The 6 Best Ski Resorts In Colorado

By: Jaden Burley Updated:

Colorado is renowned for its world-class ski resorts, offering a diverse range of experiences for families, solo travelers, and adventure seekers alike.

Whether you’re a seasoned skier looking for challenging terrain or a beginner eager to learn, Colorado’s ski resorts have something for everyone.

From luxurious amenities to picturesque mountain towns, here are the best ski resorts in Colorado to consider for your next winter getaway.

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1. Vail Mountain Resort

  • Who Will Love It: Those seeking a picturesque ski town with a European vibe; foodies; world-travelers
  • Skiable Terrain: 5,317 acres (18% beginner, 29% intermediate, 53% advanced)
  • All-Star Amenities: World-class dining; scenic mountain chalets
  • What Not To Miss: Michelin-recognized Japanese restaurant Osaki’s
  • Where To Stay: Four Seasons Resort Vail; The Arrabelle At Vail Square, A RockResort

Vail is Colorado’s largest mountain resort and a bucket list destination for ski enthusiasts. With over 5,300 acres of ski and snowboard terrain, including world-renowned back bowls, Vail offers an endless array of slopes for all skill levels.

Beyond the slopes, Vail charms visitors with its European-inspired village, complete with cobblestone streets, Bavarian-themed architecture, and luxury restaurants.

For a truly luxurious experience, stay at the Four Seasons Resort Vail or The Arrabelle At Vail Square, both offering five-star accommodations and amenities.

2. Aspen Snowmass

  • Who Will Love It: Those who drool over opulence; high rollers; couples; nightlife lovers
  • Skiable Terrain: 3,342 acres (5% easiest, 48% more difficult, 17% most difficult, 30% expert)
  • All-Star Amenities: Four ski resorts for all levels; fine dining experiences on-mountain
  • What Not To Miss: An Afternoon at Snow Beach; Apres-ski experience at Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro; a romantic dinner for two at Pine Creek Cookhouse
  • Where To Stay: The Little Nell; The St. Regis Aspen Resort; Limelight Hotel

Aspen is a celebrity hotspot known for its luxurious dining, hotels, and après-ski scene.

With four different ski resorts offering a variety of terrain, Aspen caters to all levels of skiers.

For the ultimate experience, stay at The Little Nell, Aspen’s only ski-in/ski-out hotel, or indulge in a spa day at The St. Regis Aspen Resort.

Don’t miss the chance to dine at Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro for a one-of-a-kind on-mountain experience.

3. Beaver Creek

  • Who Will Love It: Luxury seekers; foodies; those who appreciate high-end amenities; families
  • Skiable Terrain: 2,082 acres (28% beginner, 38% intermediate, 34% advanced)
  • All-Star Amenities: Warm chocolate chip cookies served daily at the base of the mountain
  • What Not To Miss: A sleigh ride to dinner at Beano’s Cabin
  • Where To Stay: The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch; Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort And Spa

Beaver Creek is a luxury ski resort known for its meticulously groomed runs and high-end amenities.

With over 2,000 acres of skiable terrain, Beaver Creek offers a variety of slopes for all skill levels.

Don’t miss the daily freshly baked cookies at the base of the mountain or a sleigh ride to dinner at Beano’s Cabin.

For luxurious accommodations, stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch, or Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort And Spa.

4. Crested Butte

  • Who Will Love It: Advanced skiers; adventurers; those who appreciate small-town charm
  • Skiable Terrain: 1,547 acres (14% beginner, 24.6% intermediate, 24.8% advanced, 36.6% extreme)
  • All-Star Amenities: Breakfast at Highlife Crust & Crafts; dinner at Uley’s Cabin
  • What Not To Miss: Skiing “Rambo,” considered the steepest lift-serviced tree-cut trail in North America
  • Where To Stay: Eleven Scarp Ridge Lodge

Crested Butte is a thrill-seeker’s paradise with nearly two-thirds of its terrain designated as double-black-diamond.

This old-school mining town offers a no-frills charm and plenty of extreme skiing opportunities.

After a day on the slopes, refuel at local eateries like Highlife Crust & Crafts or Uley’s Cabin.

For a unique stay, book a room at Eleven Scarp Ridge Lodge, a former saloon turned European ski chalet.

5. Breckenridge Ski Resort

  • Who Will Love It: Families; beginners; friend groups
  • Skiable Terrain: 3,000 acres (11% beginner, 31% intermediate, 24% advanced, 34% expert)
  • All-Star Amenities: Nearly the entire town is ski-in/ski-out
  • What Not To Miss: Sleigh rides; ice skating; tubing
  • Where To Stay: Gravity Haus; One Ski Hill, A RockResort

Breckenridge is a family-friendly resort just 104 miles from Denver, offering a variety of trails for all skill levels.

The town’s historic mining charm and direct access to the mountain from Main Street make it a unique and convenient destination.

Enjoy activities like sleigh rides, ice skating, and tubing. For accommodations, consider Gravity Haus or One Ski Hill, A RockResort.

6. Telluride Mountain Village

Telluride is a hidden gem nestled in the San Juan Mountains, offering stunning mountain views and a historic town rich with rustic charm.

With a variety of terrain for all skill levels, Telluride caters to both beginners and advanced skiers. Don’t miss the free gondola ride up to Mountain Village or a meal at Alpino Vino.

For luxurious accommodations, stay at the Madeline Hotel And Residences or Fairmont Heritage Place, Franz Klammer Lodge.

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Heya! I'm Jaden Burley, the founder of Trunk Outdoors, a website where I share my personal camping experience with others. I have been camping for 12 years and continue to do so today. My goal is to share tips, hacks, reviews, and destination recommendations to help people have safe and satisfying camping trips.