SKI Magazine's annual reader poll results of the top 30 ski areas in North
America placed three Summit County resorts among the
rankings.
Breckenridge Ski Resort, Copper Mountain and Keystone Resort
were all voted in the top 30 with Breckenridge, topping the Summit County
ranking at 14th place.
The winner of the ranking was Whistler Blackcomb,
British Columbia, with last year's winner, Deer Valley in Park City, Utah,
ranking second.
Breckenridge dropped five spots and out of the top 10,
from ninth to 14th place in this year's poll, with SKI pointing out that readers
mentioned the area's crowds and cold, windy weather as the downside; while
praising the area's terrain parks and nightlife.
“We are incredibly
proud that Breckenridge Ski Resort continues to be one of the most popular ski
resorts in the U.S. and recognized by skiers and snowboarders worldwide,” said
Kristen Petit-Stewert, spokeswoman for Breckenridge Ski Resort. “There are many
different media outlets publishing rankings of all kinds, but our focus remains
squarely on our guests and we pay careful attention to all of their
feedback.”
Copper dropped from 18 to 20 in the rankings, scoring high on
terrain, but losing ground for an unlively après-ski scene, according to the
magazine.
Nonetheless, ski area officials say reader poll rankings point
this ski season in the right direction.
“Copper Mountain has always been
known for its convenient access via the Interstate 70 corridor, so it was no
surprise that the resort received this recognition,” said Katherine Bush,
spokeswoman for Copper. “Copper's terrain park crew works hard to develop safe,
unique and progressive features inside the parks, and we're pleased that SKI
Magazine readers have recognized this team's efforts.”
Keystone Resort
was ranked 26th, praised for its variety and family friendly
staff.
“Keystone is thrilled to be considered among the top resorts in
North America and we're honored to be in such great company on the list,” said
Laura Parquette, communications manager for Keystone.
Three resorts from
Summit County represented among the top 30 list continentwide shows the quality
of the local mountain ranges.
“It's great to see our neighbors in the
county so well represented, and we congratulate all of the listed resorts,”
Parquette said.
More Colorado areas were included in the top 10 than any
other state or province, with Vail ranking number three, Snowmass at number
eight, rated high for variety and family skiing, and Beaver Creek at number nine
for grooming, overall experience and customer service.
Aspen took the
number 12 spot, followed by Steamboat, Breckenridge, Crested Butte and Aspen
Highlands, with Snowbird, Mammoth, Taos and Copper rounding out the top 20.
