One of the most appealing aspects of skiing and snowboarding in the United States is the sheer accessibility of quality resorts. Regardless of your location, a top-tier ski destination or impressive hill is likely within reach. The Northeast boasts slopes in the Adirondacks, Appalachians, and even the Presidential Range, while the West showcases world-class skiing in the Rockies, Sierra Nevada, and Cascades. Even the Midwest offers excellent hills for honing your skills.
With over 470 resorts scattered across the country, the challenge lies in choosing the perfect destination. To simplify your decision, we’ve curated a list of our favorite The Top 25 Places for Skiing and Snowboarding in the U.S., highlighting the best spots to carve your way through the snow. After all, winter’s fleeting nature demands that we maximize our time on the slopes.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to some of the most exceptional ski and snowboard destinations the U.S. has to offer:
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Jackson Hole Mountain Resort (Wyoming)
Located in Teton Village, Wyoming, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort stands as a testament to challenging terrain and abundant snowfall. With an average annual snowfall exceeding 450 inches, it’s no surprise that Jackson Hole consistently ranks among the world’s best resorts. This destination is renowned for its steep slopes and technical runs, making it a haven for intermediate and advanced skiers. The resort’s adrenaline-inducing drops and heart-pumping trails provide an unforgettable experience for those seeking a thrilling challenge. The resort features 116 trails, 13 lifts and 2500 acres of terrain.
Address: Teton Village, WY 83025, USA
Phone: +1 307-733-2292 -
Telluride Ski Resort (Colorado)
Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Telluride Ski Resort captivates with its breathtaking scenery and exceptional skiing. The resort’s location guarantees some of the most consistent powder in North America, promising excellent skiing and riding on every visit. While Telluride offers plenty for advanced skiers, beginners will also find ample terrain to enjoy. Getting to Telluride requires some effort, but the reward is an unforgettable experience in one of Colorado’s most beautiful settings. The resort features 148 trails, 17 lifts and over 2000 acres of terrain.
Address: Mountain Village, CO 81435, USA
Phone: +1 800-778-8581 -
Vail Ski Resort (Colorado)
Vail Ski Resort, a name synonymous with world-class skiing, offers a complete experience for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. As one of Colorado’s largest resorts, Vail boasts exceptional snow conditions and a diverse range of terrain. Beyond the slopes, Vail’s vibrant nightlife scene provides a thrilling complement to a day of shredding. With excellent restaurants, bars, and clubs, Vail offers endless opportunities to eat, drink, and dance the night away. To truly experience this iconic destination, indulging in some of the town’s famous off-mountain adventures is a must. The resort features 195 trails, 31 lifts and over 5000 acres of terrain.
Address: Vail, CO 81657, USA
Phone: +1 970-754-8245 -
Park City Mountain Resort (Utah)
Park City Mountain Resort in Utah is an ideal destination for skiers seeking a sprawling and diverse terrain. Located a short drive from Salt Lake City, Park City offers more than 300 runs spread across a 7,000-acre complex. This vast area ensures that skiers of all abilities, from first-timers to expert downhillers, will find trails to suit their needs. With so much space, the resort rarely feels crowded, providing a welcome contrast to other popular destinations. The resort features 341 trails, 41 lifts and over 7300 acres of terrain.
Address: Park City, UT, USA
Phone: +1 435-649-8111 -
Big Sky Resort (Montana)
Big Sky Resort in Montana lives up to its name as the state’s premier ski destination. Covering over 5,800 skiable acres with a vertical drop of more than 4,350 feet, Big Sky is perfect for those who love high-speed thrills. Despite its size and stature, the resort maintains relatively small crowds, allowing skiers to find solitude on the trails even on busy days. This unique atmosphere keeps fans returning year after year. The resort features 300 trails, 36 lifts and over 5800 acres of terrain.
Address: 50 Big Sky Resort Rd, Big Sky, MT 59716, USA
Phone: +1 800-548-4486 -
Taos Ski Valley (New Mexico)
Taos Ski Valley in New Mexico offers an intriguing blend of traditional skiing and modern amenities. Receiving over 300 inches of fresh powder annually, the resort features unique bowls, chutes, and trails that provide a backcountry feel within the resort boundaries. Despite its rugged nature, Taos Ski Valley is surprisingly accessible, with more than half of its runs designed for beginners and intermediate skiers. The resort features 110 trails, 14 lifts and over 1200 acres of terrain.
Address: Taos Ski Valley, NM 87525, USA -
Heavenly Mountain Resort (California)
Heavenly Mountain Resort, located in the Lake Tahoe region of California, is widely regarded as one of the area’s best ski destinations. Its 4,800 acres of skiable terrain include over 90 runs, with one stretching an incredible 5.5 miles. Heavenly also boasts over 300 bluebird days each year, despite receiving more than 360 inches of snow. This combination of sunshine and snow creates an excellent winter experience for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. The resort features 97 trails, 29 lifts and over 4800 acres of terrain.
Address: United States
Phone: +1 775-586-7000 -
Breckenridge Ski Resort (Colorado)
Breckenridge Ski Resort truly offers something for everyone. With some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the world, as well as a wide range of accommodations, restaurants, and nightlife options, Breckenridge consistently earns a spot on skiers’ lists of favorite destinations. The resort features over 3,000 skiable acres, more than 180 trails, and world-class terrain parks. Its proximity to Denver makes it easily accessible for weekend getaways. The resort features 187 trails, 35 lifts and over 2900 acres of terrain.
Address: Breckenridge, CO 80424, USA
Phone: +1 970-453-5000 -
Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort (Colorado)
Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort, comprised of four separate ski hills connected by a convenient shuttle system, provides an unparalleled variety of terrain. A long weekend on the slopes here allows visitors to ski different runs each day. The amazing scenery, freshly groomed trails, and fast powder make Aspen a favorite for intermediate and advanced skiers. Beginners will also enjoy the atmosphere, although they may find fewer trails suitable for their skill level. Aspen offers a decidedly upscale experience, so be sure to budget accordingly. The resort features 336 trails, 42 lifts and over 5500 acres of terrain.
Address: Snowmass Village, CO, USA
Phone: +1 970-923-1227 -
Snowbird (Utah)
Snowbird Ski Resort in Utah is revered for its rugged and challenging terrain. Testing their skills on its formidable slopes has become a rite of passage for many skiers. While the amenities may not be as luxurious as those found in other resorts, Snowbird’s 190-plus runs offer some of the most consistently demanding skiing in North America. This makes it a paradise for hardcore winter athletes seeking pristine powder and outstanding scenery. The resort features 169 trails, 11 lifts and over 2500 acres of terrain.
Address: 9385 Snowbird Ctr Dr, Snowbird, UT 84092, USA
Phone: +1 801-933-2222 -
Stowe Mountain Resort (Vermont)
Stowe Mountain Resort proves that great skiing can be found outside the American West. With 26 feet of snowfall each year and nearly 120 trails, Stowe has everything an avid skier or snowboarder could ask for. The resort’s 12 lifts and two gondolas ensure minimal wait times, even on busy days. The local mountain village offers a charming European atmosphere to relax in after a long day on the slopes. The resort features 116 trails, 13 lifts and over 480 acres of terrain.
Address: 5781 Mountain Rd, Stowe, VT 05672, USA
Phone: +1 802-253-3000 -
Killington Ski Resort (Vermont)
Killington Ski Resort, affectionately known as the "beast of the East," is another fantastic ski resort in Vermont. Its main hill features a 3,000-plus foot drop from the summit to the lodge, which is impressive even by Colorado standards. Killington’s 155 trails offer a wide variety of conditions, while its six terrain parks and full-sized halfpipe are among the best in the country. The resort features 155 trails, 22 lifts and over 1500 acres of terrain.
Address: Killington, VT 05751, USA
Phone: +1 800-621-6867 -
Sugarloaf (Maine)
Sugarloaf is Maine’s premier skiing and snowboarding location, second only to Killington in terms of size and scope in the Northeast. Receiving a healthy 200 inches of snow annually, the resort features more than 160 runs and 14 lifts. However, its true allure lies in the opportunity for experienced skiers to explore the backcountry. Adventurous travelers seeking to escape the crowds will find plenty of untouched powder off-piste. The resort features 162 trails, 13 lifts and over 1200 acres of terrain.
Address: 5092 Access Rd, Carrabassett Valley, ME 04947, USA
Phone: +1 207-237-4220 -
Alta Ski Area (Utah)
Alta Ski Area in Utah is an example of old-school skiing at its finest. The skiing here is challenging and rewarding, making it a better location for advanced and expert skiers than newcomers. Alta’s surrounding landscapes are stunning, the lodge and lifts are top-notch, and the powder is smooth and plentiful. Its close proximity to Snowbird allows skiers to easily ski between the two resorts. The only downside is that Alta still doesn’t allow snowboarders on its slopes. The resort features 119 trails, 6 lifts and over 2600 acres of terrain.
Address: Alta, UT 84092, USA
Phone: +1 801-359-1078 -
Palisades Tahoe (California)
Lake Tahoe offers a wealth of ski resorts, and Palisades Tahoe is another prime example. The resort combines two resorts to offer more than 240 runs and 6,000 acres of skiable terrain. Five terrain parks, 450 inches of snowfall annually, and numerous backcountry options complete this epic ski and snowboard destination. The accessible terrain for beginners makes it welcoming to newcomers to snow sports. The resort features 270+ trails, 44 lifts and over 6000 acres of terrain.
Address: 1960 Olympic Vly Rd, Olympic Valley, CA 96146, USA
Phone: +1 800-403-0206 -
Whiteface Mountain (New York)
While Whiteface Mountain may be smaller than other top ski resorts, its surprising variety makes it a worthwhile destination. Located in Lake Placid, New York, home of the 1980 Winter Olympic Games, Whiteface Mountain offers plenty of fresh powder. Visitors will find over 90 trails, with many geared toward beginners and intermediate skiers. A full-featured terrain park is popular with snowboarders. The mountain views are on par with scenic places out West, making Whiteface a great wilderness escape easily accessible from major metropolitan areas. The resort features 90 trails, 12 lifts and over 290 acres of terrain.
Address: 5021 NY-86, Wilmington, NY 12997, USA
Phone: +1 518-946-2223 -
Boyne Mountain Resort (Michigan)
Boyne Mountain Resort is a great ski destination for Midwesterners. Spread across 415 acres with more than 60 runs and seven terrain parks, Boyne is especially beginner- and family-friendly. Some areas don’t even require a lift ticket. Lodging is available for various budgets, and other winter activities, such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and fat biking, are available. The resort’s Snowsports Academy is a great place for newcomers to expand their skillset. The resort features 60 trails, 12 lifts and over 415 acres of terrain.
Address: 1 Boyne Mountain Rd, Boyne Falls, MI 49713, USA
Phone: +1 855-688-7024 -
Sun Valley Resort (Idaho)
Sun Valley Resort, home to the world’s first ski lift, is Idaho’s premier mountain resort. Known for its breathtaking views, deep powder, affordable pricing, and over 120 trails, this hill has been popular for decades. The runs are lengthy, wide, and fun, allowing skiers and snowboarders to spread out and truly enjoy the experience. The snow is accommodating, providing speed and agility without sacrificing stability. Sun Valley is also a fantastic destination for cross-country skiing. The resort features 121 trails, 18 lifts and over 2400 acres of terrain.
Address: 1 Sun Vly Rd E, Sun Valley, ID 83353, USA
Phone: +1 800-786-8259 -
Bretton Woods Ski Resort (New Hampshire)
Bretton Woods Ski Resort in the Northeastern U.S. rivals Western resorts in terms of amenities and upscale features, with a variety of excellent restaurants, lodges, and accommodations. With the ability to cover 97 percent of its 468 acres in snow, it has some of the most dependable ski conditions in the country. The resort’s 63 named runs offer unique experiences for both adrenaline junkies and relaxed winter athletes. Bretton Woods frequently offers night skiing on weekends, which is not common elsewhere. The resort features 63 trails, 10 lifts and over 464 acres of terrain.
Address: 99 Ski Area Rd, Bretton Woods, NH 03575, USA
Phone: +1 603-278-3320 -
Mammoth Mountain (California)
Mammoth Mountain is known for frequent snowfalls that bring a regular dousing of fresh powder. The resort sees more than 200 inches of snow each year, leading to a long ski season, often opening in late October or early November and continuing into May or June. With 3,500 skiable acres and 11 terrain parks, Mammoth offers something new to discover on every visit. The incredible sights of the Sierra Mountains are especially impressive when dropping into a long ski run from the 11,000-plus foot summit. The resort features 175+ trails, 25 lifts and over 3500 acres of terrain.
Address: 10001 Minaret Rd, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546, USA
Phone: +1 800-626-6684 -
Jay Peak (Vermont)
Jay Peak in Vermont is known for its long season and dependable snow coverage. Located near the U.S.-Canada border, Jay Peak requires some extra effort to reach, but visitors are rewarded with trails offering a backcountry-like experience not found elsewhere in the Eastern part of the country. The resort’s nine lifts and trams are fast, efficient, and easy to access. Jay Peak receives over 380 inches of snow each year, meaning it has some of the deepest powder in the region. The resort features 81 trails, 9 lifts and over 385 acres of terrain.
Address: 830 Jay Peak Rd, Jay, VT 05859, USA
Phone: +1 802-988-2611 -
Steamboat (Colorado)
Compared to Colorado’s other well-known ski destinations, Steamboat can feel more isolated and challenging to reach. This has helped to keep it somewhat off the map, but those in the know count it as one of the best winter destinations in the entire U.S. Crowds are seldom a problem, and the resort has some of the most dependable winter conditions in the state, seeing a steady 150-plus inches year in and year out. Other nice features include excellent trails through the trees, a relatively low elevation, and a charming Western town. The local hot springs are a great place to soak. The resort features 169 trails, 18 lifts and over 2965 acres of terrain.
Address: Steamboat Springs, CO 80487, USA
Phone: +1 800-922-2722 -
Sugarbush Resort (Vermont)
With its rich history, touch of luxury, and outstanding terrain, Sugarbush is one of those resorts that every skier should experience at least once. Sugarbush was the darling of the East Coast jet-setter crowd during the ’60s and remains a leading winter playground. With 111 trails spiderwebbing across its 200-acre landscape, Sugarbush provides thrills for beginners and experts alike. It also offers the only CAT skiing in the Eastern U.S., providing access to a backcountry experience not found elsewhere. The modern lift system ensures minimal wait times. The resort features 111 trails, 16 lifts and over 4000 acres of terrain.
Address: Warren, VT 05674, USA
Phone: +1 802-583-6300 -
Chestnut Mountain Resort (Illinois)
Chestnut Mountain is a popular Midwestern destination found along the Mississippi River bluffs in Illinois. The hills are surprisingly fast and steep, dropping more than 3,500 feet while also offering impressive views of the river below. Exceptionally beginner-friendly, Chestnut Mountain is great for weekend getaways from the hustle and bustle of Chicago. Lodging is easy to find, affordable, and offers quick access to the slopes. The resort features 19 trails, 9 lifts and over 220 acres of terrain.
Address: 8700 W Chestnut Mountain Rd, Galena, IL 61036, USA
Phone: +1 800-397-1320 -
Beaver Creek (Colorado)
If you’re looking for a pampered, luxury experience on and off the mountain, Beaver Creek is an excellent choice. The resort is well known for catering to the upscale crowd, although its exceptional trail conditions make it a popular destination for any skier. Crowds are usually quite thin on Beaver Creek’s 150 trails, most of which are accessible by the resort’s 23 lifts. The exquisitely groomed routes provide speed and thrills with a minimum of effort. Snow comes in a capacity of 325 inches each year, which means there is almost always fresh powder to ride. The resort features 150 trails, 23 lifts and over 1815 acres of terrain.
Address: Beaver Creek, CO 81620, USA
Phone: +1 970-754-4636
This list of The Top 25 Places for Skiing and Snowboarding in the U.S. provides a starting point for planning your next winter adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or a beginner hitting the slopes for the first time, the United States offers a diverse range of ski and snowboard destinations to suit your needs. Choose your adventure, pack your gear, and prepare for an unforgettable experience on the snow!
