Come winter, and there’s only one state in the US I’d rather be in. With snow-clad mountains and plenty of snowfall, the ski resorts in Colorado are the most coveted winter playground.

And rightly so! Colorado has some of the best skiing and snowboarding slopes in the country. From beginner slopes to more challenging terrains, venturing to Colorado will be an unforgettable experience for skiers of all levels.

Of course, all that fun and excitement can only be enjoyed if your accommodation matches your adventure level. What better way to end the perfect day on the slopes than by unwinding in front of a fire or soothing your limbs in a hot tub. Fun times indeed!

If you’re looking for the best ski resorts in Colorado but don’t know where to start. Don’t worry, because you needn’t look any further. In this guide, I have listed the 10 best Colorado ski resorts so you can hit the slopes much faster.

So, let’s get started…

In a Hurry? Here’s Where to Stay in Colorado for One Night

FIRST TIME IN COLORADO

Breckenridge

Close your eyes and just pick Breckenridge for your next winter getaway! One of the most popular and highest altitude ski resorts in Colorado, Breck is a resort that is friendly to every type of skier. Stay at River Mountain Lodge in Breckenridge and enjoy amenities such as free Wi-Fi and a full kitchen. Relax while soaking up in the hot tub or swimming in the outdoor pool with drinks at the on-site bar.

Is this amazing Colorado Ski Resort booked for your dates? We’ve got your back with our other favorite properties below!

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    What to Expect from Ski Resorts in Colorado?

    Staying at a Cabin in Colorado

    Planning a ski trip to Colorado is not a question of “if”, but a question of “when”. And when you’ve finally planned when you’re going to go, the only thing left is to decide which of the best of Colorado’s ski resorts you want to stay at.

    Whether you’re a serious skier or just want to meander down the slopes and enjoy the views, Colorado has a ski resort for you.

    After you’re done skiing, you can relax and unwind with some drinks over a warm bath at your ski resort accommodation.

    Ski resorts in Colorado are all about the best facilities and services, so you can be sure that you’ll find one that allows you to feel relaxed. They cater to every type of group, so if you’re travelling with family, for example, you’ll have facilities and fun things to do with kids.  

    You should note that ski resorts tend to be much pricier than staying in a hotel or cabin in Colorado since you get all the amenities with your stay too. That being said, you can find vacation rentals within a resort too, if you’re someone who prefers a self-catering holiday.

    What to look for in Ski Resorts in Colorado

    Since Colorado has a lot of slopes, the first thing you should think about is where to stay in Colorado, as you’ll want to base yourself near to slopes of your ski level.

    Many major ski resorts in Colorado are near Denver or within its range, like Breckenridge, Keystone, Vail and Copper Mountain. While a few others are more secluded, like Silverton and Telluride.

    You should also consider your budget, and how close you want to be to the slopes. Typically, the resorts that have direct access to the slopes are more expensive than those out of town. If you are staying out of town, make sure that your resort offers a shuttle bus to the ski lifts.

    Ski resorts all come with standard amenities, such as ski gear storage, heated pools, restaurants and bars. Some are more luxurious than others, and you might even find a resort with spa facilities and hot tubs.

    Since they are ski resorts, most rooms are largely luxurious and spacious. That being said, there is always a budget option or two. Some of which I have shown you in this list!

    Best Overall Ski Resort in Colorado
    Breckenridge
    Best Overall Ski Resort in Colorado

    Breckenridge

    • > $$$
    • > 2 guests
    • > Hot tub
    • > Swimming pool
    Best Budget Ski Resort in Colorado
    Crested Butte
    Best Budget Ski Resort in Colorado

    Crested Butte

    • > $$
    • > 2 guests
    • > Fitness Centre
    • > Hot tub
    Best Ski Resort in Colorado for Couples
    Keystone
    Best Ski Resort in Colorado for Couples

    Keystone

    • > $$$
    • > 2 guests
    • > Room service
    • > Spa and wellness centre
    Best Ski Resort in Colorado for Solo Traveller/Backpacker
    Snowmass Village
    Best Ski Resort in Colorado for Solo Traveller/Backpacker

    Snowmass Village

    • > $$
    • > 2 guests
    • > Hot tub
    • > Free Wi-Fi
    Best Ski Resort in Colorado for a Family
    Winter Park
    Best Ski Resort in Colorado for a Family

    Winter Park

    • > $$$
    • > 4 guests
    • > Ski-in/Ski-out
    • > Non-smoking
    Best Ski Resort in Colorado for Group of Friends
    Copper Mountain
    Best Ski Resort in Colorado for Group of Friends

    Copper Mountain

    • > $$$$
    • > Up to 7 guests
    • > Kitchen
    • > Mountain view
    Best Ski Resort in Colorado for Thrill-seekers
    Silverton
    Best Ski Resort in Colorado for Thrill-seekers

    Silverton

    • > $$$
    • > 2 guests
    • > Bar
    • > Mountain views

    Looking for other types of accommodation? Check out our guide to Where to Stay in Colorado!

    The 10 Best Ski Resorts in Colorado

    Now you know a little about what to expect from Colorado’s ski resorts, it’s time to start planning for your next winter ski getaway!

    Let’s slide right down and see which of these amazing ski resorts fits us.

    Best Overall Ski Resort in Colorado – River Mountain Lodge in Breckenridge

    Breckenridge
    • $$$
    • 2 guests
    • Hot tub
    • Swimming pool

    Breckenridge is not only the highest altitude ski resort in Colorado, but also one of the most popular. Spread over thousands of skiable acres and five mountains, River Lodge Mountain is a resort that has something for every type of skier.

    Breckenridge, or Breck, as it is fondly called, also boasts of the highest chairlift in North America – an experience you definitely cannot miss. This is also a great spot for those who love hiking in Colorado, since in the spring the slopes turn into beautiful hiking trails.

    Rooms are large and spacious and come with self-catering facilities. You’ll also have seating and dining areas as well as a dishwasher in the kitchen.

    The resort also has a hot tub and an outdoor pool, the perfect place to relax after a long day on the slopes.

    Budget Ski Resort in Mount Crested – The Lodge at Mountaineer Square

    Crested Butte
    • $$
    • 2 guests
    • Fitness Centre
    • Hot tub

    Known to some as “the last great ski town”, Crested Butte is one of the best ski resorts in Colorado for those on a budget.

    With some great backcountry terrain and plenty of runs, Crested Butte is suitable for all levels of skiers. It is renowned for its high-altitude, technical and steep skiing that would please more advanced skiers. A trip to the town will take you back in time, with its Old West Victorian-style architecture and vibes.

    Sitting near the base of the mountain, just a few minutes of walk away from the ski lifts, is The Lodge at Mountaineer Square. This accommodation provides apartments with basic kitchen appliances and a private bathroom with toiletries. The Lodge has an indoor/outdoor pool, a hot tub and a sauna too, so you can soothe those aching limbs after an active day.

    Budget Tip: Dorms in Colorado start from $10USD per bed. They’re the cheapest accommodation in the city. Search for hostels in the area!

    Best Ski Resort in Colorado for Couples – The Keystone Lodge

    Keystone
    • $$$
    • 2 guests
    • Room service
    • Spa and wellness centre

    The mountain playground that is Keystone is a laid-back and calm ski resort in Colorado. If you and your partner are looking for a romantic getaway on the slopes, Keystone is the place to be.

    With stunning views of the mountains and some incredible terrain, your getaway will sure be a memorable one. Take a romantic sleigh slide through the gorgeous scenery, or hit the golf courses nearby if you’re visiting in the summer.

    When you’ve called it a day, come back home to the Keystone Lodge and Spa for some relaxing time by the pool, in the sauna or in the hot tub. The couple’s treatment room at the state-of-the-art spa is the perfect place to be after a day of skiing. The Keystone Lodge and Spa offer facilities such as a fitness centre and bike rental in the summer.

    Best Ski Resort for Solo Travellers – Pokolodi Lodge in Snowmass Village

    Snowmass Village
    • $$
    • 2 guests
    • Hot tub
    • Free Wi-Fi

    Snowmass is part of four different ski resorts in Colorado that combine the most varied skiing experiences in the state. Snowmass is the largest and most popular though. Apart from skiing, it also offers plenty of other activities such as ice skating and zip-lining. Rest assured you’ll have a fabulous time!

    To mark your holiday with the perfect stay, check in to Pokolodi Lodge. This hotel is just a few minutes away from the ski slopes and the Snowmass Village Mall.

    Pokolodi Lodge offers cosy rooms within a reasonable budget. You will have free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV and a seating area. A room fridge and coffee maker are also provided. The resort also has a heated outdoor pool and hot tub.

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    Best Ski Resort for a Family – Zephyr Mountain Lodge, Winter Park

    Winter Park
    • $$$
    • 4 guests
    • Ski-in/Ski-out
    • Non-smoking

    If you’re looking for a family-friendly ski resort in Colorado, it’s Winter Park. It’s one of the more affordable ski resorts with some of the best skiing in Colorado. The variety of slopes in the resort cater to beginners as well as expert skiers.

    Children can find some fun non-ski things to do in Colorado nearby as well, such as ice bumper cars, tubing and snowmobiling.

    Just a few minutes of walk away from the ski lifts is the Zephyr Mountain Lodge. The lodge features spacious suites that are suitable for the whole family. Amenities include a fully-equipped kitchen, a living area with a fireplace (for those cosy story sessions!) and sofa beds.

    Wake up to some stunning panoramic mountain views and end your day with a relaxing soak in the hot tub!

    Best Ski Resort for Group of Friends – Copper Mountain Ski Hideaway

    Copper Mountain
    • $$$$
    • Up to 7 guests
    • Kitchen
    • Mountain view

    If you’re travelling with friends and searching for the best ski resorts in Colorado, look no further than the Copper Mountain Ski Resort.

    Copper Mountain has plenty of terrains and a mix of runs that cater to skiers and snowboarders of all levels. So grab your ski gear and make way to some of the best skiing in Colorado!

    Copper Mountain Ski Hideaway is the perfect accommodation for your group. Set in Copper Mountain, this luxury cabin in Colorado has several great amenities. It offers free Wi-Fi, TV, a dining area and a fully-equipped kitchen.

    The cosy bedrooms have ample space for you and your friends. The house also has a balcony with amazing views of the mountains. If you want to explore the area, at the foot of the mountain is a charming village with many dining and entertainment options.

    Best Ski Resort for Thrill-seekers – Grand Imperial Hotel, Silverton

    Silverton
    • $$$
    • 2 guests
    • Bar
    • Mountain views

    Silverton Mountain is among the best ski mountains in Colorado, since it’s the steepest and highest elevation in North America.

    This beast of a resort is just the place for all you thrill-seeking skiers. You can also choose to heli-ski, if you’re a seriously advanced skiier.

    Your perfect accommodation in Silverton should be the Grand Imperial Hotel, which is just 10km from Silverton Mountain Ski Area.

    Rooms at this hotel have comfy beds with private bathrooms. Enjoy easy access to activities in and around Silverton, such as hiking, cycling and of course, skiing. 

    Amazing Luxury Ski Resort in Colorado – Sonnenalp in Vail

    Vail
    • $$$
    • 2 guests
    • Buffet Breakfast
    • Spa and wellness centre

    When it comes to the best Colorado ski resorts, Vail is one of the biggest and best. It is one of the largest resorts in not only Colorado but the world. Vail has a varied terrain, making it suitable for all levels of skiers, from beginners to experts.

    While Vail is not as high as other ski resorts, it has heavy snowfall which make for excellent skiing conditions. If you’re looking for a luxury Colorado vacation, Vail has many high-end accommodations, shopping and fine dining.

    Sonnenalp is my first choice for a luxury ski resort in Vail. It is located just a few minutes from the Gondola One ski lift and is near many popular places to visit in Colorado. Sonnenalp offers ski passes, ski storage space and bike hire. Rooms at this resort come with plush and comfy beds and a private bathroom with toiletries.

    You’ll also have a living room and a fireplace, making your stay all the cosier. After a day of skiing, enjoy cocktails and live entertainment at the bar. Or relax in the sauna, the choice is all yours!

    Best Ski Resort in an Epic Location – The Peak Resort, Telluride

    Telluride
    • $$$
    • 2 guests
    • Ski-in/Ski-out
    • Spa& wellness center

    Secluded in the San Juan Mountains in Telluride, is one of the most scenic ski resorts in the state. Telluride is like a hidden gem waiting to be found. With its stunning scenery, Wild West town and top-end ski resort, Telluride has everything you need for winter fun.

    The mountain resort offers a good mix of runs for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. If you’re not up for skiing, you can still enjoy the mountains with a snowshoeing or snowmobile tour.

    The best place to stay is The Peaks Resort and Spa. This ski-in/ski-out resort is surrounded by mountains and offers easy access to some of the best skiing in Colorado. The Peaks Resort also features a helicopter for heli-skiing.

    Rooms at this place are standard, with large picture windows and super comfy beds. The resort has great dining options and a full-service spa too!

    Over-the-top Luxury Ski Resort in Colorado – St Regis in Aspen

    Aspen
    • $$$$
    • 2 guests
    • Ski-in/Ski-out
    • Room service

    If you want to be wowed, check out the St. Regis Aspen Resort. Located at the base of Aspen Mountain, this super luxury resort is an opulent building in red.

    With its façade made out of Colorado red bricks, it sure does stand out against the snow-covered mountains. With lavish furnishings, exquisite leather beds and private butler services, you’ll be so pampered you’ll forget you were meant to be skiing.

    Throw on your fluffy robe and relax in the heated pool or the hot tub. Enjoy cocktails and fine dining at St. Regis’s onsite restaurant. St. Regis also offers ski storage, equipment hire and bike hire for your convenience.

    Don’t Forget Your Colorado Travel Insurance

    ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

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    SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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    Final Thoughts on Ski Resorts in Colorado

    And there you have it, the 10 best Colorado ski resorts! This coming winter, I hope this guide helped you prepare for your next skiing adventure!

    With its many beautiful snow-clad mountains, and slopes for all skiing and snowboarding levels, no matter where you stay in Colorado you can be sure to have an epic time at one of these ski resorts.

    While you may be daydreaming about snowballs and warm fireplaces, and I don’t blame you, I just want to remind you to consider travel insurance.

    If you’re travelling internationally, buying a good insurance plan is a very smart idea, especially if you want to engage in winter sports, which can be dangerous. It’s better to be safe than sorry!


    And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!