Our Top Picks – Best Colorado Ski Resorts Near Denver

Denver is one of the easiest U.S. cities to fly into and access a large number of world-class ski resorts.  The Colorado capital city has a large international airport with flights on over 20 major airlines from most major cities in the U.S., plus Canada, Mexico, Europe, and the UK.  Not only is Denver a popular ski destination because of its proximity to so many renowned ski resorts, but also because of the ease of access to these resorts.  Visitors can jump on Interstate 70 (I-70) at the airport and be in the mountains in less than an hour.

With so many great ski resorts near Denver, how do you choose?  There are definitely some standouts.  The ski and snowboard experts at TripOutside evaluated factors like proximity to the city, terrain variety, base village offerings, affordability, snow quality, and overall experience to determine the ultimate destinations. Read on for our top 5 ski resorts near Denver and why we picked them!

If you’re looking to pick up your ski rentals near Denver, we have a list of curated shops that offer high quality rentals for both skis and snowboard rentals.

WINTER PARK RESORT

Winter Park Resort is the closest major ski resort to Denver airport, and Colorado’s longest continually operated ski resort.  It’s known for its 3,000+ acres of skiable terrain and 1,200+ acres of backcountry terrain.  Within the 3,000 acres are 7 different territories, ranging from the family-friendly Winter Park territory to off-the-beaten-path Vasquez Ridge and its famous powder stashes.  The legendary Mary Jane territory is known for tree skiing and moguls. Winter Park also made our Best Beginner Ski Resorts and Best Ski Resorts for Families roundups!

Why Winter Park made our list

• Despite being just 67 miles from Denver, Winter Park’s location tucked away in the Rockies feels as remote as the most off-the-beaten-path ski resort.
• The resort is a relatively straightforward drive from Denver.
• There’s even an option to take the Amtrak train from downtown Denver right to Winter Park, a scenic ride to skip the winter driving!
• If you are looking for tree skiing, the tree runs on Mary Jane can’t be beat.

Equipment Rentals in Winter Park

If you’re staying near Winter Park Resort’s base village, consider renting from Black Tie Ski Delivery or Ski Butlers for the ultimate convenience of high-quality gear delivery right to your accommodation. If you’re lodging is in downtown Winter Park, we suggest renting with the top-rated Christy Sports, just a couple of miles from the resort and are easily accessible via the free transit system. 

COPPER MOUNTAIN

Copper Mountain is 75 miles from Denver and is home to a variety of award-winning terrain. The resort’s 2500 acres of terrain follows a fall-line path that includes everything from mellow rolling terrain to steep fast runs.  Beginners can head over to the west side for easier runs, while experienced skiers can ski the intermediate and advanced runs in the center and eastern side of the resort.  There are plentiful trails for all levels of skiers and riders. Known for its naturally divided terrain, Copper is perfect for families, offering the Woodward Snow Park for kids learning freestyle skills, and plenty of kid-focused activities like tubing and ice skating.

Why Copper Mountain made our list

• The incredible perks at Copper like free snowcat access to Tucker Mountain for expert skiers, free parking, and the free Summit County bus system that can take you into Frisco or Breckenridge.
• The base village at Copper Mountain has so many activities, restaurants and lodging, that you may not want to leave at all.  Apres ski hangouts rival Breckenride – try out cozy local dives like Jack’s Slopeside Bar and Grill, and Incline’s.
• These freebies combined with the lower lift ticket prices will make your trip to Copper much easier on the wallet.

Gear Rentals at Copper Mountain

You can rent skis in the Copper Mountain base village with Charter Sports Taylor’s Crossing or Christy Sports Snowflake, located at the base of Superbee lift. Or choose to pick them up in Frisco at Christy Sports on the way to the resort to save a few bucks. For the ultimate convenience, gear delivery services like Black Tie Ski Delivery and Ski Butlers can bring your rental equipment straight to your door.

BRECKENRIDGE RESORT

Breckenridge Ski Resort is just 100 miles from Denver airport, and typically less than a 2-hour drive.   With its 3000 acres of skiable terrain, five distinct peaks, and 187 ski trails, Breckenridge is one of the most popular resorts in Colorado. There’s a good mix of trails for everyone, and Breck’s many runs cater to all levels of skiers. The resort features an elevation summit of 12,998 feet – the highest in Colorado, and the starting point for Breck’s famous 3398 feet vertical drop. Thirty-four lifts service the resort, including the highest chairlift in North America – the Imperial Express.

Why Breckenridge made our list

• The fun doesn’t stop at the runs. Fuel up after your day on the mountain at one of 11 on-the-mountain après ski restaurants and bars.
• Beyond the mountain, you will find a quaint historic district, complete with many shops and more than 90 restaurants catering to every taste.
• Although Breckenridge is as popular as it gets in Colorado, it really can’t be missed. The five distinct peaks spread people out, and if you avoid Saturdays and holidays, you may feel like you have the runs to yourself.

Ski Rentals at Breckenridge

Ski rental shops are conveniently spread throughout Breckenridge, both in-town and in the resort’s base areas. For rentals near Main Street, consider customer favorites Carvers Ski Shop and Charter Sports Main St Station. For slopeside convenience, check out Charter Sports Blue Sky or Christy Sports Grand Timber Lodge, both located near Peak 9. If you’re looking for rentals near Peak 8, we recommend Breck Sports Peak 8. Or save the hassle of picking up gear at all, and have Black Tie Ski Delivery deliver all of your gear right to your accommodation – plus save an extra 10% by booking on TripOutside!

VAIL SKI RESORT

Vail is 120 miles from Denver airport, which is typically a 2-hour drive, depending on weather and traffic.  Vail Resort’s wonderful combination of 5200 acres of terrain, 300+ days of sunshine and 370+ inches of snow each year make it a must-visit ski destination. While Vail can be viewed as upscale or expensive, we believe it’s worth it because of the resort’s epic terrain… you must visit at least once.  Though it’s one of the most popular resorts in the U.S., it’s massive amount of terrain really spreads people out.

Why Vail Resort made our list

• Vail Resort’s huge amount of terrain and legendary back bowls.  These 7 bowls on the back side cover more acres than many entire ski areas and have been called a “Disneyland of snow sports”.
• Vail’s two base villages boast endless shops, restaurants, and other activities for non-ski days.
• The stunning views of the surrounding Gore and Sawatch mountain ranges as you ski.

Ski and Snowboard Rentals in Vail

Ski rental shops are spread throughout the Vail area. If you’re staying in West Vail, Charter Sports Highline and Charter Sports Marriott Streamside are excellent options for high-quality rentals with easy access to your lodging. West Vail is about a 10-minute drive or shuttle ride from the slopes. Hop on the free Vail Transit System, which provides easy access to Lionshead and Vail Village lifts.

In Lionshead, Christy Sports Vail Lionshead, Base Mountain Sports, and Charter Sports Lion Square Lodge provide top-notch service just steps from the lifts. These shops are located within a short walk of the Eagle Bahn Gondola, perfect for skiers wanting to gear up and hit the slopes quickly.

For those based in Vail Village, Christy Sports and Vail Sports Golden Peak offer seamless rental experiences right in the heart of the action at Vail Resort’s main base area. Christy Sports is just a few minutes’ walk from Gondola One, while Vail Sports Golden Peak is a short walk away in the Golden Peak base area, near the Riva Bahn Express Lift.

Or skip the hassle and start your day stress free with gear delivery! Black Tie Ski Delivery, and Ski Butlers bring premium gear directly to your lodging, whether you’re staying in West Vail, Lionshead, Vail Village, or anywhere else nearby.

STEAMBOAT SKI RESORT

If you are looking for something new in Colorado for your ski trip, head up to Steamboat Springs. Steamboat is known for its incredible tree skiing for skiers of all abilities and its fluffy “champagne powder” snow. If you catch Steamboat during a snowstorm, you will realize the snow is worth the hype.  The resort’s almost 3000 acres of terrain has enough steeps to satisfy the experts, but it’s also well known for its expansive and un-intimidating intermediate trails. The town is situated in northern Colorado about a three hour drive from Denver, which makes it a bit more secluded than some other ski resorts along the I-70 corridor.

Why Steamboat made our list

• Steamboat is great for the whole family with a good mix of trails across the resort, and a laid back vibe that families love.  Kid-friendly activities are plentiful and showcase Steamboat’s Wild West roots. Plus, Steamboat offers free lift tickets for children 12 and under when a parent or grandparent purchases a 5-day lift ticket.
• Steamboat’s namesake hot springs are a fantastic way to relax after a day on the slopes.
• There’s a ton of choices for après-ski.  The base village has plenty of spots like the Double Diamonds bar where the party can last all night.  Or head into the downtown for an even wider variety of food and drinks.

Ski Rentals in Steamboat

Ski and snowboard rentals are available in Steamboat base village, as well as in Central Park Plaza off US-40, about a 10 minute drive to the slopes. In Steamboat base village, we recommend Christy Sports Gondola Square, located at the base just steps from the main base gondola. Or check out Christy Sports Central Park for high quality gear rentals on your way to the slopes if you wish to avoid the busier rental lines at the base area.

DENVER SKI RESORTS MAP

Check out our map of the Colorado ski resorts near Denver, plus the rest of the major resorts across the state.

Best Denver Ski Resorts

Whether you’re chasing fresh powder, epic terrain, or a lively base village and après ski experience, these ski resorts near Denver offer something for everyone. From beginner-friendly slopes to challenging runs for experts, plus top-tier restaurants, shops, and après-ski vibes, these resorts truly stand out. With their close proximity to the Mile High City, they make it easy to plan a hassle-free day trip or weekend getaway. No matter which one you choose, you’re in for an unforgettable time on the mountain. Now, it’s time to gear up and hit the slopes!

Ski Trip Resources

Once you’ve decided on the perfect resort for your ski trip, check out our top tips for planning your ski trip to Colorado!

For more ski inspiration, check out our Best Beginner Ski Resorts compilation, and What to Wear Skiing + Trip Packing Checklist!