10 best ski resorts in Colorado

Ski bum suggestion No. 5: Snowmass

Not far under Vail as far as size goes is Snowmass. A sprawling network of trails provides snow riders with some of the best terrain the Colorado rockies have to offer. Nestled in the hills in between Glenwood Springs and Aspen, Snowmass is sometimes the world-class resort we Colorado residents forget about.

But, really, there are runs at this Aspen resort that are unforgettable. For the double diamond rider the Hanging Valley Wall is a must, with an ample selection of double diamond tree chutes you may need to wear a diaper while riding. Steep pitch and plenty of random obstacles make this little high alpine garden worth checking.

If you are still warming up to the idea of cutting through trees on your board or skis, but know that’s where all the good powder is stashed, it might be worth your while to head skiers left on the mountain to Jack of Hearts or Nick’s Gully where you can have the comfort of an intermediate run, or sample a little tree riding if you want to test yourself.

And, if you are a lady and have never touched a pair of skis or a board before but have heard that Snowmass instructors are insanely hot, then go for a private lesson and spend some time with him on Norway or Scooper.  After you are done and ready to get your party on, head up highway 82 a bit toward Aspen and find Hunter S. Thompson’s old watering hole Woody Creek Tavern, a hot spot for all of the celebrities who have homes in Aspen to have a drink. So if you want to party with Don Johnson or Cher (both have places in Aspen), this is your place.

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