6 Colorado Ski Gems – A Luxury Travel Blog: A Luxury Travel Blog /

Skiing in Colorado is getting attention from huge resort complexes like Aspen and Vail. However, skiing in Colorado began with small ski operations scattered throughout the state. And while many times overshadowed by its vast expanse, they have thrilling and historic experiences that should be in your ski trip mix.

Wolf Creek

Wolf Creek gets legendary snowfalls if you want powder and are willing to drive a bit southwest. For most storms, total snowfall can be measured in feet. The 1,600-acre site is served by ten lifts, so there are plenty of options on your ride up. The Lynx and Pup learning activities separate adult and child-specific teaching methods if you’re new to downhill skiing. The scenery is king with a gourmet espresso bar at the top of the Continental Divide. Wolf Creek includes a free Nordic run in the Alberta Lake area, just in case you didn’t burn enough calories shredding the fresh fluff.

Frisco Nordic Center

This complex features cross country ski trails for beginners to racers. The trails start quickly in a meadow with your choice of difficulty assured of mesmerizing scenery and twists and turns as you ski into the surrounding terrain. The center is part of the Frisco Adventure Park. Anyone can find an activity, even if they don’t cross-country ski. Snowshoeing and a beginner’s alpine ski/ride area will get you sliding your legs without going to a huge ski area. The tubing hill is a one second thrill. Something for everyone, with every activity fantastic in itself.

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Loveland Ski Area

Just at the entrance to the Eisenhower Tunnel, you don’t get much of a view of the high alpine skiing at Loveland Ski Area as you enter the tunnel. More than 46% of the more than 1,800 acres available for skiing are above the tree line, much of it right on the Continental Divide. The ski area encompasses the valley, with beginner/intermediate options. The Basin offers everything from green slopes to double black diamonds. Loveland has two snowcat options to take you where the lifts don’t serve the terrain. So you can get that powder/backcountry experience without an airlift. Less than an hour from Denver, this is also a skiing experience to use if you’re in the area for other purposes.

Tennessee Nordic Center Pass

Leadville has been a mining town with a rich skiing history, including the training ground for the US Army’s 10th Mountain Division in World War II. At the base of that alpine ski area is the Tennessee Pass Nordic Center. The skiing is good, but the real draw is that you can stay overnight in the Yurts for a high-altitude rejuvenation experience, complete with room service. Another must-chomp is dinner at the Tennessee Pass Cookhouse. In the evening, ski or snowshoe the mile to the cookhouse, then partake in a gourmet four-course meal complete with wine. What about moose, bison and wild boar dishes at 11,000 feet?

Ski sunlight

Just outside Glenwood Springs on the west slope, Ski Sunlight has been a comfortable alpine skiing experience for decades. While the town draws people in for its famous hot springs, the skiing is excellent in this family-friendly area. Park for free and walk to the valley and the lifts. No shuttle service is required. The 72 trails all return to the base area and lodge, so it’s hard to lose a family member at the end of the day. They offer packages that combine skiing with staying and soaking in the hot springs.

Breckenridge Nordic Center

Nestled in the trees on the edge of Breckenridge Ski Area, this Nordic center is a mecca for skinny skis, virtually up the hill from the capital. All trails are dual purpose with both classic and skate sections. Proximity doesn’t mean crowded, as the Nordic Center’s ski and snowshoe trails loop around and through the Cucumber Gulch Wilderness Area. One of the best shops, courses and vistas for cross country skiing. Lunch includes hearty food and drinks, and during lunch you get alpine entertainment with an accordion. The Dayton family, the founders, are legendary Nordic competitors and ski pioneers.