Are you an avid skier or snowboarder? Do you dream of a winter wonderland filled with fresh powder and cozy ski towns? Look no further than this list of the Best Ski Resorts in Colorado.
This article is intended for intermediate to expert level skiers/snowboarders.
After spending 12 years in Colorado, we have spent hundreds of days and thousands of hours experiencing ski resorts across the state.
In this article we’ll explore the top ski destinations, from the legendary Vail, to the hidden gem, Wolf Creek.
Our ranking is based on mountain terrain, mountain vibe, après-ski scene and dining options.
This article will provide you with mountain specific, local advice. You will gain the information needed to make the most of your Colorado ski trip.
So grab your ski luggage or snowboard bag and get ready for an unforgettable alpine adventure!
Best Ski Resorts in Colorado: Top 5
Skiing and Snowboarding in Colorado is truly world class. From renowned ski resorts and culinary delights to breathtaking landscapes, you’ll find that Colorado is among the best ski destinations in the world.
We’re talking about places that offer more than just sick freshies- they’re complete experiences wrapped in pow. Here’s how they stack up:
1. Vail Ski Resort – It’s the king of ski resorts, boasting expansive terrain that caters to all ability levels, topped with vibrant village life.
2. Copper Mountain Ski Resort – A locals favorite with diverse terrain and a laid-back atmosphere, something for everyone from families to park riders.
3. Wolf Creek Ski Resort – The secret white room; it’s the best place to score loads of freshies. A true, no frills, rugged, Colorado ski mountain experience.
4. Crested Butte Ski Resort – The wild card; with extreme terrain, quirky vibes, and jaw dropping views. This is the birth place of extreme skiing in the US.
5. Steamboat Resort– Famous for its champagne powder and Strawberry Park Hot Springs; it’s where you go to ski hard and relax harder.
Each spot has its charm, its thrill, and its way of making winter, the best season of the year. Whether you’re in for the luxury, the family fun, or the pure joy of skiing; Colorado’s got the right resort for you. Let’s dive into why each of these resorts made the list of the Best Ski Resorts In Colorado.
Vail Ski Resort
Vail Ranks #1 on our list of Best Ski Resorts in Colorado for good reason. It is absolutely our favorite place! We consider this magical mountain our home base every winter.
Vail Ski Resort has something for everyone. The mountain at Vail spans over 5,317 of skiable acres, making it the largest ski resort in Colorado.
The terrain at Vail is so expansive, it can be overwhelming for those visiting for the first time. But, with some local knowledge, you can navigate the mountain to experience the most epic day of skiing or snowboarding of your life.
Vail has all the ingredients to provide the best skiing in Colorado.
Mountain Strategy
The secret to making the most out of this magical place is 2 things:
- Show up early
- Have a plan
First Chair – Show up Early
Have you seen the social media posts about the crazy long, lift lines at Vail? Lift lines at the base of the mountain can span for hundreds of yards. It can sometimes take over an hour of waiting in line to load the lift.
On a powder day, locals start lining up at the gondolas an hour before the lifts starts spinning. If you wait to show up at 8:30am, when the lifts open, you have already lost the game!
The early bird gets the worm at Vail Ski Resort. Show up early to score the best snow conditions and have an epic day.
First chair in Vail awards you deep freshies and runs all to yourself. Showing up early will guarantee face shots and hoots with your friends. It’s days like this, that puts Vail on the top of our list, of Best Ski Resorts in Colorado.
Have A Plan
Secondly, you absolutely need a plan to navigate the mountain. Study the Trail Map the night before to strategize your ideal route. Download the Epic App to give you up to the minute, lift wait times, on the mountain.
Map out your first few runs, based on your starting location. Make sure everyone in your group understands the plan. Do not ski or snowboard back down to the gondola. In fact, skip the front side of the mountain all together until later in the day.
Start moving towards the back bowls immediately. If you follow this strategy, you will score fresh turns all the way to the back of the mountain before the masses get there.
By arriving early and having a plan; you will be skiing and snowboarding onto lifts with no lines.
Hit the open bowls first, there will be plenty of fresh tree lines later in the day.
Local Tips
Skiing with water, snacks and lunch is key to more fresh lines. Carrying a Hydration pack or a Ski backpack, eliminates the need to go back to the village (front side of the mountain).
It can take as long as 45 minutes to ski from the back of the mountain (known as Blue Sky Basin), to Vail Village, where you started your day. Food in Vail is EXPENSIVE, save money by packing your own grinds.
We recommend carrying hand warmers and extra face buffs when skiing in Vail. Staying warm, dry and comfortable, are key to having a great day. Face shots can soak your buff (neck warmer), causing it to freeze. Having a spare buff to change out, keeps you feeling dry and fresh!
Riding with friends: Vail Mountain is massive, trying to link up with friends is a nightmare. If you don’t know the terrain, it is highly likely you will be separated at some point.
Before starting your day, plan a mid-day meeting spot. The mid mountain lodge is a great location to meet up with friends. Enjoy the experience; don’t waste valuable skiing time searching for your friends.
Vail Après-Ski
Aside from the epic turns and face shots until noon, the Vail après-ski scene in the village does not disappoint. The lively village scene adds to its ranking on the list of Best Ski Resorts in Colorado.
Live music, comfort foods, cocktails, along with indoor and outdoor dining await you after a long day of woo-hooing.
Here is a list of the best après-ski spots in Vail:
Red Lion is the best place for cozy mountain vibes and live music.
Express Lift Bar is the top outdoor spot for cocktails with an entertaining mountain view. Watch as skiers and snowboarders try to navigate Pepi’s Face (steep and icy black diamond run). It is a skiing scene of absolute carnage; worthy of awarding the “Jerry of the day.”
The Slope Room Bar inside Gravity Haus, offers an elevated dining experience with craft cocktails and sophisticated vibes.
Best place to grab a cheap margarita? La cantina in the transit center is the most affordable place around! $8.99 Sauza Margaritas on tap!!
Ending your day in Lionshead Village?
Garfinkels is our favorite spot in Lionshead for slope side views and delicious pub fare.
Tavern on the Square offers upscale vibes, cocktails and delicious appetizers.
If the mountain terrain, village après-ski and culinary scene isn’t enough to wow you; the hundreds of lodging options and convenient free public transportation are hard to beat.
With all it has to offer, Vail is one of the most luxurious ski towns in Colorado.
Even those who don’t plan to ski, will find plenty to do in Vail village. Après-ski, Spas, Yoga, Fine Dining, High End Shopping, Ice Rinks, Live Music, and Festivals are all part of the Vail experience.
Vail Lodging
Staying slope side in Vail is a true winter luxury. The Ritz-Carlton Club Vail offers a plush ski in- ski out vacation experience; complete with: ski valet, a beautiful spa and impressive outdoor hot pools.
Is high end, slope side lodging out of your budget? Don’t stress, there are multiple affordable options. The bordering towns of Minturn, Avon and Edwards are just a hop, skip and a jump away.
Our favorite budget friendly place to stay, is at The Christie Lodge. The property is located in the town of Avon, just 15 minutes west of Vail.
The value and amenities, make it our top choice. These amenities include: mini kitchenette, living room, fireplace, balcony, laundry facility and multiple indoor and outdoor hot tubs.
Free onsite parking is available and the property is located in walking distance to many restaurants and bars.
Take the free Vail/Beaver Creek Express ECO bus, from Avon Station transportation center. The transit center is just 2 blocks from The Christie Lodge.
For a full Vail Ski Resort review, see our article, “The Best Planning Guide For Your Vail Ski Vacation” and explore more about winter in Colorado.
Copper Mountain Ski Resort
Coming in at #2 on our list of Best Ski Resorts in Colorado is our second favorite place in the region; Copper Mountain.
Copper Mountain Ski Resort has incredible terrain and some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Colorado. From beginners, to experts, to park riders; this place has it all.
Mountain Terrain
Grooming at Copper Mountain Ski Resort is second to none with its long wide blue runs. Pictured above is the American Flyer chairlift. The long sweeping blue runs, are an intermediate skiers dream.
However, our favorite groomed run on the mountain is a trail called Andes Encore, it is located off the super bee chairlift. It is a long, top to bottom, uncrowded, intermediate trail. The pitch and length of Andes Encore, allows you to really gain some speed!
Let us be honest; we don’t ride Copper for the blue intermediate trails. The expert lines off of Union Peak, Copper Bowl and Tucker Mountain are among the best decent’s in the region.
If you’re looking for fun tree riding, head skiers left of Celebrity Ridge. Keep your speed and traverse left towards the rope boundary, you will see a gate. Pass through the gate into Union Meadows for some sick powder turns.
Stay safe and use the buddy system, it gets deep in the trees. To navigate your way out, follow the trail Waterfall Road. Keep your speed on Waterfall Road; it gets very flat, but it will eventually lead you back to the main runs.
Park calling your name? Woodward Cooper has one of the best terrain parks in the country. With features that cater to all levels, you can certainly send it at Copper. We love filming on the mountain using the insta360 action camera. Capturing epic shots and moments with friends makes for great memories.
The vibe at Copper Mountain Ski Resort is fun and full of positive energy. The friendly locals chat it up on the chairlifts and the après-ski scene offers chill vibes.
Grab a craft beer or a bloody Mary at the base of the hill.
Copper Après-Ski
Cozy fire pits and views of the super pipe are sure to keep you entertained as you wind down after an epic day of skiing and snowboarding.
If you are lucky, you might even bump into a pro rider! Copper is known as the training ground for the US Olympic ski team. Throughout the season, the mountain holds many training sessions and snowboard competitions.
Check out the Woodward Barn. It’s a great place to work on skills and level up your game. 2 hour barn sessions are available throughout the day. You can really send it at Woodward into the foam pits.
Slope Side Lodging
Staying in the village at Copper Mountain is a real treat, providing walkability to the slopes.
Our favorite place to stay is at Passage Point. The convenience of an underground parking garage gives easy access to the property. Garage parking is clutch; providing no need for digging out your car.
Passage Point offers condo style units that include kitchens, living rooms and a nice outdoor pool and hot tub with mountain views.
Staying slope side is the ideal way to experience the best of Copper Mountain. However, if you are looking for a more affordable option, check out lodging in the neighboring towns of Silverthorne or Frisco.
Copper Mountain is a great choice when visiting Colorado. Whether you are a casual cruiser, park rider or an expert, Copper has got you covered.
We make a point to visit Copper Mountain every winter. It is our hope, you will enjoy it as much as we do! We think you will agree, this mountain definitely sets the standard for the Best Ski Resorts in Colorado.
Need information on traveling to Copper Mountain from Denver Airport? Check out our Colorado transportation guide, “The Best Guide: How To Get To Ski Resorts From Denver.”
Wolf Creek Ski Resort
The secret is out, we are finally willing to dish the scoop on this hidden gem. Located in the southwestern San Juan Mountains of Colorado is a little winter oasis called Wolf Creek.
23 miles from the nearest town of Pagosa Springs sits a mountain that gets more snowfall than any other resort in Colorado.
Powder Mission
If you are in search of the deepest freshies, old school Colorado ski vibes and no frills, Wolf Creek Ski Resort is the place to be. For this reason we rank Wolf Creek #3 on our list of Best Ski Resorts in Colorado.
As die-hard snowboarders and frequent visitors, we can confidently say that Wolf Creek Ski Resort offers an incredible white room experience. When the storms hit big here, it really gets deep.
Grab your fat skis or your powder snowboard and get ready for some serious blower pow. You might even need your snorkel.
Our quiver includes: The Never Summer Swift and the Mens Jones Flagship. We have tried and tested many snowboards and these are the powder snowboards we love to charge when it gets light and deep in Wolf Creek.
We have experienced many single digit days with wind chills in the negative temperatures. Dress in layers and be prepared for some sick face shots.
Weather Forecast
We recommend hitting Wolf Creek when the forecast is calling for a major storm.
Watching the 10 day forecast on Open Snow gives us the most accurate weather information.
If you are looking for an adventure, and are willing to earn your turns, the knife ridge at Wolf Creek will deliver. Hiking the ridge line, gives access to endless inbounds freshies.
It’s not just our opinion – Wolf Creek Ski Resort has consistently been ranked as one of the top ski resorts in Colorado. When winter in Colorado is in full swing, Wolf Creek is the place to be.
Trust us, once you experience all of the terrain Wolf Creek Ski Resort has to offer, you’ll understand why it outshines other ski resorts in Colorado.
Don’t let the size fool you, sometimes smaller and less crowded contributes to a much better experience. Terrain, snow quality and fresh lines all day, are why we love this place.
If you’re looking for an après-ski scene or bustling ski town vibes, this isn’t it.
However, if your seeking exhilarating terrain, quality snow, and the tranquil peace of fresh mountain air, this is your spot.
The Waterfalls area is one of our favorite places to ride. Make sure to keep your speed while skiing or snowboarding, the mountain gets really flat. Always take the highline, we have had our fair share of hiking out of ravines.
If you like powder, trees and un-groomed terrain, Wolf Creek is it. The powder is what awarded Wolf Creeks spot on our list of the Best Ski Resorts In Colorado.
And the best part? Wolf Creek Ski Resort offers affordable lift tickets. It is a budget-friendly option for those seeking an exciting winter getaway.
Hot Springs
The Hot Springs in Pagosa Springs are a must stop after a hard day on the mountain. With 25 different pools, it’s easy to unwind after a chilly day on the slopes.
Traveling To Wolf Creek
Getting to Wolf Creek, isn’t as easy as getting to most other resorts in Colorado. The location keeps it less crowded; so if you are willing to make the trek, it really pays off.
You will need a car when visiting the area. Getting to and from the airport, mountain, restaurants and hot springs is not realistic without a vehicle.
The nearest Airport is 75 miles away in the city of Durango, CO. United and American Airlines offer flights that travel to Durango-La Plata Regional Airport (DRO).
Accommodations are available in the nearby towns of South Fork or Pagosa Springs, CO. Both towns offer affordable options and are equal distances from the base of the mountain.
Wolf Creek Ski Resort offers lessons and terrain for all abilities. However, in our opinion; you need to be an intermediate or advanced skier or snowboarder to take advantage of what Wolf Creek has to offer.
A trip to Wolf Creek is a powder chasers dream.
Crested Butte Ski Resort
Crested Butte Ski Resort is truly one of the best ski resorts in Colorado. Coming in at #4, located in central Colorado; the mountain sits just above the rad little ski town of Crested Butte.
The nearest airport is located 30 miles away, in the town of Gunnison. Commercial airlines United and American provide service into Gunnison Airport (GUC).
The Gnar
This mountain is sick! Crested Butte Ski Resort has some of the gnarliest terrain in Colorado. When the mountain is firing, there’s nothing like it.
Crested Butte is known as the birthplace of inbounds extreme skiing. Crested Butte Ski Resort offers an impressive 561 acres of extreme terrain. The skiing and snowboarding here is world class. Check out the trail map before heading out onto the slopes.
The mountain is home to one of the steepest runs in North America. The trail “Rambo”, is a no fall zone. If you are fortunate enough to catch it when it’s open, it will really get your heart rate pumping.
If you score this mountain on a powder day, you are in for a treat. In order to access the best terrain this mountain has to offer; you must be familiar with riding a t-bar, tow lift. Locals expect everyone to ride doubles on the lift. You will get heckled for trying to ride solo.
Crested Butte Lodging
Aside from the epic terrain, winter in Colorado at Crested Butte is something special. It’s a great place for a group trip or couples getaway. There are lots of lodging options on the mountain and in the town to fit any budget.
Staying on the mountain is one of the best ways to experience the breathtaking views. Lots of luxury hotels with onsite spas and vacation rentals are available.
The affordable and quaint Nordic Inn provides our favorite on mountain lodging for the budget traveler. Staying on mountain offers easy access to first chair freshies, but it lacks the dining options and night life you get from staying in the town.
Just below the mountain, in the town of Crested Butte you can generally find cheaper lodging alternatives such as the Old Town Inn.
Looking for true budget travel? Check out the nicest Hostel we’ve ever experienced: The Crested Butte Hostel. The private rooms feel like you’re actually staying in a motel. The facilities are really nice; with a cozy fireplace and super friendly vibes.
Dining in Crested Butte
The best restaurants can be found down in the town of Crested Butte. Check out two of our favorite places: The Secret Stash Pizza or Bonez Tequila Bar and Grill for the best Mexican food & margaritas. If you’re looking for ski town vibes and more lively action, staying in town might be your preferred accommodation option.
With its quirky vibes and assortment of cool bars to après-ski, this place delivers. Cheers to #4 on our list, Crested Butte Ski Resort – one of the Best Colorado Ski Resorts for extreme terrain.
Steamboat Resort
Last but certainly not least, coming in #5 on our list of Best Ski Resorts in Colorado: Steamboat Ski Resort. Known as the champagne powder capital of Colorado; where the snow glistens and mother nature delivers in all its glory.
Welcome To The Old West
Steamboat Resort is a family friendly mountain with gorgeous views, great food and amazing hot springs. The town of Steamboat Springs checks all the boxes when it comes to a winter ski vacation.
The old western town feel, really sets Steamboat Springs apart from other ski towns. Check out the Tread of Pioneers Museum and learn about the rich western heritage that shaped this beautiful mountain town. Steamboat Springs takes you back in time, feeling like you just arrived in a different era.
Getting to Steamboat Resort is easy. The nearest airport is only 24 miles from Steamboat Springs. Yampa Valley Regional Airport (HDN) offers daily flights from major cities on Southwest and United Airlines.
Steamboat Resort is charming and welcoming, due to the relaxed mountain atmosphere and western vibes.
Champagne Powder
Many will argue, that the snow quality here is the best that Colorado has to offer. The feeling of flying can be used to describe the effortless buttery ski turns. With a variety of terrain, this resort has something for all ability levels.
Everyone can experience the sweeping views from the top of the mountain via Sunshine Express lift at Steamboat.
The top of the mountain offers beginner friendly terrain. Families can enjoy cruising the greens and blues off the Sunshine Express chairlift.
On the lower part of the mountain; The lil’ rodeo terrain park and mini half pipe deliver pint-sized fun. It’s a great place to level up on smaller features before progressing to bigger hits over in rabbit ears park.
Experts can conquer the terrain off the Morningside chairlift. Christmas Tree Bowl and No Names is our favorite areas for chasing those deep powder stashes.
Whether you prefer cruising blues, riding park or chasing powder lines, Steamboat Resort has it all.
Steamboat Après-Ski
After a hard day of charging the slopes, experience the best of winter in Colorado. The on mountain après-ski scene is exceptional. The charming village indoor and outdoor dining options are sure to impress.
Steamboat is currently in the process of investing 200 million in upgrading the village experience for its guests. Plans for an après ski plaza, new restaurants and bars, fire pits, retail outlets, ice rink and a stage for live music are all in the works.
Currently steamboat resort is a winter playground for more than just skiing and snowboarding. Guests can enjoy a multitude of actives that include: snowmobiling, ice skating, horseback riding, hot springs, concerts and night skiing.
The restaurants and culinary experiences in Steamboat are excellent. There are many different options for all types of cultural dining experiences. You can’t go wrong when dining out in steamboat.
The Mountain Tap Brewery is one of our favorite places to grab a craft beer.
In the mood for a burger? Back Door Grill serves up the best burger in Steamboat Springs. The casual atmosphere and affordability makes it one of our favorite spots for informal eats.
Famous Hot Springs
After a solid day of shredding the best powder in Colorado, how about a trip to Strawberry Park Hot Springs?
The relaxing scene at Strawberry Park
Strawberry Park Hot Springs is surrounded by serene, snowcapped mountains. The hot pools and peaceful vibes can only be described as winter magic.
Enjoy a full body massage just steps away from the heated pools. Relaxing in the thermal pools is a nice treat after a hard day of skiing.
Kids are welcome during the daytime hours. However, the pools transform into an adults only oasis after dark.
For a kid approved experience, check out the Old Town Hot Springs. Complete with: impressive waterpark slides, a rock climbing wall, gym facility and an onsite spa. It is a place the whole family can enjoy. It is also much more accessible than Strawberry Park.
Old Town Hot Springs
Hotels in Steamboat
Staying in Steamboat Springs has options that fit all budgets. Luxury villas with ski in- ski out access offer a posh vacation experience, while budget friendly motels cater to the powder hound.
Whether you stay on the mountain, or in the town; the free bus will help you get around with ease.
We almost always travel to Steamboat Resort on a powder chasing mission. We usually stay at the budget friendly Quality Inn & Suites. It’s a casual, no frills option located near a public bus stop. The rooms are decent and include free breakfast and wi-fi. As an added bonus, they have an indoor pool and hot tub onsite.
Steamboat Resort is a relaxing destination for all to enjoy. Families love Steamboat due to the wide array of actives and laid back environment.
Experts can enjoy challenging terrain with deep powder and epic tree runs. The old west is alive in Steamboat Springs.
Saddle up and enjoy the best of winter in Colorado.
Recapping – The Best Ski Resorts in Colorado
The Best Ski Resorts in Colorado include a diverse mix of extreme terrain and laid back vibes.
Colorado is a very special place to us. We are happy to share our insights on what makes these resorts rise above the rest.
Vail is #1 – it just can’t be beat! The expansive terrain puts Vail Ski Resort in a class of its own. When you add in the culinary options, shopping, activities, culture, and free transportation, it soars to the top of the list.
Our #2 spot goes to Copper Mountain Ski Resort. The great variety of terrain, family friendly environment and local vibes keep us coming back, year over year.
Wolf Creek peaks at #3 on the list. It is the best place to score powder, because it gets the most snowfall in the state. The incredible inbounds hike-able terrain and authentic, old school vibes have put this hidden gem on the Map.
The quirky mountain town of Crested Butte, gives way to one of the most extreme resorts in North America. Heart pounding decent’s, make Crested Butte Ski Resort, a thrill seekers dream. Combine great skiing with funky ski town vibes, and it’s no wonder it lands at #4 on our list.
As we complete our list of the Best Ski Resorts in Colorado, who says you can’t have it all?
In at #5: Steamboat Resort, a well rounded blend of activity and relaxation. Steamboat has it all; terrain for all abilities, family friendly vibes, great food and relaxation on lock.
Whether you are searching for the deepest powder or the chillest vibes, Colorado has something for everyone to enjoy. We love Colorado and we hope you find this list valuable. Happy Shredding!
If you are looking to ski more days this season, check out our article “How to Save Money Skiing and Snowboarding in CO” for expert level travel hacks.
