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TD Ski Colorado Guide – Part II: Hitting the Slopes

From gentle beginner hills to steep expert trails, Part II of our TD Ski Colorado Guide makes picking the perfect...

Welcome back to the second installment of our TD Ski Colorado Guide, where we leave Denver's city lights behind and journey into the heart of Colorado's winter wonderland. With the altitude under control (see Part I for tips!), it's time to choose a mountain that fits your style-whether you're a first-timer, a seasoned pro, or traveling with a whole crew.

Below, we break down our six favorite resorts, each with its own vibe, trails, and level of prestige.

1. Winter Park

Why We Love It: This is our “home” resort for a reason—it’s got a laid-back atmosphere, diverse terrain, and a convenient drive from Denver. Here, everyone from novices to experts can find their sweet spot, all without the sky-high sticker prices or crowds you might encounter at more famous resorts.

  • Terrain Highlights:
    • Beginner/Intermediate: Winter Park’s main front side offers plenty of groomed runs and gentle greens.
    • Advanced: The Mary Jane side is legendary for its moguls—if you’re up for a challenge, this is the place to sharpen those skills.
  • Family & Friends: Multiple terrain parks, lessons for all ages, and a friendly vibe that makes group outings fun.
  • Extra Perks: Accessible via the Amtrak Winter Park Express from Union Station—perfect if you’re not into mountain driving.
  • Downside: No stand out restaurants or social scene. 

2. Breckenridge

Why We Love It: Breckenridge is all about variety, with five peaks boasting runs for every skill level and a bustling alpine town that keeps the energy high.

  • Terrain Highlights:
    • Beginner: Peak 9 offers mellow runs perfect for building confidence.
    • Intermediate/Advanced: Peak 7 & 10 serve up blue and black runs, while the famous Imperial Bowl at Peak 8 challenges the bravest.
  • Family & Kids: Breckenridge’s ski schools have a solid reputation, and the town’s kid-friendly activities (think ice skating and sledding) make it an easy sell for families. Plus, Frisco is just a 12-15 minute drive with an abundance of activities for kids and adults. 
  • Nightlife & Dining: The historic Main Street is lined with restaurants, bars, and shops—après-ski is practically a local pastime here.
  • Downside: Parking and getting to the resort can be a pain. 

3. Eldora

Why We Love It: Small, chill, and just 21 miles west of Boulder, Eldora offers a more intimate experience than the big-name resorts. If you’re seeking minimal fuss and maximum convenience, this is your spot.

  • Terrain Highlights:
    • Beginner: Easy greens at the base area ensure a stress-free start for new riders.
    • Intermediate/Advanced: Don’t be fooled by its size—Eldora has some surprisingly steep runs and tree glades for confident skiers.
  • Family & Budget-Friendly: Often overlooked by tourists, Eldora tends to have shorter lift lines and calmer crowds—plus more wallet-friendly pricing.
  • Day Trip Delight: Because there’s no lodging on the mountain, most visitors stay in nearby Boulder or Denver, making it ideal for a quick escape.
  • Downside: Doesn't resemble "Colorado skiing". Closest thing to the Poconos but better skiing/snowboarding conditions. No shade to the Poconos though.

4. Steamboat

Why We Love It: Known for its trademarked “Champagne Powder,” Steamboat offers some of the best skiing in the state—and a genuine Western vibe in its charming downtown. The dining at the resort has been our best mountain-food-experience! 

  • Terrain Highlights:
    • Novice/Intermediate: Wide-open groomers across the main mountain.
    • Expert: Legendary tree runs like Closets and Shadows when the powder’s fresh.
  • Family & Activities: Steamboat is super kid-friendly, with a renowned ski school and off-slope fun like hot springs and dog-sledding.
  • Western Hospitality: The town exudes a laid-back cowboy feel—perfect if you want a taste of authentic Colorado culture.
  • Downside: The drive there. Once there, it's worth it. 

5. Vail

Why We Love It: Vail is massive, luxurious, and world-famous for its back bowls, offering miles upon miles of varied terrain. It’s the definition of a premier ski experience—though it comes with a matching price tag. This is Winter Wonderland. 

  • Terrain Highlights:
    • Beginner: Front-side greens for those easing into the mountain.
    • Intermediate: Miles of blue runs, plus groomed bowls on a powder day.
    • Advanced/Expert: The Back Bowls—vast, open areas loaded with powder, challenging lines, and non-stop thrills.
  • Upscale Vibe: High-end shopping, fine dining, and luxury hotels line Vail Village—perfect if you’re celebrating or just want to indulge.
  • Après & Nightlife: European-inspired pedestrian village with lively bars, restaurants, and events.
  • Downside: Long(er) ski lift lines. 

6. Beaver Creek

Why We Love It: The motto “Not Exactly Roughing It” says it all. Beaver Creek is renowned for its upscale ambiance, impeccable grooming, and daily fresh-baked cookies at the base.

  • Terrain Highlights:
    • Beginner: Exceptional learning areas and an emphasis on safety.
    • Intermediate: Immaculately groomed trails that you ski/ride all day.
    • Advanced/Expert: The famous Birds of Prey run challenges even World Cup racers, so skilled riders will have plenty of thrills.
  • Family Perks: Ski school is top-tier, and the village layout is extremely convenient, making it easy for families to stick together.
  • Luxury Amenities: Expect heated walkways, upscale lodging, and a polished alpine village designed for relaxation. You feel (and see) this driving into the resort. 
  • Downside: There's nothing happening outside of the resort. Book your stay in Vail and do a ski/snowboard-day at Beaver Creek. 

Choosing Your Resort

Our family have skied/snowboarded at each of these resorts (we've only done Aspen in the summer). Each one caters to different tastes and experience levels, so think about what matters most to you—terrain variety, lively après-ski, a quieter vibe, or premium perks. Whichever you choose, you can't go wrong with the mountain scenery and the Colorado ski experience - she got that part right. 

In a Nutshell:

  • First-Timers & Families: Winter Park, Eldora, Breckenridge for approachable terrain and budget-friendly options.
  • Intermediate to Advanced: Breckenridge, Steamboat, Winter Park for diverse runs that challenge without overwhelming.
  • Expert & Luxury Seekers: Vail, Beaver Creek (and also advanced terrain at Winter Park’s Mary Jane) for upscale perks and challenging powder stashes.
  • Cozy, Local Feel: Winter Park, Eldora
  • Most City-Like Vibes w/Happenings: Breckenridge, Vail, Steamboat
  • Upscale Indulgence: Vail, Beaver Creek

No matter where you land, Colorado’s slopes, fresh mountain air, and friendly ski culture promise an unforgettable experience—especially when you’ve prepped for the altitude and have your gear on lock (see Part I for all the city details). Now that you’ve got the lowdown on our top resorts, it’s time to do your part.

Let us know in the comments, which resort is calling your name or which one you've experienced. 


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