Snow covered Longs Peak, part of the Rocky Mountains stands tall in the background with the Downtown Denver skyscrapers as well as hotels, office buildings and apartment buildings filling the skyline

Ski Resorts Near Denver, Colorado

Denver, Colorado, is the ultimate gateway to the best skiing in the world. Just a few hours from Denver International Airport (DEN), you’ll discover ski destinations offering everything from vibrant, lively environments to the charming tranquility of a classic Colorado ski town.

Indulge in luxury at Vail, family-friendly adventures in Breckenridge, explore the relaxed charm of Loveland Ski Ranch, or tackle the challenging expert terrain of A-Basin’s daunting chutes.

Find your family ski destination or the best terrain and snow in the world. We’ve covered detailed insights into 14 iconic ski resorts, tips on choosing the right pass and resort for you, and how to make the most of your time both on and off the slopes.

Map of Denver Ski Resorts

There are 14 ski resorts accessible from Denver, with 8 of them considered destination ski areas. Most of these resorts are conveniently located off the I-70 corridor, known for its world-class skiing. For those on the EPIC Pass, you can enjoy renowned destinations like Breckenridge, Keystone, Vail, and Beaver Creek, all offering a mix of terrain and top-tier amenities.

Similarly, the IKON Pass grants access to Winter Park, Copper Mountain, Eldora, Arapahoe Basin, and Steamboat, each providing unique experiences, from family-friendly slopes to powder-packed bowls. Steamboat, though farther away, is a top IKON destination and can be accessed via Hayden (HDN) airport for a shorter drive; otherwise, it’s about 3 hours from Denver by car.

While larger resorts grab much of the spotlight, Colorado’s smaller ski areas are worth considering. Places like Loveland and Ski Cooper are great options for budget-conscious ski trips or lower crowds. For example, Loveland, just off I-70, offers impressive terrain without the hustle of larger ski hubs.

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Colorado Snowfall

Colorado’s snow is perfect for skiing. The state’s high altitudes, low humidity, and consistent snowfall create dry, fluffy snow.

Arapahoe Basin receives an average of over 350 inches of snow per year, while Steamboat Springs receives over 300 inches of world-famous, trademarked Champagne Powder®. Spring skiing is available in Colorado, offering sunny days and open runs late into May.

How to Plan a Ski Trip to Colorado

  1. Choose the Right Ski Resort
    • The first step in planning your Colorado ski trip is selecting the best resort or resorts for you.
      1. Are you looking for advanced runs or do you need beginner-friendly slopes for the whole family?
      2. Do you want luxury accommodations or après-ski activities? There is a resort that fits perfectly, see the resort breakdowns below.
      3. Do you have a mega pass like IKON, EPIC, or Indy? There are multiple ski areas in the Denver area on each of these passes that cater to different types of travelers.
  2. Pick a Place to Stay
    • If you want to go to multiple places you can stay in an area like Frisco or Silverthorne which is central, about 20-to-30-minute drive to virtually every resort.
    • Stick to one place and find a ski in/ski out lodge or something within walking distance to lifts!
    • See resort information below for the best lodging options.
    • Use Skizi’s Lodging Search to find the best deals!
  3. Book Flights, Transfers, Lift Tickets, Rentals, & Lessons
    • All of these areas are accessible from the Denver Airport.
    • There are some regional airports to choose from as well for a shorter drive to Vail, Beaver Creek, or Steamboat however with less flight options.
    • There are airport transfers widely available for most of these ski areas.
  4. Go Skiing!
Or Contact Skizi and we’ll take care of everything for you!

Don’t be overwhelmed by options. Get in touch and I’ll help you plan your perfect trip, stress free.

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Do I need a car?

Not necessarily. If you plan on staying on the mountain or in the village you most definitely do not need a car. Transfer shuttles from the airport are widely available to any IKON or EPIC resort.

If you plan driving to multiple ski areas then you will need a car with four wheel drive and snow tires. There are also public bus and shuttle routes between certain ski areas and towns like Frisco and Silverthorne.

Winter Park Express: For a unique experience, take the train from Denver’s Union Station straight to the slopes of Winter Park Resort. This passenger train is a comfortable ride through the beautifully stunning Rocky Mountains and will take you straight to the village of Winter Park.

Ski Passes

Colorado’s ski resorts are linked to three major pass networks, which give significant savings for avid skiers. Purchasing the right pass and planning ahead can save you hundreds if not thousands of dollars.

Here’s what you need to know about each pass and the resorts they include:

  • Indy Pass: Perfect for smaller, independent resorts like Loveland, Granby Ranch, and Sunlight. This is the most budget friendly option.
  • EPIC Pass: Includes Breckenridge, Keystone, Vail, and Beaver Creek. The EPIC Pass is Vail Resort’s very own mega pass and offers access to their resorts. In general, this is best for larger groups or families.
  • IKON Pass: Covers Winter Park, Copper Mountain, A-Basin, Eldora, and Steamboat. If you’re looking for the best terrain and snow this is the pass for you.

Ski Resorts Near Denver, Colorado

Use the filters below to find and read more about each resort.

Select your type of trip or which mega pass you have (if you have one) to filter the resorts below and read more about each one.

Reach out for any questions, trip planning advice, or to use our world class travel planning services!


Type of Trip
Families
Powderhounds
Luxury
Couples
Group Trips
Beginners
Terrain Parks
Ski Pass
IKON Pass
EPIC Pass
Indy Pass

Breckenridge

Breckenridge combines historic charm with world-class skiing. With five peaks, the resort offers something for everyone. Beginners can stick to the gentle greens on Peak 9, while experts tackle the double blacks on Peak 10. The resort is large, family-friendly, and features numerous ski-in, ski-out and village lodging options, making it convenient for all visitors.

Best for Families, Group Trips, and Beginners.

EPIC Pass Resort with great Nightlife and Après Ski

Best Lodge: One Ski Hill Place

Breckenridge town and slopes with mountains and high alpine terrain visible

More on Breckenridge

Vail

The world known Vail is the ultimate destination for the perfect balance of luxury, skiing, and experiences for families or groups. Its legendary back bowls provide some of the best skiing in the world, especially after a fresh snowfall. With a variety of runs suitable for different skill levels.

Best for Luxury Trips, Families, and Group Trips.

EPIC Pass Resort with great Après Ski

Best Lodges: Sonnenalp or Four Seasons Resort Vail

Aerial View of Vail village at night with I-70 Interstate visible and buildings light up

More on Vail

Keystone

Keystone is an affordable, family-friendly resort with plenty to offer. From night skiing to snow tubing, the resort provides a variety of activities for all ages. The walkable village at Keystone makes dining, shopping, and entertainment easily accessible.

Best for Groups and Families at Intermediate-Advanced Skill Level

EPIC Pass Resort

Best Lodge: Keystone Lodge and Spa

Keystone Ski Resort Base area view of the Peru Express Lift

More on Keystone

Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek offers a luxurious and family-friendly ski experience with gentle slopes and smaller crowds, making it ideal for families and intermediate skiers. The resort is known for its thoughtful touches, like daily warm chocolate chip cookies handed out by the staff, creating a welcoming and personal atmosphere.

Best for Luxury, Families, and Beginners

EPIC Pass Resort

Best Lodge: Ritz Carlton Bachelor Gulch or The Park Hyatt Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek from high mountain view in the winter with views of the slopes and village

More on Beaver Creek

Arapahoe Basin

A-Basin is known for its advanced and expert terrain, offering some of the most challenging high-altitude skiing and riding in North America. With steep chutes, wide-open bowls, and unmatched technical runs, it’s a playground for experienced skiers and snowboarders. A-Basin also boasts the longest ski season in Colorado, often extending into June or even July.

Best for Powderhounds

IKON Pass Resort with excellent advanced Terrain and the Longest Ski Season in Colorado

Best Lodge: The Keystone Lodge and Spa

Arapahoe Basin Ski resort chutes covered in snow

More on Arapahoe Basin

Winter Park

Winter Park is a convenient and affordable ski destination just a drive or train ride from Denver. The only ski resort in North America with direct train access via the Winter Park Express. With terrain ranging from beginner-friendly green runs to challenging mogul fields, it’s perfect for skiers of all levels. The resort is also home to the renowned Mary Jane territory, which as great moguls and tree skiing.

Best for Powderhounds, Families & Terrain Parks

IKON Pass Resort

Best Lodge: Winter Park Mountain Lodge

Winter Park resort landscape with three skiers riding through untouched powder

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Copper Mountain

Copper Mountain is a standout ski resort in Colorado, known for its diverse terrain and stunning mountain views. Its naturally divided slopes create distinct areas for beginners, intermediates, and experts, making it easy for skiers of all levels to navigate and enjoy. From first-timers to seasoned pros, Copper Mountain offers a variety of runs to suit every skill level.

Best for Beginners, Families, Powderhounds, and Terrain Parks

IKON Pass Resort

Best Lodge: Cambria Hotel Copper Mountain

Aerial View of Copper Mountain with views of the village, slopes and halfpipe

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Steamboat

Steamboat is a top ski destination known for its renowned “Champagne Powder” and diverse terrain that suits all skill levels. Steamboat has beginner to expert runs, it’s a haven for powder lovers and world class tree skiing.

Best for Families, Powderhounds, Couples, Group Trips, and Beginners.

Best Lodge: The Steamboat Grand

Fly into HDN for a much shorter commute

Steamboat Ski Resort view from Three O Clock Trail

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Eldora Mountain Resort

Eldora, located just outside Boulder, is a convenient ski destination favored by locals looking to avoid the I-70 corridor. Its close proximity makes it an easy choice for Boulder residents seeking quick access to the mountains without the hassle of long drives or heavy traffic.

Best for Beginners and Budget

Best Lodge: Boulder Creek Lodge

Aerial view of Eldora ski resort with cut and groomed snow covered trails

More on Eldora Mountain Resort

Loveland Ski Area

Loveland Ski Area is one of Colorado’s best-kept secrets, offering a deep snowpack, stunning alpine views, and a convenient location. The resort features beginner-friendly areas perfect for building skills in a low-key, welcoming environment.

Best for Powderhounds and Families

Best for Beginners, Low Crowds and Affordability

Best Lodge: Indigo – Silverthorne

Aerial view of Loveland Ski Area with snowcovered slopes and the base village

More on Loveland Ski Area

Ski Cooper

Ski Cooper is a hidden gem in Colorado’s ski scene, offering a relaxed and affordable alternative to larger, crowded resorts. Despite its smaller size, it provides high-quality skiing with uncrowded slopes and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Families and beginner skiers particularly enjoy its gentle terrain, making it an ideal place to learn and build confidence.

Best for Beginners and Budget

Small resort with Budget Pricing and Ski School packages

Aerial view of ski Cooper in the winter with clearly marked trails

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Granby Ranch

Granby Ranch is a small, family-friendly ski resort known for its welcoming atmosphere and gentle terrain. It’s an ideal destination for beginners and families, offering well-maintained, learner-friendly trails and a compact layout that’s easy to navigate—perfect for those skiing with children.

Best for Beginners

Small resort with Budget Pricing and Ski School packages

Aerial View of Granby Ranch Ski Area

More on Granby Ranch

Contact Skizi

Let us create the ultimate trip for you! From lodging and flights to lift tickets, transportation, and activities, we handle all the details—at no extra cost to you.

Send in a Trip Intake Form for a custom itinerary or Book online to start planning your ski getaway today!

After submitting the contact form I will reach out to you via email with either some itineraries or to set up a quick call to discuss your specific needs. Before your trip you will receive confirmations and a detailed itinerary, so you can focus on enjoying your adventure.

If you would like to talk to me directly book a time at the link below.

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For a quick question send me the form below and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible!