Colorado Springs Skiing and Snowboarding 2025

Colorado Springs isn't as close to major ski destinations as Denver. However, it's still possible to make a one-day ski trip out of the second-largest city in Colorado, as some resorts can be reached in less than a 2.5-hour drive. The closest of them is the spectacular Breckenridge, located just west of the Continental Divide.

Ski Season

Some resorts in Colorado open as early as October, however, with limited runs and lifts operating. By mid-November, most resorts are open in full capacity. The season lasts through May, although some places stay open even in June and early July. The best time to ski and snowboard in Colorado is January and February due to the large quantity of snow and stable cool weather.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge, or simply Breck, could be arguably called the best ski resort in Colorado. World-class skiing over five peaks is complemented by evening activities at a historical 1859 mining town with an authentic atmosphere dating back to the gold rush days. It also offers gourmet dining and plenty of other activities besides skiing or boarding, such as the Race of the Santas, snowshoeing, and riding the Breckenridge Gondola. However, its main attraction is, of course, its superb alpine terrain. The resort offers some serious elevation and boasts the highest chairlift in North America.

Breckenridge can be reached from Colorado Springs by either car or shuttle in slightly more than two hours. If you drive a little further, you can reach a neighboring Keystone resort, which offers the largest night skiing in the state, snow tubing, and ice skating.

Resort Stats

vertical: 3,398 ft (1,036 m) area: 2,908 ac (1,177 ha) runs: 162 lifts: 32 season: mid-November to mid-May

Tickets & Season Passes

Lift tickets cost $269 for adults, $172 for children, and $255 for seniors. Some discounts might be available if you purchase online. The Epic Local Pass, which grants access to multiple resorts on non-peak days, costs $778 for adults, $408 for children ages 5 to 12, and $632 for teens ages 13 to 18. For unlimited access, the Epic Pass with no blackout dates is priced at $1,047 for adults and $534 for children ages 5 to 12.

If you’re only visiting Breckenridge and Keystone, the Summit Value Pass is available for $631 for adults, $512 for teens, and $353 for children. Finally, a single Day Pass at Breckenridge costs $119 for adults and $63 for children ages 5 to 12.

Loveland Ski Area

If you keep driving north from Breck, you'll get to Loveland, located atop the Continental Divide about 120 miles (190 km) from Colorado Springs. It is known for its abundant snow, remarkable terrain, and a long season stretching from October through mid-May. With about 100 runs and 1,800 ac (730 ha) of terrain, it offers a quintessential Colorado ski experience. The resort caters to beginners with several easy trails in Loveland Valley. It also offers snowcat skiing.

Ski Area Facts

vertical: 2,210 ft (674 m) area: 1,800 ac (730 ha) runs: 94 lifts: 9 season: October to mid-May

Tickets & Season Passes

At Loveland, children five and under can ski for free, while lift tickets cost $119 for adults, $40 for children ages 6 to 14, and $109 for seniors over 60. New season passes are priced at $649 for adults, $439 for young adults (ages 15-22), and $199 for children and seniors. For those renewing a 2023/2024 season pass, prices drop to $599 for adults (ages 23-69), $419 for young adults, $189 for children, and $199 for seniors over 70. A midweek pass is available for $469, with a returning customer discount rate of $429.

Arapahoe Basin Ski Area

A-Basin is one of the most popular Colorado resorts that is situated approximately two hours and 130 miles (209 km) from Colorado Springs. The resort can be reached by taking I-25 and I-70. With 1,400 ac (567 ha) of skiable terrain, it suits advanced and intermediate riders. However, you can also find some beginner slopes here, coupled with instructor lessons. The resort is known for its parties and gatherings at the Beach parking lot, located next to the chairlifts. However, the main attraction of the resort is its excellent terrain, with plenty of challenges and extreme spots.

Resort Facts

vertical: 2,530 ft (771 m) area: 1,400 ac (567 ha) runs: 145 lifts: 12 season: October to June

Tickets & Ski Passes

You’ll need to buy tickets and passes ahead of time, and there are plenty of options to choose from. Prices start at $259 for the Fall Pass and go up to $659 for the Unrestricted Season Pass, with costs varying based on age and season. If you’re planning to visit during non-peak days, the Midweek Pass is $469 for adults. For a shorter stay, the 3-Day Multiday Pack is $239. Full-day lift tickets cost $56-140 for adults, $34-84 for youth (15-18), $23-56 for children over 6, $40-98 for seniors, and are free for kids under five years old.

Monarch Mountain

Monarch seems like a smaller mountain in comparison to its great rivals. However, as a southern resort, it's one of the favorite winter destinations for the residents of Colorado Springs that can be reached from the city in less than 2.5 hours. Even during peak ski season, you can enjoy thinner crowds and reasonable prices. Open for more than 80 years, the resort also offers cat skiing and tubing.

Find nearby accommodations in the charming mountain town of Salida. Salida is located about 20 miles (32 km) from Monarch and is known for its laid-back vibe, smaller crowds, and reasonable prices—even during peak ski season. This friendly town has great bars and restaurants, plus plenty of outdoor activities like snowmobiling, ice fishing, and cross-country skiing for visitors to enjoy.

Resort Info

vertical: 1,162 ft (354 m) area: 800 ac (320 ha) runs: 66 lifts: 7 season: late-November to mid-April

Tickets & Season Passes

Monarch offers numerous pass options for everyone's taste. If you've already been to the resort, you can renew your pass for $339-609, depending on your age. New passes vary around $359-629, while Monarch Only passes, which grant entry to Monarch mountain only, are sold out for adults and cost $25 for children 6 and under and seniors 69 and older years old.

Weekday passes vary around $249-479, and full-time college student can buy a discounted pass for $419. Passes for veterans with proof of status costs $479 and military pass costs $289. Lift tickets range from $69 to $129 for adults, $59 to $119 for teenagers from 13 to 17 years old and seniors 62-68 years old, $49 to $99 for children 7 to 12 years old, and $5 for children 6 and under.