Skiing doesn't end when winter does!

One of the best things about Colorado is how fantastic every season is here. Each one is beautiful and provides an array of fun activities to participate in. When it comes to skiing, you can typically hit the mountain during three out of the four seasons, which is extra special. It's really cool to experience those transitional seasons, in particular, where you can ski and enjoy a little après-ski experience one day, and then hang out at the park the next day.

Skiing during the springtime is unique because the snow has a different texture (it can get a bit slushy-but it's fun!), and there are often fewer people at the resorts as they've already moved on to solely springtime activities. With the warmer weather on the slopes, you may even decide to wear shorts! Many resorts will also host fun springtime bashes to wrap up the end of the season on a high note. With fun parties, blue skies (ideally), crazy outfits (Gaper Day, anyone?), and immaculate energy, spring skiing is an amazing time.

But what are the best resorts for spring skiing in Colorado? We've got you covered!

Arapahoe Basin

Known as "The Legend," Arapahoe Basin, lovingly called "A-Basin" or "A-Bay," is often open from late October until early June, which means it's typically the Colorado resort with the longest season (view all the opening/closing dates for Colorado ski resorts). The elevation is high and about 55% of the slopes are north-facing, meaning there's a good chance the snow will stay nice later in the season.

This mountain is smaller and has a more mom-and-pop feel. (It was recently bought by Alterra Mountain Company, but I believe its integrity will remain.) Despite its smaller size, there's a lot of fun terrain for intermediate and advanced skiers. It's also a great place to tailgate when it starts to get warmer. You can reserve a parking spot on "The Beach," which is where the party vibes are.

Plus, when the lake melts, people will pond skim, meaning they'll come down from the run and glide across the water, transitioning to a brief moment of water skiing. Whether you do it yourself or just want to spectate, it's a fun activity to be around for.

This resort is pretty bare-bones, so don't expect fancy lodges or good cell service. They do, however, have an awesome culture. It's a whole vibe, but be sure to know what you're getting into. A-Bay is the place to be for all-around good vibes, a local feel, and a long ski season!

Try This: Relax at 6th Alley Bar & Grill and sip on an award-winning Bloody!  

Winter Park

One of my favorite Colorado resorts is Winter Park. Luckily, they also stay open late, particularly on the Mary Jane side, which is a favorite for Winter Park fans. People love the Mary Jane area for its terrain, the proximity of the parking to the lift, and overall culture. Like A-Basin, Winter Park also has a fun tailgate culture, which takes place in the Mary Jane lot. If you want a classic spring ski experience, be sure to visit a resort with a good tailgate at least once! 

Winter Park also throws an annual "Spring Bash and Splash." This event is an awesome way to celebrate spring skiing. This year, they'll throw down every weekend starting at the end of March and through April, filled with themed parties, live music, and a lively energy that perfectly captures the spirit of spring skiing. The last weekend is the "beach party" and features Winter Park's annual pond skim.

Winter Park knows how to party, but it's also a very family-friendly resort, meaning there's a vibe for everyone to catch.

Breckenridge

Epic Pass holders, this one's for you. One great thing about Breck is that it's also open late, typically into May as far as possible. With about 40% of the resort above treeline, there's a good chance for some solid snow.

This popular resort also throws an annual pond skim (are you surprised at this point?) called the "Splash Into Spring Pond Skim." The town of Breckenridge itself is also a fun place to hang out after the ski day and wait out any traffic.

Breck is also a great destination for families! Remember, the resort does not have beginner terrain open during the late spring ski season.

Fun Fact: Breckenridge is home to the highest chairlift in North America.

Copper Mountain

Although they don't have the longest season, Copper Mountain has many fun events, and spring is no exception. At the end of April, Copper hosts "Sunsation" to wrap up the season. This event, like many of Copper's events, includes free concerts. That same weekend, they also host the "Slush Rush," a relay that requires three participants per team and features various activities.

Loveland Ski Area

Loveland is an independent resort that you won't find on the Ikon Pass or Epic Pass. Loveland Basin, the main ski area at this resort with varying types of terrain, is set to be open until early May. Intermediate and advanced skiers will love the runs off The Ridge. Loveland Valley, on the other hand, is an area more geared toward beginners and closes in early April this year.

Because of the high alpine environment above the continental divide, Loveland also tends to get dumped on, which means it's awesome for powder chasers and spring skiing fans!

Bonus: Aspen's Four Resorts

Although Aspen's four mountains close pretty early in the spring (Buttermilk, for example, closes on March 31 this season), it's worth mentioning that March is one of the best times to ski there. During this month (which partially exists in the spring season), the days are longer and they get a lot of powder. What more could you ask for? So, if you're fiending for an amazing bluebird day, you have a good shot of getting one in Aspen.

Spring skiing is a really special and unique experience that avid skiers simply shouldn't miss. Despite the warmer temperatures drawing in the quintessential signs of spring and different conditions, you can still get some pow days well into the season. Of course, the resort with the best snow can change depending on the weather's mood that year. Yet, regardless of where the best snow decides to fall, spring skiing is totally worth it. You will find your next unforgettable spring skiing adventure among the places praised for their late-season vitality, exceptional conditions, or fun festivities.

Try This: The arrival of spring also means you can partake in the Colorado 9s!