The Best Colorado Ski Resorts

Some of the best ski resorts in the world are in the state of Colorado, but what are the best ski resorts in Colorado itself? Colorado is the home of many great ski resorts and often just saying the word skiing will bring up images of any of a number of these resorts. Still some are better than others and while they are all winners in the minds of many, there are also some that stand out from the pack.

Here are the top ski resorts in Colorado that you will find on almost any top ten lists anywhere around:

• Vail Resort: To say that the Vail Resort is one of the best in North America is an understatement. In fact, the resort has won the honor an unheard of 14 years out of the last 19. This is probably because Vail is what skiing is all about. Vail has over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain and is located just 100 miles outside of Denver. The Vail Resort is one that is full each and every year and is a must see for any ski enthusiast.

• Aspen Highlands Resort: This ski paradise is known as the local's favorite mountain and it is located just three short miles outside the downtown area of Aspen. The slopes are unbeatable and constantly offer challenges to even the most experienced skiers and snow boarders. Best of all, the mountain is accessible by a free shuttle service that runs from downtown Aspen making it very convent as well as fun.

• Durango Mountain Resort: This resort is located in the San Juan Mountains just 25 miles north of Durango. The area receives an average of 260 inches of snowfall ever year which makes for the ideal skiing conditions. The skiing can range from wide open runs to half-pipe runs and there is never a shortage of action. The slope side condominiums that the 'Alpine Village' at the resort offers are a bit expensive no doubt, but they should be experienced at least once in every skier's lifetime.

• Winter Park Resort: Winter Park Resort is sunny nearly 70 percent of the ski season. This makes for great wide open runs and great visibility. With over 350 inches of the white stuff falling every year, this ski mecca is never at a loss for thrills. Lodging is available all around and many who visit the resort like to stay at the Winter Park Mountain Lodge which is just across the street from the mountain.

Again, there are many other wonderful Colorado ski resorts, but these are the best of the best. For great skiing, award winning food, and top notch lodging, nothing beats these destinations. Really no matter where you choose to ski in the great state of Colorado, you are bound to have a fantastic time, but at least once in your skiing career, you should try to make it out to the top four because if you do, you will have the time of your life and you will build memories that will last you a lifetime.