Breckenridge and Aspen are two of Colorado’s most-visited ski resorts. But how do they compare, and which one is best for your needs? Here we will take a deep dive into both resorts and see how they level up.
Need to know
Ski Area Compared
| Breckenridge | Aspen Snowmass | |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Ski Trails | 187 | 336 |
| Combined Distance of Ski Trails (miles) | 290 | 330 |
| Percentage of Beginner Trails | 11% | 6% |
| Percentage of Intermediate Trails | 31% | 50% |
| Percentage of Expert Trails | 58% | 44% |
If you want to learn more about these two resorts, you can see more in our full review of Breckenridge or Aspen Snowmass.
Cost
Day pass price at Breckenridge
Peak season: $189
Off-peak season: $149
Day pass price at Aspen Snowmass
Peak Season: $199
Off-Peak Season: $169
Accommodation Options
In terms of types of accommodation, Breckenridge offers hotels, lodges, condominiums, townhomes, and vacation rentals. These are located both in the town of Breckenridge itself and closer to the ski resort. Aspen offers similar types of accommodation, but with more high-end and luxury options available.
When it comes to price, both towns have options available at different price points. However, accommodation in Aspen tends to be more expensive overall, with many of the options priced at a premium. In Breckenridge, there are more budget-friendly options available, but prices can still be high during peak season.
Both towns offer convenient access to the slopes. In Breckenridge, many of the accommodations are located within walking distance or a short shuttle ride away from the ski resort. Some even offer ski-in/ski-out access. Similarly, Aspen offers many accommodations that are within walking distance or a short shuttle ride from the ski resort. However, the ski resort in Aspen is spread out across four separate mountains, so proximity to the slopes may vary depending on which mountain you’re skiing on.
Getting there
The closest major city to Breckenridge is Denver, which is approximately 80 miles away. Travel time from Denver to Breckenridge is around 2 hours by car. There are also shuttle services available from Denver International Airport to Breckenridge.
Aspen Snowmass, on the other hand, is located about 220 miles southwest of Denver. The closest major city to Aspen Snowmass is Grand Junction, which is approximately 125 miles away. Travel time from Grand Junction to Aspen Snowmass is around 2.5 hours by car. There are also shuttle services available from Denver International Airport to Aspen Snowmass.
Winner: Breckenridge
For Beginner skiers
Both Breckenridge and Aspen Snowmass are suitable for beginners, but Breckenridge may be slightly more beginner-friendly. Breckenridge has a larger beginner area and more gentle slopes, making it a great place for first-time skiers to learn and gain confidence.
Aspen Snowmass also has beginner terrain, but it is more spread out and may require more time to navigate. However, both resorts offer excellent ski schools and beginner packages to help new skiers get started. Ultimately, the choice between the two resorts will depend on personal preferences and priorities.
Winner: Breckenridge
For Families
As you would expect from two of the top resorts in the US, Breckenridge and Aspen cater very well for families, but they have different strengths. Breckenridge is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and activities, such as the Breckenridge Fun Park, which offers a variety of activities for all ages, including a roller coaster, zip line, and mini golf. The resort also has a dedicated ski and ride school for children, with programs for kids as young as three years old.
Aspen Snowmass, on the other hand, is known for its extensive terrain and variety of ski runs, making it a great choice for families with older children or more experienced skiers. The resort also offers a variety of non-ski activities, such as snowshoeing, ice skating, and tubing, as well as a dedicated ski and snowboard school for children.
Overall, both Breckenridge and Aspen Snowmass are great options for families, but the choice will depend on the specific needs and preferences of each family.
Winner: Tie
For Advanced Skiers
Both Breckenridge and Aspen Snowmass are suitable for advanced skiers, but Aspen Snowmass may have more challenging runs overall.
Breckenridge has some great advanced runs, such as the Imperial Bowl and the Lake Chutes. The Imperial Bowl is a steep, open bowl with plenty of powder, while the Lake Chutes are a series of narrow, steep chutes that require expert-level skiing skills.
Aspen Snowmass, on the other hand, has a reputation for having some of the most challenging terrain in North America. Some of the more difficult runs include the Hanging Valley Wall, which is a steep, narrow chute with a 40-degree pitch, and the Cirque Headwall, which is a double-black diamond run with a 45-degree pitch. Additionally, Aspen Snowmass has plenty of off-piste terrain for advanced skiers who want to explore the backcountry.
Overall, both Breckenridge and Aspen Snowmass offer plenty of challenging runs for advanced skiers, but Aspen Snowmass may have a slight edge in terms of overall difficulty.
Winner: Aspen
Terrain Parks
Breckenridge and Aspen Snowmass both have excellent terrain parks for freestyle skiing and snowboarding. Breckenridge’s terrain park is known as one of the best in the world, with over 25 acres of jumps, rails, and features. It has four terrain parks, including the famous Freeway Park, which is designed for advanced riders.
Aspen Snowmass also has a great terrain park, with over 100 features spread across three parks. The parks cater to all skill levels, from beginner to advanced, and are regularly updated with new features. Overall, both resorts offer top-notch terrain parks for freestyle skiing and snowboarding.
Winner: Tie
For Non-Skiers
Both Breckenridge and Aspen offer a variety of activities for non-skiers. In Breckenridge, non-skiers can enjoy snowshoeing, ice skating, sleigh rides, snowmobiling, and visiting the town’s many shops and restaurants. Aspen also offers snowshoeing, ice skating, and snowmobiling, as well as hot air balloon rides, dog sledding, and visiting the town’s museums and galleries.
Overall, Aspen may be a better choice for non-skiers as it offers a wider variety of activities and attractions. However, both resorts have plenty to offer for those who don’t ski.
Winner: Aspen
Conclusion
To sum up, both Breckenridge and Aspen offer incredible skiing experiences with their unique features and attractions. Breckenridge is perfect for those who want a lively atmosphere with a wide range of terrain options, while Aspen is ideal for those who want a more luxurious and upscale experience with breathtaking views. Ultimately, the choice between the two resorts will depend on personal preferences and priorities. Regardless of which one you choose, you’re guaranteed to have an unforgettable skiing adventure.
