Echo Mountain is the closest ski area to Denver. They call themselves "mostly intermediate mountains", although Echo Mountain has slopes for beginners.
Eldora Mountain is the closest resort to Boulder, and the second closest to Denver. There are ski and snowboard schools in Eldora.
Loveland is one of the few popular ski resorts for locals, thanks to how close it is to Denver. If you want runs for less-experienced skiers, head to Loveland Valley.
Arapahoe Basin is more popular with locals than tourists, as it is close to Denver and has no overnight accommodations.
Winter Park is a bit more expensive than the other ski resorts near Denver I've shared so far, but it has trails for a variety of skiers, from beginner to expert.
Keystone Ski Resort is another family-friendly destination, with activities like ice skating, dog sledding, tubing, sled rides, and more.
Copper Mountain is a popular ski resort for Denver locals who want to spend a weekend without going too far. it's so close.
Breckenridge Ski Resort has lessons and runs for beginners, but Peak 8 is a popular area with terrain parks and bowls for more advanced skiers.
Granby has been dubbed one of the best places in Colorado to learn to ski. We've taken our kids there to study, and I have to agree.
Vail is the most popular ski resort in Colorado, and one of the largest in the world. It is more expensive than the ski resorts near Denver that I have listed so far.