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Hit those mile-high slopes with the best ski resorts in Colorado

Dreaming of winter travel with a Colorado ski trip? These mountain resorts are the perfect gateway to your Rocky Mountain adventures.

Published Feb 13, 2024
6 min. reading time
Image of mountain view from Residence inn

Known for its breathtaking landscapes and high-altitude peaks, Colorado is a paradise for ski enthusiasts. Home to some of the best ski resorts in the world, it offers a variety of options for different preferences and budgets.

We’ll investigate the best ski resorts in Colorado, digging into their facilities, amenities and what sets them apart. So, whether you're a seasoned skier or a snowboarding newbie, you'll find the perfect destination for your next adventure right here.

Read more: Plan a beachside vacation with the best resorts in Cancun

Image of Mount Princeton pool and mountain scenery
Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort
$206 at Booking.com
Image of the Gant resort at night
The Gant
$812 at Booking.com
Tennis court view of Simba Run Vail Condominiums
Simba Run Vail Condominiums
$657 at Booking.com
Image of hotel pool in snowy mountains
Slope Side Ski-In/Ski-Out Condo
$313 at Expedia

Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, the Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort is the perfect retreat for skiers and those looking for a peaceful getaway. Located in Buena Vista, about three hours from Denver, the resort blends historic charm with modern comfort.  

Visitors come to ski at nearby Ski Cooper or Monarch Mountain, which is approximately 30 minutes from the hotel. For something a little more extreme, arrange a backcountry ski or snowboard tour on some of the best powder in the state. Afterward, hotel guests can soak their tired muscles in the natural hot springs pools or enjoy the full-service spa.

The rooms are designed for comfort and convenience. Select rooms also boast patios and offer breathtaking mountain views.

The in-house restaurant serves American and local cuisine, with vegan and gluten-free options also available.  Or take a trip into town and visit Buena Vista or Salida for apres ski at one of the many local breweries or distilleries on the “Libations Loop”.

If you're looking for one of the best places to ski in Colorado, the family-friendly Mount Princeton Hot Springs resort is a great base for its access to nearby mountains. Enjoy an amazing ski adventure and relax with a cozy stay for everyone.

Image of the Gant resort at night
Photo: Booking.com

The four mountains surrounding Aspen and its regular celebrity sightings make it one of the most famous ski resorts in Colorado. The Gant is located a short walk from some of Colorado’s best ski mountains, including Aspen Snowmass and Aspen Mountain. 

The Gant is well-equipped to ensure comfort, with year-round outdoor pools and private hot tubs. Boasting 140 individually owned and decorated condominiums, The Gant’s accommodations are designed to enhance your stay with full kitchens, living and dining rooms, cozy wood-burning fireplaces and private balconies or patios.

The resort also offers a host of extras, including a fully equipped fitness center, concierge, child care, on-site ski rental and shuttles to the slopes and nearby airport. The resort’s cafe is open daily for breakfast and lunch and serves a variety of coffee drinks and specialty cocktails to round out every meal.

Whether you're an avid snowboarder looking for an exciting Colorado snowboarding resort or an expert skier searching for one of the best ski resorts in Colorado, The Gant’s prime location and blend of luxury and comfort can’t be beaten. Enjoy the mountain getaway you deserve.

Simba Run Vail Condominiums, nestled in Vail Valley, provides close access to one of the best places to ski in North America.  This popular Vail resort offers two-bedroom, two-bathroom condos with full kitchens and in-room laundry facilities.

It also boasts an indoor heated pool, a hot tub, a steam room and a sauna. Plus, there’s covered, heated parking and free gear lockers to store your skis and other equipment. These amenities, plus private shuttles to and from Vail Village, make any stay convenient, comfortable and fun. Simba Run Vail Condominiums is a fantastic choice for a true Colorado experience.

Breckenridge is one of the most popular ski resorts in Colorado, and the Slope Side Ski-In/Ski-Out Condo is the perfect place to enjoy it. This condo gives you excellent access to one of the top ski resorts in Colorado. It’s a short walk to the BeaverRun Super Chair and main street. 

The studio condo has an upgraded king-size bed and a comfortable queen sofa sleeper. It also has dual vanities, a large walk-in shower and a full kitchenette.

Relax after a long day on the slopes with a dip in the indoor pool or a soak in the hot tub. Unwind tense, tired muscles with a steam or warm up in the sauna. And for family fun, head over to the game room to play arcade games or pool. 

If you’re looking for convenience at a reasonable price, the Slope Side Ski-In/Ski-Out Condo is worth considering.

The Residence Inn by Marriott in Steamboat Springs is a great three-star hotel located less than a mile from the Steamboat ski area. With a free shuttle to and from the mountain, ski and bike storage and wash stations, you’ll be able to enjoy a hassle-free trip. 

The hotel offers a load of great amenities, including a heated, year-round outdoor pool, hot tubs, 24-hour fitness center and daily breakfast. Each room comes with a fully equipped kitchen and dining area, flat screen TV and sleeper sofa. It’s also pet-friendly, so you can bring the whole family along on the adventure.

Nestled within the heart of Breckenridge, the four-star Hyatt Vacation Club at The Ranahan offers a luxurious stay with many amenities. Rooms come equipped with full kitchens and gas fireplaces and have balconies to enjoy the big mountain views. 

The resort is also conveniently located a short 10-minute shuttle ride to Breckenridge. Guests will enjoy on-site ski and snowboard rental and a ski and bike valet for convenience. After a day of skiing or hiking, guests can relax in the resort's outdoor swimming pool, hot tub or communal fireplace. 

If you're in search of a luxury ski resort in Colorado, the Hyatt Vacation Club at The Ranahan should be at the top of your list.

Winter Park Mountain Lodge is a haven for winter sports lovers. With views of the ski slopes and tons of on-site amenities, this resort is a great base camp for your snowy adventures. Its on-site gear rental and ski storage, as well as its proximity to the mountain, are conveniences you’ll appreciate. 

A shuttle runs regularly between the base of the mountain and the hotel for easy access. Sign the kids up for ski school while you take on one of Winter Park’s black diamond runs. Or, if you’re a true adrenaline junkie, give the double-black diamond The Cirque Territory a run. 

After a day on the slopes, unwind in one of the two hot tubs, take a dip in the year-round heated pool or relax in the sauna.

Winter Park Mountain Lodge is the perfect blend of comfort and convenience where the adventure of winter sports meets a cozy mountain lodge.

Nestled in the mountains of Crested Butte, the Elevation Hotel & Spa is the only ski-in ski-out lodge in the area. The hotel has an on-site ski rental and a dedicated ski and bike valet. It also boasts a full-service spa, with a sauna, steam room, gym and heated indoor pool.

The Elevation Hotel & Spa is also a blast for families. With fun add-ons like a game room, arcade and pet-friendly accommodations, it's one of the best ski resorts in Colorado for a fun-filled family vacation. Elevation Hotel & Spa stands tall, offering a mix of comfort, adventure and luxury that sets it apart.

What's the best mountain to ski in Colorado?

While every skier has their preferences, Aspen Snowmass is often hailed as the best mountain to ski in Colorado. Known for its challenging terrain and varied runs, it attracts skiers from around the globe. It’s no wonder Aspen has been home to 86 alpine races, making these FIS World Cup races a central part of the town’s identity.

What city in Colorado is known for skiing?

Aspen, located within the borders of the White River National Forest, is renowned for its world-class skiing opportunities. Home to four primary ski areas — Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass — it caters to skiers of all levels, making it a top destination for winter sports.

What month is good to go skiing in Colorado?

The best time to go skiing in Colorado is in January or February. The crowds will be lighter than they were around Thanksgiving and Christmas, and you’ll beat the spring break skiing crowds. Plus, you won’t have to contend with mud season, which usually starts in mid-April.

Which Colorado ski resorts get our vote?

While all the resorts listed above are excellent, two stand out for their exceptional offerings. The Gant, with its proximity to Aspen’s mountains and its luxurious amenities, is a top choice for those seeking a premium ski experience. For an unmatched ski-in ski-out experience, with top-notch extras, we like the Elevation Hotel & Spa in Crested Butte.

Whether you're seeking the thrill of the slopes or the relaxation of a mountain retreat, Colorado's ski resorts have the perfect mix of activities to make everyone happy. Choose the resort that best suits you, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure. Happy skiing!


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Prices updated on 02/13/2024. We are not responsible for any changes to the prices mentioned above.

Leah Steinberg Professional Headshot
Written by
Leah Steinberg

A self-described “frugalist,” Leah Steinberg loves a deal. As a former reporter turned educational researcher turned shopping expert, she regularly falls down the rabbit hole searching for discounts. Based in Atlanta, Leah enjoys her family and food.