. With new trails that have debuted over the past few years (including kid-friendly tree trails), guests will be able to experience 2,538 acres of skiable terrain.

Where to stay at Copper Mountain

Winter rates start at $161 per night. You can also use your Choice Privileges points to book a stay, though award pricing hasn't yet been set for the 2024-2025 season; however, this past winter cost 35,000 Choice Privileges points per night.

Deer Valley Resort, Utah

Why deer valley is a good ski resort for families.

When kids are getting their bearings and making big side-to-side turns on a slope, it can be easier to start on runs where you won't find any snowboarders.

At the ski-only Deer Valley Resort, there's a children's adventure area on the mountain with 14 pint-size trails allowing tots to practice new techniques. However, their favorite part will probably be the tiny cabin hidden in the woods. The mountain limits its ticket sales each day, which keeps crowds (and lift line waits) at a minimum.

If you are looking for a ski resort that can also entertain a non-skiing child, the Deer Valley Children's Center offers licensed full-day child care with many activities, as well as outdoor and indoor playgrounds. Children between 2 months and 12 years old can enjoy this facility.

Deer Valley has a fun approach to ski school that includes the Teen Escape for teens ages 13 to 17, the Adventure Club for kids ages 7 to 12, the Reindeer Club for 5- and 6-year-olds and the Bambi Club for 4-year-olds. For the younger kids, the class sizes are incredibly small, with just two to four kids in a class — depending on age.

Because Deer Valley participates in the Ikon Pass ski program, the more economical way to lock in lift tickets might be to opt for a pass instead of paying the window rates.

Where to stay at Deer Valley

Winter rates start at $1,175 or 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Winter rates start at $1,500 per night.

Winter rates start at $900 or 21,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Northstar California Resort, California

Why northstar is a good ski resort for families.

California's Northstar Resort, along the California-Nevada border by Lake Tahoe, is excellent for families — especially due to the average 350 inches of annual snowfall. Here, families can ski together in the Kids Adventure Zone, where two mountain areas have blue trails safely tucked away from bigger, faster skiers and snowboarders.

Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, you can kick up your feet and unwind midday while enjoying a glass of apple cider (or a glass of bubbly for the adults) with the mountain's one-of-a-kind Tost tradition. Additionally, families can enjoy the apres-ski scene by cozying up around the fire pit or zipping around on ice skates while listening to live music. At other times, you can enjoy fireside s'mores and hot cocoa.

If cross-country skiing is your activity of choice, the Nordic Center offers nearly 22 miles of scenic trails for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and fat biking.

Where to stay at Northstar

Winter rates start at $685 or 90,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Winter rates start at $210 or 60,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Smugglers' Notch Resort, Vermont

Why smugglers' notch is a good ski resort for families.

An uber kid-friendly ski resort, Smugglers' Notch focuses on the entire family experience. This is why it's known as "America's Family Resort."

Smuggs, as it's called by those who know and love it, offers an award-winning Snow Sport University. It starts lessons with little ones as young as 3 years old. Sir Henry's Learning and Fun Park has two "magic carpet rides" that gently guide new skiers to the top.

For those who already know how to ski and board, the mountain has everything they could want: 78 trails, eight lifts, the highest vertical drop in northern Vermont at 2,610 feet and more than 300 inches of natural snow each year. Multiple terrain parks and 1,000 acres for skiing and riding are also available.

For those staying at the resort, everything is a few steps away, and an on-demand shuttle will take you wherever you need to go.

Off the mountain, you'll also find a plethora of activities — both during the day and night. Activities include snowshoeing, tubing, cross-country skiing, swimming, ice skating, bingo and magic shows. You can also experience the updated Fun Zone 2.0 complex, which features a "Ninja Warrior" course, laser tag, miniature golf, an arcade, large inflatable slides and more spread across 26,000 square feet of indoor space.

Where to stay at Smugglers' Notch

Winter rates start at $289 per night.

Stowe, Vermont

Why stowe is a good ski resort for families.

Stowe has a world-class ski school and plenty of long, beautiful blue trails to keep your not-yet-expert skiers and snowboarders engaged. The relatively new Adventure Zone has continued to be a big hit; these low-angle, gladed areas are appropriate for anyone in the family looking for a fun experience skiing or boarding through the trees on Mount Mansfield.

After a great family day on the slopes, enjoy a free pre-dinner skate at the Spruce Peak outdoor ice rink , embark on a guided twilight snowshoe tour through the woods or enjoy indoor rock climbing at Stowe Rocks. If you're looking for a resort with a village atmosphere, this is one of the best you'll find in the Northeast.

The main issue with Stowe Mountain is its ticket prices compared to many other East Coast resorts. Luckily, the Epic Pass can save your family over the walk-up lift ticket rates. You could even look at Epic's Northeast Value Pass if you expect to only ski at East Coast mountains this winter.

Where to stay at Stowe

Winter rates start at $400 or 45,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Winter rates start at $265 per night.

Jay Peak, Vermont

Why jay peak is a good ski resort for families.

People love Jay Peak thanks to its indoor water park , which is ideal for families who want to take a day off from skiing or have something to do after morning ski school. The Jay Peak Pump House features slides, a FlowRider surf simulator and an entire kids play area. Many lodging packages include water park access, or you can purchase a daypass. (We recommend purchasing in advance.)

Aside from the water park, there are two arcades , a climbing gym , an ice skating rink and a slopeside movie theater . Not all activities are available every day, so double-check ahead of time. Aim to make advance bookings where available.

Best of all, there's a surplus of ski-in, ski-out condo and hotel options, giving families the perfect opportunity to stay in accommodations that work best for their needs. For those with little ones — or even big ones — Jay Peak offers child care for children as young as 6 weeks old both during the day and in the evenings.

Where to stay at Jay Peak

Winter rates start at $300 per night.

TPG tip : You can also check to see if you like any of the on-mountain condo options that take Wyndham points through Vacasa .

Bretton Woods, New Hampshire

Why bretton woods is a good ski resort for families.

Just across the Vermont border is New Hampshire's answer to family-oriented skiing: Bretton Woods.

Home to the family-friendly Omni Mount Washington Resort , Bretton Woods features fat-tire snow biking trails, a 62-mile trail network for cross-country skiing, sleigh rides, snow tubing, canopy tours and an indoor-outdoor heated swimming pool (just for guests). The recently built Rosewood Lodge at the top of the mountain also gives skiers and riders that top-of-the-mountain lodge and luxury dining experience that you won't find at many other nearby mountains.

Unfortunately, unlike what you'll find at many other mountains, Bretton Woods only offers ski school on the weekends (Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and select holidays). If ski school is a must-have, just ensure the mountain has an option that fits your needs. However, we did find ski school was much more affordable here than those at many other resorts.

From the hotel's architecture to the incredible views of Mount Washington, it's no surprise that the resort is a top destination for families. With many fun activities for the entire family and more than 464 acres to ski , there should be no shortage of on-mountain family fun.

Where to stay at Bretton Woods

Mont-tremblant ski resort, quebec, why mont-tremblant is a good ski resort for families.

In case you haven't found the perfect family ski resort for you this far into the list, we are cheating a little and including two near-to-the-U.S. family ski resort options in Canada.

At Mont-Tremblant, your family can experience the international skiing vibe without crossing the pond. This French-influenced getaway is just a couple of hours outside Montreal. Featuring 102 slopes and usually great snow conditions, Mont-Tremblant is one of the best ski experiences in North America, with the highest peak in the Laurentians region.

While older family members explore the high peaks of Mont-Tremblant, kids as young as 3 years old can enjoy practicing their turns at ski school . Or, if you happen to be visiting during spring break, Tremblant's Ski Week program will give you four full days with the same instructor.

Guests can explore a unique European-style pedestrian village directly at the mountain's base. The pedestrian village allows easy access from the front step of your hotel door to the bottom of the slopes. With its colorful buildings — including more than 75 shops, restaurants, bars and boutiques — there is plenty to do in any weather.

On a non-skiing day, grab the kids and hit the snow-covered trails ripe for fat biking, dune buggy rides, snowshoeing, ice fishing, sleigh rides and even ice climbing. Families will not want to miss the Brind'O Aquaclub water park, which offers four slides, indoor and outdoor hot tubs, 35 interactive water games and a revamped fitness room. There is also laser tag and a virtual reality arcade.

If Mont-Tremblant is on your radar, you can save money with the Ikon Base Pass.

Where to stay at Mont-Tremblant

Winter rates start at $350 per night.

Winter rates start at $360 or 56,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Winter rates start at $272 or 59,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia

Why whistler is a good ski resort for families.

British Columbia's Whistler is another Canadian winter ski hot spot with a family-friendly focus. Your kids will love the pint-size ski experience at the resort's Enchanted Woods, which is usually clear of more experienced and faster skiers. Or, embark on the thrilling Bubly Tube Park .

In addition to Magic Castle and Tree Fort outdoor playlands at both Whistler and its sister mountain, Blackcomb, families will be entertained with the mountain's free Fire & Ice performances every Sunday night (a display of ski and snowboard skills). Families can also exchange their ski boots for ice skates and skate for free in Whistler Village; the area is chock-full of shops, restaurants and things to do in the after-ski hours.

Where to stay at Whistler

Winter rates start at $840 per night.

Winter rates start at $685 or 75,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.

Winter rates start at $297 or 80,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Bottom line

Though you may have to shell out a little more for a vacation on the slopes, planning a family ski trip is more than worth the effort (and added expense). Whether you're dreaming of a powder-filled getaway in Colorado or a winter sports adventure in Vermont, there's a destination and slope-adjacent resort made for you and your crew.

Ready to plan a family ski trip? Check out the following stories for more tips on how to book your ski trip with points and miles and make the most of your family ski vacation:

• Everything you need to know about packing for a ski trip
• 17 of the best ski towns in the US
• The right — and wrong — age for kids to start skiing
• 7 ways to make your next ski trip better than the last
• Best credit cards to use on ski trips

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.