Explore the 16 Best Ski Resorts in North America, From Banff’s Majestic Peaks to Aspen’s Legendary Après-Ski Scene
Planning a winter ski vacation for the entire family can be a daunting task. Some guests may prefer snow tubing while others might be in the mood for relaxing at the spa. Skiing and snowboarding season is finally upon us. Whether it’s your first time visiting the mountain or you’re an experienced skier ready to sprint downhill, we’ve got you covered with a list of quintessential winter destinations that should be at the top of every skier’s bucket list. Get your passport ready and grab your gear, it’s time to catch some fresh pow!
Sun Valley, Idaho: A Legendary Retreat
Tucked into Idaho’s majestic landscape, Sun Valley is a blend of storied glamour and rugged beauty. Here, 250 days of sunshine illuminate a playground of pristine slopes, charming lodges, and endless adventures.
Imagine snowshoeing through whisper-quiet forests, gliding across the nation’s most extensive cross-country trails, or indulging in a starlit ice-skating session. For thrill-seekers, Sun Valley’s heli-skiing tours unlock untouched powder in the heart of alpine wilderness. As you explore, echoes of its famed past—where luminaries like Ernest Hemingway once roamed—add a timeless allure.
Bald Mountain: Skiing at Its Peak
“Big Baldy” towers at 2,789 meters, offering 65 runs accessible via 13 chairlifts. Its reputation as a skier’s paradise stems from consistently groomed trails and a layout where 45% of the terrain caters to intermediates and 22% challenges experts.
A Cozy Après-Ski Haven
The nearby town of Ketchum buzzes with rustic charm. Savor the local vibe with craft cocktails by a roaring fire or browse boutiques showcasing artisanal treasures. Whether retreating to a luxurious condo in the heart of it all or a secluded riverside cabin, Sun Valley wraps you in comfort.
Aspen Snowmass, Colorado: Four Mountains of Bliss
Colorado’s ski mecca, Aspen Snowmass, spans four distinct mountains, each brimming with unique character. Free shuttles link Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk (a family-friendly favorite), and Snowmass, offering seamless access to an expanse of over 5,500 acres of skiable terrain.
Why Aspen Stands Out
With 300 annual days of sunshine and 300 inches of snow, Aspen delivers the perfect conditions. Beginners will find solace on Buttermilk’s gentle slopes, while adrenaline junkies can test their mettle on Aspen Highlands’ steep bowls. Off the slopes, the vibrant town boasts upscale dining, high-fashion boutiques, and a pulsating après-ski scene.
Park City, Utah: Endless Horizons
Home to America’s largest ski resort, Park City Mountain, this destination sprawls over 7,300 acres. With 40 lifts and an intricate web of terrain parks, bowls, and trails, the options are endless. Nearby, Deer Valley Resort enchants with meticulously groomed trails and elevated dining experiences.
Beyond the Slopes
Park City’s historic Main Street brims with Old West charm. Stroll past art galleries, sip craft brews, or step back in time with a guided mining tour. In summer, wildflower-dotted trails beckon hikers, while luxury spas offer year-round indulgence.
Big Sky, Montana: The Big Adventure
Big Sky’s claim as America’s largest single ski resort comes alive across 5,800 acres of open terrain. Famous for its solitude, you’ll relish crowd-free slopes and powder-filled descents, perfect for all levels. With 400 inches of annual snowfall and cutting-edge lifts, the experience is as smooth as the views are spectacular.
Unique Winter Adventures
Big Sky goes beyond skiing. Experience the thrill of ziplining across snowy canyons, embark on snowshoeing expeditions, or savor the romance of a sleigh ride under the stars.
Mammoth Lakes, California: West Coast Bliss
Framed by the Eastern Sierra, Mammoth Mountain rises as a hub for winter excitement. Boasting one of the longest ski seasons in the U.S., you can enjoy fresh powder well into June.
Highlights of Mammoth Mountain
Soar to 11,053 feet via gondola for panoramic views, or challenge yourself on the expert terrain that earned Mammoth its reputation as a snowboarding haven. Beyond the slopes, snowmobiling and guided backcountry tours offer exhilarating ways to explore this snowy wonderland.
Lake Tahoe: A Dual Delight
Straddling the California-Nevada border, Lake Tahoe captivates with its crystal-clear waters and world-class resorts. From Northstar California’s Burton Snowboarding Academy to Heavenly’s 5.5-mile run, each resort offers its unique magic.
Après-Ski and Beyond
The scene shifts effortlessly from slope to lakeshore. Indulge in lakeside dining, unwind in mountain spas, or venture into charming villages for boutique shopping. Lake Tahoe’s appeal extends year-round, with endless trails and water activities awaiting summer visitors.
Lake Placid, New York: Olympic Charm
Nestled in the Adirondack Mountains, Lake Placid combines rich Olympic history with breathtaking natural beauty. Known for hosting the Winter Olympics twice (1932 and 1980), this charming village offers a range of activities for skiers and non-skiers alike.
Whiteface Mountain: A Champion’s Playground
Whiteface Mountain boasts the greatest vertical drop on the East Coast—an exhilarating 3,430 feet. Its trails cater to all levels, from wide beginner slopes to adrenaline-pumping expert runs, including The Slides, a series of thrilling double-black diamond glades.
Beyond the Slopes
Visitors can relive Olympic glory at the Lake Placid Olympic Center or test their nerves on the Cliffside Coaster, the longest mountain coaster in the country. In summer, Mirror Lake becomes a hub for paddleboarding and kayaking, offering postcard-perfect views.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming: Untamed Wilderness
For those craving rugged beauty and an authentic Western vibe, Jackson Hole delivers. Encased by the towering Teton Range, this ski haven is a favorite for advanced skiers and snowboarders seeking a challenge.
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort: A Mecca for Experts
The resort’s 4,139 feet of vertical drop is legendary, with Corbet’s Couloir standing as one of the most challenging runs in the world. But beginners and intermediates aren’t left out—recent expansions have added gentle slopes and groomed trails to the mix.
A True Western Experience
The town of Jackson exudes Old West charm, with its wooden boardwalks and antler-adorned town square. After a day on the mountain, unwind with locally crafted beer or enjoy a sleigh ride through the National Elk Refuge, home to one of the largest herds of wintering elk in North America.
Breckenridge, Colorado: A Historic Mountain Town
With its Victorian-era charm and vibrant atmosphere, Breckenridge offers more than just skiing. It’s a town where the slopes and streets are equally magnetic.
Breck’s Five Peaks
This expansive resort covers five peaks, each offering something unique. Peak 6 caters to thrill-seekers with its high-alpine terrain, while Peak 9 is perfect for beginners and families. Peak 8, the resort’s hub, provides a mix of terrain and access to the highest lift-served elevation in North America.
Festivities and Flavor
Breckenridge knows how to celebrate. The calendar is packed with events from the Ullr Fest, an homage to the Norse snow god, to the International Snow Sculpture Championships. Stroll down Main Street for eclectic boutiques, art galleries, and cozy eateries serving everything from hearty mountain fare to fine dining.
Steamboat Springs, Colorado: A Warm Welcome and Champagne Powder
Known as “Ski Town USA,” Steamboat Springs blends its ranching heritage with unparalleled skiing. Its famous Champagne Powder®—so light and dry it feels like skiing on clouds—is a bucket-list experience for snow enthusiasts.
The Slopes of Steamboat
With 165 trails across nearly 3,000 acres, Steamboat caters to skiers of all abilities. Its tree skiing is some of the best in the country, while beginner-friendly areas like Christie Peak offer gentle introductions to the sport.
Hot Springs and Hospitality
After a day on the mountain, soak in the nearby Strawberry Park Hot Springs, a steamy oasis surrounded by snow-laden pines. The town itself is a warm embrace, offering cowboy bars, family-friendly restaurants, and the nostalgic charm of a bygone era.
Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico: Southwest Magic
For a ski trip with a unique cultural twist, head to Taos Ski Valley, where Southwestern art, cuisine, and heritage infuse every corner.
A High Desert Gem
Taos Ski Valley, perched at an elevation of 9,321 feet, offers 1,294 acres of terrain and some of the steepest trails in the Rockies. Beginners can enjoy the state-of-the-art Rio Hondo Learning Center, while experts tackle Kachina Peak for heart-pounding descents.
Art and Soul
In Taos itself, immerse yourself in its vibrant arts scene, from the Taos Art Museum to the adobe architecture of Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Indulge in local flavors like green chile stew or sip on a warming cup of pinon coffee as you absorb the town’s rich cultural tapestry.
Banff, Canada: A Snowy Wonderland in the Heart of the Rockies
Set within the majestic Banff National Park, Lake Louise Ski Resort combines awe-inspiring scenery with unparalleled skiing opportunities. Crowned the World Ski Awards’ 2019 winner, this sprawling resort covers over 4,200 acres across four mountain faces, making it one of the largest in North America. Here, skiers and snowboarders of all abilities can glide together, enjoying versatile terrain framed by towering peaks.
Highlights of Lake Louise Ski Resort
- Versatile Terrain: From gentle slopes for beginners to adrenaline-pumping chutes for experts, there’s something for everyone.
- Signature Guided Adventures: Explore the mountain with seasoned guides who reveal hidden gems and the best snow stashes.
- Customizable Vacations: Tailor your itinerary with ski lessons, snowshoe tours, and après-ski activities.
After an exhilarating day on the slopes, retreat to Banff’s charming village. Sip a hot toddy by a crackling fire or explore local eateries offering hearty mountain fare. Don’t miss a visit to the iconic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, where luxury meets alpine tradition.
Sun Valley, Idaho: America’s First Ski Destination
Sun Valley’s legacy as America’s first destination ski resort continues to captivate winter sports enthusiasts. Spread over Bald and Dollar Mountains, the resort features over 100 trails framed by the pristine beauty of the Sawtooth National Forest.
Bald Mountain: A Skier’s Paradise
- Over 2,000 skiable acres with diverse runs.
- Five deluxe day lodges offering gourmet dining and cozy fireplaces.
Après-Ski Elegance
In the evening, explore the historic Sun Valley Village, home to more than 20 dining venues. For an unforgettable meal, reserve a table at the Trail Creek Cabin, where you’ll enjoy locally-inspired dishes in a 1937 log cabin with stunning views of Bald Mountain.
Whiteface Mountain, New York: Vertical Thrills and Olympic Heritage
Renowned for having the highest vertical drop east of the Rockies, Whiteface Mountain challenges even the most skilled skiers. Its 90 trails, spanning over 25 miles, cater to a variety of preferences, but its expert terrain truly shines.
Key Features
- Cloudsplitter Gondola: A 15-minute ride offering panoramic views of the Adirondacks.
- Diverse Terrain: From gentle greens to double-black diamond runs with narrow chutes and tree trails.
Nearby Lake Placid, with its Olympic legacy, offers an added dimension of charm and history, from bobsled rides to the Olympic Jumping Complex.
Aspen Snowmass, Colorado: The Pinnacle of Skiing and Après-Ski
Aspen Snowmass encompasses four mountains, delivering over 5,500 acres of skiable terrain. Known for its vibrant après-ski scene and advanced facilities, it’s a winter paradise for athletes and leisure travelers alike.
Noteworthy Experiences
- Breathtaker Alpine Coaster: A mile-long ride through the snowcapped forest.
- Snowmass Park: Features a 22-foot superpipe, a favorite among Olympians.
- Ski and Snowboard Schools: Acclaimed instructors make Aspen ideal for beginners.
Aspen’s twin towns, Aspen and Snowmass Village, pulse with nightlife, world-class dining, and luxury boutiques, ensuring your ski trip is as indulgent off the slopes as it is on them.
Truckee, California: California’s Premier Family Ski Destination
Tucked into the idyllic Martis Valley, Northstar California Resort is celebrated as a year-round haven for families and adventure seekers. With 3,170 skiable acres and 100 trails, this resort is a hub of activity and excitement.
Why Northstar Stands Out
- All Levels Welcome: Gentle greens for first-timers and challenging blacks for thrill-seekers.
- Après-Ski Elegance: Indulge in a daily champagne toast or rejuvenate at the 5-Star spa.
- Unique Experiences: Visit the mid-mountain cross-country center or relax in the resort’s quaint village.
Whether gliding down well-groomed trails, sipping bubbly under starry skies, or savoring gourmet cuisine, Northstar guarantees a winter escape packed with adventure and luxury.
The Call of the Slopes
America’s ski resorts are more than just destinations—they’re experiences that bring together the thrill of adventure, the serenity of nature, and the comfort of exceptional hospitality. Whether you’re carving through pristine powder in Jackson Hole, exploring the rich culture of Taos, or savoring après-ski moments in Breckenridge, the mountains are calling. It’s time to answer with your next unforgettable winter escape.
