Written for Auski by Pink Lemonade Social

This posh, celeb-favored Colorado ski resort region is made up of four distinct resorts that work together to create one of the state's most diverse ski and snowboarding experiences. Consider Snowmass for more than 3,300 acres of skiable terrain and routes up to 5.3 miles, or visit Buttermilk for the Winter X Games' headquarters and a training centre for novice skiers and riders. For skiers and partygoers who are more experienced, Aspen Highlands is ideal (be sure to snag a hard-to-get reservation at Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro). Last but not least, Aspen Mountain (often referred to as Ajax by locals) is located smack dab in the midst of town. Hit out some of the area's upscale après-ski venues after a strenuous day on the slopes, or treat yourself to some luxury shopping on the small town streets. If you enjoy culture, make sure to visit The Aspen Art Museum's Andy Warhol: Lifetimes exhibition.

Four ski resorts in the area of Aspen and Snowmass Village make up Aspen Snowmass. Together, the four mountains—Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk—cover a vast area of territory, rivalling Vail in size, and mostly caters to families and offers excellent intermediate skiing.

The opening of the brand-new, $10.7 million high-speed quad chairlift, which has taken the place of the previous Big Burn lift, is one of the new upgrades for the winter of 2021/22. There are a number of brand-new eateries, infrastructure improvements, and new stores in the base area. Additional high alpine lift upgrades as well as an increase in snowmaking capacity have been made.

Snowmass Village, a ski resort community at the foot of the mountain, is characterised by pedestrian-only lanes lined with boutiques and eateries. If you want to ski in Snowmass, this is a good area to base yourself. Free s'mores are now a daily tradition in Snowmass between 3:30 and 4:30 at the fire pits in Base Village and at the Snowmass Mall.

Despite having a tiny amount of terrain, Buttermilk has become well-known for routinely hosting the Winter X-Games. There are several of beginning and intermediate runs there. Aspen Mountain is prohibited from having any novice runs.

Although Aspen Highlands has beginner and intermediate slopes, it is most recognised for its expert and advanced lines.

Aspen is a well-known destination for high-wattage celebrities and is located at the foot of Aspen Mountain. Many prominent people own property in the region, from Hollywood stars to renowned athletes. Even if you don't ski, it's a well-liked destination for a weekend vacation from Denver.

Getting to Aspen Snowmass

Breckenridge, Keystone, and Vail are just a few of the ski resorts you'll pass on the route to Aspen (approximately 220 miles and 4 hours from Denver), which you'll reach by taking Highway 82 south. Alternatively, you can take a seasonal flight into Aspen/Pitkin County Airport, which is 3 miles north-west of the city. This airport serves Denver, Los Angeles, Atlanta, San Francisco, and Chicago. Nevertheless, it is predictable that flights into Aspen are expensive and that many aircraft divert to other airports because of severe winds. As an alternative, you can fly into Grand Junction or Vail and go there more quickly than over the Front Range. One of Aspen's draws is its solitude, but you'll need to weigh that against whether forgoing convenience is worthwhile.

Aspen Snowmass Open Dates 22/23 Ski Season

• Opening Date: Nov 24 2022* (Estimated open date)
• Closing Date: Apr 21 2023* (Estimated close date)

For more information and up-to-date season opening/closing dates visit aspensnowmass.com.

Aspen Mountain Ski Resort

Experts are catered to at Aspen Mountain. From the peak all the way into town, you may ride a double-black here, pounding its 3,267 foot vertical. Beginners can still find runs dispersed across the 675 acres, but they might be more suitable for Snowmass Mountain, the biggest in Pitkin County. The benefit of purchasing a lift ticket in Aspen is that it is valid on all four mountains. Skiing here in the morning allows you to continue your high-level fix after lunch in Highlands.

Aspen Highlands Ski Resort

The mountain is best described by The Highlands Bowl, a paradise for expert skiers and snowboarders. Naturally, Aspen Highlands has greens and blues; nevertheless, the latter are less prevalent than the former. The Highlands Bowl hike is worthwhile because it is undoubtedly something to cross off your bucket list. Take the hike if you can ride down instead. There are 1,028 skiable acres and 3,635 vertical feet at Aspen Highlands.

When finished skiing, skiers staying in Telluride instead of Mountain Village can either ski all the way down to town or ride the gondola up to town. In particular at the conclusion of the ski day, some skiers may not want to attempt the steep, non-green paths that lead from the top of the gondola to the town.

Telluride is a genuine ski town, not a resort community that is owned by a corporation. Interesting boutiques, eateries, and coffee shops along the picturesque main street. The town is enjoyable year-round, not only in the winter, so you don't have to be a skier to enjoy your visit. The town hosts events all year long, making it an excellent getaway location. The quaint town of Telluride (population 2,500) is encircled by some of the most breathtaking scenery in the state, including 14ers (mountains with an elevation over 14k feet), aspen forests, and spectacular box canyons. The ancient mining town itself is made up of Victorian homes that have been renovated and old brick structures, and it has a genuine Western atmosphere that you won't find at Vail or Breckenridge. Telluride is the place to be if you add a tonne of trendy clubs and restaurants, as well as a top-notch cultural scene that includes Mountainfilm and Telluride Bluegrass in the summer.

A guided snowmobile or snowshoeing excursion is a great way to take in the mountain vistas when you're not speeding down the mountain on skis or a snowboard. Looking to get your history and adrenaline fix at the same time? For a different viewpoint on the mountain, go to the Telluride Historical Museum and take a Ski Into History Tour. The ski-in/ski-out Alpino Vino, which is America's highest restaurant at 11,966 feet above sea level and offers an incredible selection of European wines, meats, and cheeses, or Allred's, which is only accessible via the town gondola and offers stunning views of the San Juan Mountains, are two of the best on-mountain eateries in the state.

The ideal accommodation option is to stay in Telluride, one of the top ski towns in Colorado, as it is close by and offers a variety of lodging options. Both the town and the mountain offer lodging options. Prices may be high during the peak season due to high demand. Finding a hotel that welcomes pets might be particularly challenging if you are travelling with a furry friend. If you want lower prices, accommodations that allow pets, and a thriving ski scene, consider staying in Durango, which is roughly two hours away. Even Durango residents who have access to the Purgatory Resort make day trips to Telluride. Although it may not have the same ski town ambience, staying in Montrose, which is about a 90-minute drive away, is an alternative.

In the winter of 2021–2022, Beaver Creek Resort opened the 250 acres of lift-served ski terrain for beginners and intermediate skiers in the McCoy Park area. This is the newest educational area at the resort; it is a distinctive, family-friendly area with 17 paths through naturally groomed glades, as well as the resort's most well-liked snowshoe and cross-country zones. Recently, Beaver Creek will go through more significant changes; setting up two extra quad chairs to serve the McCoy section of the mountain. This will make accessing high-altitude terrain simpler for novice and intermediate skiers. Additionally, the mountain has 1,800 acres of skiable terrain and 150 trails. Adventuresome early risers can access virgin, immaculately maintained corduroy trails starting at 7:15 a.m. by enrolling in BC's First Tracks programme. Later in the day, put on your skates and visit the town rink. You can also take a snowcat to Beano's Cabin, which offers some of the best off-the-grid, on-the-mountain, alpine dining options. This resort is well known for its first-rate guest service, immaculate grounds, and friendly atmosphere.

On its more than 1,800 acres of skiable terrain, this hill provides a wide range of courses for skiers of all skill levels, but it is one of Colorado's best ski resorts for beginners. The ski area takes great care to maintain the slopes, making them the perfect setting for beginners. With a base elevation of 8,100 feet and a peak elevation of 11,400 feet, the mountain is the least elevated of the area's major resorts. This makes it a good option for travellers flying in from lower altitudes who are worried about experiencing altitude sickness

The smell of freshly baked pastries fills the air as workers in chef's helmets hand out chocolate chip cookies to skiers leaving the slopes or lounging around the base every afternoon at 3 p.m. Passengers must ascend several flights of stairs on escalators from the town to the chairlift. At the end of the day, if tired skiers need help lugging their skis to the bus stop or down the escalators, staff members are always available to help. The town's walkways are heated, so there is never an ice buildup. The settlement at the base of the ski area sits the lovely Beaver Creek Village. After a long day of skiing or snowboarding, you may unwind here by sitting at an outside table and watching the last skiers leave the mountain. Behind the restaurants and shops that flank the hillside, there is a magnificent open spot that is only accessible by foot. In the midst of this space, there are benches, fire pits, and a big outdoor skating rink. There are shops and restaurants all around the open space.

About ten minutes down the hill from Beaver Creek is the village of Avon, which can also serve as a fantastic base. Numerous dining alternatives, retail facilities like grocery and medicine stores, and more affordable hotel options are typically accessible. Free shuttle buses routinely run between the Avon hotels and Beaver Creek.

One of Colorado's resorts with the highest elevation, most commonly called "Breck" sees an average of 300 inches of snowfall annually. With 187 different trails and 2,908 skiable acres scattered across five summits, there is something for skiers of every ability. The Freedom SuperChair made its debut in the 21–22 ski season, giving skiers a completely new and connected way to experience Peak 7's magnificent rolling terrain. Breckenridge is the total package, offering everything from exceptional high alpine bowls that can be accessed by a lift to groomed slopes through the trees. And you can locate some amazing landscape by doing even a little trekking off the Imperial Chairlift. Although the exposed bowls appear scary from a distance, they provide expert skiers with unmatched skiing chances. Anyone wishing to advance their skill level past intermediate should go here. Breckenridge offers terrain for all skill levels, including beginner-friendly slopes as well as lower mountain green, blue, and black diamond runs. Because it is stretched out along the front side of a number of peaks, this mountain is quite simple to climb. It should be noted that Breck's mountainside dining is consistently excellent.

With a base height that starts at 9,600 feet, the skiing is really high here. Peak 8's Imperial Chairlift, which has a top elevation of 12,998 feet, is North America's highest lift. The top of the hill frequently experiences full-on winter conditions with good snow on spring days when the hill's base is soft. Breckenridge may be a nice choice for late-season skiing due to late season closing. Remember that the altitude can occasionally be difficult if you are travelling to Colorado from a much lower level, especially on the first day. A new guest-service building, a new kids' ski and snowboarding school, daycare facilities, and new equipment rental facilities are just a few of the recent improvements made to Breckenridge.

Breckenridge is a charming, tiny town that is perfect for enjoying après-ski activities. On a spring day, you may grab a snack and relax on a patio in the village as you watch the sun set over the ski mountain. You can park here while taking the gondola that departs from town to access the mountain. This makes the entire process of climbing the mountain incredibly convenient and easy. Comparatively speaking to other resorts in the region, parking is not too pricey. This picturesque settlement, which served as a base camp for the 1850s gold rush, welcomes guests with Old West-inspired architecture and historical tours that delve into its gold mining past. Visit Breckenridge Distillery to taste some of the best bourbons, whiskeys, rums, and vodkas around.

If you plan to go skiing in Breckenridge, you should make Breckenridge your first pick for accommodations. If you can't locate lodging locally, try some affordable motels in nearby Silverthorne. Another excellent choice nearby is Frisco. There are numerous eateries, coffee shops, and motels in this charming town.

The ski area in the state with the coolest name is named Purgatory, or Purg for short. With minimal lift lines and some of the greatest vistas of any ski resort, it's no surprise that it meets skier expectations. You should put this La Plata County classic on your bucket list. It's about 30 minutes outside of Durango, the largest mountain town in Southwest Colorado. Purg's got something for everyone, excluding bowl skiing. The resort's 1,650 skiable acres and 2,029 feet of vertical rise are home to its most famous feature: extremely quick, rolling groomers.

Located in the San Juan Mountains just west of Durango, Purgatory Mountain Resort is primarily a family-friendly ski area. Despite continuing facility upgrades, this remains a neighbourhood mountain with a warm vibe and an old-school mentality. With amenities and lift tickets that are fairly priced, it is also renowned for providing good value. Purgatory's terrain has historically been significantly biased towards novice and intermediate skiers and snowboarders. But there have always been opportunities for people with advanced skill levels to test themselves here. Since 2015, renovations and ongoing expansions have altered the dynamics. The resort has unveiled new intermediate- and advanced-level terrain as well as new tree skiing regions. All children under the age of 12 can ski for free, with no cutoff dates, which is a fantastic money-saving scheme for parents. Children who meet the requirements are given complimentary season passes.

Purgatory lacks a town at the mountain's base but offers a variety of lodging options around the resort. Many individuals travel from Durango, which is only approximately 20 minutes away by car. Durango is a thriving tourist destination with renovated historic buildings ringing the city, and was formerly a mining town. It also boasts various ski shops, hip restaurants, and lovely ancient hotels. Telluride and Purgatory are separated by a 2.5-hour trip. You can take a day drive up to Telluride to see some fresh territory if you want to make this your base for your journey.

Few resorts dominate the surrounding landscape like Steamboat, a mountain range with more than 2,900 acres of skiable terrain. This is not the land of 14ers like Breckenridge or Aspen, nor is it home to the jagged, Switzerland-like peaks around Telluride. Here, the stars of the show are the ski hill and Mount Werner, which loom large over the town. The summit elevation of just over 10,500 feet is respectable and the nearly 3,700 feet of vertical is downright impressive, but the true defining characteristic of Steamboat is the snow. More specifically, the “Champagne Powder,” which is much drier than what you’ll find elsewhere in Colorado, and Steamboat offers a superb selection of world-class tree skiing to match. Forty-four percent of the terrain is advanced and another 42 percent is intermediate, making the resort a prime destination for out-of-staters and locals alike.

One thing to keep in mind with the skiing in Steamboat is the uniqueness of the terrain. This is northern Colorado, and it feels more like Wyoming or Big Sky Country than other resorts in the state. Temperatures can get cold and the entire resort is below treeline. This means that Steamboat isn’t the place to ski wide-open alpine bowls or steep chutes, but again, the tree skiing is superb and so is the snow. The mountain averages 334 inches of snowfall per year, which is a lot. With free lift tickets for children under 12 when an adult lift ticket for five or more days is purchased, the resort takes pleasure in being family-friendly.

Steamboat Springs is a stand-alone community that lies far from the I-70 corridor and the state's other top ski resorts. The town's rich cowboy culture and Western heritage give the area a relaxed, Wild West vibe. This theme is frequently the focus of festivals and other events.

Warm up those muscles at one of the area's well-known hot springs when you're not on the slopes. Visit the recently rebuilt Hazie's restaurant, one of Steamboat's most well-known cafes, if you're in the mood for something to eat and want some history on the side.

This ski area, also known locally as A-Basin, has one of the nation's longest ski seasons, frequently lasting from mid-October to mid-June (snowpack permitting). Yes, nine out of the twelve months of the year allow for skiing at A-Basin and sees an average of 350 inches of snowfall annually, with 1,428 acres of skiable terrain. Additionally, A-Basin is home to some of Colorado's most difficult and demanding resort terrain. Its crowning glory is the renowned East Wall, which hugs the ridgeline of Lenawee Mountain and tops out at just over 13,000 feet. It offers expert skiers a variety of tight, rocky, cornice-hung chutes. It is well-known for having some of the state's toughest inbounds terrain. A-Basin can be a terrific place to test your limits or experience skiing in the early or late seasons thanks to its affordable 1-day tickets, magnificent views of the Continental Divide from most lifts, a laid-back local atmosphere, and less visitors than most of the other mountains on this list.

Arapahoe Basin Ski Area earns a spot on this list thanks to its well-known tailgate scene, "The Beach." Throughout the entire season, there is a celebration here, and lots of people return to their cars to grill out, drink beer, and unwind in the Colorado sunshine before their next run. This is the spot to go in the spring when it's warm outside and the skiing isn't all that great. On the front side of Arapahoe Basin, there are many steep slopes, and Montezuma Bowl has bowl and tree skiing. The peak elevation of this mountain, which is situated on Loveland Pass, is 13,050 feet, while the base elevation is 10,780 feet. This enables the resort to remain open much into the April closure dates of the nearby mountains, sometimes even into June. You may anticipate to find stunning open runs at Arapahoe, some of which are steep and others that are geared towards beginners. Because runs flow down two sides of a ridge, you can typically find favourable conditions every day. Although this mountain might be windy, usually one side is protected on any given day. In contrast to the Vail Resorts nearby, A-Basin hasn't historically been regarded for having a lot of terrain, but that's all changing via a multi-year expansion, which includes the addition of the "hike-to" ski areas at Beavers and Steep Gullies; advanced skiers have proven to be huge fans of this new location.

Arapahoe Basin is inexpensive, simple to get to from Denver, and covered by a number of multi-resort and multi-day passes. Additionally, they provide a number of their own specials, which might be great offers if they fit with your ski plans. Even if you don't intend to spend your entire holiday in A-Basin, it's worth visiting if you plan to ski at one of the nearby resorts. You'll need to find lodging in the neighbourhood since Arapahoe Basin doesn't have a town at the base. Keystone is a 10-minute drive from Arapahoe, and Breckenridge is a 30-minute trip. The best place to find for inexpensive lodging is Silverthorne, which is around 20 minutes' drive from the summit. The town of Frisco is only a little further away, but it has a livelier vibe and a decent selection of motels.

Silverton Mountain must be mentioned in every Colorado skiing or snowboarding list and is a beast; anyone except expert-level skiers should avoid heading to Silverton Mountain, the steepest and highest-elevation ski area in North America. To begin with, there are no groomers, no well marked routes, and no slopes that are less than 35 degrees. Furthermore, the word "resort" is surrounded by quotation marks because its meaning can vary. In Silverton, there is just one chairlift, there is a daily limit of 475 unguided skiers, and you must show your avalanche equipment (beacon, probe, and shovel) before you may use the slopes. For thrill seekers ready to brave the mountain in the first place, guided skiing and helicopter shuttles are also available and quite popular. Although it may not be for everyone, this mountain offers an entirely different experience that many people only dream about. The Warren Miller ski film, Timeless, features this resort. The open bowl-style terrain is steep, tree-lined, and only suitable for experts. You may rent a backcountry pack from Silverton Mountain that includes a probe, beacon, and shovel. If you travel during the primary peak season, you will also have a guide with you. Despite having no groomed slopes, the region has extraordinarily heavy snowfall, with yearly totals of about 400 inches. Don't be alarmed if it all looks a little overwhelming. A programme in Silverton will match you up with a local who will ski with you all day long and show you the nicest snow on the mountain in exchange for a fee. Silverton Mountain, however, boast excellent skiing, a sizable fan base of skiers who live for this kind of terrain and experience, and a unique atmosphere unmatched by any other ski hill in Colorado.

The tiny town of Silverton is located right next to Silverton Mountain. This formerly mining town is now mostly a summer tourist destination, and many of its businesses are seasonal. At a height of over 9,300 feet, it is covered in a thick snowpack during the winter. During the winter, hotels make up the majority of the lodging options, while a few charming historic inns provide some boutique luxury. Silverton may be reached from Durango in a little more than an hour of good driving conditions. When it's snowing, allow for much more time. Durango is the place to base yourself if you're seeking for a little more action than Silverton offers. Additionally, there is a lot more room there.

Explore the mountain's challenging terrain with a guided lesson, or sign up to ski with an Olympian to put your abilities to the test. To explore some of the best backcountry terrain, Irwin Guides and Scarp Ridge Lodge can arrange a private, luxurious cat-skiing experience for the genuinely daring. If you prefer something more sedate, take a leisurely stroll down Elk Avenue's historic corridor, where the Old West Victorian architecture invites you to peruse the boutique stores and some of the state's top restaurants. Visit Secret Stash for genuinely amazing pizza, Montanya Distillers for locally distilled rum drinks, Soupcon for casual French bistro meals, and The Slogar for skillet-fried chicken if you're in the area.

The modest self-description of Crested Butte is "the last great ski town." In spite of the fact that there are other outstanding locations on this list, visiting Crested Butte will make you feel as though you've travelled back in time. Along the town's historic Elk Avenue, which looks like it came out of a Western movie, the area's former saloons and mining-era shops have been kept rather well and are now vibrant Victorian-style cafes, galleries, breweries, restaurants, and other local boutiques. It is noticeably laid back and serves as a reminder of what some other ski towns were like in their heyday. It's important to note that the once-family-owned hill is now a part of the Epic conglomerate because Vail Resorts acquired the ski area in the summer of 2018, you can visit this resort with the Epic Pass.

If none of the top 15 Colorado Ski Resorts pique your interest, there are also a range of other worthwhile and smaller ski resorts, many of which provide good value. Budget-conscious families will love them. Consider Winter Park, Ski Cooper, and Sunlight Mountain as examples of ski resorts in this category.

Monarch Mountain

Monarch is a great mountain with no lift lines, varied terrain, affordable tickets, and simple access from Colorado's southern Front Range. It's great for either powder or clear-sky days. For a day trip, the 800 acres and 1,652 feet of vertical will be enough.

Loveland Ski Area

Have you tried this secret local ski area? If not, drive the 45 minutes from Denver and get a reasonably priced lift ticket; they sometimes offer specials and 2-for-1s. It's worth it with 1,800 acres of various types of terrain, 2,210 feet of vertical, and breathtaking above-tree line views.

Don't forget to have a look at the skiing on either side of the road. The best tree skiing and longest-lasting powder stashes are on the north side (to the right of the Eisenhower Tunnel). Take the lift up to Loveland's bowl when the weather is nice; it's a lot of fun! Take a few runs in Loveland Valley, the ski school area, according to local advice. Loveland Basin is the primary skiing area. Just east of the short learner hill is a fantastic cruiser run with a separate chair lift, and you can park right next to it. The high elevation weather in Loveland, which can occasionally be chilly and windy but which you can prepare accordingly, and Breckenridge, are its two drawbacks. The absence of express chair lifts, is the other. Loveland makes up for this by having minimal or no lift lines. Be patient, unwind, and savour the present.

Winter Park Resort

Front range residents have a great option to the resorts in Summit County thanks to the Winter Park Ski Resort, which is tucked away on the other side of Berthoud Pass and I-70. The distance is the same, but it's less busy and there are still lots of things to discover. This Grand County ski destination has two mountains, Winter Park and Mary Jane, and offers bowl skiing, superb trees, and terrain for all skill levels. It has a 2,610 foot vertical drop and 3,060 skiable acres.

Colorado Ski Passes and Deals

The majority of the resorts on this list can be reached using an Epic or Ikon ski pass. While the resorts on the Ikon and the Epic Pass are different, both offer both restricted and unlimited days at resorts in Colorado, California, Utah, and other states as well as worldwide. Additionally, they let pass holders purchase a number of inexpensive "buddy" passes for friends. The premium pass with the fewest restrictions and the most resort alternatives costs between $900 and $1,000, although prices vary based on how many restrictions you're willing to put up with. Both passes are rather expensive up front and can only be bought early in the season (they go on sale in early spring and grow in price through mid-November). A season pass, however, is unquestionably the best option for skiers who want to visit the most destinations and are prepared to plan ahead. You might only need to ski five or six times to break even, depending on the destination.

• The greatest pass for skiing in Colorado is the Epic Pass. It offers unrestricted access to every resort owned and run by Vail Resorts in Colorado as well as a large number of others in the rest of North America and the rest of the world. The Epic Pass in Colorado includes seven days of skiing at Telluride in addition to Vail, Beaver Creek, Keystone, Breckenridge, and Crested Butte. You can also purchase limited-edition Epic Passes, which are a terrific deal if you only plan to ski in a few locations in Colorado or for a short period of time.
• The Ikon Pass provides entrance to 47 locations worldwide, albeit some of these are barred. In Colorado, it provides unrestricted access to Steamboat, Copper Mountain, Winter Park and Eldora. Additionally, it permits seven days of skiing in Snowmass and Arapahoe. In addition, Ikon provides a base pass with ban dates.
• The Mountain Collective Pass is a far more limited pass that offers a maximum of 46 days of blackout-free skiing across a total of two days at each of 23 participating ski resorts. It encompasses Aspen Snowmass and Arapahoe in Colorado. For skiers and snowboarders taking a longer tour of ski areas in the US and Western Canada, it may be beneficial.

Colorado Ski Passes - Epic vs. Ikon

Epic Pass
The Epic Pass provides unrestricted access to Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Crested Butte, and seven days at Telluride from among the aforementioned resorts. In addition to alternatives with further restrictions and black-out dates, Epic also provides cheaper seven-day and four-day passes. Before purchasing a pass, think about the resort(s) you'd want to visit the most. You should also make sure that the pass you purchase may be utilised during the dates you'd like to ski (holiday weekends are restricted on some passes at certain resorts). The package can, however, pay for itself after just a few days on the slopes because single-day lift tickets at the majority of these locations cost well over $100. Breckenridge, among many other resorts, are accessible with the Epic Pass.

Ikon Pass
The majority of the remaining ski areas on the list are covered by the Ikon Pass, including Winter Park, Steamboat, Copper Mountain, Eldora, and Aspen Snowmass and Arapahoe Basin for seven days. While the majority of the resorts on the pass are accessible for an unlimited number of days with both the Ikon and Ikon Base passes, the Ikon has fewer restrictions and blackout periods. The least you'll have to pay is $649 ($949 for the premium pass) because Ikon regrettably does not provide shorter-term choices as Epic offers. But overall, for people who are on a budget or who intend to visit Colorado, that still represents a fantastic value.

Colorado Ski Resort 1-Day Lift Ticket Prices

While some resorts offer fixed costs for one-day tickets, others change seasonally based on the day and whether you purchase online or in person. In general, purchasing online and in advance (one or more weeks out) on a website like Liftopia.com is the least expensive choice if you don't intend to buy an Epic or Ikon pass. Additionally, prices are subject to seasonal variation, are higher over holiday weekends, and are lower for children and the elderly.

Tips for Skiing & Snowboarding in Colorado

Adapting to Altitude: First-time tourists may not be prepared for the high elevations required for skiing in Colorado, which are not typical of lower-altitude skiing. Many of the ski resorts in Colorado are located at extremely high altitudes, especially a few immediately west of Denver. You might be skiing between 11,000 and 13,000 feet in some circumstances. You will experience the impacts of altitude if you are flying in from a much lower height. If you're planning to ski in places like Arapahoe Basin, Breckenridge, or Keystone, you may want to give yourself some time to adapt before hitting the slopes. If you intend to ski at multiple different resorts, choose the mountain with the lowest elevation for your first day of skiing..

Getting to Colorado Ski Resorts - Getting There and Locations in the State

West of Denver, off Interstate 70, are a sizable number of Colorado ski resorts, including Vail, Breckenridge, Keystone, Beaver Creek, and Arapahoe Basin. A-Basin is the nearest I-70 resort to Denver, located at a distance of 64 miles and 1 hour 15 minutes to get there (in theory, with no traffic). For individuals who aren't accustomed to driving over significant mountain passes, the route can still be difficult to navigate, even in good weather. Road closures are prevalent during inclement weather, and all vehicles must have snow tyres, carry chains, or have 4WD or AWD. It's understandable that locals make fun of and dread the weekly ski journey given the lack of accessible public transit from places like Denver and Boulder.

Nevertheless, some resorts are considerably more accessible than others. For instance, Eldora is a preferred neighbourhood hill because it's close to Boulder and is accessible by bus. On the other hand, getting to resorts like Telluride (350+ miles from Denver), Aspen (230+ miles from Denver), and Vail (95+ miles from Denver), all of which have close-by airports but are small and frequently expensive to fly into, can be challenging, especially in bad weather. The best advice is to check weather reports in advance, account for ski traffic, make sure your car is prepared to handle changeable road conditions, and avoid being in a rush.

Colorado severely lacks reliable, reasonably priced public transportation. Eldora is an exception to the trend, though, as the RTD bus leaves Boulder frequently and only costs $5.25 for a one-way fare. You'll need to purchase a day pass for $10.50 if you're coming from Denver or the neighbourhood, but it's still a terrific deal given that you won't have to drive.

If you don't want to drive to the slopes, there are a number of additional, more expensive transit options. For instance, the Winter Park Express Ski Train travels between Winter Park and Union Station in downtown Denver. The train only runs on weekends and the first two Fridays of each month, has just one arrival and departure time per day, and costs about $60 for a one-way ticket, so this is more of an attraction than a practical means to go to the resort. Bustang can be a good choice if you're not going to Winter Park. Eight stops along I-70 are served by these daily westbound buses from Denver, including Frisco and Vail ($17 one-way from Denver to Vail). Finally, for those coming from outside the state, private shared-ride vans and shuttles, like the Epic Mountain Express, are a great option. Prices vary based on location, but you should anticipate shared transportation to cost at least $75 round-trip per person.

Winter Weather and Snow Conditions in Colorado

The weather in Colorado is notoriously unpredictable. In the winter, the weather can quickly vary from bright and warm to a huge snowstorm. To put it in perspective, a lot of the resorts on rthe list receive an annual average of over 250 inches of snow, or about 21 feet. Snow is frequently accompanied by piercing winds, chilly temperatures, and hazardous driving conditions. You can always check forecasts on websites like The Weather Channel and AccuWeather, and the Colorado Department of Transportation website is a fantastic place to find out about current road conditions. Along with images of numerous highways and interstates, it offers route information, interactive maps, travel warnings, chain requirements, and route information. When it comes to ski conditions, smartphone apps like OnTheSnow, which are available for free on iOS and Android smartphones, can be useful for monitoring the snowpack and recent snowfall as well as informing other skiers about the state of the slopes.

The majority of ski resorts in Colorado have starting elevations well above 8,000 feet and lifts that reach almost 13,500 feet (the highest-elevation title belongs to Silverton Mountain at 13,487 feet). How does this affect you? Lightheadedness, headaches, and shortness of breath are some of the most typical symptoms of altitude sickness, which many tourists experience rather rapidly. This is particularly true for demanding sports like skiing, so it's crucial to pay attention to how you're feeling and make an effort to keep hydrated and get adequate rest while you're there. A few over-the-counter medicines can also be helpful, and after a day or two at altitude, symptoms usually get better.  

Colorado Ski Resort Terrain

The majority of the resorts mentioned above provide terrain that ranges from easy through difficult, expert, and even severe. The good news is that trail maps showing the runs, lifts, hotels, and other amenities are available online from all resorts. For instance, Vail's trail map shows the degree of difficulty of each run—from green circles to double black diamonds—as well as the closest lift. The various expertise levels and what to look for are described below, along with resort recommendations based on your ability level and desired terrain. It also goes without saying that, even in resorts, you should use prudence and good judgement when skiing in uncharted territory. If you're not ready for what's underneath, some unmaintained places are more dangerous than others, and things can get out of hand very quickly.

Advanced/Expert (Black Diamond and Double Black Diamond)

The definition of an advanced skier can vary widely, from resort visitors who are at ease on groomed black runs to powder-hungry pros who huck the Steep Gullies of Arapahoe Basin. In general, "severe" or double black terrain can range from huge back bowls to small, rocky chutes. Groomed black runs are comparable to blue squares but notably steeper. Ungroomed blacks frequently have unlabeled hazards like moguls or trees. Resorts with areas of extraordinarily difficult, expert-level, and severe terrain include Arapahoe Basin, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, and Telluride.

Intermediate (Blue Square)

A blue square is typically used to denote intermediate terrain, and the majority of runs are groomed and moderately inclined. Moguls are one type of obstacle that some courses offer, but these are frequently optional; they can be on the side of a groomed run or otherwise offset so that you can avoid them if you choose. Given that the majority of skiers fall within this range, this is also typically the resort's most challenging level. As an illustration, Eldora has 50% blue runs, 20% green runs, and 30% black runs. Even people who like harder music like blues; they can be really helpful for resetting after a particularly difficult run.

Beginner (Green Circle)

Green circles represent the least challenging terrain and mildest slope for beginners. Green runs are well-maintained and can be a wonderful spot for beginners to practise before moving on to blue squares that are more difficult. Particularly certain locations, like Breckenridge, offer great starting areas and a variety of greens (Breck even has "family zones," which are essentially safer, isolated learning areas). Others, such as Arapahoe Basin, may probably be a little too difficult for folks who haven't spent a lot of time skiing (green runs make up only 7 percent of the entire resort).

Colorado Uphill Access and Policies

Many Colorado resorts provide the option of skinning up the slopes rather than using a lift for those who prefer to earn their turns. It's recommended to do your homework in advance by visiting the resort's website because policies differ from resort to resort and can become fairly specific. For instance, Winter Park, with the exception of a few particular routes and locations, permits upward access at any time on any trail that is available that day. On the other hand, Breckenridge only permits skinning up a few peaks after hours and necessitates pre-registering for a parking permit. If you're prepared to put in the preparation work, skinning up can typically be a fun, demanding, and cost-free way to ski your favourite runs.

Other Winter Activities at Colorado Ski Resorts

Many of the resorts on our list provide a variety of other activities besides uphill access. For skiers who enjoy the challenge of jumps, rails, and other elements, most ski slopes provide terrain parks. After-hours night skiing is popular at both Keystone and Steamboat on particular trails and on particular dates, if you don't mind ice runs. Separate from their downhill lines, Beaver Creek and Eldora also have designated Nordic skiing and snowshoeing sections. Other activities available throughout the state include roller coasters for kids at Breckenridge and Copper Mountain, ski riding, snowshoeing and hiking, tubing, gondola rides, and even roller coasters. The same lifts and routes are also used for downhill mountain biking in the summer at various resorts, including Keystone, Breckenridge, Powderhorn, and Snowmass.

What To Pack For Colorado in Winter? Packing For a Ski Trip in Colorado

It can get really chilly out here, so dressing appropriately for a long ski day is essential for maintaining comfort and confidence on the slopes. We've made a resort skiing checklist to make it easier for you, outlining and describing all the basics as well as nice-to-have items you may want to tuck away in your luggage or pockets. Additionally, keep in mind that you'll likely need to bring even more with you if you intend to explore the side country while staying at any of the resorts.

Skis of good quality, downhill ski boots with alpine bindings, ski poles, a helmet, and all-mountain skis on the wide end of the spectrum are essential for powder days in Colorado resort skiing. Our prefered layering method for clothing is a merino wool baselayer on the bottom, a thick midlayer for insulation, and either a hardshell or a warmer ski jacket on top. We match a bib or set of hardshell leggings with a corresponding light- or midweight base layer at the bottom. Last but not least, be sure to remember little necessities like ski socks, gloves, and goggles. Our ski gear reviews cover just about every topic listed above to assist you in sorting through the many gear options, so browse our range of blog articles today.

Frequently Asked Questions about Skiing in Colorado

Why is skiing so popular in Colorado?

The best ski resorts and ski holidays in America are located in Colorado, which also has one of the longest ski seasons in the world. Colorado is after all the nation's top skiing destination. The state consistently experiences some of the greatest snowfall in the nation and has a long history of encouraging advancements in skiing and snowboarding. Colorado, which has 28 resorts, has some of the most incredible trails and exhilarating rides you can discover. The Ski Season in Colorado is also longer. Resorts in Colorado typically start their seasons earlier and remain open longer than those in other states. Each year, Arapahoe Basin and Loveland Ski Area fight to open their resorts first in North America, occasionally turning on the lifts as early as October 15. Additionally, Colorado is home to some of the biggest resorts in the nation. Colorado's Resorts also happen to be the highest of any other state; some resorts are as high as 14,000 feet, and offer the highest lift-served terrain in the nation. This means more vertical feet, longer trails, breath-taking views that stretch as far as the eye can see, and amazing snow are all yours (upwards of four miles in some cases). You'll never experience steeps, chutes, and mogul runs as difficult as these.

When is the Best Time to Ski in Colorado?

Colorado's ski season starts in October and November and gets longer as the snowiest months are January, February, and March. Colorado's greatest skiing month overall is February. Typically, spring skiing is available from mid-March until late-April. Many resorts close by the end of April, however other resorts close as early as late March or mid-April. A few ski areas at higher altitudes remain open later, such Arapahoe Basin, which may stay open until June or even July.

In general, skiing in Colorado in December can be hit or miss, but by Christmas, the majority of resorts have a respectable amount of snow.

Your best bet if you're attempting to time your ski trip to coincide with the best snowfall month is February. At this time of year, several resorts are experiencing their peak snowfall. Temperatures in January might be chilly, while spring break in March makes resorts busy.

Ski resorts at lower altitudes, like Steamboat, typically reach their peak in February, with spring-like conditions intensifying at the month's end and into March. On the other hand, Telluride often experiences its best snowfall in March.

Can you ski in Colorado as a beginner?

When you or your family decide you want to try skiing or snowboarding in Colorado, one of the first decisions you'll need to make is where to go. Every ski area in Colorado (with the exception of Aspen Mountain and Silverton) has instructional programmes and beginner terrain to help you get started. Some of the best ski resorts for beginners in Colorado are Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort, Steamboat Mountain Resort, Breckenridge Ski Resort, Winter Park Resort, Vail, Keystone Ski Resort, Copper Mountain and Arapahoe Basin. Keep in mind that bigger is not always better; smaller resorts can have fewer visitors, lower prices, and a homey atmosphere.