Top Rated Ski Resorts in Colorado

Talking about the best ski resorts in Colorado is like talking about New York or Paris--there is an unwritten notoriety and prestige present on each slope. Featured in movies, backdrops to homes of the rich and famous, and home to renowned runs, these resorts offer some of the best snow in the world. The reputation of these resorts is well-earned as they continue to deliver amazing skiing each winter.

  1. Aspen

    • Aspen spotlights first-class skiers on first-class slopes. Packed with celebrities and premium powder, the resort now spreads out over its four separate mountains: Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk. Though many are lured by the celebrities, the runs themselves are legendary. And for good reason. In 2010, Skiing Magazine honored Aspen as a Top Ten resort, noting that its "black-diamond terrain" is "world-class." For added adventure, some skiers head to out of bounds like the Midnight Wine.

      The Aspen Skiing Company

      P.O. Box 1248

      Aspen, CO 81612

      800-308-6935

      aspensnowmass.com

    Vail

    • Proudly declaring itself "America's favorite resort," Vail is also the largest with 5,300 groomed acres. The ample acreage gives skiers plenty of room to spread out, providing small lift lines and open runs. Skiing Magazine endorses Vail for both intermediates who want well-groomed slopes, and adventure-seekers looking to explore the powder in the Back Bowls. Take a break from the mountain to enjoy dog sledding, snowmobiling or some of the many other activities here.

      Vail Resort

      P.O. Box 7

      Vail, CO 81658

      970-476-5601

      vail.com

    Telluride Ski Resort

    • There is a lot of skiing packed into this little mountain town. The 4,425-foot vertical drop takes skiers straight into town on favorites like The Plunge and See Forever. Telluride is gaining world popularity as more come to enjoy its 120 trails, including many unsurpassed expert runs. In 2010, the Freeskiing World Tour was held in Telluride. For an extra treat, ride the high-speed gondola from the town to the resort for breathtaking views of the area.

      Telluride Ski Resort

      565 Mountain Village Blvd.

      Telluride, CO 81435

      800-778-8581

      tellurideskiresort.com