The 10 Most Epic Ski Towns in Colorado

Winter is upon us and these Colorado ski towns are ready for you to visit. From eye-popping views to fresh glittery powder to slope-side parties, there’s simply no denying the fun and adventure to be had in Colorado’s high country. Here are some of the dreamiest ski towns around the state, perfect for your next adventure.

1. Breckenridge

Powder days at Breckenridge will not disappoint. Make turns on 2,908-acres of skiable terrain, 187 trails, 34 lifts, and 3,398 feet of vertical drop. After hitting snow-covered trails on the mountain, buzz downtown for some great boutiques, restaurants, breweries, distilleries, live music, and nightlife. Just a short distance away, you’ll stumble upon two iconic ski resorts including Keystone Resort and Arapahoe Basin Ski Area.

2. Crested Butte

The ski town of Crested Butte is quite charming. Brightly-colored homes decorate the streets of the town as wanderlust silently tugs at the hearts of local and out-of-state adventurers alike. Take it to the slopes of Crested Butte Mountain Resort with 1,547 acres of skiable terrain serviced by 15 lifts. Set high in the mountains, the resort sits at a base elevation of 9,375 feet, offering 121 trails and 3,062 feet of vertical drop. One thing is for sure, adventure is always in season here.

Crested Butte is one spot known for their winter festivals. Plan your ski trip for a weekend when something is going on in town for an added bonus.

3. Aspen

Aspen is truly a winter wonderland. The ski town is surrounded by four skiable locations named Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk. Together, they combine for a seemingly bottomless supply of powder-shredding. Tucked in the southeastern end of the Roaring Fork Valley, a lush wintry sanctuary awaits on 5,285 combined acres, offering eight terrain parks, four half-pipes, 336 trails, and 46 lifts. Enjoy breathtaking mountain vistas from the small town filled with an abundance of high-end restaurants and boutiques.

4. Vail

Winter is the perfect time to head for the mountains in Vail. Shred the wintry slopes of Vail Ski Resort featuring 5,317 acres of skiable terrain, 195 trails, 31 lifts, and 53% expert terrain. The resort is debatably the “king of ski resorts” in Colorado. Nearby, you’ll find a variety of downtown attractions. There are many hotels in the area offering a luxurious retreat for mountain-style travelers.

5. Telluride

If you crave winter adventure, Telluride belongs on your bucket list. It’s a magical spot full of old mountain-town charm and offers some of the most amazing views in the entire state. The historic mining town can be found nestled in a box canyon at 8,750 feet in southwest Colorado. Upon your arrival, you’ll be greeted with incredible views of the San Juan Mountains. Skiers and riders of all abilities can explore more than 2,000 acres of skiable terrain with 17 lifts and 148 trails. The resort is a paradise for tree skiing, hike-to terrain, and expert terrain. Outdoor adventures are just as plentiful off the slopes. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of winter activities including ice climbing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, snowbiking, heli-skiing, historical museums, and much more.

6. Steamboat Springs

Explore the ski town of Steamboat Springs nestled in the northwest corner of the state. There’s a feeling of excitement that lingers in the air as skiers and riders chase down the thrill of carving through the famed Champagne Powder®. It’s a ski lover’s dream. Not to mention, more Olympians call Steamboat home than any other resort. The town slogan – Ski Town, U.S.A. ® is quite fitting thanks to the 2,965 acres of skiable terrain and some of the best tree skiing in North America. If you’re looking to scale it down a notch, head on over to Howelsen Hill. This resort offers 50 skiable acres of terrain and is the oldest continuously operated ski area in the state.

7. Silverton

Snag a “real mountain experience” in the incredibly small and secluded town of Silverton. Silverton Mountain Ski Area is home to some of the most extreme backcountry terrain in the state. Explore 1,819 acres of steep and ungroomed terrain for advanced and expert riders ONLY. It doesn’t stop there. Soar to new heights as you explore 22,000 additional acres of terrain accessed by foot or helicopter.

8. Winter Park

Winter Park is the perfect mountain getaway and only 75 miles from the Denver Metro Area. If you choose to ride the slopes at Winter Park Resort, you can look forward to 3,000 acres of groomers, glades, trees, steeps, bumps, and powder stashes. Mary Jane Mountain is famous for tree skiing, moguls, and alpine bowls. It’s world-class and a local favorite, offering the perfect place to create memories among family and friends.

9. Salida

If you’re looking to miss the crowds, magic awaits at Monarch Mountain. You’ll find 800 skiable acres at this lesser-known gem, located just 20 minutes from the picturesque ski town of Salida. Originally formed in the 1880s, there are plenty of incredible finds awaiting your arrival downtown including art galleries, eateries, breweries, distilleries, coffee shops, and ice cream.

10. Durango

Durango is every ski lover’s dream. Kick up the fun on the sparkling slopes of Purgatory Resort, offering 1,605 acres of skiable terrain ranging from steep wooded trails to wide-open playgrounds. After carving up that fresh powder on the mountain, swing downtown for some local bites and sips.