How To Plan A Ski Trip To Colorado (By An Expert)

If you love winter sports and can’t wait to ski in one of the most beautiful and exciting places, you’ve come to the right spot! This guide will take you through planning an amazing ski trip in Colorado, step by step. 

Whether you’re a pro skier ready for new thrills or trying skiing for the first time, this guide has all you need to make your Colorado ski trip awesome!

I’ve been on many ski trips to Colorado, and each one has given me lasting memories. To top it off, my husband and I loved skiing here so much that we moved to Colorado for about two years. 

These experiences gave me valuable insights into the different mountains and insider tips for a fantastic ski adventure.

A Step-By-Step Guide On How To Plan A Ski Trip To Colorado

Keep diving in below as I outline the key steps you need to take to plan an unforgettable ski trip to Colorado. 

Step One: Figure Out Who Is Joining You On The Ski Trip

Planning a ski trip to Colorado starts with gathering your group and confirming who’s joining. Consider whether you want to go on this trip alone, as a couple, with your family, with your friends, or with a mix! Ensuring everyone is committed to the trip is crucial to avoid last-minute changes that could disrupt plans.

Step Two: Decide On Location

Colorado boasts several world-class ski resorts, each offering unique experiences! It can be super hard to pick which one to visit. While you can definitely go for a more local experience, these are my favorite world-renowned resorts: 

👉🏼 Vail

Known for its vast terrain and luxury amenities, Vail is perfect for those seeking a high-end skiing experience. I personally love Vail for its Legendary Back Bowls and fantastic après-ski experience. 

👉🏼 Breckenridge

Breckenridge is famous for its charming town with a lively atmosphere and its ski slopes, which offer an array of terrain suitable for all skill levels. I personally enjoy Breckenridge because its downtown is full of shops and great restaurants. 

👉🏼 Keystone

Ideal for families and night skiing enthusiasts, Keystone features convenient lodging options and varied activities. I love Keystone because it’s right near Vail and Breckenridge, but it doesn’t attract the crowds that those two resorts get!

👉🏼 Aspen

Famous for its upscale vibe and celebrity sightings, Aspen attracts luxury travelers and avid skiers alike. Aspen is the ski capital of the world and has some of the best slopes in the United States.

I love coming here because it is a bit further and doesn’t attract the large crowds that some resorts closer to Denver do. But be warned that it does come with a hefty price. 

👉🏼 Telluride

A gorgeous town in the San Juan Mountains, Telluride offers breathtaking views and challenging terrain on the slopes. 

Telluride is one of my all-time favorite mountains in the entire world. It’s off the beaten path, so you won’t experience the long lift lines that you do at some resorts off of I-70.

Plus, it has some of the most epic mountain views in the United States. Not to mention the adorable downtown area full of shops, restaurants, bars, and breweries. 

👉🏼 Crested Butte

Known for its powder-filled slopes and laid-back atmosphere, Crested Butte is a hidden gem focused on providing authentic experiences. 

👉🏼 Steamboat Springs

Renowned for its Champagne Powder® snow and western hospitality, Steamboat is a favorite among powder hounds.

I love going to Steamboat Springs because it’s a lesser-known resort that gets pounded by snow. One of my favorite powder days was in Steamboat Springs, not to mention their amazing downtown area.

👉🏼 Arapahoe Basin

With its high elevation and challenging terrain, Arapahoe Basin is a haven for advanced skiers and snowboarders. It’s also a much more local resort, so it’s the perfect place to dive into the local Colorado ski experience.

Don’t miss out on a chance to pack a cooler, bring a camping stove, and hang out at the beach (the front-row parking spots where locals come to kick back after a day on the slopes).

Step Three: Pick Your Dates

Colorado’s ski season typically runs from late November to early April, with peak conditions often found in January and February. Check each resort’s website for specific opening and closing dates, snow conditions, and events during your planned dates.

Be warned that holidays are when the crowds come out on the slopes. While you can definitely visit Colorado ski resorts on MLK or Presidents Day, you’ll likely experience long queues in the lift line.

Step Four: Book Accommodations

Once you’ve selected a resort and dates, secure accommodations early to get the best options and rates; choices range from slopeside condos and cozy cabins to luxury hotels. When booking, consider factors like proximity to the slopes, amenities, and group size.

Step Five: Book Flights, Rental Cars, Etc. 

If flying in, book flights to Denver International Airport (DIA) or regional airports near your chosen resort. Renting a car provides flexibility in exploring the area and getting to and from the slopes.

Step Six: Buy Your Lift Pass

Purchase lift passes in advance to save money and skip long lines at the ticket window. Many resorts offer multi-day passes, season passes, and special deals for early booking.

If you plan on skiing at many different resorts, I recommend looking into the Ikon or Epic Pass. Each are great and offer a variety of different resorts!

Step Seven: Plan Your Meals

Explore dining options at your resort and nearby towns. Consider making reservations for popular restaurants, especially during peak holidays and weekends. Don’t forget to accommodate any dietary restrictions within your group.

Step Eight: Book Activities Ahead Of Time

In addition to skiing or snowboarding, Colorado offers a range of winter activities. Reserve any excursions or tours you’re interested in, such as snowshoeing, snowmobiling, hot springs visits, or ice climbing, to ensure availability during your stay.

Step Nine: Pack Your Bags 

Pack essentials like ski gear (skis/snowboard, boots, poles, helmet, goggles, gloves), layers for changing weather conditions, sunscreen, lip balm, and any medications or personal items you need. Don’t forget chargers for electronic devices and a camera to capture memories.

Step Ten: Have Fun!

Finally, embrace every moment of your ski trip in Colorado. Enjoy the thrill of skiing or snowboarding, relax in cozy accommodations, savor delicious meals, and explore the beauty of the Rocky Mountains with your friends, family, partner, or yourself.

Tips For Planning A Successful Ski Trip To Colorado

Continue reading below as I point out a few tips for planning a ski trip to Colorado. 

✅ Spend A Few Days In Denver Before Your Trip To Get Acclimated To The Altitude 

Denver’s mile-high altitude can affect some people, so arriving a few days early allows your body to adjust before heading up even higher when hitting the slopes.

✅ Know Your Budget In Advance And Plan Accordingly

Colorado can be pricey, especially at top resorts. To avoid overspending, set a budget for accommodations, meals, activities, and souvenirs.

✅ Take Plenty Of Photos

Capture the stunning mountain views, powder-filled runs, and memorable moments with your friends to cherish for years to come.

✅ Consider Taking A Lesson If You’re A Beginner

Many Colorado resorts offer excellent ski and snowboard lessons for all levels, helping beginners build confidence and improve skills.

✅ Enjoy Activities Outside Of Skiing

While skiing is the highlight, explore nearby towns for shopping and dining, and don’t forget to try some excursions while on your trip!

✅ Appreciate The Apres Ski Experience

Wind down after a day on the slopes with apres-ski traditions like hot drinks, live music, and socializing with fellow skiers.

⭐ Consider Getting Us To Plan Your Ski Trip Itinerary

If you need help with any part of your ski trip itinerary or personalized recommendations, don’t hesitate to contact us. We provide ski trip itinerary services that include insider tips to make your ski trip even better!

Fill out the form below if you want assistance planning your dream ski trip itinerary. We’re excited to create an itinerary that matches your group’s preferences and budget!

FAQs About How To Plan A Ski Trip To Colorado

Keep reading down below as I answer a few frequently asked questions about skiing in Colorado. 

How many days is ideal for a ski trip?

Four days is ideal for a ski trip. This gives you plenty of time to enjoy the slopes, explore the mountain town, and even gives you a day if you want to do another activity other than skiing or snowboarding.

Is Colorado expensive to ski?

Skiing in Colorado can be expensive, especially at premier resorts. Look for package deals and early booking discounts, and consider staying in nearby towns for more affordable options.

How to save money on a Colorado ski trip?

Plan and budget in advance, look for discounted lift tickets, consider off-peak times, share accommodations and transportation costs with friends, and explore dining options outside the resort or cooking your own meals at home.

Is 3 days skiing enough?

Three days can provide a taste of Colorado’s skiing, but longer stays allow for more variety in terrain, activities, and relaxation.

Final Thoughts On How To Plan A Ski Trip To Colorado

Organizing a ski trip to Colorado requires thoughtful planning, but the rewards are well worth it. 

I have extensive experience with ski trips to Colorado, having been on numerous adventures there. This has given me a deep understanding of the planning process, the top resorts to visit, and the unforgettable memories that this incredible destination and type of trip create.

From thrilling runs and breathtaking scenery to cozy evenings and unforgettable experiences, your ski trip to Colorado promises to be an adventure of a lifetime. If you want to get the most out of your ski trip, follow the tips in this article. But if you’d rather have someone else create an itinerary for you, feel free to contact us. 

We absolutely loved our ski trips to Colorado so much that we ended up living there for about two years. We know the ins and outs of the place and would be delighted to help you create your perfect ski trip itinerary.