12 US Ski Resorts That Every Skier Needs on Their Bucket List
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The US has amazing snow, challenging slopes, and terrain that rivals anywhere in the world. At the best ski resorts in the US, you can experience a skier’s dream.
If you’re hitting the slopes in the US this year, several places should make your list. From Californian dream runs to scenic resorts with plenty of amenities, these ski resorts are above the competition.
No matter which ski region you choose, you’ll find diverse terrain for all levels and a demanding ski culture that keeps resorts on top of their game. Below are the 12 best ski resorts in the US.
Vail Ski Resort, Colorado
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Vail Ski Resort is nestled near the romantic European-inspired town of Vail. The resort is one of the best ski resorts in the US, with over 5,000 skiable acres of incredible terrain. No matter what your level, you’ll find a run perfectly suited to you.
The resort’s terrain features everything from epic runs and jumps made for professionals to beginner-friendly bunny hills. The resort looks like it’s out of a Swiss Mountain village, with hot chocolate, cozy fireplaces, and deluxe rooms that overlook the mountains.
When you’re done skiing, head downtown for dining and shopping. Try the Vali gondola ride to see unparalleled views before cozying up to a hot drink at the resort.
Read also: US Destinations for an Unforgettable Ski Trip
Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort, Colorado
Aspen Snowmass is an unparalleled experience for anyone who wants world-class skiing in a luxury environment. If you have unlimited funds, this resort is worth spending a week in.
There are four ski mountains in the resort. If you’re a beginner or you’re traveling with family, you can find bunny hills as well in Aspen Snowmass as well as in Buttermilk. Aspen Highlands and Aspen Mountain, also known as Ajax, might be a better fit if you are an expert skier.
In Aspen Snowmass, you’ll have over 5,000 acres of ski runs with variable terrain and some challenging sections if you’re looking to go pro. Over 330 trails run down the steep mountain.
The resort offers plenty of amenities plus the après ski bar, one of the coolest mountain ski bars you’ll ever find. You’ll also get to enjoy gourmet cuisine made by the resort’s private chefs and plenty of entertainment fit for a celebrity.
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Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Wyoming
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is often at the top of the list for epic ski resorts in the US. It has amenities that will suit any ski traveler and some of the best skiing in the country.
If you’re a beginner, Jackson Hole may not be an ideal first choice. However, intermediate and advanced skiers will find over 131 trails with various challenges that will keep even advanced skiers on their toes.
Outside of skiing, the town of Jackson Hole offers plenty to see and do. Shop till you drop for Western apparel or kick back in a sleigh ride through the nearby forest. When the sun goes down, you can relax by the fire to warm up your sore muscles and prepare for another day of excellent skiing.
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Sun Valley Resort, Idaho
Sun Valley Resort is one of the best ski resorts in the West. It has over 2,500 acres of prime skiing with some of the best snow on the planet. You’ll get your pick of over 120 trails for all levels.
For beginners, you’ll have bunny hills with epic views and long runs. For the intermediates and the more advanced, you’ll find endless jumps and chances for photo-ops soaring through the sky. There’s even a helicopter to deliver you to the most advanced and untouched areas of the mountain.
Sun Valley offers visitors more than just world-class skiing. Downtown has luxury shopping, fine dining, and historical sites, including Ernest Hemingway’s Grave.
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Park City Mountain Resort, Utah
Park City Mountain Resort is one of the best ski resorts in Park City. You’ll have over 330 trails to shred and over 7,000 acres of skiable terrain.
The resort’s slopes offer something for every level. Beginners and intermediate skiers will love the mellower slopes that feel like they continue for miles. If you’re advanced, there are plenty of black diamond runs to challenge yourself on.
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After taking on the mountain, head into town for great food, shopping, and activities. Check out the Park City Museum to learn about the town’s history, and then visit the High West Saloon for incredible drinks in a Wild West-inspired tavern.
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Stowe Mountain Resort, Vermont
Stowe Mountain Resort is one of the best ski resorts on the East Coast. The mountain rises above the wonderful Northeast town of Stowe in New England. There are over 480 acres and 116 slopes to take on.
The family-friendly resort offers lovely amenities and puts you right in the center of Stowe Mountain’s runs. There are trails for every level, including some of the most advanced runs east of the Mississippi.
When you’re not skiing, head to the town of Stowe to enjoy quaint mountain vibes, plenty of delicious food, and shopping. Try the famous maple syrup on everything you can and sample the town’s famous craft beers and artisanal ciders from The Alchemist Brewery and Stowe Cider.
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Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico
Taos Ski Valley is ground-zero for the Southwest’s ski scene. You’ll find all the alpine trails you’d expect from a world-class ski resort, just a two-hour drive from Santa Fe and the high desert.
The ski area features over 1,000 acres of prime skiing, with over 100 trails to explore. The mountain gets plenty of deep powdery snow which attracts even the pickiest skiers. No matter if you’re a beginner or advanced, you’ll find plenty of options suited to your level.
The resort has an on-site spa to soothe your sore muscles after a long day skiing. After a relaxing massage, hit up the Taos Ale House for craft beers and delicious food before relaxing by a bonfire.
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Whitefish Mountain Resort, Montana
Montana’s Whitefish Mountain Resort keeps it classy and remote. Once you get there, you’ll get over 3,000 acres of prime terrain and over 100 trails for every level. Advanced skiers will fall in love with the epic powder and challenging runs.
The resort is located in the heart of Flathead National Forest, one of the most remote and beautiful national forests in the country. In the summer, the area is a prime habitat for wildlife such as bears and elk.
Nearby in Whitefish, you can grab delicious local cuisine and craft beer. Check out the Bonsai Brewing Project for delicious food and beers or pull up a seat in one of Whitefish’s local saloons for a truly unique Montana experience.
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Deer Valley Resort, Utah
Deer Valley Resort is another one of Park City’s epic ski resorts. You’ll find over 2,000 acres of slopes that have some of the most challenging and beginner-friendly trails in Utah.
The resort attracts pro skiers and snowboarders to train on its double black runs. For fans of extreme skiing, Deer Valley may be the best place to meet your heroes in the US.
Deer Valley is just a short drive away from Park City where you’ll have everything you need for an epic vacation. Throughout the winter, the town hosts live music and events so you’ll never run out of excitement.
Read also: Snowiest Cities in the US
Whiteface Mountain, New York
Whiteface Mountain is an Olympic training site deep in the mountains of Northern New York. It has over 94 trails and some of the most intense skiing on the East Coast.
You’ll have plenty to do and see in between your ski runs. Stop at the Legacy Lodge in the middle of the mountain for a hot drink or burger. Then, head on the Cloudsplitter Gondola to take in the beautiful area.
In nearby Lake Placid, you can enjoy some of the most beautiful mountain scenery in the country. Grab a craft beer or local wine downtown and don’t miss the Lake Placid Olympic Museum to learn more about the area’s Olympic history.
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Palisades Tahoe, California
Palisades Tahoe is a classic ski resort in North Lake Tahoe, one of the world’s most scenic ski regions. You’ll get incredible powder snow and plenty of sunshine. Plus, the resort features over 3,500 acres, 170 trails and 28 chairlifts.
For advanced skiers, it’s hard to find a better resort. It’s such an amazing ski destination that it hosted the 1960s Winter Olympics. Even beginners will find plenty of slopes to challenge themselves until they’re ready for the more serious slopes.
When you’re not skiing, the resort offers shopping, delicious restaurants, and other activities. For more fun, take a drive to the shore of the largest Alpine lake in North America and see the snowy mountains reflect off the crystal blue water, a sight you can only get in California.
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Killington Mountain, Vermont
Killington Mountain is one of the best ski resorts on the East Coast. There are three luxurious resorts to choose from and all three offer fantastic amenities. You’ll have access to 1,500 acres of prime powder and trails that offer a variety of challenges for every level.
The trails descend from Killington Peak, one of the highest mountains in the state. You’ll have miles of gentle slopes to carve and relax or challenging black diamond runs with jumps, a half pipe, and one of the steepest drops on the East Coast.
At the resort, you’ll have plenty of fantastic restaurants and bars to relax after your session. Nearby, you can enjoy miles of cross-country skiing and snowmobile tracks in case you want to have a more mellow winter vacation.
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