Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding

Crested Butte Mountain Resort. The skiing here has a split personality, which is plain to see when you check out the skiers who descend on the place year after year. Its mellow half is the network of trails on the front side of the mountain, characterized by long intermediate runs. Families flock to Crested Butte for these trails, as well as the children's ski-school facilities and the laid-back and friendly vibe.

The wilder side of Crested Butte's personality is the Extreme Limits, nearly 550 acres of backcountry-like terrain (all double black diamond), with steep bowls, gnarly chutes, and tight tree skiing. It's some of the toughest in-bounds skiing in North America. Sign up for one of the guided programs for expert instruction (and insider info on the best powder stashes on the mountain).

The best expert skiing on the front side of the mountain is off the Silver Queen high-speed quad, which shoots you up 2,078 vertical feet in one quick ride. For beginners there's a wonderful expanse of easy terrain from the Red Lady Express lift. Facilities: 121 trails; 1,547 acres; 2,755-foot vertical drop; 15 lifts. 12 Snowmass Rd., Crested Butte, Colorado, 81224. 855/969–3022; www.skicb.com. Lift ticket from $117. Late Nov.–early Apr., daily 9–4.

Lessons and Programs

Crested Butte Ski and Ride School. A half-day adult group lesson starts at $140 (lift ticket not included). For kids ages 5 through 17, Camp CB offers single all-day lessons starting at $175, which includes lunch. One-hour private lessons for three- and four-year-olds start at $135. 12 Snowmass Rd., Crested Butte, Colorado, 81224. 855/969–3022; www.skicb.com.

Rentals

Crested Butte Rental and Demo Center. Full rental packages (including skis, boots, helmet, and poles), as well as snowshoes, snowboard equipment, and tuning, are available at this outfitter. Packages start at $37 per day. For best prices, reserve ahead at rentskis.com. 10 Crested Butte Way, Crested Butte, Colorado, 81225. 970/349–2240; www.skicb.com.