10 Best Ski Resorts in The United States

10 Best Ski Resorts in The United States

The United States is a country of 50 states covering most parts of the wider North America. Alaska and Hawaii are found in the Pacific Ocean.

When it comes to ski resorts, the US has some of the best in the world. It is the place to go for the ultimate skiing experience. From New York, Montana, Colorado, Utah, California, to Wyoming.

These are just some of the places to visit for some great time on the powdery slopes. The west side has some world-class ski resorts.

It is where the Rocky Mountains and its surrounding ranges give one a genuine experience. The snow-covered slopes can be accessed by skiers of any level.

They are a dream destination for several skiers. Subsequently, the terrains vary and stretch for thousands of acres.

With that said, have a look at these 10 best ski resorts in the U.S. for your next winter vacation.

1. Vail Ski Resort – Colorado

Photo by Karsten Winegeart on Unsplash

This resort is one of the most visited resorts in the United States. Crowds flock to the vast ski areas that are nothing short of picturesque.

One gets to see European style villages with several dining and lodging options, not to mention myriad skiing activities.  

Vail has several acreages of beautiful terrain. It is spread across a front side filled by green and blue groomers.

The terrains are further defined by the powder hounds, bumps, and steeps. The sidewalks to this resort are heated. However, the walk-up lift tickets for this resort are the most expensive.

Vail is most famous for its classy hotels and high-end boutiques.

2. Jackson Hole Ski Resort – Wyoming

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is known for its awe-inspiring vertical rise and rugged terrain.

This resort has the longest unbroken vert of any ski area in the country. It rises 4,139 feet from the valley floor to the top of Rendezvous Mountain.

The resort is nestled between Grand Teton National Park to the north and miles of national forest in every other direction. Its surrounding has therefore made this resort isolated from the expanding travel industry.

On the flip side, it offers privacy and serenity, something that celebrities and famous people love. It has been visited by actor Harrison Ford and former Vice President Dick Cheney.

3. Park City Mountain Resort – Utah

Photo by Rudi Riet – Wikimedia

Park City is one of the largest ski resorts in the United States. It is spread over 7,300 acres and has 17 peaks. This gives you unlimited skiing options.

The terrains vary in levels from experienced, intermediate to beginner. There are also long and rolling groomed slopes.

A fun fact about Park City Mountain resort is that it dates back to 1884. You can still see the historic main street that is lined with restaurants and shops.

After skiing the whole day, you can drive to Salt Lake City for more activities. There are also cheaper accommodation options.  

4. Big Sky Resort – Montana

Photo by Rickmouser45 – Wikimedia

This resort is Montana’s leading ski area. Nothing here is small; there are big mountains, big lifts, a big tram as well as big snowfall at 33 feet. The skiing spaces are vast too.

Another charming secret about this massive resort is that it is never crowded. The resort is spread over 5,850 acres of land.

With this much land, it, therefore, gives everyone enough space and no crowding. Skiers also get to enjoy low-level elevations. This means that one can ski for longer and not run out of breath.  

Big Sky resort gets an average of 400 inches of snow each year. While skiing, one gets to enjoy panoramic views of two national parks.

5. Whiteface Mountain Ski Resort- New York

The Whiteface ski resort in New York has unique terrain and long vertical drop, therefore, making it a truly amazing East Coast experience on a good day.

Its highest vertical drop is at 3,430 feet. This is the highest in any ski resort east of the Rockies.

The mountain further offers plenty of challenges for any level of skier and snowboarder.

There are plenty of fun slopes for intermediates, who can ski through pleasant runs from the summit. The views from the top are worth the long walk up.

6. Taos Ski Resort– New Mexico

Photo by Robson Hatsukami Morgan on Unsplash

Another state that has one of the best ski resorts in New Mexico. Taos is often acclaimed for its small-town charm, what many do not know is home to the best skiing spot.

Taos Ski Valley receives up to 300 inches of snow per year and has more than 110 trails.

Half of these trails cater to expert skiers as they are located on the sky-high Kachina Peak. If you are a beginner, you will enjoy the other half of easier runs. To get to the good spots, one has to take a 15 minutes hike.

When it comes to accommodation options, there are affordable options close to the resort.

7. Sun Valley Resort – Idaho

Sun Valley in Idaho is an ideal destination for an all-around mid-size resort. This resort has 121 runs spread across the Bald and Dollar Mountains.

You will love the views from the top with vistas of fields of snow covering the mountains.

Although the resort received about 216inches of snow each year, the resort also makes its own.

This is one of the best places for families, beginners and intermediate skiers. Since the resort is located in a secluded location, the corduroy lasts longer into the day.

A unique attraction in this resort is the chairlift that was invented in 1936.

8. Stowe Mountain Resort – Vermont

Photo by Ams100272 – Wikimedia

This Vermont resort has some of the most satisfying trails suitable for any skiers or snowboarders.

Its extensive backcountry opportunities are made up of 18 miles of ungroomed terrain. The resort has 116 trails and receives approximately 300 inches of snow annually.

Mount Mansfield offers one of the calmest skiing experiences. Additionally, one can take a scenic ride to the top of this mountain. It is the highest mountain in the state.  

Enjoy sumptuous meals and craft beer at Burlington, 40 minutes away. This town has eccentric restaurants.

If this is your first time skiing, Spruce Peak is the best place to start. Furthermore, intermediate and experienced skiers can head to Mount Mansfield. 

9. Palisades Tahoe Ski Resort – California

This is an iconic ski resort at Lake Tahoe that was once home to the 1960 Winter Olympics. In addition, it is one of California’s top ski resorts.

Once you get access to this resort, you will also get to access the Alpine Meadows ski resort, which is just a short drive away.

One of the attractions to this resort is the sun. It gets more clear blue skies and the views from the slopes are breathtaking.

With 444 inches of snow received every year, one is guaranteed an amazing powdery day.

10. Steamboat Springs – Colorado

Photo by CarTick – Wikimedia

Steamboat Springs has six peaks with roughly 3,000 acres of trails. This is one of the most popular places for skiers when visiting Colorado.

The tree runs at this resort are not just for expert skiers but all levels of skiers. Thanks to the low-level elevation of the mountain, one can enjoy prolonged skiing without going out of breath or getting dizzy. 

You will not find crowds in this resort, hence ample space for you and your loved ones. One can also ride the Steamboat Gondola for panoramic views.

Other fun activities to do here include hiking to Fish Creek Falls, zip-lining or relaxing in the natural pools at Strawberry Park Hot Springs.