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Colorado Ski Resorts
Best Colorado Ski Resorts
A ski trip to Colorado is a fantastic idea for anyone looking to experience some of the most popular ski resorts in the country and the tallest mountains. Plus, deciding to go skiing in Colorado means you’ll be able to experience everything from skiing resorts with epic Rocky Mountain vistas and some of the highest-elevation ski terrain in the United States. With 39 resorts to choose from, there is something for everyone!
From Breckenridge to Aspen-Snowmass, Telluride to Steamboat, the Rockies offer unparalleled Colorado ski resort options for skiers and riders of every age and ability. Those looking for easy access and tons of variety will be blown away by Summit County, which is home to Keystone, Breckenridge, Copper Mountain and Arapahoe Basin, all resorts within a 15-mile radius of Frisco, Colorado. From the Denver International Airport, these resorts are just a little over an hour and a half ground transfer from baggage claim to chairlift.
Some of the best Colorado resorts all have something unique to offer. Deciding which one to visit all depends on what you’re looking for. For our U.S. residents, a ski trip out West is a no-brainer, but Colorado stands up as a noteworthy ski destination for international travel, too.
Colorado Ski Resorts
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THE BEST SKI RESORTS IN COLORADO ACCORDING TO SKI.COM'S MOUNTAIN TRAVEL EXPERTS
Aspen Snowmass, Colorado
Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: For a ski vacation that perfectly blends luxury with variety, Aspen Snowmass in Colorado is your ideal destination. This iconic Colorado ski town embodies luxury and history, offering a diverse array of slopes and an undeniable sense of enjoyment and excitement. There is a reason John Denver wrote about Aspen, Colorado so often. With four distinct mountains—Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk—Aspen Snowmass provides a diverse range of terrain suitable for every level of skier, from beginner slopes to challenging expert runs. For those at an advanced intermediate level or above, be sure to hike the Highland Bowl at Aspen Highlands. While the four separate resorts are not interconnected by a lift system, the town offers a free shuttle service that goes between each resort.
Even with all the glitz and glamor, the spirit of skiing is still alive and thriving in Aspen Snowmass. Between the two separate towns, you will be able to find whatever vibe you are looking for. Aspen leans toward the more upscale side with easy access to après-ski parties. Snowmass, while still upscale, offers a more low-key and family-friendly environment. The two towns' upscale accommodations offer the ultimate in convenience and comfort whether you are looking for a hotel, a cabin or a slopeside condo. Off the slopes, Aspen Snowmass boasts a lively après-ski scene, a plethora of fine dining options, high-end boutiques, and an impressive array of art galleries and cultural events, making it an excellent hub for adventurers.
Highlights: Four distinct mountains offering diverse terrain, many lodging options available, a superb après-ski scene, fine dining, high-end shopping, and rich historical relevance.
Closest airport: Aspen/Pitkin County Airport - 6 miles (10 minutes)
Breckenridge, Colorado
Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: Breckenridge, Colorado consistently comes up as one of our Mountain Travel Experts favorite resort towns. “Breck” as the locals call it, is not only an incredible mountain to explore, the town is dripping in historical relevance. Gold was first discovered in the region in 1859, leading to the town being dubbed “Colorado’s Kingdom.” By accident, the town was omitted from the US map, a mistake that went unnoticed for nearly 150 years. In 1961, the town was christened with the name we've grown to cherish today - Breckenridge.
On average, Breckenridge, Colorado sees nearly 300 days of sunshine each year and over 300+ inches of average snowfall. It's easy to see why it's become a ski town mecca for enthusiasts. The town offers a perfect blend of historic charm and modern luxury, making it one of the best resorts in Colorado. Breckenridge stands out for its vast and varied landscape, offering skiers and snowboarders five peaks and 2,908 acres of terrain to explore, making it a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Breckenridge's charming downtown, with its Victorian-era flair, enhances its appeal through distinctive boutiques, many dining options, and an energetic après-ski scene. The town is filled with many different lodging options, making it easy to find something that fits within your budget.
Highlights: Expansive ski terrain across five peaks, high-altitude skiing for snow-sure conditions, and a charming downtown filled with history and culture.
Closest airport: Denver International Airport - 104 miles (2 hours)
Vail, Colorado
Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: Sure, it's true that Vail, Colorado doesn’t fly under the radar. Similar to Aspen Snowmass it is one of the most popular resorts in the United States. The mountain is renowned for its expansive terrain, offering 5,317 acres of varied slopes, including the legendary back bowls that promise endless powder days and steep terrain. The landscapes in Vail are equally stunning. Even if skiing or snowboarding isn't your thing, you'll find delight in the magnificent vistas that greet you at every turn.
The resort’s purpose-built villages provide everything you need, from upscale accommodations and world-class dining to chic boutiques and top-notch spas. It has a true walking village that makes it easy to get to everything you need. The two main villages - Lionshead Village and Vail Village – both have heated cobblestone streets. This means no more trudging through slush on your way to a nice dinner. The complimentary shuttle service provides a seamless connection between the villages, significantly improving convenience and exploration. Vail’s blend of sophistication, diverse skiing options, and vibrant village life makes it an unparalleled destination for a premium ski vacation.
Highlights: 5,317 acres of diverse ski terrain, legendary back bowls and upscale villages with top-tier dining and shopping.
Closest airport: Eagle County Regional Airport - 34 miles (40 minutes)
Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: Known for its trademarked “Champagne Powder,” Steamboat’s 2,965 acres of diverse terrain make it an absolute standout in Colorado. Nestled on the western ridge of the Continental Divide, Steamboat Springs is encircled by national forests and wilderness areas, offering breathtaking natural beauty from every angle. The high elevation of the mountain (6,900’ summit) makes the area snowsure. Though it's not readily accessible from a major airport, this translates to fewer crowds and more untouched champagne powder runs. Accommodation options run the gamut from luxury options to more rustic. Steamboat’s charming town is filled with dining and bar options, as well as boutiques and a museum.
The Museum of Northwest Colorado is “where the old west stayed young.” The museum brims with an extensive collection of cowboy artifacts, firearms, and historical treasures. It offers an ideal respite for weary legs after a day of powder runs. Steamboat’s deep-rooted cowboy heritage, coupled with a warm and inviting town, lends an authentic flair to the experience, making it a preferred choice for those in pursuit of both adventure and cultural depth.
Highlights: Champagne Powder, 2,965 acres of varied terrain, vibrant après-ski scene, excellent dining, and a charming town with Western heritage.
Closest airport: Yampa Valley Regional Airport - 27 miles (35 minutes)
Beaver Creek, Colorado
Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: Beaver Creek, Colorado epitomizes a mellow, family-friendly and friendly ski mountain. The resort is popular for its excellent ski schools, impressive 5-star staff and some truly demanding terrain. The Birds of Prey World Cup racecourse features a vertical drop of 2,470 feet. But don’t let that scare you away. Numerous meticulously maintained blue and green runs are available to accommodate all levels. Lastly, who could ever overlook the cherished tradition of Cookie Time? Every day at 3 p.m. warm cookies are served to anyone who wants one at the bottom of the Centennial Express lift.
The resort’s accommodations provide unmatched convenience, while its world-class dining and upscale shops enhance the overall village experience. Beaver Creek’s renowned children’s programs and dedicated family areas make it an ideal destination for families.
Highlights: Impeccable service, pristine slopes, cookie time tradition, excellent ski school and a range of accommodations for all tastes.
Closest airport: Eagle County Regional Airport - 28 miles (30 minutes)
Keystone, Colorado
Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: Keystone, Colorado, is a true gem in the Rockies, offering one of the most expansive and diverse ski experiences in the state. Spanning three distinct peaks—Dercum Mountain, North Peak, and The Outback—Keystone delivers over 3,000 acres of terrain that cater to every type of skier and snowboarder. Whether you're carving down gentle groomers, cruising on rolling runs, tackling steep bumps, or venturing into powder-filled bowls and glades, Keystone has something for everyone, from first-timers to seasoned pros.
But the fun doesn’t stop when you step off the slopes. Keystone is packed with a wide array of activities that make it a top destination for winter fun. Imagine spending your afternoons snow tubing, snow biking, or even exploring a massive snow fort. And if that’s not enough, you can enjoy sleigh rides, ice skating, and so much more. The resort’s vibrant village adds to the magic, offering dining, shopping, and entertainment that make it a hit with families and adventure seekers alike.
Unique Highlights: Over 3,000 acres of diverse terrain across three peaks, endless winter activities like snow tubing and sleigh rides, a lively village with dining and shopping, and a massive snow fort for all ages.
Closest airport: Denver International Airport - 90 miles (1.5 hours)
FAQs
Skiing in Colorado is made possible by the help of the 30+ ski resorts in the state. Ski.com partners with 13 of these Colorado resorts and can help you discover packages perfect for what you’re looking to get out of a skiing vacation for your budget and experience level.
Denver locals looking to ski for a day typically take off to Eldora, Keystone, Arapahoe Basin, Vail and Beaver Creek. If they time their departure right when heading out on I-70, they can maybe spend 1-1.5 hours driving before arriving and having a chance to enjoy the snow. To ski Colorado is a privilege in itself. The resorts know this and partner up with pass companies like Epic or Ikon to make the sport more affordable for those who are local to the mountains or only a short drive away from skiing resorts.
Breckenridge's terrain parks offer a wide variety of features for all levels. From Heaven's Wench to Freeway, to Park Lane and The Impulse, there's something for first-timers and thrill-seeking skiers and riders alike. Copper Mountain also has its own series of terrain parks: Union Peak Progress Park, Copper Bowl Terrain Park, and Tucker Mountain Terrain Park have an array of jumps and rails for riders to let loose and send it. Keystone Resort’s A51 Terrain park you can find the superpipe which is always a crowd pleaser, or travel over to Buttermilk Mountain and check out the X-Games terrain park, including their massive 22-foot tall half pipe!
Part of the draw of skiing in Colorado is the Rocky Mountain Range that runs through the state and the majority of ski resorts with higher elevations offering consistent snow and long winter seasons in comparison to other regions. For those looking to ski Colorado, there are a multitude of options and a variety of experiences offered at 32 ski resorts across the state. From closer proximity to Denver visitors have easy access to Arapahoe Basin and Eldora, or further south Telluride offers great terrain in one of the most scenic ski towns in the state, or north to Steamboat Springs, and west to Aspen Snowmass, there are a multitude of views and ski vacations experiences to consider when deciding where to go when skiing resorts in Colorado. Connect with a Ski.com Mountain Travel Expert today to figure out where you want to travel in Colorado.
Ready to plan your dream getaway?
Our Mountain Travel Experts are here to craft your dream trip. From matching you with the ideal destination to booking accommodations, flights, transfers, lessons and more, planning your perfect Colorado vacation has never been easier.