The 50 best ski resorts in the US
Have your sights set on the US but unsure which resort is right for you? Whether you’re after mellow cruisers, gnarly steeps, or off-the-chain après, our ultimate list has a resort to suit.
If you’re looking to shred in one of the world’s best ski resorts, you can’t go wrong with heading to the United States. Home to the Rockies and the Tetons, the Lake Tahoe region, and more, each area is full of legendary spots – from massive ski areas with all the bells and whistles to authentic, independently run resorts.
Yes, 39 of North America’s states have winter resort facilities. You’ll find some of the most famous ski resorts in the West (Vail or Mammoth, anyone?). Still, it’s always worth heading East to resorts like Killington and Sugarbush. Of course, it totally depends on what your priorities are for the best ski trip ever. Are you after somewhere with varied terrain, guaranteed powder, insane off-piste, or out-of-this-world après-ski?
We are here to help you decide not just where's the best place to flaunt your new ski jackets and ski pants, but also where to experience the best slopes! We’ve rounded up the 50 best ski resorts from across the US and given them awards based on what they top the list for, to help you choose your next destination. So, find out more about the most well-known spots, discover a resort you never knew existed, and start planning that trip. It’s all here in our ultimate list of the best ski resorts in the US ski.
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When’s the best time of the year?
Typically, the best time to ski and snowboard in the USA is from late November to April. However, if you can’t wait that long, some resorts open early (depending on the snow conditions). These tend to be Loveland, Wolf Creek, Killington, and Mammoth Mountain.
And, if the snow sticks around, some ski resorts even close later in the year – sometimes not until July! These are normally Breckenridge, Keystone, Mammoth Mountain, Sun Valley, and Snowbird. Find out more about these in our list below.
Dope Mag’s top 50 US ski resorts
Where’s the best place to ride in the USA? Here’s the place to find out! Above every ski resort guide is our list of awards, highlighting our favorite elements about each place. These range from ‘family-friendly’ to ‘overall value’ and ‘après-ski’.
FYI, we haven’t ranked the resorts in any specific order! Think of this as an ultimate list rather than ranking from best to worst. Instead, we’ve used badges under each ski resort’s name. These highlight the absolute best bits so you can find a ski destination that meets your needs.
Ski passes and lift tickets
We’ve also included each ski resort’s type of ski pass. This is handy to know as buying one of the four main ski pass options – the Ikon Pass, the Epic Pass, the Mountain Collective, and the Indy Pass – often means you can ride at multiple resorts throughout the season.
Each ski pass also has different options (such as full-access, two-day, base pass, etc.). Even if you only ride twice a year, you might save more money by bagging one of these passes than by buying individual lift tickets.
Aspen-Snowmass, Colorado
- 5,517 acres
- 336 trails
- 40 lifts
- 4,406 feet of vertical drop
- 25 feet of snow per year
- Ikon pass
Make your trip one to remember with Aspen. There’s nowhere else on earth like it. This world-famous ski resort comprises four mountains: Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk. Together, they offer an incredible number of runs across an immense area of rideable terrain – so prepare for the thigh burn!
With such a large area, there really is something for every rider. Head to the family mecca of Snowmass, give skiing or snowboarding a first try at Buttermilk, try out the next-level tree skiing in Ajax, or throw yourself into the Aspen Highlands’ open bowls. There are also insane on-hill dining options, near countless hotels to choose from, stellar customer service, and an epic après scene.
So, let’s chat about après. Whether it’s chilled bar vibes or après/nightlife you’re searching for, Aspen-Snowmass delivers. Our top pick is the W Hotel, offering rooftop après surrounded by those majestic mountains. You won’t want to leave. Well, except to tear up the hill the next day, of course.
Top tip: Powder incoming? Grab first lifts (duh!) and drop in on Hyde Park or Flip’s Leap. It’s usually skipped by riders keen to head to the summit rather than hunting the lower-down powder stashes. Rookie mistake…
Vail Ski Resort, Colorado
- 5,289 acres
- 267 trails
- 31 lifts
- 3,450 feet of vertical drop
- 29.5 feet of snow per year
- Epic Pass
On the hunt for powder bowls, tree glades, and wide-open groomers? You’ll struggle to find much better than Vail. This vast ski area is spread out over several mountains, providing extensive terrain and every challenge imaginable. Trust us, Vail Mountain is pretty close to perfection – especially with their incredible lift system *chef’s kiss*.
There’s no denying that Vail is great for all riders, including families, freeriders, freestylers, and more. At the base, you’ll discover the lively (and hella fun) town of Vail, with more après spots than you can count.
It’s perfectly positioned for regular snowfall, leading to a deep base and tons of morning freshies (especially when storms from the Pacific roll in). But, as the storms roll in, so can the crowds. Bypass the lift lines and lap the glades of Game Creek Bowl or Northwoods. We’ll charge you a dollar for every time you shout ‘yeeew!’. You won’t be able to help yourself.
Top tip: Vail can be eye-wateringly expensive. So, skip the dollar signs and head to Vendetta’s. Here you’ll find cheap pitchers and pizza slices, served with a dollop of soul.
Snowbird, Utah
- 2,500 acres
- 140 trails
- 14 lifts
- 3,240 feet of vertical drop
- 41 feet of snow per year
- Mountain Collective Pass
If it’s consistently light, dry snow you’re after (and who wouldn’t be?), you’ll want to head for the Wasatch Valley to Snowbird. Catch a goggle tan in Mineral Basin, flat-line down Chip’s Run, play in Tiger Tail’s powder glades, and feel the burn on a T-to-B Mach Schnell.
Yep, this is THE place to push your riding with challenging, steep terrain – or take things more mellow if that’s more your vibe. There are more than enough beginner and intermediate runs to keep you busy.
If terrain and bucket-loads of snow are top of your wishlist, Snowbird has your back. If you’re after off-slope facilities, however, target bustling Salt Lake City, just a 45-minute drive away. Snowbird is more about riding hard and hitting the hay at a reasonable hour so you can rise early and do it all again the next day!
Top tip: Although they operate as separate ski resorts, it’s worth skiing over to Alta from Snowbird, especially if you’re here in the Spring. Between the two, there are more than enough slushy spring laps to have you riding all day (if the slush holds out).
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Wyoming
- 2,500 acres
- 131 trails
- 13 lifts
- 4,139 feet of vertical drop
- 38 feet of snow per year
- Mountain Collective
If you’re looking to sink your teeth into more challenging terrain, you’re going to go crazy for Jackson Hole. This is a true rider’s mountain that’ll test even the most expert skiers and snowboarders.
Trails like Alta Chutes, Expert Chutes, Tower 3, and Corbet’s Couloir are just some reasons Jackson Hole is a place of legend. This ski resort is full of I-can’t-believe-I-just-did-that steeps and deeps. But there’s also the HEAPS of snow it draws in and staggering views that’ll practically knock you off your feet (if the steep terrain doesn’t).
A common misconception about Jackson Hole is that it’s just for the experts. In fact, there’s more than enough for intermediates on Apres Vous Mountain and off the Bridger Gondola. There’s also a near-endless supply of rad bars and restaurants (just the way we like it). Terrain like Jackson’s Hole does come at a price, though. It might not be the most budget-friendly resort, but wow, is it one for the bucket list.
Top tip: If you think you can hack it, try Corbet’s Couloir. Remember, though, that this isn’t for the faint-hearted. It’s an extreme double black diamond – and a rite of passage around J-Hole.
Park City Mountain Resort, Utah
- 7,300 acres
- 341 trails
- 44 lifts
- 3,226 feet of vertical drop
- 30 feet of snow per year
- Epic Pass
With 7,300 acres and 17 peaks, Park City is one of the largest ski resorts in the US. And you know what that means: pretty much limitless riding options for you and the crew! Just make sure you have a trail map to hand …
You’re guaranteed to have no two days the same here thanks to the extensive size of this resort. You can easily find expert terrain in Park City, but it’s also skewed towards beginners and intermediates – hence the high amount of lengthy, rolling groomed runs. There are also eight terrain parks and two halfpipes for you to play and perfect your skills in.
Once the lifts close, it’s time to get on the craft beer. There are over 24 Utah brews on tap in the brew pubs and bars in Park City! And to soak it all up? It’s got to be Cloud Dine, a hidden gem with homemade donuts. Yum!
Top tip: Big up those historical vibes by heading to the 123-year-old Mid Mountain Lodge. While there, order The Boarding House, a potent blend of local Alpine Distilling’s Lafayette spiced whiskey with lemon and Earl Grey syrup. It’s the perfect bottoms-up after your ride down!
Heavenly Ski Resort, Lake Tahoe
- 4,800 acres
- 97 trails
- 28 lifts
- 3,500 feet of vertical drop
- 30 feet of snow per year
- Epic Pass
We’re not sure if we’ve ever found such an aptly named resort. Heavenly is just that. And, while we love the snow, it’s partly for the views, too. The scenery is simply jaw-dropping. From the summit, you’ll have practically endless views of Lake Tahoe on one side and Carson Valley on the other.
You’re also pretty much guaranteed great visibility (so make sure you pack the right goggle lens!). That’s because Heavenly has 300 days of sunshine per year. Sometimes, you’ll think you’re riding right into Lake Tahoe. Others, you’ll wonder if you’re actually at the Pearly Gates.
You’ll struggle to ride the same line twice here, too. That’s down to 4,800 acres across two states and nearly limitless tree skiing in Mott and Killebrew Canyons. And, when it’s time to sink a cold one, the après here is epic. Our favorite spot is the outdoor beer garden at South of North Brewing Co. There’s no better place for sinking a pilsner. Believe us – we’ve looked.
Top tip: For a killer view of the lake, it’s got to be Ridge Run (for you intermediates) or Gunbarrel (for you pros). Don’t forget to focus on the fall line, though, rather than getting distracted by the pinch-me-this-can’t-be-real scenery.
Telluride Ski Resort, Colorado
- 2,000 acres
- 147 trails
- 17 lifts
- 4,425 feet of vertical drop
- 23 feet of snow per year
- Epic Pass
Raise your hand if you love diverse terrain. Us too. That’s why Telluride Ski Resort is on our list. Fill your boots with endless powder laps, corduroy groomers, and off-piste routes on light powder before riding down to the charming town of Telluride.
What we love most about Telluride are the short lift lines and small crowds. That’s because Telluride is tucked away at the end of the valley. Yes, this makes it a bit trickier to get to, but it’s well worth the effort once you’re here.
Around 60% of Telluride’s terrain is targeted toward beginners and intermediates, so that makes it a brilliant choice for families. However, if challenging riding is more your jam, the Plunge Express lift takes you over to expert terrain. Expect to ride over 2,000 vertical feet in elevation – and descend some gnarly terrain.
Top tip: The town’s ice hockey scene is insane! Squeeze watching a game into your shred schedule at the Hanley rink downtown. They’re on most Friday nights – ideal for after your après session, right?
Keystone Ski Resort, Colorado
- 3,148 acres
- 128 trails
- 20 lifts
- 3,128 feet of vertical drop
- 20 feet of snow per year
- Epic Pass
With 128 runs over six separate mountains, you’ll be spoilt for choice at Keystone. And don’t worry, they cater to all abilities – it’s perfect for families, and there are even some double black runs in there, too, for more advanced riders. If you’re bringing little ones to Keystone, they’re bound to go ape for the gigantic ice rink, cookie-decorating classes, character parades, and more.
Keystone’s base is at an impressive 9,280 feet, making it a snow-sure ski resort with a longer season than most. Which is good, because you’ll definitely need to come back at least twice during a season to explore Keystone’s 3,148 acres, anyway. Plus, you just HAVE to visit their award-winning terrain park. Perfect your skills with its 60-acre collection of progressive and creative features.
Keystone’s villages also have everything you’d expect for an epic ski vacation: fantastic lodging, shops, restaurants, non-skiing attractions, and shuttles to the runs. Oh, but there’s also night skiing available if you can’t quite switch those ski legs off.
Top tip: Our top rec has to be a spin on the five-acre (yes, really) ice-skating rink in Lakeside Village. Once you’re done making shapes on ice, head to the Bighorn to warm up with a hot cocoa – or something stronger!
Breckenridge Ski Resort, Colorado
- 2,908 acres
- 187 trails
- 34 lifts
- 3,398 feet of vertical drop
- 25 feet of snow per year
- Epic Pass
Breckenridge is kind of the complete package. If you’re a beginner or with a family, the lower parts and other areas of Breckenridge’s five peaks are perfect. They offer gentle inclines, wide runs, and plenty of space for practicing your first turns. However, if you’re more advanced, just head further up the hill. There, you’ll find open bowls and fresh powder (yes, even in Spring!).
If you get the itch to shred later in the season, Breckenridge has your back, because this ski resort averages around 25 feet of snow per year, meaning it often stays open well into May.
When you’re done riding for the day, head into the historic Victorian town of Breckenridge. Its picturesque (and Insta-worthy) main street is full of restaurants, shops, and après spots. And this is one of our favorite après scenes in the world. We always head straight for RMU Tavern, a ski shop slash tap house with over 16 rotating craft beers. Drool over custom skis and down a microbrew. The perfect combo if you ask us!
Top tip: Crowded days can be quite common in Breckenridge. But, when that happens, just head off the E-Chair. Ssh, that’s kind of locals-only knowledge. You didn’t hear it from us, okay?
Steamboat Ski Resort, Colorado
- 2,965 acres
- 169 trails
- 18 lifts
- 3,668 feet of vertical drop
- 28 feet of snow per year
- Ikon Pass
Arriving into Denver, riders tend to hit the famous ski resorts like Vail, Breckenridge, or Beaver Creek. However, there’s another resort that’s a little further out that still flies under the radar: Steamboat. Yes, this family-friendly ski resort offers sick conditions and smaller crowds. Oh, and some of the friendliest locals around.
Regular storms guarantee dreamy conditions, and things don’t get much dreamier than that light, out-of-this-world Champagne Powder® that’s perfect for floating in. If you’re a glade fan, you’ll want to stay in Steamboat forever. Its forested mountain sides provide some of the best glades in the riding world.
There’s a vast array of trails for intermediates, an awesome ski school, and more than enough to keep the kids happy. Steamboat Springs is also an extra cherry on the Steamboat resort cake. Expect classic cowboy culture, friendly locals, and a truly welcoming small-town feel that we just can’t get enough of.
Top tip: Visit Strawberry Hot Springs! These natural outdoor pools are close to Steamboat and an absolute godsend for relieving aching ski legs.
Big Sky Resort, Montana
- 5,850 acres
- 317 trails
- 36 lifts
- 4,350 feet of vertical drop
- 33 feet of snow per year
- Ikon Pass
Big Sky Resort doesn’t do things by half (well, the clue is in the name!). Expect big mountains, big snowfall, big runs, and big lifts. You don’t have to worry about big lift lines, though – it’s about the only thing Big Sky keeps on the small side.
Because it’s spread out over 5,850 acres, you’ll never see enormous crowds. In fact, you’re more likely to have over two acres of mountain to yourself. And often with cold, dry powder. If only we could have that every day of our lives!
Big Sky Resort teams winding, family-friendly groomers alongside snowfields, bowls, gullies, and couloirs to engage advanced and expert riders. Oh, there are also eight terrain parks, hella fun bump fields, and out-of-this-world views. Big Sky Resort isn’t one to brag too much about its après scene, dining, or lodging – but who cares? So it’s not the place to party. However, it IS where to come if you’re looking to ski or snowboard until your legs fall off!
Top tip: Ride Andesite under the light of the moon, Montana-style. Yep, we totally recommend signing up for night skiing. You’ll ride with a private guide, ultra-beaming headlights, and an ultra-wide smile!
Sun Valley, Idaho
- 2,154 acres
- 121 trails
- 18 lifts
- 3,400 feet of vertical drop
- 18.5 feet of snowfall per year
- Ikon Pass
With 121 runs across Bald and Dollar Mountain, Sun Valley, Idaho, offers plenty of opportunities for you to ski your legs off. This idyllic Idaho ski resort blends smile-inducing riding (especially for beginners and intermediates) alongside the down-to-earth Western town of Ketchum, aka the ski resort’s anchor.
In Ketchum, the après, nightlife, lodging, and dining are close to outdoing some of the bigger ski resorts on our list. We love that classic Idaho warm welcome, too. And, for down days, Sun Valley delivers. Ever fancied a spin on an outdoor ice rink with the mountains as your backdrop? Now’s your chance.
If you have a penchant for corduroy, Sun Valley is surely right up your street as it showcases some of the best grooming on the planet. And thanks to the incredible lift infrastructure you can put your pedal to the metal and aim to shred 35,000 vertical in a day. The race is on!
Top tip: For time off the hill, you’ve just GOT to head to The Gold Mine Thrift Store. This Ketchum gem is a thrift shopper’s dream. Scour the rails for treasure – from near-new skis to designer fashion items. Just make sure you’ve got room left in your luggage to bring it all home …
Palisades Tahoe Ski Resort, California
- 6,000 acres
- 245 trails
- 34 lifts
- 2,850 feet of vertical drop
- 37.5 feet of snow per year
- Ikon Pass
They say you can’t claim to have torn up Tahoe until you’ve shredded at Palisades Tahoe. This is one of America’s most iconic ski resorts, welcoming you to miles upon miles of rideable terrain. 70% of Palisades Tahoe’s terrain is marked as beginner or intermediate, making it perfect for families. Big Blue’s groomer is the one for carving alongside your crew.
If you’re more into gnarly chutes and couloirs, though, Palisades Tahoe has that alongside plenty more challenging, expert terrain. Just drop into the Pacific Crest Bowls for a taste of what we’re talking about. Wide-open snow fields funneling down into hair-raising cliffs? Palisades Tahoe delivers.
The cute village at the base has everything you’d expect from a classic ski trip. We’re talking mouth watering restaurants, slick bars, lively après spots, and more. The best après bar crawl? It’s got to be Le Chamois, Rocker, The Last Chair, and The Dubliner.
Top tip: Download the Mountaineer app and request a free shuttle from your door to the trails. That means you can roll out of bed and be riding freshies within 10 minutes! Yeeew!
Alta Ski Area, Utah
- 2,614 acres
- 119 trails
- 6 lifts
- 2,538 feet of vertical drop
- 45.5 feet of snow per year
- Ikon Pass
Sorry snowboarders: Alta is a no-go zone. For skiers, though, it’s a paradise with world-class expert terrain, peerless powder (and some good beginner runs, too). Expect to get buried in the white stuff on chutes, tree runs, and gnarly steeps.
Alta is only a 40-minute drive from downtown Salt Lake City and is at the head of Utah’s Little Cottonwood Canyon. It might be close to Salt Lake City, but it feels worlds away thanks to its cozy-town vibes. And, if an overnight snowfall closes the road from Salt Lake, you and everyone in resort get the mountain to yourselves for a little while!
It’s not the largest ski resort on our list (2,614 acres), however, there are more than enough runs to keep skiers of all abilities happy – especially intermediates looking to perfect their powder turns or cliff-dropping techniques. Our favorite runs are High Nowhere and Eagle’s Nest: steep, long trails that make you feel the burn while expanding your love for riding on two planks.
Top tip: Upgrade your ticket to include neighboring Snowbird to really give your legs a workout. Or, if you’re sticking with Alta, get a workout on Alf’s High Rustler, a 1,200-foot run starting out at a nearly 45-degree angle.
Deer Valley, Utah
- 2,026 acres
- 103 trails
- 21 lifts
- 3,000 feet of vertical drop
- 25 feet of snow per year
- Ikon Pass
Luxury skiing doesn’t come much better than Deer Valley. Spread out over six mountains, you can expect stellar customer service, stunning lodges, fast-running lifts, uncrowded slopes, and mouth-watering cuisine. This is more than a ski trip. It’s a ski experience. But snowboarders beware – unfortunately, Deer Valley doesn’t allow one-planked riding.
To make your experience one to remember, Deer Valley limits the number of skiers on the mountain, so you don’t encounter long lift lines. And that has another incredible advantage: faces and powder stashes remain untouched for longer. Deer Valley is also fantastic for families – its groomers are a memory that’ll stay with little minds for a long time, and a superb ski school customizes its learning programs for the whole crew.
Deer Valley is perhaps our favorite ski resort for eating and drinking. Experience a relaxing après from a lounge chair at Silver Lake, the mid-mountain beach, then ride down to the Snow Park Lodge for a cocktail at the EBS Lounge. Afterwards, dine out at RIME in the evenings and prepare to be treated like royalty. The whole resort is also just one free bus ride away from downtown Park City – perfect for letting loose before cranking up your riding the next day.
Top tip: For an evening with a difference, book yourself onto All Seasons Adventures’ Snow and S’mores tour. Nothing beats snowshoeing to a roaring fire before eating your body weight in s’mores.
Sugarbush Mountain Ski Resort, Vermont
- 581 acres
- 111 trails
- 16 lifts
- 2,600 feet of vertical drop
- 20 feet of snow per year
- Ikon Pass
If tree runs are your kryptonite, you’re going to love Sugarbush! Its 111 runs wind down through the trees over two mountains. From there, you’ll end up in multiple base areas, where you can jump on a lift and make your way back up to tackle an alternative line.
Most of Sugarbush Mountain’s trails are aimed at intermediates (42%) while nearly a quarter are beginner-friendly greens. If you’re pretty pro, though, check out Castlerock with its legendary ungroomed steeps. We think FIS and Black Diamond at Mt. Ellen are tougher, though.
At the base of Lincoln Peak, you’ll find a cute village. Look out for the pedestrian-only area with spas, shops, and ridiculously good restaurants. You’ll also only find Vermont beers on taps. We love a bit of self-repping! Head to the Green Mountain Lounge at Mt. Ellen for classic Vermont vibes (and beer).
Top tip: For some out-of-bounds fun, go CAT skiing in Sugarbush! With a minimum of six people per group, it’s something you and your crew will chat about for a long time.
Wolf Creek Ski Resort, Colorado
- 1,600 acres
- 133 trails
- 9 lifts
- 1,604 feet of vertical drop
- 36 feet of snow per year
- Independent Pass
Are you ready for deep powder, terrain to make you go ‘yew!’, and a close-knit family feel? That’s what it’s all about at Wolf Creek, one of the USA’s most proudly independent, family-run resorts.
It takes commitment to get here. However, once you arrive at the heart of the San Juan Mountain Range, you’ll find runs to make you grin from ear to ear. There’s a family ski zone, beginner’s area, carving runs, mogul fields, gullies, and even a knife ridge. Experience all this and more through a series of nine lifts.
Although it’s only 1,600 acres, you’ll never run into a lift line while you’re in the riding zone. That’s the magic of Wolf Creek. Bear (or wolf) in mind that there’s no on-mountain lodging here. For hotels, motels, condos, and B&Bs, head for Pagosa Springs (23 miles away) or South Fork (18 miles). Wolf Creek itself, though, has that awesome small community feel that’s hard to beat.
Top tip: It’s a general rule at Wolf Creek that the longer you’re willing to hike, the more freshies await! Our favorite hike is the one to Horseshoe Bowl. It takes about 30 minutes but trust us: the powder reward is totally worth it!
Brighton Resort, Utah
- 1,050 acres
- 66 trails
- 7 lifts
- 1,745 feet of vertical drop
- 41 feet of snowfall per year
- Ikon Pass
Let’s get a little rugged and wild with Brighton Ski Resort. Powder chasers and those after authentic mountain vibes love this small resort that’s home to some of the best snow in the US. Ride here, and it’s like being part of a family.
And speaking of families, this ski resort is great for them. Kids aged 10 and under get to ski free (yes, really!). There’s also the Brighton Bone Zone, a free terrain park for finding your freestyle feet. It’s an awesome place for learning to ride and linking those turns, and the ski school offers fantastic value for money.
For you more advanced riders, Brighton Resort brings it when it comes to natural features and shed-loads of powder. Head for the Millicent side with its bowls, drop-offs, and open spaces. You won’t find much on-mountain lodging here, but its closeness to Solitude and Salt Lake City makes it a fantastic day’s riding in the middle of a longer trip.
Top tip: When it’s time to après, head for Molly Green’s, a legendary spot. Choose a pizza and pitcher of frothy cold beer and enjoy by the open fire.
Arizona Snowbowl Ski Resort, Arizona
- 777 acres
- 48 trails
- 8 lifts
- 2,300 feet of vertical drop
- 22 feet of snow per year
- Power Pass
Located just seven miles from Flagstaff and about two hours from Phoenix, Arizona Snowbowl is known for being super family-friendly, affordable prices, and insane views over the San Francisco Peaks. Plus, visiting this resort gives you the chance to say you’ve skied or boarded down the side of a volcano! Not bad!
Snowbowl’s family-friendly vibe doesn’t mean you can’t be challenged if you’re more inclined towards steeper slopes. The hike-to terrain from the Agassiz lift into Upper Bowl will reward you with wide-open double-black bowl riding and incredible desert views. How often can you say you’ve seen sand while standing on snow? Plus, the snow here can be legendary. Some days, it’s not unheard of for the mountain to get a foot or two of fresh pow in a single night when a storm rolls through.
In terms of dining, there are just three restaurants at Arizona Snowbowl. However, this ski resort does serve up the longest riding season in the state. Spring shred, anyone?
Top tip: Check out Snowbowl’s four terrain parks. Each has a steady progression of rails and kickers to satisfy all riders, from park newbies to pros.
Bridger Bowl, Montana
- 2,000 acres
- 105 trails
- 11 lifts
- 2,600 feet of vertical drop
- 25 feet of snow per year
- Independent Pass
How about riding in an independent, community-owned resort in the iconic American West? Head to Bridger Bowl, and you’ll get just that. Its mission? To offer the best riding experience at a reasonable cost to locals and destination riders. That’s a mission we can get behind!
This place’s history is full of grit and independence. In 1955, 60 powder fanatics independently installed the first lift on the mountain – and it’s been a non-profit, community-owned ski and snowboarding hill ever since.
Today, it’s probably fair to say that this is more of a ski and snowboarding area than a ski resort as there’s no on-mountain lodging. But, it’s an area that draws plenty of that light, dry powder you dream about, spread over terrain that offers something for everyone – including families and beginners. Plus, the tight-knit community vibe is nothing short of rad. Everyone’s here because of their love for riding. You’ll have no shortage of people looking out for you and sharing in your passion for corduroy, technical lines, chutes, and fun on the mountain.
Top tip: Throw yourself into it on the epic lift-served runs off Schlasman’s. Don’t forget, though, that these require a beacon to ride.
Beech Mountain Resort, North-Carolina
- 17 acres
- 17 trails
- 9 lifts
- 830 feet of vertical drop
- 7 feet of snow per year
- Independent Pass
Fancy checking out the highest ski resort in North Carolina? We thought you might. That’s why we’ve included Beech Mountain, with a summit elevation of 5,506 feet above sea level and plenty of slopes for beginners and intermediates. Push your technical skills on White Lightning or cruise with ease on the Oz run.
In terms of après, Beech Mountain isn’t the craziest resort in existence. However, there’s live music every Friday and Saturday night at their Beech Mountain Brewing Company, an on-site brewery. Just unclip from your bindings, and you’ll make it to the brewhouse within minutes to check out tons of acts. The alpine village at the base of the slopes also has a park-like plaza with firepits and an ice-skating rink.
There’s also plenty for families here, particularly over Christmas. Have little brothers and sisters? Take them to Beech Mountain, where they can meet Santa, watch fireworks, and play bingo. An on-site brewery AND bingo? Full house!
Top tip: If you can hack the temperature drop, try night skiing with LED lighting! It’s something to document on the socials, that’s for sure.
Killington Resort, Vermont
- 1,526 acres
- 155 trails
- 22 lifts
- 3,050 feet of vertical drop
- 21 feet of snow per year
- Ikon Pass
Ski-racing culture and love for the mountains are in Killington’s bones. This ski resort is big and steep enough to hold one of just two yearly US World Cup ski events. But there are also options for every type of rider here.
Spread out over six mountains, you can cruise on the beginner-level Rams Head or jam at the Stash terrain park (one of only six Burton Stash parks worldwide), with over 65 features and a superpipe. Looking for challenging terrain? The Beast has you covered. Just head to the techy, steep fall lines on Bear Mountain.
But après is where things really pick up a notch. Killington certainly knows how to party, and its après-ski scene is legendary. Our picks? The Umbrella Bar, Pickle Barrel Nightclub, Wobbly Barn…The list goes on. First chair to last call is how K-Town rolls – and that’s something we can definitely get on board with!
Top tip: It’s all about the glades! Ride the trees between Devil’s Fiddle and Outer Limits on Bear Mountain for more creative lines than you can imagine.
Mammoth Mountain, California
- 3,500 acres
- 151 trails
- 28 lifts
- 3,100 feet of vertical drop
- 33 feet of snow per year
- Ikon Pass
Head for Mammoth Mountain, one of California’s – and America’s – highest mountains. This ski resort is on the east side of the Sierra Nevada and is one of the best places to shred in the USA. Plus, it gets so much snow that you can Spring shred in May – and sometimes even as late as July!
It’s mammoth in name and size: there are 151 runs and 28 lifts spread over a whopping 3,500 acres of skiable area. Plus, its altitude means it’s also a snow-sure resort, guaranteeing some of the best untouched terrain for bump riding, groomers for first-timers, and family-friendly trails.
Mammoth is heaven for freestylers, too. It has 11 terrain parks in total – more than enough for you to perfect your 50-50s, frontside 360s, and Cossacks. And once you’ve nailed them, it’s time to head to the bar! Yes, Mammoth is bursting with options. Our quirky take on après? Grab a six-pack and head for the natural hot springs off Benton Road. It’s an après session you won’t forget in a hurry (well, unless you have too many beers, that is!).
Top tip: If you’re an expert rider, check out Hemlocks bowl, a hike-to terrain area with natural and man-made features. Non-pros rarely get to enjoy this level of riding.
Purgatory Resort, Colorado
- 1,099 acres
- 105 trails
- 12 lifts
- 2,029 feet of vertical drop
- 22 feet of snow per year
- Power Pass
Shredding in the San Juans is a must! Just head to the southwest corner of Colorado for ‘Purg’, aka Purgatory Mountain Resort.
Don’t worry, there’s no feeling of being ‘stuck’ here. This laid-back resort has everything to bring the stoke for all riders, thanks to its wide range of terrain. It’s an area that’s totally well suited to beginners and intermediates with shed loads of long cruisers.
Purg is also a lot more affordable than other larger Colorado resorts. Lift tickets are reasonably priced, and kids under 12 can ski for free! We’re also massive fans of Durango, a sick mountain town close to Purgatory. This is the place to head if you’re after nightlife. As Purgatory is more family-focused, the resort’s après and post-après scene are very low-key.
Top tip: Get twitchy without your fix of untracked pow? Head to Silverton mountain. This rustic ski resort is just beyond Purg and is renowned for its untouched powder fields.
Eldora, Colorado
- 680 acres
- 61 trails
- 10 lifts
- 1,400 feet of vertical drop
- 26 feet of snow per year
- Ikon Pass
Mix with the locals in Eldora, just 20 miles up the canyon from Boulder. This is where people sneak away to from work for an afternoon. It’s also a fantastic place for kids and beginners to find their ski legs.
The mountain is divided into two main areas: the Little Hawk Family Area and the main area across split three chairs. The top slope of Eldora is fantastic for intermediate, advanced and experienced riders while locals head for Corona Bowl to tear up the Salto and Moose Glades.
There’s no on-mountain lodging at Eldora Mountain Resort. Instead, it’s all about the riding. And the riding here is focused on scoring as much vertical as you can – and refueling on chili dogs when you get the chance.
Top tip: Traverse through the trees into the top of Brian’s glades. There, you’ll find a fun, natural halfpipe hidden among the glades, perfect for jibbing.
Copper Mountain, Colorado
- 2,490 acres
- 140 trails
- 24 lifts
- 2,738 feet of vertical drop
- 25 feet of snow per year
- Ikon Pass
Copper Mountain might have started life as a copper mine, but today it tells a very different story. Expect great riding, ski-in, ski-out lodging, terrain parks, and plenty for the non-skiers in your group.
This is a fantastic ski resort for beginners (on the western side of the mountain) and intermediates (center), thanks to its groomed runs. Having different abilities in differing areas means you never have to fear an expert rider bombing past you if you’re learning or nervous first-timers getting in the way on the advanced section. Yep, there’s also black, challenging terrain on the eastern side, along with some nice, expert-only high alpine bowls. It’s worth doing them just for the views, to be honest!
At the base, you’ll find three purpose-built villages. Because the terrain is split into differing abilities, so are the bases. East Village is for the pros, West Village (Union Creek) covers beginners, and the Center Village is a split of the two and the main base area at Copper. It’s super easy to get between the area – just shred or jump on a shuttle bus. For the non-skiers in your group, there’s snowmobiling, dog sledding, sleigh rides, ice skating, spas, and more.
Top tip: Unleash your inner Shaun White and try the superpipe! Or perfect your skills first at Woodward at Copper with snowflex ramps, trampolines, foam pits, and spring floors.
Kirkwood Ski Resort, California
- 2,300 acres
- 87 trails
- 13 lifts
- 2,000 feet of vertical drop
- 50 feet of snow per year
- Epic Pass
One of our team referred to Kirkwood as ‘powder hound nirvana’ – and it’s easy to see why. Kirkwood Ski Res