Planning the Perfect Colorado Ski Trip

If you're dreaming of a memorable ski trip in the breathtaking Rocky Mountains, Colorado has you covered. The Centennial State offers an ideal winter vacation destination with its stunning terrain, ample snowfall, and vibrant ski culture. In this guide, we'll show you how to plan a ski trip to Colorado, showcasing renowned resorts and how to make the most of your adventure with the MyEpic app.

Quick Tip: Early season conditions can be variable, so make sure to plan ahead and check terrain statuses before heading out

Why Choose Colorado for Your Ski Trip 

Colorado is a skier's paradise, offering a wide variety of world-class ski resorts that cater to all levels of skiers and snowboarders. The state is known for its consistent snowfall, stunning mountain ranges, and charming ski towns that make for a picture-perfect winter getaway. 

• Abundant Snowfall - Colorado's abundant snowfall, with an average annual snowfall of over 300 inches or more in some areas, ensures excellent skiing conditions throughout the winter season, and gives you a wider ranges of months to plan your visit. The powder here is legendary, making it an ideal destination for snow enthusiasts seeking reliable conditions through the season. 
• Scenic Terrain - Colorado's ski resorts offer diverse terrain, from gentle slopes for beginners, to challenging backcountry adventures for experts. The Rocky Mountains are a sight to behold, and you'll have the chance to explore stunning alpine vistas as you carve your way down the slopes. 
• Vibrant Ski Culture - Colorado's ski culture is second to none. From après-ski gatherings to lively mountain festivals, you'll find yourself immersed in the infectious company of fellow snow sports enthusiasts. Ski towns offer a unique blend of hospitality, great dining, and cozy lodging options to make your trip memorable on and off the slopes. 

Exploring Colorado’s Top Resorts 

One significant advantage of planning a Colorado ski vacation is the opportunity to experience some of the most highly acclaimed resorts in North America. Notable among these are five world-renowned ski destinations and included on the Epic Pass. These include Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Crested Butte, and Keystone, each unique and a top choice for any skier or snowboarder’s must-visit bucket list.  For families and first time skiers these stand out for choices in lodging and availability of diverse terrain for all levels. These are also convenient to access, with most within a 2 hour drive of Denver.

Vail is often considered the crown jewel of Colorado skiing. With its expansive terrain, Vail offers something for everyone, from beginners to experts. The resort is known for its luxurious amenities, charming alpine village, and Legendary Back Bowls. These seven breath-taking bowls feel miles away from the rest of the world and offer massive fields of powder to be explored. Beyond amazing skiing, Vail Villages and Lionshead Village offer five-star dining and shopping, as well as activities like ice skating. 

Beaver Creek Village is a literal winter wonderland, complete with boutique shops, gourmet fine dining, and incredible mountainside chalets. Staying slopeside here ensures true luxury and a relaxing experience, with some of the most top-notch services in the Rocky Mountains. Beaver Creek prides itself on its pristine grooming and attention to detail to ensure your experience is second to none when it comes to ski resorts. The culinary scene here is also top-notch, and a meal at Beano's Cabin showcases luxurious mountaintop fine dining.

Breckenridge, or Breck for short, boasts of five expansive peaks to explore. Each of Breck's Five Peaks offers something different depending on your level and mood. If you're feeling real adventurous, head to Peak 8 and take the Imperial Express Superchair, the highest lift in America, to nearly 13,000 feet for high-alpine skiing at its best. After a day on the slopes, head into Breck's historic town for a taste of local cuisine and drinks and a lively apres scene.

Keystone is a classic Colorado ski resort that welcomes all but is especially great for families. The base area offers the perfect balance between comfort and enjoyment while having plenty of activities beyond just skiing. From the World's Largest Mountaintop Snow Fort to mountain-side tubing to ice skating, there is never a shortage of experiences to explore. But of course, if you can't get enough of the slopes, Keystone even offers night skiing on select weekends and holidays so you can make the most of your trip.

Nestled deep in the Colorado Rockies, Crested Butte has often been called "America's last great ski town." With steep, adventurous terrain and a town that doesn't lack personality, Crested Butte is a completely different experience than the other resorts. Be sure to look at the event calendar, as there is always something out of the ordinary going on.

Where to Stay: World-Class Rocky Mountain Lodging 

You can choose from a variety of lodging options at Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, and Crested Butte. With numerous options, the perfect accommodation to fit your needs is easy to find. Booking directly through a resort also grants you access to unique perks. And if you happen to be an Epic Pass Holder, you might even save a little by using your Epic Mountain Rewards.

Ski passes like Epic Pass have become a must have if you're planning a ski trip. And the great thing about Epic Pass is it comes with Epic Mountain Rewards. These included benefits give Pass Holders discounts on airport shuttle travel, lodging, rentals, food, and more at all five of these Rocky Mountain resorts. For the best deals, be sure to book directly through the resort or inquire about additional lodging package perks. 

For convenience, guests can rent ski and snowboard gear on-site, avoiding the hassle of lugging equipment through the airport. The rental shops offer a range of equipment, and Epic Pass holders are eligible for a 20% discount on rentals. Be sure to reserve your gear ahead of time to ensure you get the equipment you're looking for.

Things to Do: Beyond Skiing and Riding the Rocky Mountains 

While skiing and riding are the primary attractions, there's a wealth of activities for family members who prefer not to hit the slopes. Some of these activities include: 

• Ice skating
• Snowshoeing
• Snow tubing
• World-class dining
• Shopping
• Spa services
• Après-ski
• Sleigh rides
• Snowmobiling
• Cross-country skiing

Making the Most of Your Visit to Colorado

Vacations can be stressful, especially when you're the one doing all the planning. Rather than spending your time worrying about the details, read these tips for the ultimate ski trip ahead of time, and you'll be ready to kick back and enjoy your time on the slopes. 

• Make a Game Plan Before Getting on the Mountain: Check out the resort trail maps online ahead of time to explore the types of terrain and layout of the mountain, so you have an idea of what area of the mountain and runs you want to ski or ride day based on your skill level.  
• Build in Time to Relax: Enjoy the off-mountain hours with relaxation, shopping, and dining in the charming resort villages.  
• Follow the Packing Checklist: Ensure you've packed all the essentials, from ski equipment to sunscreen, to make your trip hassle-free. 
• Stay Connected with the MyEpic App: Use the mobile app to see real-time trail maps, track your friends and family on the mountain, share accomplishments, get weather updates, and so much more. 
• Revel in Awe-Inspiring Views: Take in the stunning mountain vistas and enjoy your time off the slopes as much as on them. 

By following these tips and taking advantage of the Epic Mountain Rewards and MyEpic App, your Colorado ski trip will be an unforgettable adventure with unforgettable savings and convenience. 

FAQs

Here are a few quick answers to some of the most frequently asked questions related to planning the perfect Colorado ski trip. 

What is the best month for skiing in Colorado?

If you like powder, February is a great month to come skiing in Colorado. There’s usually plenty of base coverage, and March still has great snow and some warmer days. It can also be the snowiest month at some resorts, so there's still plenty of opportunity for fresh powder.

How many days do you need to ski in Colorado?

Ask a local, and they’ll tell you 50 days is not enough. But if you’re planning your trip from the East Coast or Midwest, we recommend a minimum of 3 days to give you time to experience more terrain. Any amount of time is worth it, but the longer, the better. And don't forget you might need an extra day or two just to adjust to the altitude.

What month does ski season start in Colorado?

Opening day for various resorts in Colorado varies from resort to resort and season to season, depending on snow coverage and other factors. A few open in October with enough snow, but throughout November is a safe bet.  

How much is a ski trip to Colorado?

The cost of a ski trip can vary widely based on factors like where you are coming from, how long you plan to stay, and if you have your own equipment. Planning ahead with an Epic Pass and utilizing Epic Mountain Rewards is a great way to save some money on dining and accommodations.  

Is Altitude a factor in Colorado?

Altitude can play a factor in your visit to Colorado. At higher altitudes in Colorado, skiing can be affected by reduced oxygen levels, leading to quicker fatigue and increased dehydration. You may also experience colder temperatures and more intense UV radiation due to thinner atmosphere. To prepare for skiing at altitude, stay hydrated, apply sunscreen, dress in layers, and take breaks to acclimate, with these tips and awareness, most people are able to enjoy a fun and enjoyable ski trip to the mountains.