Ski resorts in Aspen – well-heeled (or should that be well-ski booted) fans of this former Victorian mining town are often lured by its charming setting, its unashamed opulence and the chance of spotting a celebrity or two. The ski region certainly offers some challenging runs too and is made up of four main ski areas all linked by free shuttle bus: Ajax, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk (best for beginners) and Snowmass. Collectively, it’s known as Aspen Snowmass.
Ski resorts in Breckenridge – one of the more beginner-friendly areas, Breckenridge is divided into five sectors. It offers a long, sweeping nursery slope to rival many others, and the ski schools are among the best known. Its 2,908 acres of slopes offer lots to intermediates and experts too, with steeper runs above the tree line.
Its 3,000m-high resort has a Victorian-style charm (you may need to acclimatise a little) and offers bags of bars and restaurants.
Ski resorts are in Vail – having turned 60 in 2022, this pensioner packs a punch as another upmarket resort. Prices for lift passes can be as steep as the slopes, but you can save by buying in advance to take advantage of being in one of the best-connected, most-varied ski areas in the US. Swish your way to its coveted north slopes for a good chance of powder snow. The resort village is vast but there’s a free shuttle, and you can experience anything from its Tirolean-style Vail village to the modern Lionshead. It offers lively apres ski and is family friendly, too.