The 22 Best Ski Resorts in the U.S.

Many Americans would agree that putting on a pair of skis and hitting the slopes is one of the best ways to enjoy winter. And for many adventure travelers, there’s no better place to participate in winter sports than the United States.

From massive vertical drops in Colorado to fresh powder in Oregon and family-friendly getaways in New England, there are ski resorts tailored to every type of traveler. The amenities at a given ski spot can make or break your experience, so it’s important to find a place that suits your needs.

Beginners may want to look for a resort that offers easy to intermediate-level trails (usually labeled green and blue runs) and private lessons. Meanwhile, experts will want to seek out challenging black diamond and double black diamond runs, as well as terrain parks and prime snow conditions. If you’re traveling with children, you’ll probably want to stay somewhere that offers other fun amenities like ice skating rinks, indoor pools or tubing parks to keep everyone entertained even off the slopes during your family vacation.

With so many factors at play, deciding on the perfect ski vacation can take a lot of effort. Luckily, U.S. News did the research for you, so read on to find out which ski resorts are the country’s best, as well as what amenities and activities they offer during the winter season.

With seven different mountain areas including Killington Peak in central Vermont, you could ski for days at this mountain resort and never get bored. The sheer amount of trails means there is something for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. However, the mountain caters more toward intermediate and advanced skiers than it does beginners. Steep runs like Devil’s Fiddle, Outer Limits and Cascade will leave you breathless – not to mention the resort’s terrain park offers plenty of room for freestyling and honing your tricks.

The Killington Grand Resort Hotel is an ideal lodging option because it provides easy ski-in, ski-out access to the mountain via a snow-covered bridge. Previous visitors enjoyed the hotel’s heated pool, hot tubs, eateries, game room and health club. An après-ski visit to the Killington Grand Spa may just be the perfect way to soothe sore muscles.

Bretton Woods – known as New Hampshire’s largest ski area – is chock-full of amenities that will make your ski trip enjoyable. Along with more than 200 inches of average annual snowfall, the resort boasts 10 lifts that service nearly 100 trails and glades. Visitors will find plenty to do off the slopes as well: Those who are looking for a tamer winter activity can try Nordic skiing or snowshoeing. Meanwhile, a tubing area, winter bike rentals and canopy tours offer even more opportunities for family fun.

When it comes time to rest, you have options: The Omni Mount Washington Resort is a luxurious mountain retreat with all the bells and whistles (including a 25,000-square-foot spa), while the historic Omni Bretton Arms Inn at Mount Washington offers a cozier bed-and-breakfast vibe with just 34 rooms and suites. There are also plenty of cottage and house rentals available in the area.

A whopping 1,240 skiable acres and a 2,820-foot vertical drop make Sugarloaf one of New England’s best ski resorts. The 160-plus trails and glades cater to skiers of all levels and range from easy to expert-only runs. Plus, the dozen ski lifts at Sugarloaf mean you’ll spend most of your time enjoying the slopes rather than waiting in line for a ride to the top.

The adventurous activities don’t stop there, though. Visitors to Sugarloaf can try cross-country skiing, attempt to ride a ski bike through the snow, go snowshoeing or spend an afternoon ice skating. There are plenty of restaurants and shops to keep you entertained at the base of the mountain as well. Previous visitors recommend grabbing a bite at 45 North before turning in for the night at the Sugarloaf Mountain Hotel, which offers a large outdoor hot tub, a resort shuttle to the ski area and beautiful mountain views.

Sitting about 60 miles southeast of Pittsburgh, Seven Springs Mountain Resort is a favorite among East Coast skiers. This Pennsylvania resort offers 285 acres of skiable terrain against a 750-foot vertical drop. Out of about 40 slopes, trails and glades on offer, you’ll find a dozen or so options geared toward advanced and expert skiers. The rest are either easy or intermediate trails, making this ski resort a great place for beginners. Those who have never skied before can sign up for a private or group lesson with one of the Seven Springs instructors. However, if you’re seeking a challenge, visit one of the mountain’s several terrain parks, where you’ll find jumps, rails and, most notably, the 22-foot “superpipe.”

For an easy morning commute to the mountain, stay in one of the well-appointed guest rooms at Seven Springs’ on-site hotel, which offers 11 restaurants alongside five bars and lounges. The resort also features indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs, a spa, and an 18-hole golf course. Larger groups can look into booking one of the on-site cottages, townhomes or chalets. A free shuttle service is available to take you from your accommodations to the mountain, where you can enjoy other resort offerings like snow tubing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling tours.

At Whiteface Mountain Resort in the Adirondacks – one of New York’s top ski destinations – you’ll find not only a ski mountain committed to operating on sustainable energy, but also the tallest vertical drop in the eastern U.S. Unique features at this mountain resort include one of the longest intermediate runs in the Northeast, as well as The Slides, which are essentially steep, chute-like drops classed as double black diamond difficulty. For an adrenaline rush that may be a bit less intimidating, skiers can also head over to the terrain parks.

Even if you come to Whiteface Mountain as a hesitant skier, you can leave with more confidence on the trails after signing up for one of the many private or group lessons offered. This Lake Placid mountain resort once hosted alpine events for the 1980 Winter Olympics; after you’re done shredding, make some time to see the Olympic sights in the area. Then, turn in at the Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort for a family-friendly atmosphere as well as amenities like an indoor pool and a seasonal ice rink on Mirror Lake.

Winter in the South is not without ski options, and Wintergreen Resort in Virginia offers some of the region’s best. About 40 miles west of Charlottesville, the resort’s two high-speed lifts grant visitors access to more than 25 slopes and trails ranging in difficulty. There are rolling intermediate slopes where you can soak in the mountain views alongside steep expert trails that give skiers a straight shot to the base of the mountain and a terrain park to practice ski tricks. Visitors also have the option to sign up for group, private or family ski lessons at Wintergreen.

This resort may be smaller than other U.S. ski areas, but there’s still plenty to enjoy at this Virginia destination. When you tire of skiing, you can feel the wind in your hair at the state’s largest tubing park, take a dip in the resort’s indoor pool or treat yourself at the spa. Accommodations at the resort range from typical hotel rooms at the Mountain Inn to condominium or home rental options. No matter which lodging option you select, you’ll enjoy a stay surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Around 20 trails at Timberline Mountain in West Virginia range from beginner-friendly paths to double black diamond runs. The intermediate Twister trail allows skiers to practice their turns, while the easy Upper Salamander run gives novices the chance to venture down from the mountain peak. Those who want to ease into freestyle tricks and stunts should begin on the Snow Squall Terrain Park for small jumps and mini-boxes, then move onto the Thunder Snow Terrain Park for larger features and rails when you’re feeling more confident.

Whether it’s your first time on the slopes or you’re just looking for extra tips to improve your runs, you can sign up to work one-on-one with an expert instructor or opt for a group lesson. The main lodge offers many food and drink options to satisfy your post-skiing appetite, but visitors also enjoy exploring the restaurants at the base of the mountain. Timberline’s on-site hotel offers 20 rooms, or you can browse other motels, cabin rentals and bed-and-breakfast accommodations in the area.

Massanutten Resort is a family-friendly mountainside property that transforms into a winter sports haven during colder months. While summer crowds spend their time at the property’s water park, adventure park or two 18-hole golf courses, winter guests head to Massanutten to take part in activities like snow tubing, ice skating and skiing. The ski resort resides in an area with plenty of natural snow each year, yet Massannutten’s snowmaking capabilities provide an even better experience on a little more than a dozen slopes. While there are a few black diamond trails for advanced skiers, the resort primarily caters to visitors seeking green and blue runs; it also offers ski lessons and snowboard lessons you can book ahead.

The best part about Massanutten Resort is the fact that you can stay on the mountain in a variety of lodging options. Choose from townhouse-style condos with up to three bedrooms or hotel rooms, and enjoy breathtaking views.

The Blue Ridge Mountains make for some of the best skiing in the South, and the Beech Mountain Resort is the perfect place to see why. This North Carolina resort has around 15 trails and terrain parks across 95 skiable acres, offering something for skiers or boarders of all levels. Visitors will find a number of intermediate runs to try, as well as a few green and black diamond trails. The easier freestyle trail near the mountain’s base is popular because of the large area it provides for practicing skills.

When it comes time to eat, the resort’s 5506′ Skybar (a nod to its peak elevation at 5,506 feet) is a hit with visitors: You can enjoy a snack or a drink while soaking in views of the surrounding peaks from the resort’s summit. A neighboring tubing park with chutes up to 700 feet long and an ice skating rink in the resort village make Beech Mountain Resort popular among families whose little ones may quickly tire of skiing. The village also offers a brewery, more dining options and stores. Plus, there are an array of hotels, cabins, bed-and-breakfast accommodations and condos in the surrounding area for visitors to rest after a long day.

With more than 50 trails in addition to four terrain parks and four dedicated mogul runs, Granite Peak in Wisconsin is one of the best ski resorts you’ll find in the Midwest. Its terrain parks offer more than 35 jibs and 15 thrilling jumps for skiers at each skill level to try, and they’re expertly groomed nightly and throughout the day to provide optimal conditions. The resort caters to skiers seeking everything from green to double black diamond trails, and some runs even combine difficulty levels. Visitors of all ages can sign up for private or group lessons at Granite Peak to improve their skills while on vacation.

Although it was opened as a ski area in 1937, this resort is chock-full of modern amenities, including high-speed chairlifts that can fit up to six people. After a day on the slopes, the nearby town of Wausau will welcome you with cozy restaurants and charming shops. If you’re on a snowy couples retreat, opt to stay at the romantic Jefferson Street Inn downtown since it provides easy access to the ski resort about 5 miles away.

Northern Michigan is home to this family-friendly ski resort – one of the best in the state – which features 60 trails serviced by 12 chairlifts and 415 skiable acres of land. Almost half of the trails are intermediate-level runs, while the remainder are divided pretty evenly between beginner and expert slopes. This resort features both artificial and natural terrain parks as well; visitors can choose between several parks with everything from gentle banked turns to plenty of jumps and rails.

While the slopes are full of fun and surprises, you’ll be happy to learn downhill skiing isn’t the only thing to do at Boyne Mountain in winter. Ice skating, cross-country skiing, snow biking, horseback riding, tubing, zip lining and snowshoeing are sure to keep you busy throughout your stay. Not to mention, you can fill a whole day discovering the cafes, shops and restaurants of The Village area located at the base of the mountain. The Clock Tower Lodge is an ideal place to stay as it offers ski-in, ski-out access to the mountain, as well as an outdoor heated pool and a hot tub, a fitness center, and on-site dining. Other accommodation options include the Creekside condominiums, a variety of cabin rentals and more.

Michigan’s Crystal Mountain sits about 35 miles southwest of Traverse City and makes for the perfect Midwestern weekend getaway. Eight lift options bring skiers to nearly 60 designated trails, half of which are lit for night skiing. Just about half of the trails are suitable for intermediate skiers, while 22% cater to beginners and 30% are geared toward advanced skiers. Three terrain park areas offer access to ramps, rails, jumps and more. There are also cross-country skiing options and fat tire snow biking for those who would rather stay on flat ground.

At the base of the mountain, visitors will find a skating rink, an outdoor hot tub, shops, archery and other activities, restaurants, and plenty of lodging options. Stay at the Bungalows at Crystal Den if you’re traveling with a large group, the Inn at the Mountain if you need to mix work with play, or the Hamlet for traditional guest rooms.

If you’ve made it to Breckenridge, you’re already in one of the country’s best skiing destinations, and the amenities at Breckenridge Ski Resort will help you make the most of this wintertime paradise. This mammoth mountain resort (about 80 miles southwest of Denver) is a maze just waiting to be explored: Its summit towers at just about 13,000 feet, and the mountain offers more than 185 trails serviced by a few dozen ski lifts. You can practice your tricks at one of the resort’s terrain parks or attempt the high alpine terrain trails unique to this region.

After working up an appetite on the slopes, it’s time to hit the town. The historic downtown area of Breckenridge is home to boutiques, cafes, galleries and breweries galore, turning your ski trip into a full cultural experience. Exhausted skiers can hit the hay at one of the resort’s signature lodging properties, which include Crystal Peak Lodge and One Ski Hill Place, among others. A stay at a signature property comes with ski valet options, in-house lift tickets and an ideal location with easy access to the mountain.

While Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is worth a visit any time of year, the property’s ski season is superb. Lift tickets can be purchased ahead of time, and there are winter sports galore on offer in addition to skiing. For example, you can head to Jackson Hole to go snowmobiling, ice skating, snowshoeing and even heli-skiing. Travelers can even book a winter sleigh ride or go dog-sledding.

The resort itself is perfect for a romantic adults-only trip or vacations with the entire family in tow. After all, it’s possible to book hotel-style accommodations, as well as condos and mountain villas with up to five bedrooms. The Hotel Terra Jackson Hole and Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole are two popular options. Visitors will also find a variety of dining options throughout Jackson Hole, which makes this destination ideal for foodies.

This upscale Colorado ski resort famous for its award-winning slopes and glamorous patrons is not to be missed. Aspen Snowmass, located about 200 miles southwest of Denver, is a must-visit for any skiers looking for killer runs and a vibrant après-ski scene. The resort boasts more than 5,500 acres of terrain across four different mountains. You’ll find a variety of beginner-friendly trails at Buttermilk, but the other three mountains consist primarily of intermediate and expert terrain. At Aspen Mountain and Snowmass, approximately 30% of the runs are double black diamonds, while Aspen Highlands provides the ultimate test for the most daring skiers with 65% expert terrain.

No matter which mountain you work up an appetite on, you can stop mid-run to enjoy hearty food alongside mountain views at slopeside restaurants. Find more dining and activity options at the mountain bases: Snowmass Village offers ice skating and indoor rock climbing, while the mountain town of Aspen boasts shopping, snowmobiling, museums and more. When it’s time to unwind, rest your sore muscles in the chic accommodations at The Little Nell or enjoy the European flair at the ski-in, ski-out lodge Chamonix.

As the largest ski resort in the U.S. at 7,300-plus skiable acres, this Utah complex offers a summit elevation of about 10,000 feet, more than 40 lifts and plenty of amenities. With more than 330 trails at Park City Mountain Resort, you’re sure to find terrain suitable for your skiing (or snowboarding) style. If you’re a first-time skier or just want a quick refresher before embarking on your downhill excursion, there are private and group lessons available for children, teens and adults. The mountain’s many terrain parks – which welcome skiers and boarders of all levels to try out the jumps, half-pipes and more – are also a major draw for visitors. If you’re not in the mood to hit the slopes, the Flying Eagle Zipline and the Alpine Coaster will give you an exciting adrenaline rush.

Since the resort is located in Park City, there are numerous bars, breweries and restaurants within reach. Park City Mountain Resort is situated about 35 miles east of Salt Lake City International Airport, making it an easier commute from airport to mountain compared to other popular resorts out west. An array of ski-in, ski-out accommodation options also makes this mountain resort one of the country’s best; some traveler favorites include the Grand Summit Hotel and Hyatt Centric Park City. There are also many stellar rental properties in the area.

A massive mountain complex featuring 5,850 skiable acres, diverse trails and many different lodging options, Big Sky Resort in southern Montana promises a memorable trip for every type of traveler. If you want all the perks of a slopeside hotel, book a room at the Huntley Lodge, where you’ll enjoy direct access to the Explorer lift and ski storage as well as a pool, hot tubs and on-site dining. Attached to the Huntley Lodge is the Shoshone Condominium Hotel – ideal for large groups seeking the conveniences of home, such as full kitchens and separate bedrooms, throughout your ski trip. For a more luxurious stay, the Summit Hotel at Big Sky is the place to be: It offers studio- and condo-style accommodations near downtown Mountain Village’s shops and restaurants.

No matter where you choose to hang your hat, you’ll have easy access to 300 named runs, a few dozen lifts and five terrain parks. With runs that will test your limits at Big Sky Resort, you can take your time traversing the face of this mountain. Advanced, expert and extreme trails make up just over half of the mountain’s offerings, leaving another 48% for beginner and intermediate options. Zip lining adventures, dog-sledding excursions, sleigh rides and snowmobile tours mean a visit to Big Sky Resort is about much more than just skiing.

Address: 50 Big Sky Resort Road, Big Sky, MT 59716

With this area in central Idaho known as the site of the world’s first chairlift, Sun Valley Resort strives to provide top-notch skiing conditions for all. Two mountains, Bald and Dollar, give this resort ample ground and diverse terrain. Bald Mountain draws intermediate and advanced skiers to venture along the 65 runs serviced by a dozen lifts; it also has a number of beginner trails. With four lifts, Dollar Mountain is the ideal place for novices and students, given its treeless trails and terrain park.

The resort’s lodges make it convenient to stop for a midday bite to eat or a moment to rest in a cozy atmosphere. Not to mention, the downtown area of Sun Valley at the base of the mountains provides ample accommodation options whether you’re looking for a classic hotel or a rental home. Stay at Sun Valley Lodge for a spa and glass-enclosed pool, or Sun Valley Inn for a cozier experience reminiscent of a European ski lodge. Wherever you bed down, you’ll have access to all the exciting activities in Sun Valley, including sleigh rides, ice skating and ice shows.

This family-friendly ski resort sits about 50 miles east of Seattle, providing the perfect winter getaway from the city. The Summit at Snoqualmie’s 25 lifts service nearly 2,000 acres of skiable land with a 2,280-foot vertical drop. The mountain caters mainly to intermediate and advanced skiers; however, it does have its fair share of beginner and expert terrain as well. Two terrain parks, two dozen Nordic skiing trails and 20 lanes for snow tubing round out the amenities at this Washington mountain.

While daytime skiing is fun, The Summit at Snoqualmie is best known for its night skiing options. Sneak out after dark to venture around the 600 acres of well-lit night skiing terrain, which includes beginner-friendly trails as well as more advanced options. Visitors can buy souvenirs or other necessary ski items from the many shops at the base of the mountain and enjoy a variety of dining options. The resort doesn’t have designated ski-in, ski-out lodging, but there are plenty of accommodation options for travelers in the surrounding towns. Budget-conscious skiers can opt for the Best Western Snowcap Lodge while families can enjoy the activities at The Lodge at Suncadia Resort and those looking for a bit of luxury might consider a stay at the Salish Lodge & Spa.

Located just outside Mount Rainier National Park – and not to be confused with Crystal Mountain in Michigan – this resort is another of Washington state’s top ski offerings. About a dozen lifts at Crystal Mountain Resort grant visitors access to around 60 designated trails, more than half of which are at the intermediate level. The rest are split between beginner and expert slopes, all of which see a few hundred inches of snowfall on average annually.

The Summit House restaurant serves gourmet dishes to hungry skiers at nearly 7,000 feet above sea level. Wintertime guests can also enjoy mid-mountain eats at Campbell Basin Lodge or a variety of other dining options at the base. Three cozy accommodation choices await tired adventurers at the base: Alta Crystal Resort, Silver Skis Chalet and Crystal Chalets. These local lodging options differ in style, but all offer convenient amenities and close proximity to ski lifts. You’ll find the Crystal Mountain Resort about 80 miles southeast of Seattle.

This volcano-turned-ski destination offers unique terrain and is surrounded by the lively city of Bend. The city is known for its plethora of breweries as well as shopping and dining options, and visitors are sure to find fun in this area even when they’re not skiing – but hitting the slopes is one of the main attractions for good reason.

Mount Bachelor offers about 100 runs across more than 4,300 skiable acres. With a 3,365-foot vertical drop and trails that stretch on for up to 4 miles, this resort will thrill skiers of all skillsets. Twelve ski lifts – most of which are high-speed – mean you shouldn’t have to wait long to get back on the slopes. When it’s time to bed down, visitors can choose to stay at the boutique Tetherow resort, the family-friendly Sunriver Resort or one of the many other hotels in the area. What’s more, the ski resort offers seasonal shuttle service from downtown Bend to the mountain.

Colorado’s Vail Mountain Resort should also make it on your list of ski resorts to visit during winter, especially if you’re an experienced skier. There are 5,300-plus acres of skiable terrain in total here, more than half of which is considered advanced or expert level. The nearly 200 trails to choose from at the resort are serviced by about 30 different ski lifts to get you to your starting point. Riva Ridge, the resort’s longest run, even lasts for 4 winding and exciting miles.

The city of Vail, Colorado, is also known for its many luxury lodging options. The Hythe Vail is a good choice for those seeking elegant hotel-style accommodations, as is The Lodge at Vail. Visitors who want the ultimate luxury experience during their Vail ski vacation can book a stay at The Arrabelle at Vail Square.