With a COVID-19 vaccine seemingly near at hand, a ski resort vacation may still be within reach. Here are the top ski resorts recommended by avid snowboarder Shane Roybal.
Snowboarding is one of Shane Roybal’s favorite pastimes, and as a native Coloradan, Shane Roybal offers his three top picks for those new to the sport, or new to Colorado. Either way, you’re bound for the best mountains Shane Roybal has come to know and love over his 20-year snowboarding career. Will you hit the slopes of Shane’s all-time favorite Breckenridge mountain or plan your ski vacation to Aspen to hit the slopes with Hollywood celebrities?
Shane Roybal works in an intense technical industry. So, when he wants to get away for intense fun, it’s not unusual to see him on the slopes of Breckenridge, Colorado. Often voted one of the best ski towns in the United States, Breckenridge boasts diverse lodge styles and award-winning terrain trails. The vibrant social life is also a draw. Big crowds can be a pain at certain times of the year, so you may want to plan your trip before or after the holidays unless you can squeeze in a day-trip during the week!
According to Shane Roybal, this historic town has a friendly vibe and affordable lodges. During your downtime, you can shop, wine, and dine with other skiers and locals. With Airbnb and other vacation rental sites available, booking a weekend get-away in this energetic ski town makes it easy for anyone to experience Breckenridge living, whether you’re there to ski or spend time roaming the town with your friends and family.
Further up the road from Breckenridge, you’ll find one of Shane Roybal’s favorite ski vacation spots. Vail, known as Colorado’s largest ski area, features an iconic ski resort, complete with all the luxury of the well-known Aspen village and the Germanic charm you can only find at Vail. He recalls happy afternoons on the slopes and plenty of western-style dining to help skiers refuel at the end of the day. Vail is more expensive than Breckenridge but has luxurious lodges that are worthwhile getaways in themselves, Shane Roybal said.
If you’re looking for the perfect apres-ski experience, Vail is your dream come true. With heated sidewalks and breathtaking views, it’s a Winterland paradise.
Aspen Snowmass is amid four ski areas you can explore on a single ski lift. The upscale town has lively music and friendly locals used to cater to tourists. With its low elevation, altitude sickness shouldn’t be an issue, according to Shane Roybal.
Aspen has long been the playground of the rich and it has four areas to ski: Aspen Highlands, Aspen, Buttermilk, and Snowmass. Don’t be too surprised if you spot celebrities on the slopes.