What State Has The Best Ski Resorts?

We really love skiing and snowboarding, and in the winter, we’re always checking out different ski resorts. Having lived on both the East and West Coasts, we’ve been to lots of ski mountains in many states.

So, when it comes to picking the states with the best ski resorts, we’ve got it covered.

Colorado

One of the best ski resorts in the United States.

Colorado is the state that has the best ski resorts.  With almost 30 ski resorts throughout the state, each one provides a distinct experience, stunning views, and an incredible atmosphere.

The state of Colorado stands out from other states due to its wealth of resorts, stunning landscapes, exceptional snow conditions, diverse terrain, high altitude, amenities, cultural vibrancy, and resorts of varying sizes.

Other Great States For Skiing

The Snowmass Gondola with mountains.

Other awesome states that come close include Utah, California, Washington, and Montana. Each of these places has multiple ski resorts, incredible views, and a strong reputation for their resorts.

What Makes Colorado Stand Out?

Ski resort in Colorado surrounded by trees.

Colorado stands out as the best state for ski resorts because it has a bunch of options. Whether you’re into local spots like Howelsen Hill or big names like Aspen, Telluride, Vail, or Breckenridge, there’s something for everyone.

1. Variety Of Terrain

A groomed ski run in Colorado.

Colorado’s ski resorts boast an incredible variety of terrain, making it a haven for winter sports enthusiasts of all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking for gentle slopes or an expert seeking challenging runs, Colorado has it all.

The state’s mountainous landscape offers wide-open bowls, steep chutes, perfectly groomed catwalks, and thrilling glades.

2. High Altitude

Fresh tracks in the powder in Colorado.

Another key feature that makes Colorado’s ski resorts have a unique edge is due to their high-altitude locations. Being situated at a higher altitude creates an exceptional and thrilling experience for skiers and snowboarders.

The lofty altitude not only presents incredible panoramic views of the surrounding mountains but also brings colder temperatures that help maintain top-quality snow conditions.

3. Ski Culture

A group of friends skiing and snowboarding.

On top of all of those things, what makes Colorado even more special is its cool ski culture. People there really love the outdoors, and you’ll often hear them talking about adventures, whether it’s hiking or skiing.

I’ve lived in Colorado, and let me tell you, the ski vibe is amazing. It’s not like places in the Midwest or East Coast where people dread snowstorms. There, everyone gets excited about fresh powder.

4. Snow Accumulation

A snowboard sticking out of fresh snow.

And the snow conditions are awesome. Of course, it can vary, but usually, you can expect some good snowstorms during the year.

It’s not that icy stuff from the East Coast or the heavy snow you get in the Pacific Northwest. It’s just the right mix, making it perfect for snowboarding and skiing.

5. Amenities

Vail Village lit up at night.

Colorado’s ski resorts are not just about the slopes though. They offer a luxurious and comforting experience with top-notch amenities. In Aspen, the downtown area is a paradise for those who appreciate the finer things in life, boasting luxurious shopping, high-end restaurants, and a vibrant cultural scene. 

Moving over to Beaver Creek, the resort takes hospitality to another level by welcoming skiers with freshly baked warm chocolate chip cookies, creating a delightful and inviting atmosphere after a day on the slopes. 

Meanwhile, Vail Village is an iconic destination in its own right, with charming cobblestone streets, alpine architecture, and a plethora of boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment options. 

Abby Price

Abby, a co-founder of Summit Skier, is an avid skier with extensive expertise in skiing, snowboarding, and ski resorts. Abby enjoys spending time in the mountains and cherishes the winter season for its exciting sports. Her mission is to inspire others to embrace the outdoors, have fun while skiing and snowboarding, and discover fantastic ski resorts, whether they're well-known or hidden gems, all around the world, with a special focus on those in the United States.