New gear and more days on snow tend to top skier and snowboarder’s holiday wish lists. Luckily, we know a thing or two about giving the gift of skiing.
We’ve rounded up some of our favorite finds from around Colorado Ski Country USA, including stocking stuffers, mountain experiences, and a few ideas for the person who already owns enough gear to fill a ski shop. There’s something for just about every budget, and you don’t have to spend a fortune to make your snow lover happy.
Starting under $10
A sticker from a favorite resort is practically a requirement for any self-respecting skier’s water bottle. Resort gift shops are always great to browse for ornaments, vintage-inspired souvenirs, and other little knick-knacks that remind us of the mountains we love.
For gifts that’ll get mileage on the mountain, Christy Sports has tons of practical picks under $50. Ski socks, neck gaiters, and hand warmers are always great for gifting… especially as the temperature drops and the chairlift feels a lot longer than it did in October.
$25-$50
There’s nothing quite like a bowl of chili (and!)/or a basket of fries by the fire to warm up after a brisk day on the slopes, particularly when someone else is picking up the tab. A resort gift card is a great way to treat someone to lunch on their favorite mountain or a well-earned après stop.
Check with your favorite ski area for gift card options at its restaurants, bars, and cafés.
Prices vary
There are so many ways to enjoy a Colorado winter without stepping into ski boots. Slide in a tube instead of on sticks, explore wintery trails in snowshoes, enjoy a weekend of hot springs soaks, or try your hand at cross-country skiing. Several Colorado Ski Country USA resorts offer these activities, and a day in the snow is still a great gift of quality time with loved ones who prefer to skip the downhill runs.
CSCUSA Kids’ Ski Passport: $76
A gift for the little ones who love to shred (or are just getting started!): the Colorado Ski Country USA Ski Passport is celebrating its 30th anniversary this season and gives kiddos in K-6 grade four days of skiing or snowboarding at each of 19 participating resorts.
The Passport gives families a way to explore new mountains together, cheer on the first turns, and eventually watch the kids take the lead down their favorite runs (though Mom and Dad might have trouble keeping up!).
CSCUSA Gems Discount Card: $50
For your friend who is eager to explore beyond their go-to resort, our 10 Gems Resorts are well worth a visit. The Colorado Ski Country USA Gems Discount Card offers discounted lift tickets for two visits at each participating ski area… it’s the perfect excuse for a winter road trip.
$129 – HEAD FÆRO Ski & Snowboard Helmet
A new helmet is always a great upgrade. Our friends at HEAD offer the FÆRO helmet, complete with an adjustable fit system, removable and washable lining, and ventilation for sunny spring ski days. A great, practical gift that will get tons of use throughout the season.
$199 – Sunlight Mountain Resort
We all know someone who’s been talking about learning to ski or snowboard for ages. Here’s a chance to finally make it happen. Celebrating its 60th anniversary this season, Sunlight Mountain Resort offers a beginner package that includes a two-hour group lesson, lift ticket, and rental equipment. We’ve rounded up a number of lesson options here because what better present is there than introducing someone to a sport they can enjoy for a lifetime?
Prices vary
Treat your snow lover to a weekend retreat in the mountains with a cozy place to stay and lots of time to enjoy the local restaurants, shops, and après. First tracks come easily when you’re staying slopeside, and sipping champagne by the fire after a day on the slopes certainly beats the drive home.
Many Colorado ski areas offer lodging packages and gift cards that can help with planning a getaway, so be sure to check your favorite area’s website.
Priceless
A lot of our favorite ski memories have nothing to do with conditions or how many runs we managed to squeeze in. They’re the chairlift chats, family jokes that never get old, parking lot tailgates, and enjoying the sweeping Rocky Mountain views together.
So here’s one last idea for your holiday list: pick a date, make plans with the ones you love, and hit the slopes together.
We’ll see you out there!
