As the nation’s most elevated state, it’s no surprise that Colorado is one of the best places to ski in the United States. Some might even argue that it is the best skiing in all of North America.
With 50 peaks higher than 14,000 feet, this incredible mountain state is home to over 28 well-known ski resorts. In this post, we’ll explore each section of Colorado to help you figure out which destination is best for your next ski trip.
Regions of Colorado
For the most part, most of the skiing is done along the western part of the state with a huge presence just west of Denver. While Denver itself does not have any ski resorts, it is the gateway to ski country and the most popular city to fly into.
As you move further along I-70, you’ll run into the more popular and busy resorts in Summit and Vail counties. Here, you’ll find Vail, Beaver Creek, Keystone and Breckenridge to name a few.
Summit & Vail Counties
Vail
As one of the most legendary resorts in the area, Vail offers a variety of terrain to ski down, modern lift systems, and a booming night life. For most, Vail has everything needed to create the ultimate skiing vacation.
Beaver Creek
With a motto of “not exactly roughing it”, Beaver Creek is truly a luxury ski resort. For those looking to stay pampered and not experience too much of the great outdoors, then Beaver Creek is perfect for you.
Keystone
If you’re traveling with the family during your next ski trip, then you may want to consider staying at the Keystone Resort. With plenty of activities to do and a motto like “It’s all here”, Keystone is great to keep everyone in the family entertained.
Brekenridge
As the first town to permit snowboarding, Breckenridge is a great place to visit if you enjoy both skiing and snowboarding. In addition, you’ll find picture perfect slopes that almost seem polished and fake with a casual, laid back atmosphere.
Just west of Vail Counties, lies Aspen Snowmass and Crested Butte.
Aspen Snowmass
Aspen Snowmass is a collection of four ski resorts in Aspen, Colorado. Here you’ll experience the culture and ‘soul of skiing.’ As one of the oldest ski resort areas, you’ll find lots of rich history and plenty of things to do.
Crested Butte
The Crested Butte region of Colorado is built for the extreme adventurists and thrill seekers. The extreme terrain here offers experienced skiers the perfect thrill while still maintaining a friendly, laid back culture for the less extreme skiers.
Silverton Mountain
For the advanced or expert skier, Silverton Mountain present some of Colorado’s most extreme skiing conditions. With rough edges, steep drop offs and lots of trees to weave around, Silverton Mountain provides the ultimate, extreme ski adventure.
Telluride
This former mining town has since transformed into a high profile ski destination. Here, you’ll experience dramatic and steep mountain views combined with a historical charm all its’ own.
Wolf Creek
Generally speaking, Wolf Creek is not your average ski resort destination. Instead, it’s more of a local hot spot, or a hidden gem, that’s not as busy as the other areas in Colorado. According to Powder Hounds [link this], it’s very basic compared to the other resorts in the area and therefore, doesn’t attract as many tourists. If crowds aren’t your thing, then Wolf Creek is right up your alley.
Whether you’re looking for an extreme adventure, or you’re just starting to dabble into skiing, Colorado has a well-balanced variety of ski resorts to choose from. At Ship Skis, we love traveling to the Colorado area and have a hard time deciding which resort to stay at since there are so many great ones to choose from.