LET IT SNOW — The Rockies are gettin’ it. As the weather continues to spew snow all over the mountains, Colorado’s annual snow fall is more than 100 percent above average statewide. 2020 is upon us, bringing a wealth of opportunities for New Year’s resolutions, and also: Powder Huntin’.
Here’s a roundup of Colorado ski areas boasting the deepest, freshest powder, in no particular order:
Wolf Creek — It’s dumping in the San Juans, ya’ll! This independent ski area is a hidden gem revered for its rugged terrain and deep powder. Averaging a 480-inch annual snowfall, Wolf Creek maintains the title of “most snow in Colorado.” Sure, Colorado’s southernmost ski area may be a trek, but the awe-inspiring vistas of the Continental Divide and steep n’ deep powder make it well worth it.
Silverton — Many people have not heard of Silverton before because this terrain is unlike any other ski area in the state. Exclusively extreme terrain, Silverton offers a single lift for the Big Mountain Skier’s soul and is one of the only spots in the state to offer heli-skiing. Ski or board Silverton, and you’ll be cranking the type of raucous lines you’ve seen in Warren Miller films.
Monarch — Another independent ski area to make the list — don’t sleep on the resorts you don’t see on the Ikon or Epic Pass! Situated right along the Continental Divide and Colorado Trail, 360-degree views of the San Juan, Elk, West Elk, Sangre De Cristo and Sawatch Ranges await you at the top (weather permitting, of course) of a run you can blast down and see maybe one other person. Cat skiing at 12,000-feet is also a must — but keep an eye on the ever-shifting conditions.
Hyper-local, hyper-fun.
Steamboat — An iconic winter destination in North America, Steamboat offers just shy of 3,000 acres of world-class skiing. Steamboat is most notable for its rich Olympic ties and famously trademarked Champagne Powder®. Truly a hub for snow enthusiasts all of levels, this is one of the premier family ski resorts in the world. It also dropped a record 44 inches of natural snow in October.
Aspen/Snowmass — With a particularly storied history in winter sports, Aspen is a legendary mecca for skiing. The combination of Aspen Mountain, Buttermilk, Aspen Highlands and Snowmass creates the perfect blend of extreme terrain where locals hang, prime runs for beginners and families and the same terrain parks that host the Winter X Games. And once you’re finished either ripping big mountain lines or cranking long, groomed cruisers, well head on over to the après — you earned it.
HONORABLE MENTION:
- Winter Park
- Loveland
- Vail
- Arapahoe Basin
- Crested Butte
Check out this comprehensive guide on comfortable ski wear and keep your eyes peeled for ongoing winter discounts this season.
MORE INFO & BACKCOUNTRY RESOURCES:
SNOW REPORT: Colorado Ski Country USA
SNOW IN COLORADO: OnTheSnow
FORECAST & CONDITIONS: OpenSnow
WEATHER: National Weather Service
AVALANCHE FORECAST: Colorado Avalanche Information Center
TRAVEL & NEWS: Colorado Department of Transportation
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