Ultimate Guide to the 32 Ski Resorts in Colorado

The list of Colorado ski resorts is jam packed with gems in all corners of the Rockies. Depending on how each season kicks off, Colorado can have as many as 32 ski areas operating at its peak winter.

The Rocky Mountains are known the world over for its ski and snowboarding destinations. And there’s no shortage of variety, regardless of whether you’re a true beginner or an expert who’s been riding the slopes your entire life. With around thirty ski areas to choose from, it can be daunting trying to pick one.

Most visitors head to the big resorts along I-70, such as Breck, Vail and Copper. Several share the same season passes. All are fantastic mountains, but they often overshadow Colorado’s other gems. If you’re having trouble figuring out which Colorado ski resort would be the best option for you, take a look at this easy guide. Find the one that will be the right fit for you and your next holiday.

It’s worth noting that some of the small town ski areas, especially the tiny city run resorts, may or may not open each season depending on early season snow blessings. Here is a list and map of all the ski areas in Colorado, in alphabetical order.

Arapahoe Basin Ski Area

Arapahoe Basin. Photo: reid.neureiter

Arapahoe Basin or A Basin, as it’s better known by the locals, is a relaxed and laid-back mountain, featuring some of the highest skiable terrain in North America, as well as a long season to keep you skiing until the last drop of snow has melted.

With over 1,428 acres of trails to choose from and 145 trails, there’s just about every type of terrain that your heart can imagine. However, the mountain appeals more towards intermediate and expert riders who want a challenge. At just over an hour from Denver, this is where the locals go to enjoy a day skiing and tailgating at “The Beach” (A Basin’s parking lot).

Mountain Stats:

Annual Snowfall: 350 in / 889 cm
Base Elevation: 10,780 ft / 3,286 m
Summit Elevation: 13,050 ft / 3,978 m
Skiable Area: 1,428 acres / 578 hectares
Snowmaking: 125 acres / 51 hectares
Bowl Skiing: Yes
Cat Skiing: No
Terrain Parks: 2
Website: arapahoebasin.com

Aspen Highlands Ski Resort

Aspen Highlands. Photo: michael.stockton

The lesser-known of its 3 other resort cousins in Aspen/Snowmass, Aspen Highlands is a local favorite for its uncrowded slopes and views of the gorgeous Maroon Bells.

With 144 trails over 1,040 acres filled with groomers to cruise and bowls to run, Aspen Highlands is a gem to experts. Over 2/3rds of its terrain is comprised of double black diamonds!

If you can’t get enough of the heavy workout, try uphilling–the mountain has designated routes for those of us who can’t get enough of those crisp winter days. And for those of you who love tree skiing, Aspen Skiing Company recently completed a glading project to allow you to find more room to roam the woods.

Mountain Stats:

Annual Snowfall: 300 in / 762 cm
Base Elevation: 8,040 ft / 2,451 m
Summit Elevation: 12,392 ft / 3,777 m
Skiable Area: 1,040 acres / 421 hectares
Snowmaking: 121 acres / 49 hectares
Bowl Skiing: Yes
Cat Skiing: Yes
Website: aspensnowmass.com

Aspen Mountain Ski Resort

Aspen Mountain. Photo: Kevin Chang

This resort is situated closest to downtown Aspen, a mining town established in the late 1800s. From there, it’s an easy ride up the Silver Queen Gondola up to ski village. That’s where the easy rides stop, however.

Aspen Mountain is known for its expert runs, with 675 skiable acres full of black diamonds. So don’t count on greens or blues if you come here. The 76 total runs will satisfy your craving for a challenge–and you’ll be able to brag about skiing down the same exact trails that World Cup finalists have tackled. If you’re looking for a workout, look no further than Aspen Mountain.

Mountain Stats:

Annual Snowfall: 300 in / 762 cm
Base Elevation: 7,945 ft / 2,422 m
Summit Elevation: 11,212 ft / 3,417 m
Skiable Area: 675 acres / 273 hectares
Snowmaking: 210 acres / 85 hectares
Bowl Skiing: Yes
Cat Skiing: Yes
Website: aspensnowmass.com

Beaver Creek Ski Resort

Beaver Creek. Photo: Francisco Carbajal

Just a short drive down Highway I-70 from Vail is the lesser-known Beaver Creek, which spans 1,832 acres of beautiful Rocky Mountain powder. Featuring an Olympic downhill run dubbed “Birds of Prey”, Beaver Creek is a regular stop on the Men’s World Cup tour and has hosted the Alpine World Tour twice.

For those of us non-Olympic skiers, Beaver Creek has a little bit of everything in terms of terrain, so you won’t need to ride over to neighboring Vail just yet! With 3 terrain parks to choose from and 150 trails, you won’t regret stopping at this gem.

Mountain Stats:

Annual Snowfall: 325 in / 826 cm
Base Elevation: 8,100 ft / 2,469 m
Summit Elevation: 11,440 ft / 3,488 m
Vertical Rise: 3,340 ft / 1,,018 m
Skiable Area: 1,832 acres / 741 hectares
Bowl Skiing: Yes
Cat Skiing: No
Terrain Parks: 3
Website: beavercreek.com

Breckenridge Ski Resort

Breckenridge. Photo: Sanjoy Ghosh

Located an hour and a half from Denver is the historic mining town of Breckenridge, full of beautiful mountain vistas and some of the most variable terrain in the state. Breckenridge Ski Resort, fondly known as “Breck”, has over 2,908 acres of skiable track, as well as just about something for every kind of rider out there.

That acreage covers 187 trails, allowing you to choose the perfect run for your skill level. And with 4 terrain parks that include 2 half pipes, you’ll have tons of space to practice your freestyle riding.

Mountain Stats:

Annual Snowfall: 366 in / 930 cm
Base Elevation: 9,600 ft / 2, 657 926 m
Summit Elevation: 12,998 ft / 3,962 m
Vertical Rise: 3,398 ft / 1,036 m
Skiable Area: 2,908 acres / 1,176 hectares
Snowmaking: 657 acres / 266 hectares
Bowl Skiing: Yes
Cat Skiing: No
Terrain Parks: 4
Website: breckenridge.com

Buttermilk Mountain Ski Area

Buttermilk. Photo: bradbarrish

Buttermilk Mountain has 2 sides to it. On one hand, there’s Buttermilk’s world-renowned reputation as long-running Winter X Games and Red Bull Double Pipe host has led to its rise as a destination for freestyle riders and skiers. Buttermilk Park features tons of natural elements, as well as a 22ft superpipe for the experts.

On the other hand, there’s Buttermilk’s family-friendly personality–over half of the trails are greens and blues, allowing you and your family to learn and glide on over ten kilometers of uncrowded runs. With 44 trails to choose from over the mountains 470 acres of skiable land, there’s something just everyone in the family.

Mountain Stats:

Annual Snowfall: 200 in / 508 cm
Base Elevation: 7,870 ft / 2,399 m
Summit Elevation: 9,900 ft / 3,018 m
Skiable Area: 470 acres / 190 hectares
Snowmaking: 108 acres / 44 hectares
Bowl Skiing: No
Cat Skiing: No
Website: aspensnowmass.com

Chapman Hill Municipal Ski Area

Chapman Hill Municipal Ski Area.

If you’re looking for a local family favorite in the Four Corners area, Chapman Hill is bound to delight. This tiny ski hill in Durango features 2 ropes to ascend the single run, as well as a small terrain park.

The nearby skate area is an ice skating rink in winter and a roller skating rink in summer. If you’re in town and want to visit a hidden gem, check out Chapman Hill.

Mountain Stats:

Annual Snowfall: 67 inches / 170 cm
Base Elevation: ~6,591 ft / 2,009 m
Summit Elevation: ~6,755 ft / 2,059 m
Skiable Area: Tiny
Snowmaking: No
Bowl Skiing: No
Cat Skiing: No
Terrain Parks: 1
Website: durango.org/discover-durango/chapman-hill-1

Copper Mountain Ski Resort

Copper Mountain. Photo : Philip Larson

This Summit County resort is another favorite located just an hour and a half from Denver. And being among the very first resorts to open each season only sweetens the deal. A family-friendly destination for kids and adults alike, Copper Mountain features something for just about everyone to enjoy.

Copper Mountain boasts 140 trails over 2,490 skiable acres, with a very even distribution of beginner/intermediate runs and expert level runs. Experts can also take advantage of the free cat skiing available to guests, as well as the 6 terrain parks for freestylers.

Mountain Stats:

Annual Snowfall: 305 in / 774 cm
Base Elevation: 9,712 ft / 2,946 m
Summit Elevation: 12,441 ft / 3,792 m
Vertical Drop: 2,738 ft / 835 m
Skiable Area: 2,490 acres acres / 985 hectares
Snowmaking: 364 acres / 148 hectares
Bowl Skiing: Yes
Cat Skiing: Yes
Terrain Parks: 1
Website: coppercolorado.com

Cranor Hill Ski Area

Cranor Hill Ski Area in Gunnison.

Take yourself back to a time of nostalgia, when skiing depended upon snowfall, not machines. Cranor Hill, an old favorite in Gunnison (since 1962), only opens when conditions are right, so support them if you can catch them during a powder season.

With 4 runs and 1 lift, this small ski area packs a lot of punch when the powder is fresh, with 400 vertical feet of terrain to ride.

Mountain Stats:

Crested Butte Mountain Resort

Snowboarding Crested Butte Mountain Resort. Photo: TRAILSOURCE.COM

Crested Butte dubs itself “a real Colorado ski town”, with no traffic lights and no high rises. The mountain itself is truly a getaway from resort towns, located 5 hours from Denver.

The mountain is also famous for its butte-shaped peak and inbound skiing, as well as its terrain park equipped with a superpipe. For skiers and riders of all skill levels, the 121 trails over 1,547 acres of varied terrain are sure to please.

Not only that, Crested Butte Mountain Resort is surrounded by 1.7 million acres of National Forest, where snowshoeing, fat biking, and cross country skiing are popular winter activities. From anywhere on this mountain, you’ll be afforded the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains, and breathe a sigh of relief that you’re truly among the wilderness.

Mountain Stats:

Annual Snowfall: 234 in / 594 cm
Base Elevation: 9,375 ft / 2,856 m
Summit Elevation: 12,162 ft / 3,707 m
Vertical Rise: 2,775 ft / 846 m (lift served); 3,062 ft / 933 m (short hike)
Skiable Area: 1,547 acres / 626 hectares
Snowmaking: 297 acres / 120 hectares
Bowl Skiing: Yes
Cat Skiing: No
Terrain Parks: Yes
Website: skicb.com

Echo Mountain Resort

Echo Mountain. Photo: Rob Lee

Take a trip to Colorado’s newest ski area, Echo, which boasts a location just 36 miles from Denver. With 16 runs, 1 terrain park, and 85 acres of skiable terrain it might not be the biggest or baddest, but it’s a good bang for your buck.

If you’re a true beginner, Echo might not be for you, as it features mostly intermediate terrain and very little in the way of beginner hills. However, there are coaches around who will offer tips and suggestions if needed, so if you’re confident but still learning, Echo is a great mountain to grow on.

Echo also features great night skiing until 9pm Tuesday through Saturday as well as a big terrain park with a lot of different features to practice on. Try your hand at tree skiing on some of the best new trails in the state.

Mountain Stats:

Annual Snowfall: 275 in / 699 cm
Base Elevation: 10,050 ft / 3,063 m
Summit Elevation: 10,650 ft / 3,246 m
Skiable Area: 60 acres / 24 hectares
Snowmaking: 40 acres / 16 hectares
Bowl Skiing: No
Cat Skiing: No
Terrain Parks: 1
Website: echomntn.com

Eldora Mountain Resort

Eldora Mountain. Photo: tgidenver

A local favorite for snowboarding in northern Colorado, Eldora is known for its diverse 680 acres of skiable terrain, 57 runs, and 3 world-class terrain parks. Eldora Mountain also boasts 100% groomed terrain, allowing you to float down the mountain on a cloud of fresh snow each day.

The variable terrain and over 300 inches of snow each year make Eldora a perfect destination for riders of all types. It’s also a great place to bring the whole family. It features a children’s center and a low-key family-friendly atmopshere that makes it perfect for those getaways with the little ones.

Mountain Stats:

Annual Snowfall: 300 in / 762 cm
Base Elevation: 9,200 ft / 2,804 m
Summit Elevation: 10,600 ft / 3,231 m
Skiable Area: 680 acres / 275 hectares
Snowmaking: 612 acres / 248 hectares
Bowl Skiing: Yes
Cat Skiing: No
Terrain Parks: 5
Website: eldora.com

Granby Ranch Ski Resort

Granby Ranch Ski Resort in Granby.

Located an hour and a half from Denver, Granby Ranch is a small mountain but has a reputation as a family-favorite. It’s widely regarded as one of the top places in Colorado to learn to ski.

With 2 mountains, 37 trails, and 406 acres of skiable land, there’s enough to keep the adults busy as well!Don’t forget, there’s also night skiing as well on Friday’s and Saturday’s, so you can enjoy your favorite activity under the beauty of the Colorado stars.

Mountain Stats:

Annual Snowfall: 120 in / 305 cm
Base Elevation: 8,202 ft / 2,500 m
Summit Elevation: 9,202 ft / 2,805 m
Skiable Area: 406 acres / 164 hectares
Snowmaking: 65 acres / 26 hectares
Bowl Skiing: No
Cat Skiing: No
Terrain Parks: 1
Website: granbyranch.com

Hesperus Ski Area

Hesperus Ski Area in Durango, CO.

Located just 15 minutes from historic downtown Durango, Hesperus Ski Area is a family-friendly ski area that’s perfect for the locals. At only 8,800 feet in elevation, it’s not the highest or the hardest (though it has some good expert runs), but Hesperus has some interesting features of its own.

The ski area boasts 26 runs, an unexpected amount of which are black diamonds. And while they might have an old and rickety chairlift, it’s a staple to the locals that enjoy some of the best night-skiing in southwestern Colorado.

Over 80% of the trails are lit for your enjoyment at after dark, affording views of some of the clearest starlit skies in the West. Enjoy the stars, the mountains, snow tubing, and a night of skiing with your family!

Mountain Stats:

Annual Snowfall: 150 in / 381 cm
Base Elevation: 8,100 ft / 2,469 m
Summit Elevation: 8,888 ft / 2,709 m
Skiable Area: 60 acres / 24 hectares
Snowmaking: 0 acres / 0 hectares
Bowl Skiing: No
Cat Skiing: No
Website: ski-hesperus.com

Howelsen Hill Ski Area

Howelsen Hill Ski Area. Photo: Dino Borelli

No matter which way you look at it, Howelsen Hill is a legendary ski area. Not only is it the oldest ski resort in Colorado, established over a century ago, but it is also home to over 70 Winter Olympians. Howelsen is perhaps best known for its long natural jumps, which created the perfect training grounds for those Olympians to practice upon.

It also has some of the most unique night skiing in the state. The trails overlook nearby downtown Steamboat Springs, lending a beautiful air to those chilly winter nights skiing with your family. Howelsen Hill is a must-visit on any trip to Steamboat Springs, especially if you’re looking to save a few bucks over Steamboat Ski Resort or ski after dark. It has 50 acres of skiable land and 28 trails to choose from, with 17 alpine trails and 9 nordic trails.

Mountain Stats:

Annual Snowfall: 170 in / 432 cm
Base Elevation: 6,696 ft / 2,041 m
Summit Elevation: 7,136 ft / 2,175 m
Skiable Area: 50 acres / 20 hectares
Snowmaking: 50 acres / 20 hectares
Bowl Skiing: No
Cat Skiing: No
Terrain Parks:2
Website: steamboatsprings.net

Kendall Mountain Ski Area

Family enjoying Kendall Mountain.

If you’re not up for the all-expert runs of Silverton Ski Area, Kendall might be more your speed. This local gem was first opened in the 1960s as a resort. When it closed down in 1983, the city bought the land and turned the park into a community spot.

Kendall Mountain Ski Area is geared towards beginners and families, with only 1 chairlift, 4 trails, a few tree runs, and a small terrain park. But if you want a more relaxed and communal experience than the expert terrain up the highway, this spot is perfect for you.

Mountain Stats:

Annual Snowfall: 200 in / 508 cm
Base Elevation: 9,313 ft / 2,839 m
Summit Elevation: 9,596 ft / 2,925 m
Skiable Area: 16 acres / 6 hectares
Snowmaking: 0 acres / 0 hectares
Bowl Skiing: No
Cat Skiing: No
Terrain Parks: 0
Website: colorado.gov

Keystone Ski Resort

Keystone Mountain. Photo: Amy the Nurse

This is another one of the resorts that’s close to Denver, but what most residents don’t know is that Keystone contains more skiable terrain than its more popular neighbor, Breckenridge. It also features the largest night skiing in Colorado, great for those clear chilly nights full of fresh powder.

Not only that, but with 3 mountains, Keystone has a trail for just about everyone, even advanced riders who love to freestyle in their Area 51 terrain park. At 3,148 acres of terrain and 128 trails for you to enjoy, Keystone is perfect for a winter weekend with friends.

Mountain Stats:

Annual Snowfall: 235 in / 597 cm
Base Elevation: 9,280 ft / 2,829 m
Summit Elevation: 12,408 ft / 3,782 m
Vertical Rise: 3,128 ft / 953 m
Skiable Area: 3,148 acres / 1249 hectares
Snowmaking: 662 acres / 268 hectares
Bowl Skiing: Yes
Cat Skiing: Yes
Terrain Parks: Yes
Website: keystoneresort.com

Lake City Ski Hill

Lake City Ski Hill in Hinsdale County. Photo: townoflakecity.co

If you like your riding with a side of nostalgia, then Lake City Ski Hill is for you. This small ski area features the oldest operating lift in the state, giving the same experience you had all those years ago on your first powder day. With six runs and a terrain park, there’s tons of old-time fun to be had at Lake City Ski Hill.

Mountain Stats:

Annual Snowfall: 95 in / 241 cm
Base Elevation: 8,600 ft / 2,621 m
Summit Elevation: 8,847 ft /2,697 m
Vertical Rise: 247 ft / 75m
Skiable Area: Tiny
Snowmaking: No
Bowl Skiing: No
Cat Skiing: No
Terrain Parks: 1
Website: townoflakecity.co/lake-city-ski-hill.html

Lee’s Ski Hill

Rope tow at Lee’s Ski Hill in Ouray.

Lee’s Ski Hill may not be famous for much, but what it lacks in vertical footage, it makes up for in charm. This fun little hill has only one trail, with only 75 feet to ascend on your way down. Bring the little ones, as tubing and sledding are also available close by.

Mountain Stats:

Loveland Ski Area

Loveland. Photo: Vicki Devine

53 miles west of Denver lies Loveland Ski Area, a large yet often-overlooked mountain. The area has over 1,800 acres of variable terrain for all tastes, along with 94 runs and an astounding average snowfall of 422 inches each year.

Don’t skip Loveland like most others do, as it’s a great place for intermediate and advanced riders, with open and steep trails to race down. The mountain also features the Loveland Valley for beginners. It’s a wonderful place to learn the basics, separate from the faster skiers of Loveland Basin. Don’t forget the free snowcat rides on The Ridge for amazing views!

Mountain Stats:

Annual Snowfall: 422 in / 1,072 cm
Base Elevation: 10,800 ft / 3,292 m
Summit Elevation: 13,010 ft / 3,965 m
Vertical Drop: 2,410 ft / 735 m
Skiable Area: 1,800 acres / 728 hectares
Snowmaking: 240 acres / 97 hectares
Bowl Skiing: Yes
Cat Skiing: Yes
Terrain Parks: 1
Website: skiloveland

Monarch Mountain

Riding Monarch Mountain. Photo: Grayskullduggery

Located just west of Salida, Monarch Mountain is a powder-haven that is also one of the oldest in Colorado. Its long and storied history begins in 1939. Today Monarch is a beautiful resort with some of the best and least-known views in Colorado.

Since it sits on the iconic Continental Divide Pass, you’ll experience some of the best terrain and views in the state. With an average snowfall of 350 inches and 800 acres of skiable land over 64 trails, you’ll find just about any kind of experience you’re looking for at Monarch. Experts looking for guaranteed freshies should consider the Monarch Cat Skiing.

Mountain Stats:

Annual Snowfall: 350 in / 889 cm
Base Elevation: 10,790 ft / 3,289 m
Summit Elevation: 11,952 ft / 3,643 m
Skiable Area: 800 acres / 324 hectares
Snowmaking: 0 acres / 0 hectares
Bowl Skiing: Yes
Cat Skiing: Yes
Terrain Parks: 2
Website: skimonarch.com

Powderhorn Mountain Resort

Powderhorn. Photo: bmoyles

Powderhorn is one of the most unique ski resorts in the state, located on the largest flat-top mountain the world, Grand Mesa. Get ready for insane western views, legendary tree skiing, and no lines. If you’re a newbie, their ski school will set you up in no time to explore the 1,600 acres of skiable track, 42 runs, and 2 terrain parks.

If you’re more of an adventurer, there’s also cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling available in the nearby public forests during the winter. This scenic resort is one you don’t want to miss! It’s the locals’ mountain for Grand Junction and Western Slopers.

Mountain Stats:

Annual Snowfall: 250 in / 635 cm
Base Elevation: 8,200 ft / 2,499 m
Summit Elevation: 9,850 ft / 3,002 m
Skiable Area: 1,600 acres / 647 hectares
Snowmaking: 42 acres / 17 hectares
Bowl Skiing: Yes
Cat Skiing: Yes
Terrain Parks: 2
Website: powderhorn.com

Purgatory Resort

Purgatory. Photo: Anna

Purgatory is a southern Colorado gem, located 25 miles north of Durango in the majestic San Juan Mountains. Carved by glaciers millennia ago, the landscapes of Purgatory will have you gaping in awe. With with a great mix of terrain, it’s a fantastic option for freestyle skiers and snowboarders who want to explore a rolling alpine playground.

There are 1,605 acres covering 88 runs and 5 terrain parks to choose from. Explore the acreage with your family on the beginner and intermediate trails, which comprise over half of the mountain’s terrain. There’s fun for everyone at Purgatory!

Mountain Stats:

Annual Snowfall: 260 in / 660 cm
Base Elevation: 8,793 ft / 2,680 m
Summit Elevation: 10,822 ft / 3,299 m
Skiable Area: 1,605 acres / 650 hectares
Snowmaking: 320 acres / 129 hectares
Bowl Skiing: No
Cat Skiing: Yes
Terrain Parks: 8
Website: purgatoryresort.com

Silverton Mountain Ski Area

Silverton. Photo: Bureau of Land Managem

If you consider yourself an expert skier or snowboarder, there’s nothing more boring than waiting in long lines at crowded resorts. Consider another, more unusual option – Silverton offers some of the steepest mountains in the state, and it’s more than just your average ski resort.

Every single inch of Silverton Mountain’s terrain is expert, with one chairlift servicing 1,819 acres of the best high mountain skiing in the state. There’s also an additional 22,000 acres only accessible by hiking or helicopter. Each rider is required to carry avalanche-detecting gear, as the runs pass right through a treacherous bundle of avalanche chutes.

If you’re up for some true thrills and chills, look into their heli-skiing options. Without a doubt, Silverton is truly a mountain made for freedom. And best of all, there’s always fresh powder.

Mountain Stats:

Annual Snowfall: 400 in / 1,016 cm
Base Elevation: 10,400 ft / 3,170 m
Summit Elevation: 13,487 ft / 4,111 m
Skiable Area: 26,819 acres / 10,853 hectares
Snowmaking: 0 acres / 0 hectares
Bowl Skiing: Yes
Cat Skiing: Yes
Terrain Parks: 0
Website: silvertonmountain.com

Ski Cooper

Ski Cooper. Photo: Mia & Steve Mestdagh

Ski Cooper has a long and patriotic history, first opening in 1942 as a training grounds for Special Forces during WWII. Though it operates as a resort today, it still retains the authentic atmosphere that it had back in the good ole days.

Cooper is a family-friendly mountain, with a good mix of beginner and intermediate runs spread out over its 400 skiable acres and 41 trails. If you want to explore a little further, snow cat tours are available on Chicago Ridge. They run through the San Isabel and White River National Forests, providing you with amazing views of the Rocky Mountains.

Mountain Stats:

Annual Snowfall: 260 in / 660 cm
Base Elevation: 10,500 ft / 3,200 m
Summit Elevation: 11,700 ft / 3,566
Skiable Area: 400 acres / 162 hectares
Snowmaking: 0 acres / 0 hectares
Bowl Skiing: No
Cat Skiing: Yes
Terrain Parks: 1
Website: skicooper.com

Snowmass Mountain Ski Resort

Ski Sequence. Photo: Ryan Ohh

Snowmass Mountain has over 150 miles of trails, enabling you to explore every part of the resort without overlapping yourself. With over a third of its trails being for rate difficult, Snowmass is the choice of intermediate and expert skiers when they travel to Aspen. This large mountain features 3,132 acres of skiable terrain, as well 91 runs to choose from.

Snowmass may not feature many of the easiest beginner runs, there’s no way you can argue it’s not a family-friendly place. With so many amenities for the kids, like a zipline park, alpine coaster, bike park, ice rink, and a climbing wall, your children will have the time of their lives.

Mountain Stats:

Annual Snowfall: 300 in / 762 cm
Base Elevation: 8,104 ft / 2,470 m
Summit Elevation: 12,510 ft / 3,813 m
Vertical Rise: 4,406 ft/ 1343 m
Skiable Area: 3,132 acres / 1,267 hectares
Snowmaking: 256 acres / 104 hectares
Bowl Skiing: Yes
Cat Skiing: No
Terrain Parks: Yes
Website: aspensnowmass.com

Steamboat Ski Resort

Steamboat Springs Ski Resort. Photo: Murray Foubister

Steamboat Ski Resort is comprised of an entire mountain range, covering several different types of terrain over its almost 3,000 acres of skiable track. This large favorite resort has 165 trails, over half of which are beginner and intermediate runs.

For experts, there are nearly as many trails, as well as 3 terrain parks to keep the freestylers occupied featuring a 450ft long superpipe. No matter what time of year, Steamboat has amazing activities for the whole family, including an alpine coaster, mountain biking, mini-golf, and a climbing wall.

Mountain Stats:

Annual Snowfall: 336 in / 853 cm
Base Elevation: 6,900 ft / 2,103 m
Summit Elevation: 10,568 ft / 3,221 m
Skiable Area: 2,965 acres / 1,200 hectares
Snowmaking: 375 acres / 152 hectares
Bowl Skiing: No
Cat Skiing: No
Terrain Parks: 3
Website: steamboat.com

Sunlight Mountain Resort

Sunlight Mountain. Photo: visitglenwood.com

Sunlight is an uncrowded resort located in Glenwood Springs. With a laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, Sunlight is a destination for those who want to escape the hectic crowds and trails of the bigger resorts. You’ll also save on cost and time wasted standing in line.

Not only is Sunlight Mountain Resort a great deal, but it also features entertainment for all skill levels of riders. Sunlight boasts 67 trails spanning 680 acres, with lots of intermediate terrain and the perk of beautiful tree skiing in the glades.

Mountain Stats:

Annual Snowfall: 250 in / 635 cm
Base Elevation: 7,880 ft / 2,402 m
Summit Elevation: 9,895 ft / 3,016 m
Skiable Area: 680 acres / 275 hectares
Snowmaking: 21 acres / 8 hectares
Bowl Skiing: No
Cat Skiing: No
Terrain Parks: 1
Website: sunlightmtn.com

Telluride Ski Resort

Telluride. Photo : mobil’homme

Telluride Ski Resort is truly a world-class snow destination located in its iconic box canyon. Featuring a free gondola from downtown to the ski village, not only is the town itself full of scenic vistas and festivals all year long, but the mountains are huge and there are tons of runs for every skill level. With 125 trails to choose from spread over 2,000 skiable acres, you’ll never run out of new turns to take.

Best of all, there is so much to do other than skiing. Not only are there some of the most beautiful scenic views along the miles and miles of biking trails, there is also an adventure park for the kids. Telluride is not one to miss!

Mountain Stats:

Annual Snowfall: 280 in/711 cm
Base Elevation: 8,750 ft / 2,667 m
Summit Elevation: 13,150 ft / 4,008 m
Skiable Area: 2,000 acres / 809 hectares
Snowmaking: 220 acres / 89 hectares
Bowl Skiing: Yes
Cat Skiing: No
Terrain Parks: 4
Website: tellurideskiresort.com

Vail Ski Resort

Vail. Photo: jrm353

If you want the iconic Colorado bowl experience, look no further than Vail Ski Resort. The largest resort in the state, this ski area is equipped with an incredible 5,317 acres of skiable land. So whatever kind of terrain you’re looking for, Vail has it.

Take a ride on one of the 31 lifts and explore the 193 trails spread out over the mountain’s serene hills. While the ski area is famous for its legendary black rated back bowls on powder days, there are also a ton of beginner and intermediate trails to enjoy. With over 350 inches of snow each year, there’s never a bad day to ski in Vail. it also has the most grooming in the state, so you’re assured good conditions if you can wake up for the corduroy.

Mountain Stats:

Annual Snowfall: 354 in / 899 cm
Base Elevation: 8,120 ft / 2,454 m
Summit Elevation: 11,570 ft / 3,527 m
Vertical Rise: 3,450 ft / 1,052 m
Skiable Area: 5,317 acres / 2,141 hectares
Snowmaking: Yes
Bowl Skiing: Yes
Cat Skiing: No
Terrain Parks: Yes
Website: vail.com

Winter Park Ski Resort

Winter Park. Photo: Bryon & Olivia

Located an hour and a half from Denver on the other side of Berthoud Pass, this resort is a favorite of front range locals for its wide range of trails to choose from. It’s part of the Ikon Pass, which also serves Copper Mountain and Steamboat.

Winter Park Ski Resort is well known as the side of the mountain best for beginners, while Mary Jane is better for the experts who love some steep terrain. With 143 trails to choose from and 3 terrain parks, there’s truly something for skiers and riders of every type and persuasion. This 3,000+ acre ski area is one that you and your friends don’t want to miss.

Mountain Stats:

Annual Snowfall: 327 in / 831 cm
Base Elevation: 9,000 ft / 2,743 m
Summit Elevation: 12,060 ft / 3,676 m
Skiable Area: 3,081 acres / 1,247 hectares
Snowmaking: 313 acres / 127 hectares
Bowl Skiing: No
Cat Skiing: Yes
Terrain Parks: 7
Website: winterparkresort.com

Wolf Creek Ski Area

Wolf Creek. Photo: Patrick Lewis

Located just 30 minutes from bubbly Pagosa Springs, Wolf Creek Ski Area is a southern classic that claims to have “the most snow in Colorado”. An average of 430 natural inches of snow each year to be precise.

There are 77 scenic trails and more than 1,600 skiable acres. Every member of the group will find some fun routes here with a good mix of terrain from beginner to expert. Nearby Pagosa Springs boasts hot springs and a historic downtown area if you’re craving relaxation and an Old Colorado vibe.

Mountain Stats:

Annual Snowfall: 430 in / 1,092 cm
Base Elevation: 10,300 ft / 3,139 m
Summit Elevation: 11,904 ft / 3,628 m
Skiable Area: 1,600 acres / 647 hectares
Snowmaking: 5 acres / 2 hectares
Bowl Skiing: Yes
Cat Skiing: Yes
Website: coloradoski.com

Thanks for checking out our list of all the fine ski areas in Colorado. From tiny to giant, there are hills and mountains for every level and budget. Here’s to a powder day!