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Epic slopes and snowy splendor: The most popular ski resorts in the US

·Fanny Dorris for Way.com

Don & Melinda Crawford/Education Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images
Don & Melinda Crawford/Education Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Thinking of the winter holidays and what to do this time? Embrace the extraordinary this winter with a remarkable ski adventure at America's top-rated ski resorts. Visualize yourself gliding down the icy slopes, carving fresh tracks through powdery snow, and breathing in the fresh mountain air. Whether you're a seasoned skier or first-time adventurer, there's a ski resort perfectly suited to your experience level. Greet this winter as the season to conquer new peaks, immerse yourself in awe-inspiring scenery, and forge lasting memories that will resonate for years.Ìý

The United States is famous for its incredible ski resorts scattered across the country's diverse landscapes, each offering its own unique charm, terrain, and unforgettable experiences. From the majestic summits of the Rocky Mountains to the picturesque villages of New England, a ski resort perfectly tailored to cater to every preference and skill level exists. Whether you're an adrenaline-seeking skier or a leisurely snow enthusiast, these destinations offer unforgettable experiences on the slopes and beyond.Ìý

With exceptional lift systems, reliable annual snowfalls, and state-of-the-art facilities, it's hard to resist the allure of hitting the slopes in the United States. Household names like Vail Ski Resort, Aspen, Snowbird, and Deer Valley dominate the skiing industry, reflecting the colossal profiles of these mega-resorts. compiled this list to help you learn more about some of the most popular and renowned ski resorts in the country.

Ski resorts in the USA are spread across various states, and among the top destinations are Colorado, Nevada, and Utah. Colorado stands out, with 27 resorts in the Rocky Mountains. Notable Colorado ski destinations are Breckenridge, Aspen, Telluride, and Vail, alongside family-friendly resorts such as Keystone and Winter Park.Ìý

Skiers and snowboarders wait in line for the chair lift on opening day at Breckenridge Ski Resort on November 13, 2020 in Breckenridge, Colorado.

Michael Ciaglo/Getty Images

1 / 5

Breckenridge Ski Resort, Colorado

Alpine Ski Resort is in the captivating town of Breckenridge, Colorado. The Breckenridge Ski Resort beckons with a rich history and timeless charm and is known for its overall terrain. The Victorian-era ambiance compliments the diverse ski terrain at this classic winter destination. With five distinct peaks, each boasting a unique character, the resort welcomes skiers and snowboarders of all levels to discover their perfect slice of mountain paradise.Ìý

The peak season at Breckenridge Ski Resort is from December to March, but the resort is open from mid-November to early May.Ìý

Nearest AirportsÌý

  • Denver International Airport (DEN): 104 miles (1 hour, 45 minutes)Ìý
  • Eagle/Vail Regional Airport: Located in Gypsum, about 63 miles (1 hour and 15 minutes)Ìý
  • Colorado Springs Municipal Airport: is about 115 miles (2 hours and 15 minutes).Ìý

How to Reach

Shuttle service and National car rental agencies are available at the airports.Ìý

Where to Stay?

  • Gravity HausÌý
  • Crystal Peak LodgeÌýÌý
  • Mountain Thunder Lodge.Ìý

Nearest TownsÌý

  • Frisco: 9.6 miles (16 minutes)Ìý
  • Keystone: 17.0 miles (34 minutes)Ìý
  • Copper Mountain: 17.9 miles (29 minutes)Ìý
  • Denver downtown: 86 miles (1 hr 26 minutes).

Parking and TransportationÌý

Breck boasts a pedestrian-friendly downtown with ample parking lots and free transportation options. Epic Mountain Express shuttles smoothly connect the airport to your destination. Walkable distances to the ski area and Main Street and the complimentary Breck FreeRide bus system make navigation a breeze. The BreckConnect Gondola and ski-to-town (bike in summer) trails effortlessly unite the mountain and downtown areas.Ìý

Note: If driving down, check GoI70.com for tips and conditions, but once in town, use free transportation to ease traffic and contribute to a greener environment.

Winter in BreckenridgeÌý

  • Country Boy MineÌý
  • Dog ³§±ô±ð»å»å¾±²Ô²µÌý
  • Gondola RidesÌý
  • Nordic ³§°ì¾±¾±²Ô²µÌý
  • ³§°ì¾±¾±²Ô²µÌý
  • Sleigh RidesÌý
  • ³§±ô±ð»å»å¾±²Ô²µÌý
  • ³§²Ô´Ç·É²ú´Ç²¹°ù»å¾±²Ô²µÌý
  • Snowshoeing
  • Christmas lights on trees in Breckenridge.

Summer in Breckenridge

  • Art FairsÌý
  • Bike TrailsÌý
  • °ä´Ç²Ô³¦±ð°ù³Ù²õÌý
  • ¹ó±ð²õ³Ù¾±±¹²¹±ô²õÌý
  • Fly FishingÌý
  • ±á¾±°ì¾±²Ô²µÌý
  • Local Farmers MarketsÌý
  • Mountain BikingÌý
  • ¸é²¹´Ú³Ù¾±²Ô²µÌý
  • SUP YogaÌý
  • Whitewater ¸é²¹´Ú³Ù¾±²Ô²µÌý
  • Fall festivals like Oktoberfest, Wine Classic, and the Craft Spirits Festival.Ìý

For details, visit the official website of

You may also like: Ìý

Park City Mountain Resort during the 2006 Sundance Film Festival

Denise Truscello/WireImage via Getty Images

2 / 5

Park City Mountain Resort, Utah

This four-season mountain resort is in the picturesque town of Park City, Utah. Park City Mountain Resort connects with Canyons Resort, collectively forming the largest ski resort in the United States. Beyond its cinematic allure, Park City offers a mix of meticulously groomed runs and challenging terrain, creating a paradise for skiers and snowboarders. From gentle beginner slopes to expert terrain parks, the resort provides an expansive playground for all levels of winter enthusiasts.Ìý

Nearest AirportsÌý

  • Salt Lake International Airport: 37.4 miles (47 minutes)Ìý
  • Heber Valley Airport: 19.3 miles (32 minutes)Ìý
  • South Valley Regional Airport: 39.4 miles (50 minutes).Ìý

How to ReachÌý

Bus, Taxi, or Car.Ìý

Driving DirectionsÌý

Directions to Park City Mountain VillageÌý

1345 Lowell Ave., Park City, UT 84060:

Drive on UT-224 from I-80 toward Park City. Turn right onto Empire Avenue after 6 miles and follow signs directing entry to your destination.

Directions to Canyons VillageÌý

4000 Canyons Resort Dr, Park City, UT 84098:Ìý

Drive on UT-224 from I-80 toward Park City. Take right onto Canyons Resort Drive after 3 miles and follow the signs to your destination.Ìý

Follow for highway and pass-related information and condition reports.Ìý

Where to Stay?

  • Apex Park City Residences at Canyons VillageÌý
  • Grand Summit Hotel, RockResortÌý
  • Lift Park City.Ìý

Nearest TownsÌý

  • Canyons Village is the first base area for visitors to Park City, which is 4.7 miles (9 minutes)Ìý
  • Kamas: 15.7 miles (20 minutes)Ìý
  • Oakley: 16.6 miles (23 minutes)ÌýÌýÌý
  • Heber City: 17.7 miles (23 minutes)Ìý
  • Marion: 18.1 miles (23 minutes)Ìý
  • Midway: 18.2 mi (26 minutes).ÌýÌý

Winter in Park City Mountain ResortÌý

  • Flying Eagle ZiplineÌý
  • Learn to SkiÌý
  • Learn to SnowboardÌý
  • Mountain CoasterÌý
  • Private Mountain GuideÌý
  • ShoppingÌý
  • Ski to Historic Main StreetÌý
  • Sleigh RidesÌý
  • Snowmobile ToursÌý
  • The Viking YurtÌý
  • Winter Scenic Gondola Ride.Ìý

ÌýSummer in Park City Mountain ResortÌýÌý

  • Alpine SlideÌý
  • Gem PanningÌý
  • Legacy LauncherÌý
  • Mini GolfÌý
  • Mountain BikingÌý
  • Mountain CoasterÌý
  • Scenic Lift RidesÌý
  • ZipRider

For details, visit the official website of the , Utah.Ìý

Exterior of an aerial tram at the Squaw Valley Ski Resort, with the Sierra Nevadas in the background. The tram is filled with skiers headed to the top of the mountain.

Phil Schermeister/Corbis/VCG via Getty Images

3 / 5

Palisades Tahoe

Located at 1960 Squaw Valley Road, Olympic Valley, CA 96146, Palisades Tahoe (formerly known as Squaw Valley) in the western United States takes the lead in our rankings with the highest number of lift pods, offering renowned steeps and terrain variety. However, it's essential to note that the overall experience can be bustling with crowds and traffic.Ìý

Nearest AirportÌýÌý

  • Reno Tahoe International Airport (RNO): 48.4 miles (55 minutes)Ìý
  • Truckee Tahoe Airport (TRK): Private Airport, 11 miles (20minutes).Ìý

Driving Directions:Ìý

Turn left on Highway 89, heading northwest.Ìý At the West River Rd. traffic light, turn right. Take the first left onto McIver Crossing. Take the first exit of the roundabout. You can't miss downtown Truckee!

TransportationÌý

Amtrak Train, Shuttles, Regional Bus, Bay Area Bus, Bay Area Ski Bus, and Tahoe Convoy (Weekend luxury shuttle).Ìý

ParkingÌýÌý

Both free and paid reservations are available, but you must reserve your spot in advance.Ìý

Nearby TownsÌýÌý

  • Truckee: 11.3 miles (15 minutes)Ìý
  • Reno: 43.4 miles (48 minutes)Ìý
  • Incline Village: 22.0 mi (36 minutes).Ìý

Where to Stay?

  • The Village at Palisades Tahoe LodgingÌý
  • Olympic VillageÌý
  • Everline Resort and Spa.Ìý

Winter in Palisades TahoeÌý

  • Sunset Happy HoursÌý
  • Mountain GuidesÌý
  • Snow TubingÌýÌý
  • SnowshoeingÌý
  • Alpenglow ExpeditionsÌý
  • Cross-country ³§°ì¾±¾±²Ô²µÌý
  • ³§±ô±ð»å»å¾±²Ô²µÌý
  • Ice skatingÌý
  • Scenic Gondola RideÌý
  • AIARE 1: AVALANCHE COURSEÌý
  • NASCAR RacesÌý
  • Snowshoe Tour & ChaletÌý
  • Snowshoe Tour Under the StarsÌý
  • Palisades Yoga Studio.Ìý

Summer in Palisades TahoeÌý

  • Guided Hike with PicnicÌý
  • Lake Tahoe Ropes CourseÌý
  • Roller Skating at High CampÌý
  • Tahoe Via FerrataÌý
  • Hiking & Walking at Palisades TahoeÌý
  • Palisades Tahoe Hiking Trails.

Water Activities in Lake TahoeÌý

  • Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP)Ìý
  • KayakÌý
  • Rafting and Floating the Truckee RiverÌý
  • Boating and Water sportsÌý
  • Explore Tahoe's Many BeachesÌý
  • Docks on Donner LakeÌý

For more details, visit the official website of .Ìý

Skiers walk to the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort on Dec. 12, 2021 in Teton Village, Wyo.

AMBER BAESLER for The Washington Post via Getty Images

4 / 5

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Wyoming

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Jackson, Wyoming, has gained acclaim for its legendary expert terrain, notably the challenging Corbet's Couloir and the steep Teton Pass. The resort offers breathtaking views of the Teton Range of the spectacular Rocky Mountains in Teton County, enhancing the exhilarating experience. Perfect for those craving an adrenaline rush, Jackson Hole is renowned for its challenging and steep slopes, making it a haven for expert skiers. The awe-inspiring views of the Tetons further elevate the overall experience.Ìý

Nearest Airport

Jackson Hole Airport: 21.6 miles (30 minutes).Ìý

How to ReachÌý

Jackson Hole Airport has several public transportation options to and from the village, such as taxis, cars, and shuttle services.Ìý

Parking in Jackson HoleÌý

Parking at Jackson Hole is on a first-come, first-served basis, and you can park at Stilson Lot, Cody Lot, Village Lot, Crystal Springs, and Ranch Lot.Ìý

Nearby TownsÌýÌý

Driggs, Idaho: 34.0 miles (42 minutes)Ìý

Victor, Idaho: 25.7 miles (33 minutes)Ìý

Dubois, Wyoming: 97.9 miles (1 hour, 58 minutes).Ìý

Where to Stay?

  • Caldera HouseÌý
  • Jackson Hole Vacation RentalsÌý
  • Teton Mountain Lodge and SpaÌý
  • Four Seasons Resort and Residences, Jackson Hole.Ìý

Winter in Jackson Hole Mountain ResortÌý

  • SnowmobileÌý
  • Backcountry ³§°ì¾±¾±²Ô²µÌý
  • Dog sleddingÌý
  • SnowshoeingÌý
  • ³§²Ô´Ç·É²ú´Ç²¹°ù»å¾±²Ô²µÌý
  • Backcountry skiingÌý
  • Wildlife toursÌý
  • Ice skatingÌý
  • Shopping and diningÌý
  • Relaxing in hot springs

Summer in Jackson Hole Mountain ResortÌý

  • Mountain bikingÌý
  • Whitewater raftingÌý
  • ParaglidingÌý
  • Fly fishingÌý
  • Horseback ridingÌý
  • Float the Snake RiverÌý
  • Hiking

Other activities

  • Teton Village activitiesÌý
  • Hot springsÌý
  • Paddling.Ìý

For details, visit the official website of .Ìý

Big Sky ski resort near Big Sky Montana south of Bozeman.

Don & Melinda Crawford/Education Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

5 / 5

Big Sky Resort, Montana

Big Sky, in Gallatin and Madison counties in southwestern Montana, is the second-largest ski resort in the U.S. Big Sky Resort offers expansive, uncrowded slopes, creating an ideal setting for a tranquil and exhilarating winter retreat. Regarded as one of North America's most challenging ski resorts, Big Sky doesn't disappoint with a diverse terrain catering to all abilities. Big Sky Resort in Montana is a winter haven for skiing enthusiasts, boasting exceptional steep grooming and abundant natural snowfall.Ìý

Nearest AirportsÌý

  • Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport: 51.5 miles (1 hour, 5 minutes)Ìý
  • Monger Airport: 55.9 miles (1 hour, 9 minutes)ÌýÌý
  • Three Forks Airport 9S5: 71.3 miles (1 hour, 22 minutes)Ìý
  • Mission Field Airport: 83.5 miles (1 hour, 43 minutes)Ìý
  • Helena Regional Airport: 137 miles (2 hours, 23 minutes).Ìý

Note: Reserving transportation or rental cars well in advance would be a good idea. Ridesharing and Uber services are not available.

Driving DirectionsÌýÌý

  • Big Sky Resort is accessible off of Montana Highway 191.Ìý
  • Provides a direct link to Bozeman and I-90 in the north.Ìý
  • The resort is conveniently connected to West Yellowstone and I-15 in the south.

Getting AroundÌý

Rental Cars and other local transportation like Skyline Bus service (rides are free between the slopes and Town Center) or download the Go Gallatin App for carpool.Ìý

ParkingÌýÌýÌý

Finding a parking spot is easy at Big Sky Resort, and most lots are free. Big Sky Resort also offers free parking and shuttles to the lifts. The shuttles offer pickup and drop-off at the lot from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Nearest TownsÌý

  • Town Center, MT: 6.1 miles (10 minutes)Ìý
  • Big Sky Meadow Village: 7.4 miles (12 minutes)Ìý
  • Gallatin Gateway, MT: 37.1 miles (44 minutes)Ìý
  • Bozeman, MT: 50.0 miles (1 hour, 2 minutes)Ìý
  • West Yellowstone, MT: 56.7 miles (1 hour, 5 minutes).

Where to Stay?

  • The Summit HotelÌý
  • Huntley LodgeÌý
  • Village CenterÌý
  • Shoshone Condominium HotelÌý
  • Whitewater Inn.Ìý

Winter in Big Sky ResortÌý

  • Headlamp Night ³§°ì¾±¾±²Ô²µÌý
  • Nordic ³§°ì¾±¾±²Ô²µÌý
  • Enchanted ForestÌý
  • Snowshoe ToursÌý
  • SNO-GO BikingÌý
  • Dog Sledding
  • Horseback RidingÌýÌý
  • Fly Fishing
  • Sleigh RidesÌý
  • Snowmobile Tours
  • Snowcoach Tours

Summer in Big Sky ResortÌý

  • Adventure MountainÌý
  • ArcheryÌý
  • Disc GolfÌý
  • Fly FishingÌý
  • GolfÌý
  • Guided HikesÌý
  • Horseback RidingÌý
  • Lake Levinski MarinaÌý
  • Mountain BikingÌý
  • Outdoor Escape RoomÌý
  • Rock ClimbingÌý
  • Scenic Lift RidesÌý
  • Whitewater ¸é²¹´Ú³Ù¾±²Ô²µÌý
  • Wildlife ViewingÌý
  • Yellowstone National ParkÌý
  • Zipline Tours

For details, visit the official page of .

Although most US ski resorts are in the western states, there's a significant presence of ski destinations in the eastern United States, including Killington, Sugarbush Resort, and Sugarloaf. The eastern ski resorts offer inferior snow conditions and are not typically visited by international powder hounds. However, they remain immensely popular among local skiers.Ìý

To Sum It UpÌý

Whether you're a seasoned ski prowess or a first-timer on the slopes, these ski resorts will meet your needs and exceed your expectations. So, get ready for the cold, gear up, and embark on a quest to explore the enchantment offered by these ski resorts. Experience a winter wonderland, Experience unmatched beauty!


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