Colorado Ski Resorts: ‘25-’26 Season Guide

Updated July 18, 2024
Travel Lemming Editor Abigail Bliss, skiing in Crested Butte Mountain Resort

⛷️ Jump to: Epic Pass Resorts | Ikon Pass Resorts | Other Resorts

When I moved to Denver eight years ago, learning to ski was at the top of my to-do list. Since then, I’ve visited ten Colorado ski resorts — and have more on the agenda this coming season. 

In this round-up, I cover what makes each destination unique and highlight those on the Epic Pass, the Ikon Pass, and a few more favorites. I also share the best runs for all abilities based on my personal experiences and those of many friends who love skiing as much as I do.

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Colorado Ski Resorts on the Epic Pass

Vail Ski Resort

⛷️ Expect endless terrain and a great après-ski scene at this world-renowned destination.

The author, Abigail Bliss pointing at the Look Ma signage
Find Look Ma below the Wildwood Express lift on the front side of the mountain

📍 Google Maps | Vail Ski Resort Website | 👉 Book Your Stay on Booking

Say what you will about Vail Resorts, but I love this mountain. For one, it’s the largest ski resort in Colorado with 278 trails. 

Even on busy weekends, you can find uncrowded spots — my personal favorites being within The Back Bowls and Blue Sky Basin. You’ll need at least intermediate skills to explore these areas, but the front side caters to all ability levels. 

To me, Vail is special in that it draws travelers from all over the world. Their excited energy can be felt everywhere from the slopes to The George, The Red Lion, and other après-ski hotspots in Vail Village. You’ll likely hear an array of languages, which is something I seldom come across at other Colorado resorts. 

The downside? It’s undeniably expensive. But there are ways to cut costs! See my Vail Ski Resort guide for insights.  

Beaver Creek Resort

⛷️ Learn to ski or drop cliffs — you can do it all at his luxurious resort.

The author's husband in orange at Lower Stone Creek Chutes
My husband in his bright orange coat on Lower Stone Creek Chutes

📍 Google Maps | Beaver Creek Resort Website | 👉 Book Your Stay on Booking

Beaver Creek Resort is located just ten miles west of Vail. Though smaller with 167 trails, the sprawling layout can be trickier to navigate, in my opinion. Generally, I park at the cheaper Elk Parking Lot, and then ride the shuttle to the main village of Beaver Creek. 

From there, you can make your way to my favorite two areas: the Stone Creek Chutes (watch out for cliffs!) and the 14 mogul runs beneath the Grouse Mountain Express lift. There’s no better time to take them on than during the Talons Challenge hosted in late February.

The village of Beaver Creek also provides access to the Haymeadow Park learning area and the family-friendly Red Buffalo Park. For more beginner and intermediate-friendly terrain, check out the Bachelor Gulch area, McCoy Park, and the slopes above Arrowhead Village. 

  • 📅 2025-2026 Dates: November 26
  • ❄️ Average Annual Snowfall: 325 inches / 826 centimeters  
  • 🎿 Elevation at Base: 8,100 feet / 2,469 meters 
  • 🏔️ Elevation at Summit: 11,440 feet / 3,488 meters 
  • 🚠 Lift Ticket Cost: $$$$ 
  • 🧭 Map: Beaver Creek Winter Trail Map

Keystone Resort

⛷️ Take the gondola to wide groomers at this family-friendly resort near Denver.

Abigail Bliss and a friend smiling for a selfie at Keystone Resort
My friend and I at Keystone Resort
View while snowboarding at Keystone Resort
Wide open groomers welcome beginners!

📍 Google Maps | Keystone Resort Website | 👉 Book Your Stay on Booking

Keystone Resort has a reputation for being a family-friendly destination. There are wagons to transport kiddos’ gear and a gondola to the top of Dercum Mountain. At this summit, you’ll find a spacious learning area and wide groomers that wind their way down to the base. 

As someone who’s skied for nearly a decade, Keystone Resort isn’t my personal favorite. But it’s one of the ski areas nearest Denver and night skiing there is honestly incredible. 

I’m also a fan of the gladed runs off the Outback Express lift, as well as Berman Bowl which became a lift-serviced area last season. It features a variety of blue runs, along with access to black diamonds within Erickson Bowl — but be prepared to earn your turns. These and other challenging runs at Keystone require hiking in and the air is thin at 12,000+ feet.  

Breckenridge Ski Resort

⛷️ See and be seen at this iconic resort spanning multiple peaks.

The author, Abigail Bliss at the top of Horseshoe Bowl
Me at the top of Horseshoe Bowl

📍 Google Maps | Breckenridge Ski Resort Website | 👉 Book Your Stay on Booking

A while back, I interviewed an Olympian snowboarder from Summit County who joked, “I would point people with a lot of money to Breckenridge Ski Resort.” From the lodging to the lift tickets, it’s true that this destination is pricey.


But do like the locals and save yourself $40 by parking at the free Breckenridge Airport lot. From there, you can catch a shuttle to the BreckConnect Gondola. The first stop is private access only — don’t get off there. Then, you’ll come up to Peak 7 which features tons of blue runs. Intermediate terrain also covers Peak 6, as well as Peak 9. 

The final gondola stop is at the central Peak 8 base area. I usually head there and start my day with a Bloody Mary at the slopeside Robbie’s Tavern. Then, I’ll make my way to the Horseshoe Bowl T-Bar and ski the glades below 6-Chair and E-Chair. Sometimes, I’ll make my way over to Peak 10 where you’ll find challenging terrain and far fewer crowds.  

Crested Butte Mountain Resort

⛷️ This out-there destination is well worth the drive for expert skiers and snowboarders.

The author, Abigail Bliss skiing in Crested Butte Mountain Resort
Crested Butte is one of my favorite places to ski
The author's husband at the  Headwall Glades
My husband coming down the Headwall Glades

📍 Google Maps | Crested Butte Mountain Resort Website | 👉 Book Your Stay on Booking

If you’re looking to top personal bests, Crested Butte Mountain Resort is for you. More than two-thirds of the runs are ranked as blacks and double-blacks — and one local told me she thinks some should be triples. As another local I spoke with last spring put it, “This mountain will humble you.” He wasn’t kidding. 

Experts (I repeat, experts) looking for a real leg-burner should head up the Silver Queen Express Lift and over to the High Lift T-bar. After an ultra-steep descent, ride up the North Face T-bar on looker’s right, pop off your skis, and start hiking. I really love Spellbound, but all the bowls through here are incredible. 

Crested Butte is known for its steep and intense terrain. But there are some greens and blues lower on the mountain, too, including those beneath the Paradise and Red Lady Express Lifts.  

Colorado Ski Resorts on the Ikon Pass

Telluride Ski Resort

⛷️ This resort has the greatest vertical drop in the country — and an incredible on-mountain dining scene.

The author, Abigail Bliss with her dog riding the gondola to Mountain Village
My pup and I riding the gondola to Mountain Village in the summertime

📍 Google Maps | Telluride Ski Resort Website | 👉 Book Your Stay on Booking

Whether you’re a novice or an expert, Telluride Ski Resort makes it easy to get where you want to be. From downtown Telluride, take the Oak Street Lift to steep double blacks — or get up higher with the Plunge Lift, which also offers backcountry access. 

Beginners and those with intermediate skills should ride up the gondola, which offers stunning views of the box canyon before dropping into Mountain Village. Make laps on the Village Express or load onto Sunshine Express to enjoy long, winding green runs. 

One of the best parts about Telluride Ski Resort? The on-mountain dining. Hold on the midday chicken strips and instead, book reservations to upscale restaurants like Allred’s and Altezza at the Peaks. 

Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort

⛷️ Rub elbows with celebrities and enjoy a glam getaway at the town’s largest resort.

View of a ski lift in Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort
A bluebird day at Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort (photo: David A Litman / Shutterstock)

📍 Google Maps | Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort Website | 👉 Book Your Stay on Booking

The luxurious mountain town of Aspen is home to four ski areas, and Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort is, by far, the most popular. In part, this is because its skiable terrain is more than the other three resorts combined. 

Having 98 trails, it’s safe to say that there are plenty of options for all ability levels — though, 48% are ranked as blue runs, perfect for the travelers (and Hollywood celebrities) adjusting to the altitude. Know that Aspen Snowmass will cost you a pretty penny, but few ski destinations are as iconic and glamorous. 

Aspen Mountain Ski Resort

⛷️ Explore new expert terrain featuring chutes, glades, and gorgeous views.

Overlooking view at the Aspen Mountain Ski Resort
Ski plenty of moguls at Aspen Mountain Ski Resort

📍 Google Maps | Resort Website | 👉 Book Your Stay on Booking

Aspen Mountain Ski Resort is often referred to as “Ajax” by locals, which refers to a large mining claim in the area. It’s also known as the “town mountain” given that its base area is part of downtown Aspen — meaning après favorites like Ajax Tavern are just steps away. The same goes for lodging, many of which offer ski-in, ski-out access. 

Last year, Ajax premiered its Hero’s lift which expanded terrain by 20% and allowed access to sixteen new expert chutes and gorgeous gladed areas. Similarly challenging trails appear across the mountain. If you’re new to skiing or snowboarding, skip this one because you won’t find any green runs on the map. 

  • 📅 2025-2026 Dates: November 27 
  • ❄️ Average Annual Snowfall: 300 inches / 762 centimeters
  • 🎿 Elevation at Base: 7,945 feet / 2,422 meters
  • 🏔️ Elevation at Summit: 11,212 feet / 3,417 meters
  • 🚠 Lift Ticket Cost: $$$
  • 🧭 Map: Aspen Mountain Winter Trail Map 
  • 📚 Related Reading: Aspen vs Vail vs Breckenridge

Aspen Highlands Ski Resort

⛷️ Hike to Highland Bowl for deep powder and steep double black diamonds. 

View of the snowy Maroon Bells from Aspen Highlands Ski Resort
Views of the Maroon Bells from Aspen Highlands Ski Resort are stunning

📍 Google Maps | Aspen Highlands Ski Resort Website | 👉 Book Your Stay on Booking

Don’t miss Aspen Highlands Ski Resort when paying a visit to the area — especially if you’re an advanced skier or snowboarder. It’ll require a lung-busting hike up 780 feet, but Highland Bowl is what Powder Magazine calls “the best inbounds big-mountain skiing in the lower 48.” 

Arguably, this resort is also home to the best après-ski spot in town: Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro, a mid-mountain eatery that takes cues from Swiss fare. Dip into warm fondue and savor steak tartare, along with champagne served with bumps of caviar. 

Like Aspen Mountain (Ajax), Aspen Highlands has absolutely no green runs. But keep reading for my top-recommended beginners’ pick in Aspen!  

  • 📅 2024-2025 Dates: December 14 – April 13 
  • ❄️ Average Annual Snowfall: 300 inches / 762 centimeters  
  • 🎿 Elevation at Base: 8,040 feet / 2,451 meters 
  • 🏔️ Elevation at Summit: 12,392 feet / 3,777 meters  
  • 🚠 Lift Ticket Cost: $$$ 
  • 🧭 Map: Aspen Highlands Winter Trail Map 

Buttermilk Ski Resort (Aspen)

⛷️ This is the most beginner-friendly resort in Aspen, complete with a top-rated ski and ride school.  

Overlooking view at the Buttermilk Ski Resort
Buttermilk right before the start of ski season

📍 Google Maps | Resort Website | 👉 Book Your Stay on Booking

In my opinion, Buttermilk is the best Aspen ski resort for novices and families. While Aspen Snowmass has its fair share of green runs, it’s much larger than Buttermilk — and therefore, there’s a higher chance of getting lost. Trust me, that’s not a good situation when you’re still figuring out how to pizza/French fry. 

Like most ski resorts around the state, it offers a ski and ride school. I highly recommend taking at least a half-day class if these sports are new to you. In my experience, it’s best not to learn from a friend or family member. They’re likely not professional teachers and there’s a very strong chance you’ll fall down (many times) and be less patient with them than an instructor. 

  • 📅 2025-2026 Dates: December 13 – April 12
  • ❄️ Average Annual Snowfall: 200 inches / 508 centimeters  
  • 🎿 Elevation at Base: 7,870 feet / 2,399 meters 
  • 🏔️ Elevation at Summit: 9,900 feet / 3,018 meters  
  • 🚠 Lift Ticket Cost: $$$
  • 🧭 Map: Buttermilk Winter Trail Map  

Steamboat Ski Resort

⛷️ Glide across champagne powder at this ski resort known for glades, night skiing, and its après scene. 

Overlooking view of lodging at the Steamboat Ski Resort
Ski-in, ski-out lodging is plentiful at Steamboat Ski Resort

📍 Google Maps | Steamboat Ski Resort Website | 👉 Book Your Stay on Booking

After premiering an additional 655 acres of terrain last year, Steamboat Ski Resort now ranks as the second-largest ski resort in Colorado. It’s famed for its trademarked “champagne powder” and loved for its night skiing, which is available Thursday through Sunday for much of the season. 

Of the resort’s 182 trails, the 3-mile Why Not green run is the longest and gives beginners a drawn-out, yet comfortable ride. Hike-to terrain at the top of Mount Werner features steep double-black diamonds which will thrill expert skiers and snowboarders.  

After a day outdoors, grab a drink at T Bar which my friend who lived in Steamboat for years says is the après hangout. Then, head to the nearby Strawberry Hot Springs. It’s tough to decide, but I think it’s my absolute favorite of Colorado’s hot springs

Winter Park Resort

⛷️ Catch the train to the longest continually operated ski resort in Colorado — which is both modern and massive. 

View of people at the Winter Park Resort
Beginners to experts are welcome here (photo: LanaG / Shutterstock)

📍 Google Maps | Winter Park Resort Website | 👉 Book Your Stay on Booking

Winter Park Resort is one of the most accessible ski areas if you live in or are visiting Denver. The reason being that it’s the only resort that’s connected to a metro area via train — not just in the state, but the entire United States. 

Given its convenience and the unique experience, tickets often sell out fast. Be sure to book when sales begin in November 2024. You’ll board the Winter Park Express Ski Train at Union Station and quickly understand why it ranks as one of the most scenic train rides in Colorado

As the state’s longest continually operated ski resort, it’s no surprise that Winter Park is well developed. Experience seven terrain parks, endless moguls within Mary Jane, deep powder throughout Vasquez Ridge, and ultra-steep chutes along The Cirque, plus so much more.  

  • 📅 2025-2026 Dates: November 8
  • ❄️ Average Annual Snowfall: 327 inches/ 831 centimeters 
  • 🎿 Elevation at Base: 9,000 feet / 2,743 meters  
  • 🏔️ Elevation at Summit: 12,060 feet / 3,676 meters  
  • 🚠 Lift Ticket Cost: $$$ 
  • 🧭 Map: Winter Park Winter Trail Map 

Eldora Mountain

⛷️ Avoid I-70 traffic while riding the bus to this challenging resort with a great adaptive winter sports program. 

View at the Eldora Mountain during sunset
Cut runs at Eldora Mountain seen from Barker Meadow Reservoir

📍 Google Maps | Eldora Mountain Website 

Coming from Denver and want to avoid the horrendous ski traffic along I-70? Head to Eldora Mountain, which is the only ski resort in Colorado that’s accessible via RTD bus. It’s one of the top things to do in Nederland and though on the Ikon Pass, you’ll come across more locals than visitors at this small, yet challenging resort. 

Note that green runs are quite limited, but those with intermediate to expert skills will find plenty of exciting trails. The most challenging are accessible via the Corona Lift — Gully and Moose Glades are not to be missed. 

What’s unique about Eldora is that it’s one of the state’s most ADA-accessible ski areas. It works alongside Ignite Adaptive Sports which last season, received a permanent base area site for its programming. 

Copper Mountain Resort (Frisco)

⛷️ Get a $99 lift pass to experience everything from bunny hills to steep chutes and top-rated terrain parks. 

A snowboarder at the Copper Mountain Resort
The terrain parks at Copper Mountain are legendary

📍 Google Maps | Copper Mountain Resort Website | 👉 Book Your Stay on Booking

Oh, how I love Copper Mountain Resort. I’ve visited on several occasions — and always on Thursdays when lift tickets are discounted to $99 per. 

There’s lots to love about this mountain, one of which is clear zones for various abilities. Head to West Village if you’re a beginner, as this area is full of bunny hills where you can hone in your skills. Center Village has a mix of blue and green runs, while East Village (my go-to) features glades, bumps, and one of my absolute favorite places to ski: Copper Bowl. 

This resort is also a favorite among freestyle skiers and snowboarders. Hit the multiple terrain parks and don’t miss Dew Tour, which comes through Copper Mountain each March. 

Arapahoe Basin (Dillon)

⛷️ A-Basin is a winner for its challenging runs, unbeatable vibes, and sustainability efforts. 

The author, Abigail Bliss with her husband riding the Lenawee Express
My husband and I taking a ride up the Lenawee Express

📍 Google Maps | Resort Website

Arapahoe Basin is another personal favorite, as the vibes simply cannot be beat. Young people from nearby Denver tailgate in the lot, rising early to snag one of the coveted parking spots along the “beach.” Come late spring (and sometimes, even into July!), this part of the base area becomes party central with bumping music, portable grills, and lots of Hawaiian shirts. 

All through the winter, the energy on the mountain is equally as fun. Bluegrass bands perform, local breweries and distilleries pitch pop-up tents, and every morning starts with a Bloody Mary on the 6th Alley Bar’s patio. To boot, the resort runs entirely on renewable energy as of last season. 

Additionally, the terrain is just incredible — if you have at least a bit of know-how. There are a handful of green runs, but you’ll have much more fun with intermediate skills, and even more with expert abilities. Catch me at Pallavicini, The Beavers gladed areas, and the East Wall. 

  • 📅 2025-2026 Dates: November 2
  • ❄️ Average Annual Snowfall: 350 inches / 889 centimeters  
  • 🎿 Elevation at Base: 10,780 feet / 3,286 meters 
  • 🏔️ Elevation at Summit: 12,408 feet / 3,782 meters
  • 🚠 Lift Ticket Cost: $$
  • 🧭 Map: Arapahoe Basin Winter Trail Map 

More Great Ski Resorts in Colorado

Loveland Ski Area

⛷️ In my opinion, this is the best (and most affordable) place for learning how to ski or snowboard. 

The author, Abigail Bliss with her husband at the Loveland Ski Area
Philip and I in our rental gear at Loveland, circa 2016

📍 Google Maps | Resort Website 

Loveland holds a special place in my heart, as it’s where my husband and I learned to ski eight years ago. If you live in Denver and it’s your first season on the slopes, this is my top-recommended spot. This is because it’s easily accessible, relatively affordable, and comes with considerable perks. 

Get a 3-Class Pass, which comes with three half-day ski or snowboard classes, plus rentals. You can pay as you go and if you complete the course, you can purchase a season pass for just an additional $132. This gets you unlimited access to Loveland, plus days at multiple Colorado ski resorts including Purgatory, Silverton, and Monarch Mountain. 

Loveland also allows you to experience cat skiing without any additional cost. Also, it has an awesome annual tradition each Valentine’s Day: a group wedding and vow renewal on the slopes. What could possibly be cooler than skiing in your wedding dress? 

  • 📅 2025-2026 Dates: TBD
  • ❄️ Average Annual Snowfall: 422 inches / 1,072 centimeters 
  • 🎿 Elevation at Base: 10,800 feet / 3,292 meters 
  • 🏔️ Elevation at Summit: 13,010 feet / 3,965 meters  
  • 🚠 Lift Ticket Cost: $$
  • 🧭 Map: Loveland Winter Trail Map 
  • 📚 Related Reading: Loveland Pass

Monarch Mountain

⛷️ This ski area is one of the closest to Colorado Springs and will undergo a major expansion in the near future. 

The author, Abigail Bliss with her husband at the Monarch Mountain
A bluebird day at Monarch Mountain

📍 Google Maps | Monarch Mountain Website 

When I skied at Monarch Mountain a few years back, I met a good amount of visitors from Colorado Springs. While the ski area is a solid 2 hours and 30 minutes from the city, it is one of the metro area’s closest options — and worth the drive, too. 

This will be especially true in a couple of years, as Monarch Mountain just announced approval from the US Forest Service to develop 377 additional acres. But until then, enjoy a good selection of family-friendly runs, plus deep powder (I’m talking the deepest I’ve ever skied) within Mirkwood Basin. 

Ski Cooper (Leadville)

⛷️ This hidden gem is a great pick for families, as well as those looking for steep glades and few crowds. 

Clear blus ky over the Tennessee Basin
Tennessee Basin at Ski Cooper

📍 Google Maps | Ski Cooper Website | 👉 Book Your Stay on Booking

In my opinion, Ski Cooper is so underrated. Vail and Beaver Creek are just up the pass, and most travelers head that way — which I don’t think is a mistake since arguably, they’re more “destination-worthy.” 

But if you’re a local, don’t sleep on this small, but mighty resort. It’s affordable, far less crowded than others, and has a great selection of runs for all abilities. I especially love Tennessee Basin, the back side of the mountain. I’ve done countless laps on that T-bar, as it has some of the best double-black glades I’ve yet to come across. 

Silverton Mountain Ski Area

⛷️ Embark into the backcountry at the only ski area in Colorado to offer heliskiing.  

View of the Silverton Mountain
Silverton Mountain is one of the most extreme ski areas in the country

📍 Google Maps | Silverton Mountain Ski Area Website | 👉 Book Your Stay on Booking

If Aspen Highlands has “the best inbounds big-mountain skiing in the lower 48,” Silverton Mountain may take the crown for the best out-of-bound terrain. This ski area is for the experts among experts, having no groomed runs or cut trails. From December 28 – March 9, you must ski with a guide, as this is very much a backcountry experience. 

What’s especially unique about Silverton Mountain is the opportunity to heliski. Unlike anywhere else in the United States, you can purchase a single run — but that intense adrenaline rush will likely have you wanting more. 

Purgatory Resort (Durango)

⛷️ This resort in the southwest corner of the state welcomes all — and may make you consider a Powder Alliance pass. 

View of snowy mountain during sunset from Purgatory Resort
Sunset views at Purgatory Resort

📍 Google Maps | Purgatory Resort Website | 👉 Book Your Stay on Booking

Purgatory is the nearest ski resort to Durango, located just 30 minutes north of the city. It’s a large, well-developed resort with 107 trails, and all abilities are catered to right from the base area. Take the Twilight Lift to bunny hills, or the Purgatory Village Express for intermediate to expert runs. 

This resort appears on the Powder Alliance pass — as do Ski Cooper, Loveland Ski Area, and other resorts across North America. While pricing is similar to the Epic Local Pass and Ikon Base Pass (which doesn’t include Telluride), Powder Alliance is the best pick for those living in the southwest corner of the state. 

Wolf Creek Ski Area (Pagosa Springs)

⛷️ Offering affordable lift tickets, this independent ski area receives more annual snowfall than any other Colorado resort. 

Clear blue sky over the snowy San Juan Mountain
The San Juan Mountains are gorgeous in the wintertime

📍 Google Maps | Wolf Creek Ski Area Website | 👉 Book Your Stay on Booking

Wolf Creek Ski Area is 30 minutes from Pagosa Springs and about 90 minutes from Durango. Though Purgatory is much closer, many Durango denizens commute here, especially those attending Fort Lewis College. Reason being, the single-day lift ticket pricing cannot be beat. Visiting on peak dates costs $100, but can be as low as $66 for an adult ticket. 

Wolf Creek is one of the few remaining independent ski areas in Colorado and also receives the most annual snow among all others in the state. Expect deep powder stashes, steep chutes, and lots of trees, plus a dedicated learners’ area and cross-country trails. 

***

Thanks for reading! Where do you love to ski or ride? Leave a comment below, and check out our guide to the top destinations in Colorado next. 

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One Comment

  1. Breckenridge ski resort is my personal favorite. I was a beginner then and that is the best place to start and I must admit that you have written very well Laura!!
    Looking forward for more from you.

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