When planning a skiing trip it’s always a good idea to do some thorough research; with all that money spent you’ll want to make sure there is enough of the white stuff around. Snow levels can be a little unpredictable these days, but not for leading ski destinations like Colorado, which is now one of the best places in the world to hit the slopes.
Whether you’re a skiing novice or a seasoned pro, Colorado not only offers some of the freshest powder, but it’s also packed with ski resorts of different kinds, so if you’re planning a family ski trip or spending time on the slopes with friends, Colorado has something for everyone.
Ski season is already underway in Colorado so get your goggles and skis at the ready, while we guide you through our five favourite Colorado resorts you need to visit during your ski holiday.
Telluride
Telluride ski resort is always rated highly in Colorado and it’s no surprise why. The picturesque town once lived in by miners and cowboys is now graced by an elite crowd of celebrities and athletes putting it firmly on the map. A perfect mix of old and new, just a gondola ride away from the old town of Telluride is the cosmopolitan Mountain village where luxury hotels, boutiques, and restaurants perch 9,500 feet high. Telluride offers terrain for every kind of skier, with 60 per cent of the slopes beginner or intermediate and of course, steeper runs for the adrenaline seekers. Families can enjoy a stress-free ski holiday; with ski schools and hotels located close to the trails.
Keystone
Keystone is a huge ski resort spread over three mountains, with two villages. If you’re a beginner don’t let that scare you off - the terrain suits every skill level so it’s also perfect for families. Start on the beginner Decorum Mountain and then cruise to the North Peak if you’re feeling more adventurous. For the non-skiers or for those who, dare we say it, need a little break from the piste, Keystone has a lot of fun activities for all of the family, like ice skating, sleigh rides, and the spa for a moment of pampering. Another plus is that the parking is free so if you’ve hired a car, Keystone is an affordable ski resort to visit for the day.
Steamboat
Steamboat Ski Resort has plenty of terrain to slice up with 2,965 acres suitable for all skiing abilities. Steamboat is ranked as a top 10 family ski resort so if you’re looking to plan your first family ski trip, this resort has a lot to offer. Not only do kids go free, but there’s also a kids-only terrain and childcare for those who won’t be skiing. Visitors can soak up the après ski with 100 bars and restaurants to choose from, as well as enjoying other activities within the western style town of Steamboat. For those who can’t get enough, night skiing is available five nights a week, so you can ski or board under the stars.
Beaver Creek
Take to the slopes at Beaver Creek Resort and you’ll be greeted with fresh warm cookies at the end of an afternoon. And if the smell of warm cookies doesn’t tempt you up the mountains, then Beaver Creek town is charming and brimming with activities like ice-skating, and winter excursions. Beaver Creek resort prides itself on its excellent customer service with friendly attendants and great facilities like heated sidewalks (who knew?) and escalators, which take guests from the town to the chairlifts. Beaver Creek is a favourite amongst competitors so if you fancy skiing in the trails of some of the pros then the manicured slopes of Beaver Creek Resort are for you.
Aspen Snowmass
If half pipes are more your thing then Aspen Snowmass Resort will deliver. Aspen Snowmass is made up of four ski areas, with Aspen Mountain and Aspen Highlands for the advanced, Buttermilk for the beginners/intermediates and Snowmass for the family skiers. With its large terrain rivalling other resorts, it also has one of the best après ski scenes in North America and of course plenty to do in downtown Aspen. Located just five minutes away from Aspen – Pitkin County airport and easily accessible by car, not only is Aspen Snowmass easy to get to, but you might just spot a celeb or two whilst you whizz down your trails.
As Colorado is home to so many great ski resorts, we suggest splitting your time between some of them so you don’t miss out. Hiring a car in Colorado is how most get the best ski action out of their trip, and we certainly recommend this as the best way to see all of the resorts on our favourites list.
