Being surrounded by the Rocky Mountains, the capital city of Denver has access to a variety of world-class ski resorts, located within a two-hour drive. The Mile High City boasts lots of transportation options: trains, shuttles, and buses that will take you right to your resort and back in no time. First snowstorms hit the Rocky Mountains in October, and by the end of this month, some ski resorts already open their gates, but with a limited number of trails and lifts in operation. Most resorts start to operate fully in late November and stay open until May or June. Sometimes, the season extends even into early July. However, the best time for a skiing or snowboarding adventure in Denver area is January and February.
Arapahoe Basin Ski Area
A-Basin is one of Colorado's most popular resorts and has been operating since 1946. With 1,400 ac (570 ha) of skiable terrain, it suits advanced and intermediate riders. It's not the best option for families, rather for the young and hip crowd. The resort is known for its parties and gatherings at the Beach parking lot, located next to the base chairlifts. However, the main attraction of the resort is its excellent terrain, with plenty of challenges and extreme spots. A-Basin is located in 66 mi (106 km) from Denver and can be reached by bus, tram, or car. It has one of the longest seasons in North America, operating from mid-October till June or even July.
vertical: 2,530 ft (771 m) area: 1,400 ac (570 ha) runs: 145 lifts: 12 season: mid-October to June
Loveland Ski Area
Loveland, located atop the Continental Divide in about 53 mi (85 km) west of Denver, 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. Loveland Ski Area doesn't have lodging at the base. It can be reached from Denver by car or shuttle.
vertical: 2,210 ft (674 m) area: 1,800 ac (730 ha) runs: 94 lifts: 9 season: October to mid-May
Winter Park
The oldest continually operated ski resort in Colorado, Winter Park is one of the most favorite winter destinations among locals. You can get here in just two hours, taking a ski train from Denver's Union Station to the base area. Its 3,000 ac (1,200 ha) offer a variety to beginners as well as experts. On Fridays and Saturdays, the resort operates the night-skiing program. The resort is great for families. There're sledding, hayrides, snow-tubing, sleigh, and other fun activities.
vertical: 3,060 ft (933 m) area: 3,081 ac (1,247 ha) runs: 166 lifts: 25 season: November to mid-May
Breckenridge
Breckenridge or simply Breck is thought by many to be the best ski resort in Colorado. World-class skiing over 5 peaks is complemented with 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 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.
vertical: 3,398 ft (1,036 m) area: 2,908 ac (1,177 ha) runs: 162 lifts: 32 season: mid-November to mid-May
Practical info
What time of year is ideal for skiing and snowboarding in the Denver area?
For those looking to ski and snowboard in the Denver area, January and February offer the best weather and conditions. While some ski resorts open around mid-October, most operate fully from late November through May or June, with some even extending into July. These winter months offer ideal temperatures and optimal snow for the best skiing and snowboarding experience. Show more
What are some of the ski resorts that can be reached within 2 hours of driving from Denver?
Within a two-hour drive of Denver, you will find various ski resorts located in the Rocky Mountains, for example, A-Basin, Loveland, Winter Park or Breckenridge. A-Basin, about 106 km away, is considered one of the best-rated resorts. Loveland, located about 85 km west of Denver offers plenty of snow and beautiful terrain. Winter Park has the advantage of being accessible by train, and Breckenridge is widely regarded as the best resort in Colorado. Show more
Which ski resort near Denver caters to intermediate and advanced riders?
Arapahoe Basin, or A-Basin, is one of Colorado's preferred ski resorts, which has been operating since 1946. For intermediate and advanced riders in particular, the resort encompasses over 570 hectares of skiable terrain. The resort also provides an excellent apres-ski scene, which makes it a haven for the younger, trend-setting crowd. Visitors can reach A-Basin from Denver by car, tram, or bus, making it easily accessible to all. Show more
What sorts of unique activities can one do when not skiing or snowboarding in Breckenridge?
Breckenridge resort has something for everyone, not just skiing and snowboarding. The town founded during the Gold Rush of 1859 provides a unique atmosphere with authentic scenery. Other activities include snowshoeing tours, gourmet dining experiences, and snowmobiling tours. The resort also offers options like the Breckenridge Gondola, which has its own unique charm. The town has a variety of bars, restaurants, and gathering places that cater to all tastes and budgets. Show more
What ski resort in the Denver area has a season that runs from October to mid-May?
Loveland, located in the Rockies and roughly 85 km west of Denver, offers an extended ski season stretching from October to mid-May where visitors can enjoy an abundance of snow, historic landscape, and varied terrain. In addition to its nearly 730 hectares of terrain and approximately 100 runs, it provides several easy trails in Loveland Valley for beginners. Although the resort does not provide lodging on location, it is easily accessible via car or shuttle bus from Denver. Show more
