Think you can't afford a Colorado ski vacation? Think again. You don't have to break the piggy bank to enjoy the snow-capped Rocky Mountains. Here are some ideas:

Small Ski Areas are Beautiful: Place such as Loveland offer cheap lift tickets and free parking. And speaking of parking...

Ditch the Car and Get on Stage: If you're staying in Summit County, the free Summit Stage Bus System goes to Silverthorne, Dillon, Keystone, Copper, Breckenridge and Arapahoe Basin.

Book Online: If you are buying a multi-day lift ticket, you will be getting a better deal if book online at the resort website.

Keystone
Breckenridge
Copper

Clip Coupons: Go to www.skicoupons.com for great deals on lodging, meals, equipment rental, lift tickets and entertainment.

Go for the Gold: The Colorado Gold Entertainment Book offers great discounts on many Colorado ski areas.

Visit in April: Many Colorado ski areas do not close until late April. In Breckenridge, you can enjoy discounted meals as part of the town's annual Bite of Breckenridge Celebration. Check out the Summit Daily for two-for-one dinner coupons.

Don't Get Hostile About Hostels: The Fireside Inn in Breckenridge is both a Bed and Breakfast and a ski hostel. The Dormitory rates are as low as $38 per person! For a cheap breakfast, follow the locals to Daylight Donuts on North Main Street.

Consider a Vacation Rental: Believe it or not, larger groups might save more money by choosing a vacation rental as opposed to a hotel. Most rentals come with decent kitchens, which allow you save money on eating out.