Published March 16, 2025

A Guide to Summit County’s Ski Resorts

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Written by Kimberly Obert

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ummit County, Colorado, is a skier’s paradise. With world-class ski resorts, breathtaking mountain views, and an inviting alpine atmosphere, it’s no wonder this area is a top destination for winter enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned skier, a snowboarder chasing fresh powder, or a family looking for a fun winter getaway, Summit County has something for everyone.

As a local with deep knowledge of the area—and one of the few AI Certified Agents in the world and the only one in Summit County—I know these mountains inside and out. So, let’s take a closer look at the top ski resorts and find the best one for you.

Breckenridge Ski Resort – Where Epic Runs Meet an Even More Epic Après-Ski Scene

Breckenridge, or "Breck" as the locals call it, is a vibrant ski destination with over 2,900 acres of skiable terrain, 187 trails, and one of the highest chairlifts in North America. With terrain for all skill levels, Breckenridge is ideal for both beginners and experienced skiers looking for a challenge.

Why You’ll Love It:

✔ Five peaks offering diverse terrain for every skier
✔ One of the best après-ski scenes in Colorado, with lively restaurants and bars
✔ A historic Main Street filled with shops, dining, and a charming mountain-town atmosphere

Best for: All levels of skiers, social travelers, and those who enjoy a lively town after a day on the slopes

Keystone Resort – Family-Friendly Fun and Night Skiing

Keystone is the go-to resort for families and those who want to ski from morning until well past sunset. With more than 3,100 acres of terrain, three incredible peaks, and some of the best night skiing in Colorado, Keystone offers an unbeatable experience.

Why You’ll Love It:

✔ Kid-friendly activities like tubing, ice skating, and ski school
✔ A variety of terrain, from gentle groomers to challenging tree runs
✔ The Outback, a favorite for powder hounds and advanced skiers
✔ Night skiing for those who don’t want the fun to end at 4 p.m.

Best for: Families, intermediate skiers, and anyone who wants to maximize their time on the mountain

Copper Mountain – A Local Favorite with a Natural Flow

Copper Mountain is known for its naturally divided terrain, which separates beginner, intermediate, and expert skiers into designated areas. This makes for a more enjoyable and less intimidating experience for all.

Why You’ll Love It:

✔ Naturally separated terrain ensures a comfortable experience for all skill levels
✔ Shorter lift lines and fewer crowds compared to Breckenridge and Keystone
✔ Woodward Copper terrain parks offer an exciting challenge for freestyle skiers and snowboarders
✔ Easy access from Denver, only 75 miles away

Best for: Intermediate and advanced skiers, terrain park lovers, and those looking for a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds

Arapahoe Basin (A-Basin) – Extreme Terrain and an Extended Season

A-Basin is known for its challenging terrain and one of the longest ski seasons in North America, often running from October to June. This resort is a favorite for advanced skiers looking for steep chutes, high-alpine bowls, and an authentic ski culture.

Why You’ll Love It:

✔ High-alpine, challenging terrain for experienced skiers
✔ A laid-back, old-school ski culture that focuses on the love of skiing
✔ The Beach, a popular tailgating scene at the base of the mountain
✔ One of the longest ski seasons in the country

Best for: Advanced skiers, thrill-seekers, and those who love skiing into late spring

Loveland Ski Area – Affordable and Local-Friendly

Loveland offers an affordable, no-frills ski experience with some of the best snowfall in the state. It’s one of the first resorts to open each season and is a favorite among locals.

Why You’ll Love It:

✔ Affordable lift tickets compared to other major resorts
✔ Short lift lines and a welcoming local atmosphere
✔ 400 inches of snowfall annually, making for great powder days
✔ Close proximity to Denver, making it a great day-trip option

Best for: Budget-conscious skiers, powder lovers, and those looking for a relaxed, local-friendly experience

Which Resort is Right for You?

  • For a lively town and après-ski fun: Breckenridge
  • For family-friendly adventures: Keystone
  • For fewer crowds and a natural terrain flow: Copper Mountain
  • For extreme terrain and a long season: Arapahoe Basin
  • For affordability and local charm: Loveland

Thinking of Making Summit County Home?

If you're spending your ski days here and thinking, "I could really see myself owning a home in Summit County," let's talk. I'M ONE OF THE FEW AI CERTIFIED AGENTS IN THE WORLD—AND THE ONLY ONE IN SUMMIT COUNTY. I use cutting-edge marketing strategies that traditional agents don’t even know exist.

See what AI can do for the sale of your home.

 

Call or text me: (970) 390-3711
Email: kim@kimobert.com
Visit: www.kimobert.com

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