The USA is known for many things, its world-class ski resorts among them. Though Brits might naturally plump for the closer proximity of European slopes, the States has carved out a reputation for snowsports thanks to a number of famed mountain destinations to rival the Alps.
Colorado is one such state, with ski resorts lauded for their champagne powder, extensive and varied terrain, tree-lined trails and gentle bowls to play in. Blessed with the incredible Rocky Mountains, a variety of snow-sure destinations and plenty of Wild West charm, it has quickly risen to become the capital of skiing in the US.
Legendary resorts like Vail, Aspen and Breckenridge, with their vast skiable areas, have long attracted visitors hoping to sample world-famous runs and a taste of the high life at 2,500 metres.
From the family-friendly haven of Steamboat to lesser-known destinations for those in the know, such as Telluride, Colorado caters to skiers of all abilities, with over 32 resorts to choose from. Here’s a selection of the best.
Vail
Vail is the third-largest single-mountain ski resort in the US
(Getty Images)
Perhaps the USA’s most famous ski resort, Vail – operated by the eponymous Vail Resorts – is home to a vast skiable area of over 5,000 acres that caters to every level of skier and snowboarder. Plentiful recent investment means that lifts are quick, and with a season that runs from mid-November to mid-April, there’s plenty of time to experience this vast, Bavarian-style resort. For the ultimate experience, the Epic Pass gives access to all of Vail’s Colorado resorts, including Crested Butte and Breckenridge.
Though the resort’s glittering reputation and high-end restaurants and activities make it an expensive place to ski, Vail has an almost unrivalled variety of accommodation, place to eat and drink and, most importantly, slopes. Beginners can tackle the areas at the top of the Eagle Bahn Gondola and Gopher Hill, while intermediates will enjoy runs such as Born Free, Bwana and Simba. The Back Bowls and Blue Sky Basin contain some of the most famed terrain in Vail, with powder bowls, tree runs and steep trails.
Book it
Heidi offers stays at the Tivoli Lodge in traditional accommodation with pared-back, spacious rooms and plenty of mountain character, just four minutes from the slopes and the resort hub.
From £3,267pp including…
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