12 Best US Ski Resorts You’ll Want to Shred At This Season
Winter is nearly here, and as the bulk of ski resorts across the US prepare to open their slopes in the coming weeks, it’s time to start planning your next epic ski trip. As an avid snowboarder, I’ve chased the snow all over the country while suffering freezing in my van with no regrets.
America has some of the best skiing and snowboarding spots in the world, from the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the charming slopes of New England. Bought to you based on thousands of votes from Ranker, here are my top picks for the best US ski resorts.
1. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Jackson Hole is legendary for its insane vertical drop. At 4,139 feet, it is one of the steepest in the US. Hardcore skiers know Corbet’s Couloir, a run that drops off like a cliff (literally).
With over 2,500 acres of skiable terrain, annual snowfall averages about 500 inches, so fresh powder is practically guaranteed. The après-ski scene in Teton Village is fun, with the added bonus you can tack on a wildlife tour to see elk, bison, and winter wolves.
2. Aspen Snowmass, Colorado
One of the most renowned ski destinations in the world, Aspen Snowmass is a must-visit where you can access four mountains on one pass. Snowmass has endless powder-filled runs, Aspen Mountain boasts steep terrain and glades, Aspen Highlands has insanely challenging double diamonds, and Buttermilk is perfect for beginners.
This is the place to go for the luxe life with a very expensive day pass lift to add to the expenses. But it’s après-ski of a Victorian-style town with world-class restaurants and celebrity sightings.
3. Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Nicknamed “Ski Town USA,” Steamboat delivers on its name, thanks to its famous “Champagne Powder.” “With six peaks and over 3,000 skiable acres, this place is a ski haven with unmatched tree skiing.
Off the slopes, the historic town has a bit of classic Western charm and hot springs to soak those sore muscles. Steamboat is also the birthplace of more Winter Olympians than any other town in America.
4. Mammoth Mountain, California
When it comes to season length, Mammoth Mountain slopes stay open well into summer. Sitting at over 11,000 feet, Mammoth is another of my favorite resorts, with great runs from bunny hills to steep chutes.
Snowfall here is hefty, averaging about 400 inches, so bring your powder skis. The terrain parks are famous too. After a long day on the mountain, Mammoth Lakes town offers a solid mix of eateries and laid-back bars.
5. Telluride, Colorado
Tucked away in a box canyon, Telluride feels like a hidden gem, though it’s anything but unknown to serious skiers. With a vertical drop of over 4,400 feet, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more dramatic descent. The terrain covers everything from gentle groomers to extreme steeps.
They also have a free gondola that connects the ski area to the town. This means no driving is necessary, and you can enjoy stunning views of the San Juan Mountains on your way to dinner.
6. Sun Valley, Idaho
Sun Valley has long held its reputation as the birthplace of destination skiing. With 3,400 vertical feet and 2,000 acres of prime skiing, Bald Mountain and Dollar Mountain offer some of the best intermediate terrain in the country. This is the place if you’re looking for short lift lines and endless groomers.
The town of Ketchum is packed with history, good food, and a cozy nightlife scene. Fun fact: Sun Valley was Hollywood’s go-to ski destination in the 1940s.
7. Vail, Colorado
Vail’s sheer size sets it apart. Its over 5,300 acres of skiable terrain make it one of the largest resorts in the world. The legendary Back Bowls cover seven miles, and Vail Village will make you feel transported to Europe.
As great as the skiing is here, the cobblestone streets and plenty of après-ski options have gained it fame as one of the most popular ski resorts in the country.
8. Crested Butte, Colorado
Crested Butte might not have the crowds, but its steep and deep terrain are a paradise for advanced skiers and riders. They have over 500 acres of double-black diamond runs.
The town itself is lined with colorful Victorian buildings and a friendly, down-to-earth vibe. Crested Butte is not a super well-known one, so you probably won’t have to wait for any of the lifts for too long.
9. Palisades Tahoe, California
Palisades Tahoe, formerly known as Squaw Valley, covers over 6,000 acres between two mountains. Known for hosting the 1960 Winter Olympics, this place has history and legendary slopes to match.
The snowfall averages about 400 inches, making it one of the snowiest spots in California. The base village has a lively après-ski scene and there’s always amazing things to do around Lake Tahoe year-round.
10. Snowbird, Utah
With an average of 500 inches of snowfall each season, Snowbird will give you one of the highest chances of having incredible powder. Shredding down through a whiteout is all worth it for the quality of snow you get here.
It’s home to the famous Aerial Tram, which whisks you up 2,900 vertical feet to the summit of Hidden Peak in about seven minutes. The terrain here caters to serious skiers, with plenty of powder-filled bowls and tight tree runs.
11. Park City, Utah
As the largest lift-served ski resort in the U.S., Park City is truly impossible to ski all in one day. From beginner slopes to expert runs, there’s no doubt Park City is all-around incredible.
It has one of the coolest ski towns, with a historic Main Street lined with bars, restaurants, and galleries. Snowfall averages around 360 inches, and the resort’s close proximity to Salt Lake City means you can hit the slopes the same day you fly in.
The Sundance Film Festival comes to town every year for the film lovers out there.
12. Killington, Vermont
Known as the “Beast of the East,” Killington is the largest ski resort in the eastern US. With over 1,500 skiable acres and the longest season in the East. It sometimes stretches into May.
It’s a haven for East Coast skiers and the first big ski resort I was amazed by as a child. It has seven mountain areas, an extensive lift system, and delicious waffles as snacks. Snowfall averages around 250 inches, but Killington’s snowmaking is top-notch.
Catherine, a seasoned travel writer, has lived in 4 different states and explored 36 states and 28 national parks. After spending two years embracing van life, she's now dedicated to sharing her vast knowledge of day trips across America. Catherine's other works has been referenced in major publications like MSN, Self, and TripSavvy.
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