Most skiers will agree that skiing and snow conditions are the most important factors when planning a ski vacation. But the towns or ski villages at the base of the mountains is where you’ll spend your time off the slopes and is also an important consideration when it comes to deciding on a destination. The après-ski ambiance, atmosphere, and client service at the resorts have been taken into consideration when compiling this list of the best US ski resorts.
Vail Ski Resort, CO
Vail Ski Resort is a ski resort in the western United States. It’s located near the town of Vail in Eagle County, Colorado. At 5,289 acres, it is the third-largest single-mountain ski resort in the U.S., behind Big Sky and Park City. It features seven bowls and intermediate terrain in Blue Sky Basin. If you’ve ever seen a picture of Vail, you’ve likely caught a glimpse of the iconic pedestrian village. Many of its buildings were originally built by Vail’s founders in the early 60s. You’ll notice a nod to classic European alpine architecture. Vail Village offers peaceful, postcard worthy small-town ambiance. Even with its world-class restaurants, shopping, cafes and late night hot spots, you’ll feel that you are in a small intimate location straight out of a Hallmark Christmas movie. The heated streets make for an easy walk up Bridge Street to Gondola One.
Foodies rejoice as the food scene here is amazingly diverse. It’s easily one of Vail’s main attractions, with Matsuhisa Vail, Elway’s, Larkspur, Sweet Basil and many more.
Vail Village is also home to some of the most famous boutique and luxury hotels, including The Lodge at Vail (Vail’s original hotel), Hotel Gasthof Gramshammer (better known as Pepi’s), The Sonnenalp, The Sebastian, Four Seasons Resort, Austria Haus and Tivoli Lodge.
Getting here: You can either fly into Eagle County Airport (EGE) which is the closest airport to Vail, or fly into Denver International Airport (DEN) and make the ~2 hour drive.
Snowbird Resort, UT
Snowbird offers world-renowned snow and terrain, making this a must-ski destination for both amateurs and skilled skiers. Many different skiing activities are available here including snow cat skiing, helicopter skiing, and backcountry skiing.
Five individual lodging properties are available to suit your needs based on budget and requirements. Accommodations options include The Cliff Lodge, The Lodge at Snowbird, The Inn, The Iron Blosam, and The Cliff Club. With The Cliff Lodge being the most swanky, it offers travelers a world-class spa and diverse dining options. There is also an outdoor swimming pool and hot tubs. Don’t worry – the outdoor pool is indeed heated!
Getting here: The closest airport is the Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). It’s only about a 40-minute drive.
Park City Mountain Resort, UT
In 2002, Park City became a field of dreams for athletes at the Winter Olympic Games. Park City Mountain hosted four events and six of the ten U.S. Ski and Snowboard Team medals were won on the mountain. Park City Mountain Resort is the only place where you can spend the day exploring the 3,200+ vertical feet of dynamic skiing or cruise the gentle rolling terrain of the High Meadow Park. Come for the modern, crafted-for-you meals completed with s’mores, stay for the outdoor activities!
Park City offers 3 appealing getaways for your enjoyment, rejuvenation, and relaxation: Historic Old Town, Park City Mountain Village and Canyons Village. You can’t go wrong with any of those 3 options! If you’re not a big skier, this resort is perfect for those with different interests. Winter activities include sleigh rides, snowmobile tours, and zip lining. You can also take a historic mountain tour where you’ll learn about the historic mining.
Getting here: Being the largest ski resort in the U.S., Park City Mountain is just a 35-mile scenic drive from the Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC).
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, WY
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is by one of the best US ski resorts for both families and couples. Being just a quick drive away from Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park, this resort has so much to offer and a great overall value. You can follow along with web cams and a photo of the day. There is also a grooming report available where you can check out the latest ski conditions.
There are a multitude of family-friendly activities like dog sledding, snow tubing, ice skating, and riding a mountain coaster.
Getting here: The Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) is the closest airport. That airport is located within the Grand Teton National Park at the base of the spectacular Teton Mountain Range.
Breckenridge Ski Resort, CO
In Breckenridge, charming and historic Main Street runs directly through the center of the Town of Breck. The ski area’s Five Peaks serving as its backdrop. What started as a base camp for miners during the Gold Rush in the 1800s, is now a vibrant mountain town. This town offers a fun, funky and laid-back home-away-from-home for year-round outdoor adventures. Established as one of the largest historic districts in Colorado, Breckenridge features candy-colored Victorian architecture mixed with modern-day amenities. Here you’ll find more than 200 shops and restaurants that provide the perfect opportunity to eat, drink and be merry after a day on the mountain.
In the heart of downtown, Breckenridge has created the Arts District. The Arts District is a one-acre campus of studios, galleries, public art, performance spaces and creative businesses all housed in renovated historic structures. You’ll find art-related classes like beginner oil painting, metalsmithing projects, beginner glassblowing, and ceramic glazing techniques.
Getting here: There are two airports available for access to Breckenridge. Denver International Airport (DEN) is located 95 miles from Breckenridge, and Eagle/Vail Regional Airport is located in Gypsum, about 60 miles west of I-70.
Stowe, VT
Finally, an east-coast option! Welcome to the birthplace of alpine skiing in Vermont. Stowe has long been a premier Vermont skiing & riding destination and is one of the best US ski resorts. While west coasters may turn their nose up to east coast ski resorts, Stowe absolutely deserves to be on this list.
Stowe Mountain Resort is an internationally renowned four-season destination. Surrounded by majestic Mount Mansfield—the highest peak in Vermont—and Spruce Peak, Stowe is filled with activities and adventures for every season and every guest: skiing, snowboarding, Gondola SkyRide, the historic Auto Toll Road, Stowe Rocks climbing wall, shopping, dining and more. Stowe’s historical village combined with Vermont’s most spectacular landscape creates the quintessential New England getaway.
Getting here: The closest airport is Burlington International Airport (BTV), a full-service international airport located in the Burlington, Vermont area.
Snowshoe Mountain Resort, WV
Snowshoe is an unincorporated community in Pocahontas County, West Virginia, United States, centering on the Snowshoe Mountain ski resort. It is home to 257 acres of skiable terrain, 1500 vertical feet, 60 trails and the best snow around. With 3 unique ski areas of 60+ trails, 40 bike trails, and activities like snowmobiling, tubing, biking, swimming and much more, it’s a win-win-win no matter what season you visit.
Getting here: Most of the visitors here already live in the Mid-Atlantic region like DC/Maryland/Virginia. So it’s quicker to just drive for those travelers. But for those not in that region, the closest airport is The Greenbrier Valley Airport (LWB).
Aspen/Snowmass, CO
Four mountains, two towns, and one unforgettable experience at the confluence of nature, culture, and recreation. Discover Aspen Snowmass, the “IT” ski resort destination frequented by celebrities and those looking to be scene. Experience 5,500 + acres of world-renowned terrain, learn from the industry’s best professionals and enjoy elevated fare at any elevation.
Here, you’ll find ski-in/ski-out lodging options. Lodging options include the Inn at Aspen, Residences at The Little Nell, and The Ritz-Carlton Club, Aspen Highlands. Be on the lookout for celebs like Mariah Carey and Kate Hudson who frequent Aspen.
Getting here: Most of my clients choose to fly into the Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) directly. United, American, and Delta Airlines all serve the ASE Airport, making it very accessible when departing from a U.S. city. Denver (4-hour drive) would be the other option.
Telluride Ski Resort, CO
Telluride is the perfect escape for those looking for an epic winter escape. The Telluride Ski Resort is recognized internationally as a premier ski and snowboard destination. The region receives on average more than 300 inches of snow annually. It also offers more than 2,000 skiable acres for all skill levels. The Telluride Ski & Snowboard School is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable learning experience. Check out their first time skiers & snowboarders guide!
Telluride isn’t for those looking for a high-end experience that you’d find in Aspen, CO. Instead, you’ll find down-to-earth dining. Enjoy sweeping views at Alpino Vino, the second-highest elevation restaurant in North America (only open in winter). Or grab a slice at Brown Dog Pizza, serving up Detroit-style pizza to hungry skiers. The lodging options here are also no-fuss as you can choose from hotels, condos, and vacation homes. Comfortable and cozy accommodations include Bear Creek Lodge and Alpine Lodging Telluride.
Getting here: There are two main airports that travelers can fly into. You can either fly into the Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ) or the Telluride Regional Airport (TEX). There are quite a few different airline options such as Delta, Southwest, United, American, and Denver Air.
Big Sky Resort, MT
With over 30 nonstop flights, Big Sky is considered the best mountain destination in the country. It is one of the best US ski resorts. Big Sky is a special place that takes skiing seriously. Surrounded by the beauty of the Greater Yellowstone Region, snow consistently falls on 5,850 acres of skiable terrain. Ranging from cruisy groomers to bucket list descents.
After a day of skiing or other winter activities, enjoy a fancy après-ski cocktail. Après-ski means “after skiing” in French. Here are the best spots in town for toasting to your day:
Getting here: The Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) is less than 45 minutes from Big Sky and depending on the time of year there are a number of nationwide direct flights.
Palisades Tahoe Ski Resort, CA
California has so much to offer besides the sunny weather and palm lined streets that you think of. Palisades Tahoe is a ski resort located in Olympic Valley, California, northwest of Tahoe City in the Sierra Nevada range. From its founding in 1949, the resort was known as “Squaw Valley.” However, it changed its name in 2021 due to the derogatory connotations of the word “squaw”.
With 34 lifts and 6,000 skiable acres across our two mountains, there are endless adventures to be had.
For the quintessential experience, stay in the heart of The Village at Palisades Tahoe. With the hiking, shopping, dining, and activities right at your doorstep. Join one of the Lake Tahoe area lessons, starting from either The Village at Palisades Tahoe or the Alpine Lodge. The various programs will help you boost your confidence, refine your skills, and have fun on the mountain. The Palisades Tahoe Ski & Snowboard School offers lesson programs for any skill level. Including advanced-level mountain guide programs, for those who want to enjoy the best of Lake Tahoe’s skiing and snowboarding.
Getting here: The Reno Tahoe International Airport (RNO) is the closest airport.
Taos Ski Valley, NM
You were probably thinking New Mexico wasn’t going to be on this list but here we are! Welcome to Taos Ski Valley, an independent ski resort located in the Sangre De Cristo range of the Rocky Mountains. You found us! Here, you can enjoy true bluebird days, hidden powder stashes all winter, and amazing terrain!
Head into town where there are many delicious dining options available. Ask a local on the lift which is their favorite spot to get your stomach growling in anticipation. New Mexican cuisine is one-of-a-kind. You shouldn’t miss out on being asked “Red or Green?” That’s how you know you’re officially in New Mexico. In Taos, you can go hiking, snowshoeing, climbing, ice skating, and more. Savor it all and enjoy every minute!
Getting here: Commercial airlines don’t land in Taos, so the nearest airport would be Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF).
Steamboat Resort, CO
Explore Steamboat Ski Resort, Colorado’s premier family-friendly ski resort and vacation destination. From night skiing to ice skating to mountain tours, there’s a reason Steamboat’s nickname is “Ski Town USA.”
Steamboat’s rich history as a ranching town permeates as you feel the warmth of a genuine western welcome from a community happy to share their love of Steamboat. Ease into bluebird days and glistening snowcapped peaks that will pique your sense of adventure and curiosity. Or spend your days exploring the mountain range atop a trusty quarter horse or a speeding snowmobile. Stroll down Main Street and refuel with a hearty meal at one of our various restaurants. Or maybe relax in the healing waters of the mineral hot springs. Then snuggle down in the warmth of your lodge as Champagne Powder® snow primes the peaks for another unforgettable day in Steamboat!
Getting here: The closest airport to Steamboat is the Yampa Valley Regional Airport (HDN).
Planning your next big ski resort trip? Send me an email for a free quote at cassandra@accent-on-travel.net. Or fill out my contact form so I can get in touch with you. I’d love to help you package up your accommodations and flights with a minimal deposit as low as $265 per person.
