Why Summit County Ski Resorts Are So Popular

Updated: Nov 12, 2024

Summit County living up to its name  with 62 peaks that are over 13,000ft tall.

Summit County, Colorado – the mecca for every powder hound and park rat who calls the Rockies home. Here, we’re not just talking world-class ski resorts; we’re talking some of the best skiing and riding you can find anywhere. From gnarly steeps to legendary après scenes, Summit County’s got the goods to make every winter lover’s dreams come true.

Let’s break down why this high-altitude paradise is so popular and why Virgin Island Ski Rentals in Silverthorne should be your first stop when gearing up for the slopes.

Summit County’s Four Iconic Resorts

We are lucky to have four great resorts close to each other: Arapahoe Basin, Breckenridge, Keystone, and Copper Mountain. Each one has its own personality and charm. Whether you like racing through powder or doing tricks in the park, Summit has what you need.

Arapahoe Basin Ski Area (A-Basin)

Known as "The Legend," Arapahoe Basin is the place locals choose for a true high-alpine skiing experience. A-Basin’s summit sits at 13,050 feet, offering jaw-dropping views of the Rockies and some seriously epic powder.

This place stays open from October to June (yep, you read that right!), which means you can even hit up some spring and early summer laps. With more than 1,400 acres of land, A-Basin is an icon. It has steep chutes, wide bowls, and fun trees.

Breckenridge Ski Resort

Ah, Breck – where epic terrain meets an epic après scene. Breckenridge is the most popular resort in Colorado.

It has five peaks and 2,900 acres of trails. Trail for every skill level. Breck’s got everything from mellow groomers to some seriously gnarly alpine terrain above the treeline on Peak 8.

And once you’ve called last chair, head into town for some après action. Breckenridge’s historic downtown is full of bars, breweries, and restaurants. This makes it just as famous as the slopes. For more info on where to Eat, Stay, and Ski, head over to insiders guide.

Copper Mountain

If you’re after variety, Copper Mountain is your playground. The design sets up naturally, allowing beginners, intermediates, and experts to each have their own side of the mountain. Copper is also home to the first superpipe to open every season in the U.S., and the terrain park scene here is next level.

Woodward Mountain Park has everything you need to perfect your tricks. You will find many open bowls, like Resolution and Spaulding, for great powder turns. Add in 2,500 acres and plenty of steep-and-deep runs, and you’ve got one of the best spots in Summit. Check out our newly Locals Guide to Copper Mountain for more recommendations to make the most out of your time at Copper.

Keystone Resort

Keystone isn’t just for families – though it’s got tons of options for all ages. This place has 3,000 acres, five bowls, and some incredible tree skiing on North and South Peak. Keystone also lets you night ski under the lights, which is perfect for stretching those powder days a little longer.

For some extra adventure, head up to Adventure Point for tubing at 11,640 feet – not your average sledding hill! Keystone also builds the world’s largest snow fort every year, so families with kids can play in the snow all day long. Read our  Local's Guide to Keystone for more insiders tips on the best trails, secret pow stashes, apres spots, and night skiing details. 

Get the Best Gear at Virgin Island Ski Rentals

Before you drop in, make sure you’ve got the right gear to keep up with Summit’s ever-changing conditions. At Virgin Island Ski Rentals in Silverthorne, we offer a large selection of demo skis and boards. You can choose the best equipment that fits your skill level. And with our 10% discount for online bookings, there’s no reason not to go all out.

Summit County’s ski resorts are popular for good reasons. They offer amazing snow, exciting terrain, and unforgettable memories at every turn. If you’re heading this way, come see us at Virgin Island Ski Rentals. We’ll get you geared up and ready to make some of your own legendary Summit moments.

Image Source: LanaG/Shutterstock

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