Skiing is more than a sport for Wyatt Leonard; it’s a passion. Born and raised in Longmont, Colorado, Wyatt has explored almost every major U.S. city through his travels. But his heart always brings him back to the mountains of Colorado, where some of the finest ski resorts in the country lie. His love for skiing has led him to experience some of the best ski destinations in Colorado, and he’s here to share his insights on the top resorts that offer the ultimate experience on the slopes.
The Appeal of Colorado Skiing
Colorado is considered one of the top skiing destinations in the United States, and for good reason. With a long ski season, abundant snowfall, and terrain suitable for beginners and experts alike, the state boasts over 30 ski resorts.
Wyatt Leonard knows this all too well. “Colorado is really a skier’s paradise,” he says. “The variety here is unmatched, from big resorts to smaller slopes. You can find just about anything you’re looking for.”
Having visited some of the best ski resorts across the U.S., including popular destinations in Utah, California, and Vermont, Wyatt still ranks Colorado’s resorts among his favorites. After years of skiing the state’s mountains, here are his top recommendations for anyone visiting Colorado’s slopes.
1. Vail Mountain Resort
When it comes to iconic ski destinations, Vail Mountain Resort stands at the top of the list.
Located in Eagle County, Vail is one of the largest ski resorts in the world, offering over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain. “Vail has everything,” says Wyatt. “Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you’ll find runs that suit your level.”
The resort is known for its famous Back Bowls, which stretch for miles and provide some of the best powder skiing in the country. For those looking for luxury, Vail Village offers world-class dining, shopping, and après-ski experiences that elevate the trip from a ski day to a ski vacation.
“Vail is all about the experience,” Wyatt adds. “It’s not just the skiing; it’s the whole environment. The après-ski culture here is something that really makes it special.”
2. Aspen Snowmass
Aspen Snowmass is a must-visit for serious skiers and snowboarders. The resort combines four distinct mountains—Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk—offering unparalleled variety. Snowmass alone is one of the largest single-mountain resorts in the country, with over 3,000 acres of terrain.
“I’ve always been drawn to Aspen because of its unique vibe,” says Wyatt. “It’s upscale but also has this laid-back charm. And the terrain diversity is just incredible.”
Aspen has long been a favorite among celebrities and elites, but it’s also well-loved by locals and dedicated skiers. Aspen Snowmass has something for everyone, from the expert runs on Aspen Highlands to the more beginner-friendly slopes on Buttermilk.
“If you want a mix of challenging terrain and a lively town, Aspen is unbeatable,” Wyatt notes. “The atmosphere is just so different from anywhere else in Colorado.”
3. Breckenridge
Known for its historic mining town charm and high-altitude slopes, Breckenridge sits at 9,600 feet, making it one of the highest ski resorts in North America. It offers more than 2,900 acres of terrain spread across five peaks.
“Breckenridge has this friendly, welcoming atmosphere,” says Wyatt. “It’s the perfect place for families or groups with mixed abilities because you can find easy slopes and also some pretty fast runs.”
Peak 10 of the resort offers steeps and moguls for advanced skiers, while Peak 9 is ideal for beginners. The town itself has a rich history dating back to the Gold Rush, and its vibrant main street is packed with restaurants, shops, and art galleries that make it a perfect après-ski destination.
“Breckenridge is special because it combines the excitement of skiing with a very chill local culture,” Wyatt explains. “It’s a great all-around destination.”
4. Winter Park Resort
Winter Park Resort is one of Colorado’s most accessible ski destinations, located just 67 miles from Denver. It’s a local favorite, offering 3,081 acres of skiable terrain across seven territories.
“Winter Park feels a bit more relaxed than some of the other big resorts,” says Wyatt. “It’s less about glitz and glamour and more about enjoying the skiing.”
The resort is famous for its mogul runs on Mary Jane Mountain and its well-maintained groomers, perfect for cruising. It’s a family-friendly resort with a welcoming atmosphere, which is why many Colorado locals call it their go-to mountain.
“One thing I love about Winter Park is how easy it is to get to,” Wyatt says. “And once you’re there, you feel like you’re in a whole different world. It’s the kind of place where you can just focus on enjoying the day.”
5. Beaver Creek Resort
Beaver Creek Resort, located near Vail, is more of a luxury resort. It is renowned for its meticulous attention to detail, from heated walkways to escalators that carry skiers directly to the slopes.
“Beaver Creek is where you go when you want to be pampered,” Wyatt says with a smile. “It’s upscale, but the skiing is incredible too.”
Beaver Creek is known for its well-groomed trails, family-friendly programs, and dedicated beginner areas. But don’t let its reputation for luxury fool you—Beaver Creek also offers challenging terrain, including the famous Birds of Prey racecourse, one of the most difficult downhill courses on the World Cup circuit.
“The customer service at Beaver Creek is truly incredible,” Wyatt adds. “The staff is always friendly and will go out of their way to make sure you have a great time. Some of the slopes are pretty challenging too.”
Honorable Mention: Copper Mountain
Though lesser-known than the big names like Vail or Aspen, Copper Mountain holds a special place in Colorado’s ski scene. The resort offers 2,490 acres of terrain and is known for naturally separated slopes by skill level. Beginners, intermediates, and experts can enjoy runs suited to their abilities without overlapping.
“Copper Mountain is underrated,” Wyatt says. “It’s quieter than some of the bigger resorts, but it has this great balance for all levels. It’s also a lot less crowded, which is a huge plus.”
Final Thoughts
For Wyatt Leonard, skiing in Colorado is an adventure that never gets old. With a wide variety of terrain, a long ski season, and resorts that cater to every taste, the state offers some of the best skiing experiences in the world.
As Wyatt puts it, “There’s something magical about skiing in Colorado. The mountains, the snow, the atmosphere—it all comes together to create an experience like no other.”
