Planning a Colorado Ski Vacation

If one is looking for adventure, snow covered peaks and hours of powder-filled fun, then a Colorado ski vacation is a must. As the site of America’s highest skiable peaks, nearly 39,000 acres of skiable terrain, the country’s highest average altitude, 300 days of sunshine and 26 ski resorts, Colorado is fan favorite. From large resorts with numerous slopes to smaller locations, Colorado is a ski lover’s dream.

Steps in Planning Your Colorado Ski Vacation

• Determine how long the trip will be, when to go, and how many are going in your group. Oftentimes, rates may vary by any or all of these factors.
• Decide what type of ski resort is wanted. The larger resorts can accommodate more people, will have longer tails, more variety in difficulty levels, and usually have faster ski lifts. The smaller ski resorts/lodges are not as busy and are often more relaxing, making them especially nice for the novice skier.
• When selecting the ski date(s) remember that the ski season lasts from mid-November to as late as mid June—depending on where you choose to go.

Location-Location-Location

As you consider your Colorado ski vacation options, be sure to give some thought to where you plan to stay. To help, consider the following.

• On the map, locate the ski areas you are considering. Are any of them close to each other?  For example, Copper Mountain, Keystone and Breckenridge are within 20 minutes of each other. Often, you can purchase a ski pass that will allow you to ski at all three. Be sure to look for other similar deals for area resorts.
• See what resorts fit your vacation plans. Are you only looking for a place to snowboard or tube? Maybe you want a ski area that has multiple black diamond slopes. Some of the resorts offer ski lessons, childcare, and transportation and other features to add to your experience.
• Find out what the vertical drop is (how long the ski run is). This can usually be found on the website.
• Once you decide where you want to go skiing, you are ready to make a reservation. Keep in mind that staying at the resort will likely cost more, but everything is convenient. You can leave your gear in your room/chalet and be able to return to your room whenever you need something or simply want to take a break. However, staying farther away will save you money, but you will likely end up paying for a locker to store your gear or need to arrange transportation.
• Also, keep in mind, that staying farther away frequently means that you will be closer to area entertainment venues, shopping centers, and the opportunity to try some of the local eateries.

Planning a Colorado ski vacation is fun and the trip is intensely enjoyable. So make your plans, grab your gear and get ready to have an awesome time. The slopes are calling!