When it comes to world-class skiing and snowboarding, few passes offer the variety and adventure that EPIC Resorts deliver. Whether you’re carving through fresh powder, exploring charming ski towns, or enjoying après-ski fun, these resorts provide the ultimate mountain experience. From the towering peaks of Colorado to the stunning views in Tahoe and the local charm of Stevens Pass, I am going to share a little about each of the EPIC resorts I have been to.
Colorado’s Epic Resorts
In Colorado alone, there are five incredible Epic resorts, four of which are conveniently located along I-70. This gives you the opportunity to visit a different resort each day. With just a short drive between them, you can easily plan a 4-day ski trip and experience all the unique terrain and charm that each of these resorts offer.
Vail Resort
Distance from Denver International Airport: ~2 hours (depending on traffic and snow conditions)
It’s only fitting to start with Vail, the owner of Epic Resorts and one of my personal favorites. The town of Vail itself is a destination, filled with boutique stores, amazing restaurants, cozy coffee shops, and lively cocktail bars. On the mountain, long runs and famous back bowls offer endless adventure for all skill levels. Whether you’re on the slopes from sunrise to sunset or strolling through the town’s picturesque streets, Vail promises an unforgettable experience.
Beaver Creek Resort
Distance from Denver International Airport: ~2 hours and 15 minutes (depending on traffic and snow conditions)
Beaver Creek holds a special place in my heart, especially for the mountain itself. While the town may not have the same buzz as Vail, the skiing more than makes up for it. It’s slightly easier for beginners with lots of wide runs, but don’t let that fool you, there are still plenty of challenging runs. Plus, its location further from Denver means fewer crowds, giving you more time to enjoy the slopes. We got lucky on a Monday in December with fresh powder and practically had the mountain to ourselves. Pure bliss!
Breckenridge Resort
Distance from Denver International Airport: ~1 hour and 45 minutes (depending on traffic and snow conditions)
Breckenridge is more than just a ski town, it’s a full-fledged mountain town. With five peaks (from Peak 6-10) to explore, Breckenridge offers endless skiing opportunities and a vibrant town to match. It’s a must-visit for those looking for both a massive ski resort and an energetic après-ski scene. There are a lot of fun bars with live music and great restaurants, just keep in mind that on busy weekends, it can get pretty packed in this small mountain town.
Keystone Resort
Distance from Denver International Airport: ~1 hour and 35 minutes (depending on traffic and snow conditions)
Keystone, the closest resort to Denver, can get crowded, but don’t let that deter you. The highlight? Night skiing! There’s nothing quite like cruising down the mountain as the sun sets behind the Rockies. That stunning view is etched in my memory forever. Keystone is a fun and lively mountain that’s well worth the visit.
Stevens Pass Resort, Washington
Distance from Seattle International Airport: ~2 hours (depending on traffic and snow conditions)
Stevens Pass, the only Epic resort in Washington, offers a more local vibe but still packs a punch. The mountain is one the smaller side but with both frontside and backside runs, it’s a fantastic place to ski and snowboard. There are a few restaurants on the mountain with great food. Another cool thing about Stevens Pass is that they offer night skiing here until 10pm. On one of our days here we went hiking to a waterfall in a mossy rainforest about an hour away and then hit the slopes later that same day. You can’t beat that kind of adventure!
Tahoe’s EPIC Resorts: A Triple Threat
Lake Tahoe is home to three EPIC resorts, each offering unique terrain, breathtaking views, and unforgettable experiences. For the full adventure, I recommend staying in South Lake Tahoe and checking out all three. There’s nothing quite like a day on the slopes followed by exploring the town’s vibrant food scene and even hitting up some casinos at night.
Heavenly Ski Resort
Distance from Reno International Airport: ~1 hour and 5 minutes (depending on traffic and snow conditions)
Heavenly Resort spans both Nevada and California, offering you the chance to ski two states in one day! The California side boasts stunning views of Lake Tahoe, adding an extra layer of exhilaration to your runs. Despite being the busiest of Tahoe’s Epic resorts, Heavenly’s expansive size ensures it never feels too crowded. Since you are only 5 minutes away from South Lake Tahoe, there are endless shops and restaurants right at the bottom of this mountain.
Northstar Ski Resort
Distance from Reno International Airport: ~50 minutes (depending on traffic and snow conditions)
With its laid-back vibe, Northstar’s terrain park and beautiful Lake Tahoe views make it an incredible spot to hit the slopes. The resort’s village feels like a cozy version of Beaver Creek, complete with ski shops and a few great spots for après-ski drinks. The Sunday we visited wasn’t crowded, which made the experience even more enjoyable.
Kirkwood Ski Resort
Distance from Reno International Airport: ~1 hour and 30 minutes (depending on traffic and snow conditions)
Kirkwood has a more local, down-to-earth feel, but don’t underestimate it. The back bowls here are a dream for those looking for adventure. It’s worth arriving early to avoid traffic, as the lift lines and parking can get a little busy. Just keep in mind that everything, including restaurants, shuts down right after the lifts close at 4pm.
Ready to Hit the Slopes?
Well, those are all the EPIC resorts I’ve explored so far, but there are many more that I can’t wait to check out! If you’re looking to plan an unforgettable ski trip, EPIC Resorts really has something for everyone, whether you’re an adrenaline junkie looking for steep runs and deep powder or someone who loves après-ski vibes in charming towns. So, pack your gear, grab your EPIC Pass, and start planning your next adventure.
Annalise Adventuring 
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