COME TO LIFE On the Slopes & Beyond When you meet a Colorado skier, you can sense they’ve uncovered the secret to true winter bliss. Our 28 ski resorts are nestled near charming mountain towns packed with delicious eats, exciting rest-day adventures and, of course, some of the best descents in the world. But not everyone grows up learning how to shred and knows how to navigate alpine runs; that doesn’t mean it’s too late to schedule a lesson and plan the ski trip of your dreams. Whether you’re an aspiring skier, snowboarder or adaptive skier, or you’re already a seasoned powder enthusiast, you can plan the perfect winter getaway in the Rockies. Here’s some ski-trip inspiration, with tips from adaptive-ski champion, instructor and motivational speaker Tony Drees. Your Perfect Ski Trip Aspen Aspen Snowmass boasts four distinct mountains. Aspen Mountain and Aspen Highlands cater to intermediate and expert skiers, while Buttermilk is ideal for families and freestyle enthusiasts. Snowmass, the largest mountain, has something for all skill levels. When you’ve set down your gear for the evening, head to Mawa’s Kitchen , a Michelin Guide-recommended restaurant serving Afro-Mediterranean cuisine with a French-American twist in Aspen. Order buttery bread boards and spicy West African peanut curry. Then spend an afternoon exploring the latest eclectic exhibition at the Aspen Art Museum . Salida Hailed for its high-elevation terrain and short lift lines, Monarch Mountain near Salida is a bit of a hidden gem. Ride to the top of the narrow, between-trees Panorama Lift for 360-degree views of the Continental Divide. On your rest day, roam through downtown Salida, a Certified Colorado Creative District, where the Arkansas River runs through the community. Pop into The Mad Potter to browse handmade ceramic pieces by local artists. At night, stop by High Side! Bar & Grill and dig into their signature burger topped with “Salida Sauce” as you jam out to weekly live-music sets. Vail As one of the largest ski resorts in North America, and with seven legendary back bowls, it’s no wonder Vail Ski Resort is one of the most iconic ski destinations in the world. While you’re in town, dive into the sport’s history. Step into the Colorado Snowsports Museum and Hall of Fame and uncover exhibits about the ski-clad soldiers of the 10th Mountain Division and Olympic racers who train on our slopes. For an intimate evening, reserve a spot at La Nonna Ristorante for a candle-lit dinner of fresh-made pasta with Italian wine. 52 1-800-COLORADO Note: All resorts listed offer adaptive-ski programs.
Colorado Official State Vacation Guide 2025: Page 52
