Colorado ski resorts open for business during the fall, when the weather starts to cool off. Although light snow falls in the early weeks of the snowboarding season, be prepared for an occasional heavy snow fall. Colorado's mountains experience the most snow fall during the winter, bringing blizzards and below-freezing temperatures. Spring weather can be tricky to predict, with occasional snowstorms interspersing warm days with clear skies.
For snowboarding vacations during winter months, pack thermal underwear for comfort during those full days of boarding. Pack waterproof pants and jackets; these keep your inner clothing layers dry. Extra pairs of wool socks and inner clothing layers could be the deciding factor between back-to-back days of snowboarding and staying indoors. Toward the end of the season, pack lighter clothing options such as long-sleeve or flannel shirts.
Take your own snowboarding equipment to cut rental costs, and pack waterproof boots and other warm clothes for walking around town. Hand and feet warmers may be needed in the heart of the winter. Take sunscreen to protect your skin even when it's cold. If you buy a hotel or resort pass online, print confirmations; this may get you to the slopes faster than waiting in line to buy passes. Check with your airline to confirm the cost and weight restrictions for flying with a snowboard bag and related equipment.
Typically, resorts offer snowboard and gear rentals for as many days as you need. For competitive rental prices, however, consider comparison pricing equipment rentals at local spots like Christy Sports and Maison de Ski. Don't forget to have your board freshly waxed, especially if you plan on snowboarding outside of groomed trails.
