Best ski resorts in colorado for beginners – Visiting Guide
Snowfall amounts in major storms can be spectacular in Colorado, and the state boasts some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the nation. A range of skiing options is available, from top-end resorts with seemingly endless runs to smaller, family-run operations with groomed runs and some of the best hike-to possibilities in the country. If you are looking for the best ski resorts in Colorado then this is for you.
There are many factors to consider when choosing a Colorado ski resort, including personal preference, skiing skills, budget, the convenience of location, and even what time of year you want to ski. Colorado has resorts that offer both skiing and snowboarding. You will find the biggest and affordable ski resorts in Colorado for beginners to advanced ski lovers.
Best time to ski in Colorado
The ski season in Colorado begins in October and November and builds throughout the year, with the most snowfall in January, February, and March. In general, February is the greatest month for skiing in Colorado.
Spring skiing normally spans from mid-March until late April. Some resorts begin to close in late March or early April, with the majority closing by the end of April. Arapahoe Basin, which can stay open until June or even July, is one of the higher elevation ski resorts that stay open later.
In general, skiing in Colorado in December is hit-or-miss, as most resorts have Christmas snow. If you’re trying to time your ski trip to coincide with the best snowfall, February is your best choice. At this time of year, many resorts’ snowfall peaks.
Temperatures might be frigid in January, and resorts can be crowded in March owing to spring break. Lower-elevation ski resorts, such as Steamboat, usually reach their peak in February, with spring-like weather developing towards the end of the month and into March. Telluride, on the other hand, experiences its best snowfall in March.
10 Best Ski Resorts In Colorado
Ski Gear Guide editor team listed affordable and best 10 ski resorts in Colorado. Check them and let us know in a comment which one you liked!
1. Telluride Ski Resort:
As one of the most scenic ski towns in the United States, Telluride is located in a remote part of the San Juan Mountains. There’s no surprise Telluride has become such a popular resort destination, as it boasts a top-of-the-line ski resort with incredible terrain and consistent snowfall amounts.
There aren’t many places in Colorado where you can ski for such a long period of time. The resort has 2,000 acres of terrain, 8,725-foot base elevation, and 13,150-foot maximum elevation 4,425-foot vertical drop.
Beginners, intermediates, and experts will find runs on the mountain that suit their skill levels, and experts will find a substantial amount of hike-to terrain for more advanced skiing. Snowfall averages 300 inches per year.
If they choose to stay in Telluride instead of Mountain Village, skiers can ski all the way down to the town when done skiing or ride the gondola. This is one of the biggest ski resorts in Colorado. There are not many green runs from the gondola down to town, and they are steeper than many skiers want to attempt at the end of the ski day.
Covid Safety: Wear a face mask in a public place and when unable to maintain six feet of physical distance from others.
Advantages:
- Terrain with exceptionally advanced features
- Colorado’s best-designed mountain is easy to navigate
- The picturesque Colorado western town offers a contemporary twist on the old West.
Disadvantages: Getting to Colorado ski resorts can be challenging.
- Opening Date: Nov 25, 2021
- Closing Date: Apr 3, 2022
Telluride Ski Resort Colorado Map
Resort Booking and for other information you can visit their website.
2. Vail Mountain Resort:
It’s no wonder why Vail is the most popular skiing destination in Colorado. This is one of the largest resorts in the world, with some of Colorado’s greatest terrain. The seven back bowls are big enough to keep skiers busy for a whole season. There are certainly many who never venture into the back bowls. Also, this is the best ski resort in colorado for beginners.
The resort’s wide and varied terrain can easily accommodate all kinds of skiers, from beginners to experts, and regardless of the weather, you can nearly always find good conditions anywhere on the mountain. Beginners and intermediates prefer the groomed front slopes, while more advanced skiers and experts will enjoy the backside’s great tree skiing, moguls, and steeps.
It is one of the most recognizable and recognized resorts in North American skiing as the flagship mountain of Vail Resorts, the business behind the EPIC Pass. Vail is one of the rare ski destinations that has it all: massive terrain and a world-class ski community. It is often referred to as the crowning jewel of Colorado ski resorts.
Green and blue groomers abound on the front side of the mountain, while the seven back bowls are ideal for advanced skiers. There are many restaurants, stores, and après-ski options in the resort’s attractive European-style villages. Keep in mind that with high-end features like heated sidewalks, Vail attracts crowds and costs a lot of money.
The two main beginner skiing zones are located at the base of Golden Peak and above Lionshead, grouped around the Little Eagle Lift. Both areas offer magic carpets, ski schools, and slow-moving lifts, making them excellent for learning to ski.
Covid Safety:
Indoor environments, such as restaurants, lodging properties, restrooms, retail and rental locations, and buses, will require face coverings. Unless local public health requires it, face coverings will not be required outside, in lift lines, or on chairlifts or gondolas. Indoor, on-mountain quick-service cafeteria-style restaurants will demand guests to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccinations. Guests aged 12 and up will be required to provide proof of vaccination at such locations.
Advantages:
- There are many restaurants, stores, and après-ski options in the resort’s attractive European-style village.
- Regardless of the weather, you can always find nice conditions anywhere on the mountain.
- A charming pedestrianized ski town with a variety of dining and retail opportunities.
Disadvantages:
There are a lot of people and it’s expensive.
Vali SKi Resort Map Calorado
Vail Mountain Ski Resort Colorado Opening and Closing Date
- Opening Date: Nov 12, 2021
- Closing Date: Apr 19, 2022
Resort Booking and for other information you can visit their website.
3. Aspen Snowmass:
With four separate ski resorts surrounding Aspen, there are four distinct types of terrain to explore: Aspen Mountain, the perfect place for beginners. Aspen Highlands, the ideal area for advanced and expert skiers; and Snowmass.
The most renowned and largest of the four resorts with 3,100 acres (of a total 5,517 acres) of skiing terrain. Aspen Snowmass is the most popular ski resort, given its diverse and expansive terrain. It may still be possible to take a trip to all four while staying in Aspen.
There are only pedestrian-only streets lined with restaurants and shops in Snowmass Village, the base of the mountain. If you plan to ski at Snowmass, this is a good place to stay.
Every night between 3:30 and 4:30 pm, Snowmass offers free s’mores by the fire pits in the Base Village and at the Snowmass Mall.
The Winter X-games are regularly held at Buttermilk, despite its relatively small area of terrain. There are many beginners and intermediate runs at Buttermilk. According to Aspen mountain’s contracts, beginner runs are not available.
Although there are beginner and intermediate slopes at Aspen Highlands, these runs are geared toward advanced and expert skiers.
Covid Safety:
It’s winter, lifts are spinning, and resort authorities are delighted to celebrate our 75th Anniversary all season long. They intend to keep their doors open, operate at maximum capacity, and keep the community, guests, and employees safe during this winter. They will apply some rules throughout the resort, and guests will need to read their guidelines carefully beforehand and follow them precisely.
Advantages:
- The four Aspen ski resorts that are covered by the same lift ticket offer a massive quantity of terrain. The Ikon Pass allows admission to the ski regions as well. Aspen Snowmass is known for its high-quality services and amenities, as well as its renowned ski school.
- Aspen is a lovely town, and we consider it to be one of Colorado’s top ski towns. Aspen town has a diverse selection of restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as some interesting people to observe.
- A highlight is the nightlife and après-ski activities.
- The Aspen ski resorts provide a wide range of activities in addition to skiing and snowboarding.One of the biggest ski resorts in Colorado .
Disadvantages :
- Aspen is probably not a place to ski or snowboard on shoes, but you pay for the quality you get with the huge terrain, great resort infrastructure, and world-class service.
- Although the resorts are near to one another, the slopes do not connect them; however, there is a free shuttle service that runs between Aspen and the ski resorts.
Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort Map
- Opening Date: Nov 25, 2021
- Closing Date: Apr 17, 2022
Resort Booking and for other information you can visit their website.
4.Purgatory Resort:
Purgatory Mountain Resort, formerly Durango Mountain Resort, is primarily a family-oriented ski hill in the San Juan Mountains, just outside of Durango. Although facilities are being renovated regularly, this is a local’s mountain with a pleasant vibe and an old-school approach. It’s also known for providing good value, with low-cost lift tickets and amenities.
Purgatory’s terrain has typically been oriented toward beginner and intermediate skiers and snowboarders. Those with advanced skill levels, on the other hand, have always been able to find new challenges here. This is the best ski resort in colorado for beginners. You can visit.
Advantages:
- Family skiing abounds at Purgatory, and even better, kids 12 years old and younger ski for free.
- It is also very inexpensive if you stay in Durango while on the Purgatory ski vacation.
- Beginners and intermediates alike will enjoy the vast number of big, long cruiser runs.
- The terrain park is also very nice.
- Several nearby attractions include Mesa Verde, an adventurous trip that can’t be missed.
- The Purgatory Ski Resort is adjacent to a large area where cat skiing can be done.
- Parents can save money by enrolling their children under the age of 12 in a free ski program with no blackout dates.
Disadvantages :
- There is less snowfall in Purgatory Durango than at nearby ski resorts.
- In addition to the growing tree zones, the resort has no alpine terrain and there is only limited variety for experts.
Purgatory Resort Ski Resort Map :
- Opening Date: Nov 20, 2021
- Closing Date: Apr 3, 2022
Resort Booking and for other information you can visit their website.
5. Breckenridge Best Ski resorts in Colorado:
Breckenridge is home to some of the best slopes in Colorado with 187 trails spread across five peaks. Among its other notable attractions is the 12,840-foot Imperial Express SuperChair, which is the highest chairlift in North America.
From this height, you can spot the peaks of Colorado’s astonishing fourteeners, which are all located within a few miles of the ski resort. Make sure you stay safe when you come here as altitude sickness is possible.
With groomers, terrain parks, and powder bowls, Peak 8 is without a doubt the center of the ski area. Breckenridge isn’t just known for skiing, it’s also known for being a party town with a wide selection of apres-ski activities and nightlife.
There are some excellent beginner skiing opportunities in Breckenridge. There are two magic carpets and a ski school on the lower half of Peak 9. In the main town, there is a gondola that takes you to Peak 8, another great skiing spot.
All five of Breckenridge’s peaks have plenty of terrain for beginner skiers. Because many of these courses are large and mellow, they are also appropriate for beginner skiers. Almost half of the terrain at Breckenridge is the black or double-black diamond for skilled skiers.
Covid Safety: Cover your face in a designated area and keep a physical distance of at least 6 feet between yourself and other guests. Hands should be washed and sanitized regularly.
Advantages:
- It’s fantastic to visit the antique mining town. You can go shopping, eat in restaurants, and partake in the lively après-work and nightlife.
- Because of the town’s excellent placement with the Breckenridge ski resort, there is plenty of ski-in/ski-out lodging.
- Breck’s terrain is excellent for beginners and extremely decent for intermediates.
- The terrain parks at the resort are well-known.
- Breckenridge is located near many different ski resorts.
Disadvantages :
- Breckenridge, Colorado is a popular tourist destination. You simply need to be more choosy to help others. The slopes become stuck and worn out as a result of congestion. Crowds and traffic jams are commonplace in restaurants.
- There are several lifts at Breckenridge Ski Resort, but many of them are slow and/or surface lifts.
Breckenridge ski resort Map:
- Opening Date: Nov 12, 2021
- Closing Date: May 03, 2022
Resort Booking and for other information you can visit their website.
6. Keystone SKi Resort :
Keystone is made up of three mountains, each of which leads you further into the forest and away from the resort. As a result, the less crowded the skiing becomes the deeper you go. This is a major resort with 20 lifts and terrain for all levels of skiers and snowboarders, making it ideal for families. If you are looking for affordable and best ski resorts in Colorado then it will be a good choice.
River Run and Lakeside are the two villages in Keystone. The primary village at the mountain’s base is River Run Village. This is where the action is for skiers. It has a range of casual dining alternatives that are ideal after a day on the slopes.
The parking is convenient and free, making spending a day skiing at this mountain simple and reasonable compared to other nearby resorts, such as Vail, where parking is scarce and fees are correspondingly costly.
Lakeside Village is situated around a small lake, as the name suggests. It freezes over in the winter and transforms into a massive skating rink. The lake is surrounded by shops, restaurants, and residences.
Covid Safety: Resort authorities request their guests to cover their face in a designated area and keep a physical distance of at least 6 feet between themselves and other guests. Hands should be washed and sanitized regularly.
Advantages:
- Keystone Ski Resort is an excellent all-arounder, featuring a diverse selection of ski and snowboarding options.
- It is a family-friendly attraction with a variety of activities to keep everyone amused.
- The terrain of Keystone Resort is reasonably large, and the lift system is well-developed and efficient.
- Great terrain parks, fantastic midlands, diverse developed terrain, and some of the best night skiing in the United States can all be found at Keystone Ski Resort.
- Snackat shuttles allow access to superb ball skiing, and a full-day Keystone Cat skiing adventure is available right close to the ski mountain.
- Affordable ski resorts in colorado
Disadvantages :
- In comparison to nearby ski slopes, Keystone Ski Resort receives much less snow.
- It’s part of the Epic Pass, which offers fantastic value, but Keystone Resort Colorado is always crowded.
- Expert and extreme terrain are limited, but that doesn’t imply it doesn’t exist.
Keystone Ski Resort Trail Map :
Opening Date: Targeting an unbelievable mid-October, 2021
Closing Date: April 11, 2022
Resort Booking and for other information you can visit their website.
7. Steamboat Ski Resort in Colorado:
Mount Werner, located outside of Steamboat Springs, is the focal point of the Steamboat Ski Resort. The mountain receives plenty of snow each year, with an average of 334 inches. The term “Champagne Powder Snow,” which refers to the dry, fluffy powder that Steamboat is known for, has been trademarked by the resort.
The peak is 10,568 feet above sea level, with a base elevation of 6,900 feet. This is not especially high by Colorado standards, and it may be a decent alternative for those concerned about the consequences of high altitude.
In the Pioneer Ridge area, an astonishing 355 acres of new terrain has been added, revealing some steep and deep powder stashes that were previously only known to locals. Check out the freshly rebuilt Hazie’s restaurant, one of Steamboat’s most famous eateries, if you’re hungry and want a little history on the side.
Advantages:
- Steamboat Colorado has excellent glade skiing amongst widely spaced trees, making it ideal for beginners.
- The Steamboat Ski Resort is an excellent all-around ski resort. Beginners and intermediates will enjoy the terrain.
- Steamboat is known for being a family-friendly resort, and children under the age of 12 skis for free with a parent or grandparent.
Disadvantages :
- Lift passes are pricey if purchased in advance, and even more so if purchased on the day.
- Experts will find virtually little tough terrain at Steamboat Ski Resort.
Steamboat Ski Resort Map
- Opening Date: Nov 27 2021
- Closing Date: Apr 13 2022
Resort Booking and for other information you can visit their website.
8. Beaver Creek Resort :
Beaver Creek Resort, which is owned by Vail Resorts, is just a short drive from Vail and only two hours from Denver. This resort is noted for its excellent customer service, well-kept trails, and welcoming atmosphere.
This hill, with over 1,800 acres of skiable terrain, offers a wide range of courses for all abilities, but it is one of Colorado’s greatest beginner ski resorts. The resort grooms the slopes to perfection, making it ideal for first-time skiers.
The chairlift is reached through escalators that transport passengers up several flights of stairs from the town, and guides are always on hand to help tired and suffering skiers. There is never any ice buildup on the town sidewalks since they are heated.
With a base elevation of 8,100 feet and a summit elevation of 11,400 feet, the mountain is the lowest of the area’s large resorts. This makes it a suitable alternative for folks concerned about altitude sickness who are flying in from lower elevations. If you’re planning a multi-day journey that includes visits to many ski resorts, starting at Beaver Creek will help mitigate the impacts of altitude.
The strange Beaver Creek Village is located at the start of the ski resort. It’s a terrific location to unwind after a day of skiing or snowboarding by sitting at the outdoor table and watching the last of the skiers descend the slope. On the hillside behind the restaurants and establishments, there is a lovely open place for pedestrians. Center chairs, a fire pit, and a big outdoor skating rink may all be found here. The open space is surrounded by shops and restaurants.
Covid Safety: Indoor areas, such as resort restaurants, lodging properties, restrooms, retail and rental locations, and buses, will require face coverings.
Unless local public health authorities require them, face coverings will not be required outside, in lift lines, or on chairlifts or gondolas. To dine at its indoor, on-mountain quick-service (cafeteria-style) restaurants, guests aged 12 and over will be asked to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccinations.
Advantages:
- Beaver Creek Resort is an excellent all-arounder for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. The corduroy for beginners and intermediates is particularly well-known.
- Many of the accommodations in Beaver Creek are ski-in/ski-out.
- It’s a well-kept resort with excellent amenities, restaurants, and stores, as well as a diverse choice of non-skiing activities
Disadvantages :
- Expert powder hounds in Colorado have better options.
- While the lift lines at Beaver Creek aren’t as long as those at Vail, it’s still a busy resort where powder hounds will have a hard time finding long-lasting freshies.
Beaver Creek SKi Resort Map
Opening Date: Nov 24, 2021
Closing Date: Apr 13, 2022
Resort Booking and for other information you can visit their website.
9. Silverton Mountain:
Silverton Ski Resorts provide a one-of-a-kind experience that many people fantasize about. A single, ancient double chairlift transports skiers and snowboarders to hike-to terrain at the top of the mountain. Backcountry skiing with a lift is essentially what it is. One of the best ski resorts in Colorado.
This ski and snowboard resort is only for advanced and expert skiers and snowboarders, and visitors come for the powder. There are no groomed courses and the area receives an unusually high amount of snowfall, with yearly totals of roughly 400 inches.
Before heading up the mountain, everyone is dressed in avalanche gear. Guests are picked up as they exit the runs, about a kilometer down the road from the lodge, and shuttled back to the base in old school buses.
A home-built, tent-covered tent serves as the base lodge. This isn’t a luxurious resort by any means. It does, however, boast excellent skiing, a sizable following of skiers who live for this type of terrain and experience, and an environment unlike any other in Colorado. Everyone is excited for a fun day of skiing, and the rustic atmosphere is appreciated.
For a price, Silverton offers a program where you can be paired with a local who will ski with you all day and show you the best snow on the mountain. Heli-skiing and heliboarding are also available at Silverton Mountain. Six of the runs are in regions protected for heli-tours. This is also an affordable ski resort in Colorado.
Covid Safety: Face masks are required by the state of Colorado and must be worn at all ski areas. At Silverton Mountain, you must wear a mask at all times, including while riding the lift. The only times when masks are not essential are when hiking or skiing. Before entering any congregation location, such as shuttle stops, masks must be worn. Before entering the parking lot, masks must be worn at all times. Social distancing is also required.
Advantages:
- You can complement your lift-accessed backcountry-type experience with heli-skiing.
- Cheap Silverton Colorado accommodation, such as dining and drinks.
Disadvantages :
- At Silverton Mountain, it’s all about quality above quantity. You’re not going to get a lot of verticals every day.
- It’s not uncommon for guided groups to be mismatched by fitness and ability, which can lead to a less-than-ideal experience for people on either end of the spectrum.
- Opening Date: Nov 25, 2021
- Closing Date: Mid April 2022
10. Copper Mountain :
Copper Mountain is great for anyone wishing to ski some of Colorado’s most well-known ski slopes at a more modest price. The mountain is naturally divided into three sections: advanced, intermediate, and beginner terrain. One of the best ski resorts in colorado for beginners.
There are a variety of family activities available in addition to skiing, including a four-lane tubing hill, the Rocky Mountain Coaster, and an indoor training center with trampolines and foam pits.
At the base of the mountain, there are three villages: Center Village, East Village, and West Village.
Most people prefer to stay in Center Village because it is close to the resort’s dining and shopping opportunities. The intermediate slopes, the Rocky Mountain Coaster, and ice skating on West Lake are all within easy reach.
Copper’s tubing hill and JJ’s Rocky Mountain Tavern are both located in the East Village. You won’t find much else on this end of the resort unless you’re a more expert skier.
The West Village is quieter and has fewer conveniences, but it has the finest access to a lot of green space. Here is also where the ski school is located, making it ideal for beginners and families.
Covid Safety: At Copper Mountain, masks are needed on buses but are not necessary for other areas of the resort. According to CDC rules, all unvaccinated individuals should wear masks while indoors at Copper.
Advantages:
- Copper Mountain Colorado is a family-friendly resort with excellent children’s programs.
- The ski area offers challenging high alpine bowls as well as spectacular vistas.
- The terrain parks are excellent, and for those with a superpipe inclination, there is a fantastic superpipe.
Disadvantages :
- There isn’t much nightlife out there.
Copper Mountain SKi Map
Opening Date: Nov 30, 2021
Closing Date: Mid April 2022
Resort Booking and for other information you can visit their website.
Recommended to read: Best Ski Resorts in Utah.
