With 2,358 acres across four peaks, Breckenridge has the terrain to satisfy skiers of every stripe, plus nightlife (No. 5) to match. “A model ski town,” readers say, with “great après” and locals who “make you feel welcome.” Some are chagrined by the lack of challenging terrain (No. 36) and the cold, windy weather (No. 50) (“They don’t call it Breckenfridge for nothing!”). Then there’s the c-word: “The crowds!” cries one skier. “Stay above treeline.” Ah, the price of easy Access (No. 14). The resort ranks No. 3 in Terrain Parks—Freeway and Park Lane are the biggest and baddest. Skiers rankled by tame terrain would do well to ride the Imperial Express to the Lake Chutes or explore Peak 7 on the back side. Either way, come on weekdays to avoid the rush, or you risk stewing in I-70 traffic.  — Ryan Wondercheck

BRAGGING RIGHTS >> The Lake Chutes are steep, hold their snow, and are packed with hero-inducing cliffs.

FAMILY EXPERIENCE >> Fly through aspen groves over 2,500 feet of track on the Gold Runner mountain coaster at the base of Peak 8. It’s a total hoot.

ON-HILL LUNCH >> Sevens features stone-hearth pizza. Try the bar for the quickest service.