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From upscale Aspen to family-friendly Snowmass Village, these Rocky Mountain towns are some of Colorado’s best ski destinations.
Fact checked by Elizabeth MacLennan
It takes more than just good terrain to create a truly remarkable ski town. When you’re walking in ski boots and carrying your equipment, easy access to the mountain is of paramount importance. Moreover, while skiing is likely the primary reason for your visit, many would argue that a vibrant après-ski scene, outstanding dining options, and diverse activities such as shopping, spas, snowshoeing, and sleigh rides are equally essential.
Consequently, we have narrowed down the extensive list of towns that serve as bases for Colorado’s 28 ski resorts, offering a select few that provide both charm and exceptional skiing. These destinations will keep you engaged from sunrise to sunset, showcasing stunning views and, of course, fantastic skiing.
Steamboat Springs
Best for: Soaking and skiing
No list of the best Colorado ski towns would be complete without Steamboat Springs, affectionately known as “Ski Town USA.” It boasts two ski resorts: the larger Steamboat Ski Resort with 23 lifts and 182 trails, and the Howelsen Hill Ski Area, Colorado’s oldest ski area located downtown.
If skiing isn’t your thing, consider renting snowshoes for local trails, embarking on a sleigh ride that includes dinner, or exploring downtown. The town, radiating a Wild West charm, features natural hot springs and over 100 restaurants and bars. Our recommendation: ski, soak, repeat.
Where to stay: The Steamboat Grand is ideally situated at the resort’s base, offering everything you could desire for an epic ski getaway, from a spa to an exquisite dining experience.
Aspen
Best for: Glitz and glamour
Aspen appeals to both enthusiastic skiers and visitors drawn by upscale shopping, luxurious après-ski, and five-star accommodations. Additionally, you can ski across four mountains with just one lift ticket. After conquering Aspen Mountain, easily access Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, or Snowmass via a quick drive or complimentary bus ride.
Where to stay: For convenient ski access, consider the five-star St. Regis Aspen Resort located at the base of Aspen Mountain, allowing a hassle-free transition to the slopes.
Crested Butte
Best for: Small-town charm
Crested Butte has a smaller population compared to the ski towns previously mentioned, yet it offers an abundance of amenities in this haven for snow enthusiasts. From downtown, it takes just about three miles or six to seven minutes via the Mt. Express shuttle to reach the base of Crested Butte Mountain Resort, featuring 15 lifts and 121 runs, including a notable 2.6-mile trail.
Where to stay: If your goal is primarily skiing, consider staying at the resort’s mountainside accommodations. However, to experience the vibrant dining and bar scene, we suggest lodging downtown. The stunning Eleven Scarp Ridge Lodge is an excellent option.
Breckenridge
Best for: Easy access from Denver
It is important to note that many ski towns listed require lengthy drives from Denver. Thus, for visitors who aim to include the city in their Colorado ski trip, Breckenridge, located approximately 80 miles west, may be the ideal choice. This ski town features more than just straightforward access to the capital; its historic downtown is filled with vibrant buildings, shops, and dining options.
Where to stay: Opting for a room at Crystal Peak Lodge (base of Peak 7) or One Ski Hill Place, a RockResort (base of Peak 8) simplifies skiing at Breckenridge. And don’t forget to enjoy a well-deserved post-ski beer at Robbie’s Tavern.
Snowmass Village
Best for: A family ski trip
This European-style ski town is positioned at the base of the Snowmass ski area. Even though it may often be overlooked, the village provides skiers with unparalleled proximity to the mountain and exceptional ski-in, ski-out access, which is especially beneficial when traveling with children. The ski area is one of four mountains included in Aspen Snowmass, featuring plenty of family-friendly intermediate terrain and an excellent ski school. However, when you’re not on the slopes, options like ice skating, climbing walls, and delightful hot chocolate spots abound throughout Snowmass Village.
Where to stay: To simplify your experience, consider a stay at the ski-in, ski-out Limelight Hotel Snowmass, which offers cozy accommodations along with live music, a designated kids’ area, and inviting fire pits in the pool area.
Telluride
Best for: Views and steep terrain
Despite being a considerable distance (360 miles) from Denver, the scenic views upon entering Telluride make the journey worthwhile. Furthermore, Telluride Ski Resort features 19 lifts and 149 runs, including various hike-to and extreme terrain options. When you need a break from skiing, consider booking a sleigh ride dinner at a historic family ranch just west of town, or indulge in shopping along Telluride’s remarkably picturesque main street.
Where to stay: For a residential-style stay conveniently located at the base of the ski area, check out the Fairmont Heritage Place Franz Klammer Lodge, or choose to stay downtown at the New Sheridan Hotel, which also houses a popular restaurant and bar.
Vail
Best for: Fun in the villages
Vail offers more than just a straightforward drive along a major interstate; it features two distinct yet interconnected ski villages at the base of the expansive Vail Ski Resort, which boasts 195 trails and 32 lifts. You can easily navigate between the villages on foot or by utilizing the complimentary shuttle service.
Moreover, Vail’s vastness ensures a plethora of off-slope entertainment options—engage in Nordic skiing near Vail Village, spoil yourself at the spa, or savor the local dining experiences while exploring the town.
Where to stay: Consider a stay at the Four Seasons Resort and Residences located in Vail Village, or opt for the tranquil atmosphere of The Hythe, a Luxury Collection Resort situated in the quieter village of Lionshead, offering upscale comfort with easy access to the slopes.
