Colorado Ski Resorts You Shouldn’t Underestimate

It’s hard not to associate Colorado ski resorts with some of the best skiing slopes in the world. The Rocky Mountains have long been a favorite ski travel destination. People worldwide are drawn to their favorite resorts season after season. Take your pick of over 30 distinct ski areas in the state, and we probably have a ski discount at virtually all Colorado ski resorts.

Colorado has some of the best ski resorts in the world. Many a very well-known, while a few seem to fly under the radar. Here are five Colorado ski resorts that you shouldn’t underestimate in 2023.

Every ski area in Colorado has something exciting to offer that is all its own, whether you’re a deep snow enthusiast or you want to schuss on groomers. No matter your style, you’re going to find a ski mountain that offers everything the winter heart is craving. From cruisers to dizzying, steep inclines, these are our top powder resort options you need to experience.

Powderhorn Mountain

Less than an hour away from Grand Junction is Powderhorn, a resort with breathtaking views no matter where you look. It sits atop the Grand Mesa, the world’s largest flattop mountain, overlooking Colorado wine country. As one of the most affordable resorts in the state, Powderhorn knows how to deliver excellent service and amenities without breaking the bank.

Guests can expect to clock in a lot of time out on dry powder and explore some of the best tree-skiing in the Rocky Mountains. With over 1,600 acres of terrain, the fun won’t run out while you’re there! This resort is not just for beginners, as 30% of their trails are advanced and 50% are intermediate. So if you’re well past taking on the bunny slopes, you’ll discover trails with thrill-seeking names. You can take advantage of the minimal lift lines, and if you enjoy the vibes of a slower-paced resort, you’ll be in the right place when you visit.

Beaver Creek

Situated close to Vail sits Beaver Creek, a ski resort often overlooked by those looking to only ski for the day. But this resort holds incredible prospects with its unforgettable views and excellent corduroy. Guests who come to Beaver Creek can enjoy many of the same luxurious elements found at places like Vail and Aspen, as well as world-class terrain that is hard to beat. Advanced skiers looking for a real challenge can head over to the Birds of Prey run, a relatively fast steep that true thrill-seekers will appreciate. This particular run has a reputation for being a formidable stop on the Men’s Alpine Ski World cup, so come prepared if you’re ready to take on this daring feat.

What makes Beaver Creek an incredible powder destination is its 1,800 acres of skiable terrain that offers an unmatched mountain vacation experience. Every skier can find an area to conquer, whether seeking more family-friendly terrain or looking to tackle an off-piste exploration instead. Its three peaks are just waiting for newcomers and repeat guests to visit. Discover their many trails, and maybe even stop by their numerous galleries and boutiques while you’re at it!

Telluride

The San Juan Mountains are a truly splendid sight to behold, and it’s home to not only the town of Telluride but also the skiing area of the same name. The resort elicits a feeling of exhilaration due to its breathtaking views and literal breathtaking hike-to terrains. In short, they’ve got some wicked inclines that people aren’t afraid to try. But if you want to clock in some seriously extreme skiing, go out into the wild country! It’s what makes Telluride such a thrill and why people can’t help but stay longer than intended.

Across 2,000 acres of terrain, guests will find a good mix of runs to accommodate beginners to advanced skiers. Serious snow buffs can log a cushy amount of vertical while on the mountain, and with a maximum elevation of 13,150 feet, it’s not hard to accomplish. The Galloping Goose trail, their longest run (4.6 miles), is also a noteworthy mention of the resort. Because who doesn’t want to find the best runs Colorado has to offer?

Looking for powder runs? In love with groomers or glades? Our list of underestimated Colorado ski resorts has a little something for all sk

Keystone

Rising peaks, massive bowls, and wide glades to roam, oh my! Keystone is one of those places where the vibe immediately makes you feel at ease. This resort is sometimes less crowded than places like Breckenridge and shouldn’t be easily dismissed. It features 3,148 acres of skiable terrain, a vertical drop of 3,128 feet, and five above-tree-line bowls for an experience that will instantly win you over in no time. The three peaks at Keystone-Dercum Mountain, North Peak, and The Outback-all offer incredible runs, views, and challenges that skiers and riders can both enjoy.

Their well-groomed trails from the summit to the main base are almost all equally long and steep. Twelve percent of the trails feature more accessible slopes for a relaxed ride. Two learning areas on Dercum Mountain allow people to brush up on their skills and build confidence. When you’re on the mountain, you’ll find that this ultimate mountain playground is where the whole family can feel welcomed.

Wolf Creek

When you hear that a ski resort has the most snow in the state, you’re bound to let your curiosity take you there to see it for yourself. At Wolf Creek, that’s precisely what you get, thanks to its typical snowfall of 430 inches. That’s right, 430 inches! So if you’re looking for deep powder stashes, you’re probably be happy you chose to drop in. There are 1,600 acres to take advantage of. Experienced skiers can get excited about the tree runs, waterfall trails, and backcountry hikes.

This resort is the easiest of the San Juan resorts to get to from Denver. It is just 30 minutes from Pagosa Springs (near Interstate 25). You can stay in town if you’ve made Wolf Creek your go-to this ski season. Or you can hop over to South Fork, where you can experience quiet, mountain town vibes all day. Both towns are almost equal distance to the resort and have numerous accommodations. So you can rest your weary head after a day of shredding!

There are a wide variety of Colorado ski resorts, and we love them all. It’s hard to narrow them down. Each one has a little something special, but we feel these ski resorts spoke the most to us overall. Where is it located if you have a favorite powder spot in Centennial that’s different from our list? And what makes it your go-to destination?

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