26 Top Ski Resorts In Colorado
Colorado ski resorts rank as some of the top ski and snowboard destinations in the World. With iconic resorts like Vail and Aspen, Winter Park and Steamboat, and many other Rocky Mountain ski resorts, it’s no wonder powder hounds flock to Denver and the surrounding areas to hit the slopes for some fun in the sun. Below is my list of top ski resorts in Colorado.
These massive mountains offer skiers and snowboarders lots of trail and park options with everything from groomed trails to exciting off-piste experiences. They have charming ski resort villages, welcoming apres ski options, and close by lodging.
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1. Arapahoe Basin Ski Area, Dillon
Arapahoe Basin Ski Area, known fondly as A-Basin, opened in 1946. According to the website, “A-Basin was the first post-WWII ski area to open in Colorado and is the oldest in Summit County (home to 4 major ski areas). That first season, skiers were transported to the base of the rope tow in a surplus Army weapons carrier pulled by a four-wheel drive vehicle. Nicknamed “The Monster,” skiers got three rides in the hulking 4×4 for a $1.25 lift ticket.” Crazy right? Colorado ski resorts have come a long way since then.
Perched along the Continental Divide, A-Basin is a collection of seven mountains that offer newbies space to test their wings and expert skiers and riders can test their skills against super steep double black diamonds. Backcountry skiing and riding ranks as some of the best in the state.
Apres Ski at the 6th Alley Bar and Grill for a legendary Bacon Bloody Marys — a double shot of Bakon Vodka, Bloody Mary mix, and a perfectly crisp slice of bacon.
- Elevation at Top: 13,050 feet
- Total Trails: 145
- Total Lifts: 9
2. Aspen Highlands, Aspen
One of the Aspen Snowmass mountains — four ski resorts under one umbrella — Snowmass — Aspen HIghlands offers views of the Maroon Bells along many of the downhill trails. The scenery is breathtaking. The skiable terrain offers picture perfect mountain runs.
Apres Ski with a private dinner at the Cloud Nine Bistro served in a cabin under the stars. To reach the bistro, you will ride a snowcat up the mountain. It is a most memorable experience for sure.
- Elevation at Top: 12,392
- Total Trails: 117
- Total Lifts: 5
3. Aspen Mountain, Aspen
Aspen Mountain is also part of the Snowmass Mountains group. Ajax, as it was formerly named, is a beloved mountain right in town. Locals can leave their office at lunchtime, grab a few quick runs, and ski right back into town.
Apres Ski has never been like this, the ASPENX Beach Club at the top of Aspen Mountain offers guests a three course lunch served at beachy red and white striped cabanas. Add in the live DJ and flowing bottles of bubbly libations and this is an experience unlike any other.
- Elevation at Top: 8,000
- Total Trails: 75
- Total Lifts: 8
4. Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort, Snowmass Village
Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort is the king mountain in the four distinct Aspen Mountain resorts. The largest of the four, Snowmass is the spot to go if you want to be challenged — clearly Colorado skiing at its best.
Apres Ski can be savored at Lynn Britt Cabin at Mid-mountain off Velvet Falls. Stop in for a crisp glass of chardonnay and the house made pate for a classic apres ski nosh.
- Elevation at Top: 12,510
- Total Trails: 98
- Total Lifts: 20
5. Beaver Creek Resort, Beaver Creek
The beautiful Beaver Creek Resort is the perfect winter vacation destination. The family friendly atmosphere and amenities (like childcare) makes Beaver Creek one of the most popular ski resorts in Colorado. Beaver Creek Village is a lovely spot to stroll after a day of enjoying this legendary Colorado ski resort.
Apres ski at Powder 8 Kitchen and Tap. It is everything you want after a day exploring all the skiable terrain at Beaver Creek. Adarondack chairs strategically arranged around an outdoor fire pit where you can enjoy a slice and a brew before calling it an amazing day.
- Elevation at Top: 11,400
- Total Trails: 166
- Total Lifts: 25
6. Breckenridge Ski Resort, Breckenridge
We love getting away to Breckenridge Ski Resort, or simply Breck to those in the know, is one of the prettiest ski resort towns in Colorado. And when it comes to Alpine skiing, Breck has an answer for that, “Pioneered by locals and skied by legends, the high alpine is Breck’s untamed wilderness. Towering above town, Breck’s high alpine spans across multiple peaks and bowls, offering some of the most accessible and differentiated above-tree-line terrain in the country.” So grab your boards and get ready to tackle deep powder. Breck is a favorite for advanced skiers and boarders.
There are plenty of places to enjoy the apres ski tradition in Breckenridge. One of the top spots is the Rocky Mountain Underground, go for the grilled cheese, stay for the outdoor culture.
- Elevation at Top: 12,998
- Total Trails: 187
- Total Lifts: 35
7. Crested Butte Mountain Resort, Crested Butte
The charming western mining town of Crested Butte is home to one of the must visit Colorado resorts, Crested Butte Mountain Resort. Snowboarders and skiers alike will love the downhill drops, breathtaking scenery, and great powder.
Apres ski at the Secret Stash for some great pizza in a casual relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy all that Crested Butte has to offer ski bums.
- Elevation at Top: 12,162
- Total Trails: 121
- Total Lifts: 15
8. Copper Mountain, Frisco
You need to visit Copper Mountain, a family friendly spot you will love visiting again and again. Besides great skiing and riding, there are fun family activities like the Snow Maze, the Rocky Mountain Coaster (a 5,800 foot alpine ride), and The Barn (an action sports playground).
When you are ready for some apres ski, head over to Downhill Duke’s for an adult beverage and some end-of-the-day Colorado sunshine.
- Elevation at Top: 12,300
- Total Trails: 150
- Total Lifts: 23
9. Keystone Resort, Keystone
Keystone Resort is a great resort for every skier and boarder. From wide glades to steep black diamonds, the entire family will love a deep powder getaway in the White River National Forest resort. The three mountains that comprise Keystone Resort makes it one of the best ski town options for family friendly flexibility.
The 9280′ Taphouse will satisfy your need for an apres ski adult beverage and a late afternoon nosh. Soak up some sun on a beautiful Colorado bluebird day or watch your favorite team battle it out on the multiple screens around the bar.
- Elevation at Top: 12,408
- Total Trails: 130
- Total Lifts: 20
10. Steamboat Ski Resort, Steamboat Springs
Ripping through corduroy has never been so good. Steamboat Ski Resort is a skier/boarder paradise. One of the best ski resorts, Steamboat Ski Resort is a favorite of many locals. The first tracks option for experienced skiers/riders opens up a world of perfect corduroy or pristine powder to start the day off with a Colorado ski resort high.
You will find the apres ski crowd at Timber and Torch Grill where you can share epic run stories with fellow Colorado Rockies enthusiasts.
- Elevation at Top: 10,568
- Total Trails: 171
- Total Lifts: 21
11. Telluride Ski Resort, Telluride
A little slice of heaven, Telluride Ski Resort is nestled in the San Juan Mountains so you know the snow will be terrific. With village lodging, you will be in the middle of all the walkable action. Telluride offers incredible terrain and is a favorite spot for heli-drops. Be sure to go with a reputable company that will outfit you with a guide, avalanche gear, and all the must haves for your off-piste adventure.
Apres ski like a local at the slopeside Tomboy Tavern. Rendezvous with your besties and enjoy a beverage while recounting the fabulous Telluride ski adventure.
- Elevation at Top: 8,700
- Total Trails: 147
- Total Lifts: 19
12. Vail Ski Resort, Vail
The iconic Vail Ski Resort is a bucket list ski resort for many snow enthusiasts. The famed mountain, the busy base village, and the camaraderie of fellow skiers and riders is unsurpassed. Vail resorts encompass many ski resorts, but The Vail Resort is a snow enthusiasts dream. Like most Colorado resorts, it has great snow, tree skiing, terrain parks, and everything else you need. All this and accessible from Denver International Airport!
The Red Lion in Vail Village is the place to gather for apres ski. Enjoy live music while recovering from your daily run total.
- Elevation at Top: 11,570
- Total Trails: 195
- Total Lifts: 32
13. Winter Park Resort, Winter Park
The beautiful Winter Park Resort is a perfect size resort for a family getaway or a weekend break for a group of friends. The skiing/riding is challenging and tempered with easier runs for the novice snow enthusiast. There is mountain village lodging, nearby eateries, and activities for the whole family.
When it’s time for Apres ski, Derailer Bar is a jumping slopeside bar to connect with your buddies and plan your evening.
- Elevation at Top: 12,060
- Total Trails: 171
- Total Lifts: 28
Check out my recent review of Winter Park. We had a wonderful time exploring the trails, village, and restaurants.
Other Great Ski Resorts In Colorado
Smaller, less crowded mountains may be just the thing you desire. If you are looking for a local mountain or something close by check out these charming ski resorts. Many resorts listed below have outstanding annual snowfall numbers, a terrain park or two, and some even offer night skiing. They are also perfect for beginner and intermediate skiers and boarders, and advanced skiers will find great runs to satisfy their need for speed.
14. Buttermilk Mountain, Aspen
Part of the Aspen Snowmass family, Buttermilk Mountain is a family friendly ski resort.
- Elevation at Top: 9,900 feet
- Total Trails: 44
- Total Lifts: 6
15. Echo Mountain, Idaho Springs
- Elevation at Top: 10,650 feet
- Total Trails: 7
- Total Lifts: 3
16. Eldora Mountain Resort, Nederland
- Elevation at Top: 10,600 feet
- Total Trails: 24
- Total Lifts: 10
17. Howelsen Hill, Steamboat Springs
- Elevation at Top: 7,136 feet
- Total Trails: 26
- Total Lifts: 4
18. Loveland Ski Area, Dillon
- Elevation at Top: 13,010 feet
- Total Trails: 94
- Total Lifts: 9
19. Monarch Mountain, Salida
- Elevation at Top: 10,790
- Total Trails: 67
- Total Lifts: 7
20. Powderhorn Mountain Resort, Mesa
- Elevation at Top: 8,200 feet
- Total Trails: 54
- Total Lifts: 3
21. Purgatory Resort, Durango
- Elevation at Top: 10,822
- Total Trails: 105
- Total Lifts: 11
22. Silverton Mountain Ski Area, Silverton
Silverton Mountain Ski Area is where the heliskiers and boarders want to explore.
- Elevation at Top: 13,487 feet
- Total Trails: Advanced and Expert Skiers Only
- Total Lifts: 1
23. Ski Cooper, Leadville
- Elevation at Top: 11,700 feet
- Total Trails: 64
- Total Lifts: 5
24. Ski Granby Ranch, Granby
- Elevation at Top: 9,202 feet
- Total Trails: 51
- Total Lifts: 5
25. Sunlight Mountain Resort, Glenwood Springs
- Elevation at Top: 9,895 feet
- Total Trails: 72
- Total Lifts: 3
26. Wolf Creek Ski Area, Pagosa Springs
- Elevation at Top: 11,904 feet
- Total Trails: 133
- Total Lifts: 10
Best Colorado Ski Resorts
There are a wonderful selection of major ski resorts in Colorado that accommodate beginner and intermediate runs for newish skiers. Additionally, Colorado ski areas have tons of runs to entertain more advanced and expert skiers. The varied terrain within all the resorts make them desirable ski towns. Additionally the annual snowfall in the Rocky Mountains is some of the highest in the country.
At all the major ski towns, you will find everything from boisterous bars to fine dining restaurants. Great lodging options in the village and in the mountain town. Many ski resorts have tubing, cross country, snowshoeing, and other winter time activities to experience.
I hope you enjoyed my list of top ski resorts in Colorado — time to hit the slopes!
Lost in the journey,
Sandi
PS:
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This is a great post on the top ski resorts in Colorado. I grew up skiing in Utah and I hope to ski in Colorado someday!
How exciting! I’ve never been skiing, but I think it would be fun to visit Colorado and try one of these places out 😊
I live skiing in Colorado! I have been to many of these resorts!
Fantastic list of the 26 top ski resorts in Colorado! I have only hit the slopes in Oregon (and once in Austria while in college) but your list makes me want to head over to CO as soon as possible!
These Colorado ski resorts look amazing! Especially the Crested Butte area.
These look like wonderful ski resorts. I’ve never skied but it looks fun.
Love this guide to the top ski resorts in Colorado. They do have some lovely slopes.
This is a magnificent list of Colorado’s 26 top ski resorts! While we have not skied in Colorado, we hope to visit these places soon.