The United States has some fantastic ski and snowboard destinations that offer a mix of terrain, amenities, and après-ski activities. Here’s a list of the best ones to consider for this winter season:
1. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
- Why Go: Jackson Hole is known for its steep terrain and challenging runs, making it a top destination for experienced skiers and snowboarders. The resort offers more than 4,000 acres of skiable terrain, and its backcountry access is unmatched. The views of the Teton Mountains are spectacular, and there’s a vibrant après-ski scene.
- Terrain: 50% expert, 40% intermediate, 10% beginner.
- Special Features: Aerial tram to the top of Rendezvous Mountain, vast backcountry options, and amazing wildlife viewing opportunities.
2. Aspen, Colorado
- Why Go: Aspen is a luxury destination offering four distinct ski areas: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass. The resort has a wide range of slopes for all skill levels and is famous for its high-end shopping, dining, and nightlife. It’s a great choice if you're looking for both exceptional skiing and a chic vibe.
- Terrain: 27% expert, 35% intermediate, 38% beginner.
- Special Features: World-class skiing, après-ski, luxury accommodations, and the X Games at Buttermilk for freestyle enthusiasts.
3. Park City, Utah
- Why Go: Park City is the largest ski resort in the U.S., offering over 7,300 acres of skiable terrain. It caters to all levels and is known for its excellent snow conditions, with the ski season often stretching into late April. The town is charming and full of great restaurants, bars, and shops.
- Terrain: 7,300 acres, with terrain for all skill levels.
- Special Features: Ski-in/ski-out access, the Olympic Park (home to the 2002 Winter Olympics), and a lively après-ski scene.
4. Vail, Colorado
- Why Go: Vail is one of the most famous ski resorts in the U.S. and attracts skiers and snowboarders from around the world. It has a massive variety of terrain and terrain parks, plus charming European-style village. If you're looking for a ski experience with world-class amenities and extensive runs, Vail is the place.
- Terrain: 5,300 acres, with terrain for all skill levels.
- Special Features: Iconic back bowls, an extensive network of lifts, and a vibrant après-ski and shopping scene.
5. Mammoth Mountain, California
- Why Go: Mammoth is California’s premier ski destination and boasts a long season that typically lasts from November to June. Known for its expansive terrain, it has over 3,500 acres of skiable area and attracts snowboarders and skiers of all levels. The resort is also a popular choice for freestyle skiers and snowboarders, with numerous terrain parks.
- Terrain: 3,500 acres, with a mix of beginner, intermediate, and expert runs.
- Special Features: Long ski season, diverse terrain parks, and amazing views of the Sierra Nevada.
6. Breckenridge, Colorado
- Why Go: Breckenridge is a fantastic family-friendly destination, with a great combination of challenging expert runs and easier slopes for beginners. The town itself has a charming, historic vibe and offers an array of après-ski options, including bars, restaurants, and shops. It's one of the most visited resorts in Colorado.
- Terrain: 2,900 acres, with terrain for all levels.
- Special Features: A charming Victorian-style town, excellent terrain for all abilities, and a renowned snowboarding scene.
7. Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia (Just across the border)
- Why Go: While it’s technically in Canada, Whistler Blackcomb is easily accessible for Americans and offers one of the best ski experiences in North America. It's the largest ski resort in North America with 8,000 acres of terrain and receives world-class snow. It’s ideal for skiers and snowboarders of all levels and boasts great village life.
- Terrain: 8,000 acres, with terrain for all levels.
- Special Features: Massive ski area, excellent backcountry access, and vibrant après-ski options.
8. Taos, New Mexico
- Why Go: Taos offers a more unique and off-the-beaten-path experience compared to some of the larger resorts. The mountain is famous for its challenging runs and excellent snow conditions, as well as the relaxed, artsy town of Taos. It’s ideal for advanced skiers and snowboarders, though beginners and intermediates will also find some great terrain.
- Terrain: 1,294 acres, with 35% advanced, 25% expert, and 40% intermediate terrain.
- Special Features: Wide variety of challenging terrain, excellent snow, and a unique cultural vibe.
9. Lake Tahoe (Heavenly, Northstar, Squaw Valley)
- Why Go: Lake Tahoe offers several world-class ski resorts, with Heavenly being the most well-known. The area has an incredible combination of lake views and great skiing and snowboarding. Plus, with a variety of ski resorts around the lake, there are options for all levels.
- Terrain: Varies by resort, but generally extensive options for all skill levels.
- Special Features: Beautiful views of Lake Tahoe, a variety of ski resorts to choose from, and a lively après-ski scene.
10. Snowbird, Utah
- Why Go: Snowbird is known for its steep terrain and deep powder, making it a haven for advanced skiers and snowboarders. The resort has a laid-back atmosphere and excellent snow conditions, with tons of backcountry terrain for those looking for adventure.
- Terrain: 2,500 acres, with mostly advanced terrain.
- Special Features: Steep and deep runs, backcountry access, and excellent snow.
11. Stowe, Vermont
- Why Go: For East Coast skiers, Stowe is the premier destination, offering a classic New England ski experience with excellent conditions, a charming town, and great snow. It’s perfect for all levels, and there’s plenty of non-skiing activities like shopping, dining, and exploring the town.
- Terrain: 485 acres, with terrain for all levels.
- Special Features: Beautiful Vermont setting, excellent for families and intermediate skiers, and a quaint, classic New England atmosphere.
12. Killington, Vermont
- Why Go: Killington is known as the "Beast of the East" for its large and diverse terrain. It's one of the largest ski areas in the eastern U.S., offering runs for every level of skier and snowboarder. Killington also typically opens early in the season and stays open late, making it a great option for long ski trips.
- Terrain: 1,500 acres, with terrain for all skill levels.
- Special Features: A huge variety of terrain, long season, and vibrant après-ski scene.
Honorable Mentions:
- Big Sky, Montana – Known for its vast terrain and light, dry snow.
- Alta, Utah – Famous for powder and its exclusive ski area (no snowboarders).
- Sugarbush, Vermont – Known for its mix of difficult and intermediate terrain.
- Sun Valley, Idaho – Great for expert skiers with stunning scenery.
Our Final Thoughts
When choosing your destination, consider what type of experience you're looking for. Do you want a lively après-ski scene, vast terrain, or deep powder? Whether you're a beginner or an expert, there’s a ski resort in the U.S. that offers exactly what you're looking for this winter season!