The Rocky Mountains, or the Rockies, are a renowned destination for ski enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of ski resorts that cater to skiers of all skill levels. For intermediate skiers, the Rockies boast some of the most popular and well-equipped ski resorts, providing a perfect balance of challenging terrain and breathtaking scenery.
What are the Most Popular Ski Resorts in the Rockies for Intermediate Skiers?
The Rockies are home to several ski resorts that are particularly well-suited for intermediate skiers. Some of the most popular options include:
1. Steamboat, Colorado
Ski Runs: Steamboat offers a variety of intermediate terrain, including tree skiing and groomed runs. It has 165 trails across 2,965 acres, with 44% of the trails rated as intermediate.
Average Snowfall: Steamboat receives an average of 459 inches of snowfall annually.
Lift Ticket Prices: Lift tickets range from $150 to $200 per day, depending on the season and type of ticket.
Ski Packages: Steamboat offers various packages, including the “Steamboat Ski Resort Lift Ticket and Rental Package” which includes lift tickets and equipment rentals.
2. Keystone, Colorado
Ski Runs: Keystone has a diverse range of trails, with 58% of its 3,000 acres rated as intermediate. It features long, groomed runs and tree skiing opportunities.
Average Snowfall: Keystone receives an average of 300 inches of snowfall annually.
Lift Ticket Prices: Lift tickets range from $150 to $200 per day, depending on the season and type of ticket.
Ski Packages: Keystone offers packages like the “Keystone Ski Resort Lift Ticket and Rental Package” which includes lift tickets and equipment rentals.
3. Snowmass, Colorado
Ski Runs: Snowmass has 33% more skiable acreage than the other three Aspen areas combined, with 50% of its trails rated as intermediate. It features wide-open advanced and intermediate slopes, as well as expert drops.
Average Snowfall: Snowmass receives an average of 300 inches of snowfall annually.
Lift Ticket Prices: Lift tickets range from $150 to $200 per day, depending on the season and type of ticket.
Ski Packages: Snowmass offers packages like the “Snowmass Ski Resort Lift Ticket and Rental Package” which includes lift tickets and equipment rentals.
What Other Activities Can Intermediate Skiers Enjoy at Rockies Ski Resorts?
While skiing is the primary draw, the Rockies ski resorts offer a range of additional activities for intermediate skiers to enjoy:
Aspen, Colorado
Nightlife: Aspen has a lively nightlife scene with various bars and clubs, such as the Ajax Tavern and the Belly Up Aspen.
Shopping: Aspen is known for its high-end shopping, featuring local boutiques and luxury ski gear stores.
Sightseeing: Aspen is surrounded by breathtaking natural attractions, including Maroon Bells, one of the most photographed mountains in the US.
Breckenridge, Colorado
Nightlife: Breckenridge has a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars and clubs, such as the Gold Pan Saloon and the Blue Stag Saloon.
Shopping: Breckenridge offers a mix of local shops and ski gear stores, as well as souvenir shops and boutiques.
Sightseeing: Breckenridge is a historic mining town with Victorian charm, featuring landmarks like the Breckenridge Heritage Alliance Museum.
What are Some Smaller, More Affordable Ski Resorts in the Rockies for Intermediate Skiers?
While the larger, more well-known ski resorts in the Rockies offer a premium experience, there are also smaller, more affordable options that cater to both beginners and intermediate skiers:
1. Eldora, Colorado
Ski Runs: Eldora has a mix of beginner and intermediate trails, with 55% of its trails rated as intermediate.
Average Snowfall: Eldora receives an average of 300 inches of snowfall annually.
Lift Ticket Prices: Lift tickets range from $100 to $150 per day, depending on the season and type of ticket.
Amenities: Eldora offers amenities like ski lessons, rentals, and a cafeteria.
2. Loveland, Colorado
Ski Runs: Loveland has a mix of beginner and intermediate trails, with 46% of its trails rated as intermediate.
Average Snowfall: Loveland receives an average of 400 inches of snowfall annually.
Lift Ticket Prices: Lift tickets range from $80 to $120 per day, depending on the season and type of ticket.
Amenities: Loveland offers amenities like ski lessons, rentals, and a cafeteria.
References:
– https://www.onthesnow.com/rocky-mountains/ski-resorts
– https://www.frommers.com/slideshows/822271-skiing-the-northern-rockies-12-snowy-slopes
– https://www.peakrankings.com/rockies-rankings