Best Ski Resorts In The US (2025)
- Benjamin Locke
- 3 hours ago
- 7 min read
When it comes to the best ski resorts in the US, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, because the country is massive, and every region has its own vibe. From the towering Rockies in Colorado and Utah to the charming peaks of the East Coast, there’s a resort for every type of skier or snowboarder. Some are epic for their terrain and vertical drops, others are perfect for a long weekend of powder and cozy après. Many of these resorts are available on the Epic and Ikon Pass, so snap yours up today!
In this guide, we will look at the top resorts in the US and the overall region; let's break it down below.
Top 15 Ski Resorts in the USA
Below are our top 15 ski resorts based on a variety of factors that we feel make them the top in the United States of America. Below, we will divide them into groups and explain a bit about why these ski resorts are so awesome.
Aspen Snowmass, Colorado
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Park City Mountain, Utah
Mammoth Mountain, California
Breckenridge, Colorado
Telluride, Colorado
Big Sky, Montana
Deer Valley, Utah
Alta, Utah
Vail, Colorado
Snowbird, Utah
Sun Valley, Idaho
Killington, Vermont
Stowe, Vermont
Heavenly, California/Nevada
The Best Ski Resorts in the Western USA
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Jackson Hole is the gold standard for Western skiing, as well as being one of the wealthiest enclaves in the world. Its expert terrain, deep snow, and dramatic scenery make it a favorite for advanced skiers looking for a challenge. The town pairs Old West grit with modern comforts.
Legendary Corbet’s Couloir
4,139 ft vertical drop
Ikon + Mountain Collective access
Mammoth Mountain, California
Mammoth is known for its reliable snow and famously long season. Positioned high in California’s Eastern Sierra, it offers sunshine, big snow totals, and skiing often into July. Its the gold standard for California skiing.
Over 3,500 acres of terrain
Season runs into summer
Ikon Pass access
Big Sky, Montana
Big Sky delivers wide-open bowls, short lift lines, and one of the country’s most iconic lifts in the Lone Peak Tram. Skiers who want space and powder love its uncrowded feel and epic blue skies.
5,800+ acres of terrain
Lone Peak expert runs
Ikon Pass access
Telluride, Colorado
Telluride combines historic mountain-town charm with serious skiing. Its remote location keeps crowds down, and its dramatic scenery adds to the appeal. It has some of the most unique terrain for its position on the Western Slope of Colorado.
2,000+ acres of ski terrain
Remote setting means fewer skiers
Ikon + Epic (limited)
Alta/Snowbird, Utah
Alta and Snowbird sit side by side in Little Cottonwood Canyon, with deep snow and steep terrain. Alta stays skier-only, while Snowbird adds its iconic tram.
500+ inches of snow per year
4,700+ acres combined
Ikon Pass access
Best Ski Resorts on the East Coast USA
Killington, Vermont
Killington is the largest ski resort in the East and has one of the longest seasons in the country. Known as the “Beast of the East,” it blends big terrain with a strong après scene.
1,509 acres of ski terrain
Ikon Pass access
Early openings and late closings
Stowe, Vermont Stowe offers New England charm alongside skiing on Vermont’s highest peak. The resort balances traditional trails with modern lifts and amenities.
485 acres of ski terrain
Epic Pass access
Historic ski culture
Sugarloaf, Maine
Sugarloaf is Maine’s crown jewel with the only lift-served above-treeline skiing in the East. Its community vibe and variety of terrain keep families and experts happy.
1,360 acres of terrain
Big-mountain feel in the East
Long, dependable season
Whiteface, New York
Whiteface is famous for its Olympic heritage and steep vertical drop. Skiers flock here for its challenge and beautiful Adirondack views.
3,430 ft vertical drop
Expert-friendly terrain
Close to Lake Placid
Sunday River, Maine
Sunday River stretches across eight interconnected peaks, making it one of the most versatile resorts in the East. Dependable snowmaking ensures strong conditions.
870 acres of ski terrain
Eight unique mountain areas
Family-friendly ski school
Best Ski Resorts in the US for Families
Steamboat, Colorado
Steamboat is one of the best family resorts in the country, thanks to its award-winning kids’ programs. Parents love the easy layout, while kids enjoy learning in a safe, welcoming environment.
Top-rated ski school
Family-focused lodging
Kid-friendly après activities
Beaver Creek, Colorado
Beaver Creek was built with families in mind. From daily free cookies to easy-access ski-in lodging, the resort makes family ski trips simple and stress-free.
Beginner-friendly groomers
Ski-in, ski-out convenience
Family perks like cookie time
Park City, Utah
Park City makes family travel easy with close airport access and endless terrain for every age. Its ski school is one of the largest in the country, and the town provides plenty of non-ski activities.
Less than 1 hour from SLC Airport
Large kids’ lesson program
A variety of family dining and lodging
Northstar, California
Northstar is a Lake Tahoe favorite for families thanks to its gentle slopes and approachable base area. Off the slopes, the village is packed with kid-friendly activities.
Central family-oriented village
Wide beginner terrain
Epic Pass access
Smugglers’ Notch, Vermont
Smugglers’ Notch is consistently rated the most family-focused resort in the East. With ski camps, kids’ clubs, and all-inclusive activities, families have everything they need in one spot.
All-inclusive kids’ programs
Affordable family lodging
Indoor and outdoor activities
Have a large family excursion planned and need some help with booking for groups? We specialize in exactly that.
Best Ski Resorts in the US for Apres Ski and Partying
Aspen Snowmass, Colorado
Aspen is as famous for its nightlife as it is for its skiing, and trust us, there is a reason for that. From high-end clubs to late-night bars, it’s the place for skiers who want luxury days and wild nights.
Four connected mountains
Upscale nightlife scene
Celebrity hotspot
Breckenridge, Colorado
Breckenridge has one of the liveliest ski towns in the US. Its mix of bars, breweries, and live music makes it a top destination for party-loving skiers. Its proximity to Denver means that big music acts will make their way up there for live shows.
Bustling nightlife
Affordable après options
Epic Pass access
Killington, Vermont
Killington has the strongest nightlife on the East Coast, and we mean that in all seriousness. Après here turns into full-blown late-night entertainment across multiple bars and clubs. You might even find some Jersey Shore types wandering around.
Top nightlife in the East
Strong après-ski tradition
A long season keeps the party going
Park City, Utah
Park City’s Main Street offers a ton of different nightlife, from distilleries to music venues. Events like Sundance bring extra energy during the winter.
Historic downtown nightlife
Sundance Film Festival hub
Huge après options
Heavenly, California/Nevada
Heavenly mixes Lake Tahoe views with casinos and clubs at its Nevada base. Skiers can go straight from the slopes to the nightlife scene.
Ski and party in one place
Casino nightlife at the base
Epic Pass access
Best ski resorts in the US for skiing terrain
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Jackson Hole is known for its expert terrain and steep descents. It's a bit of a mecca for backcountry skiers that also like to spend time in a helicopter, venturing off to all sorts of crazy spots. Its position in the Rocky Mountains also gives it Colorado-style powder, and this type of snow quality + this type of insane terrain make it the mecca it is.
Corbett’s Couloir
4,139 ft vertical drop
Ikon + Mountain Collective
Alta, Utah
Alta is powder heaven with its skier-only policy and reliable snowfall. Skiers come for the snow and stay for the no-frills, authentic vibe.
2,600 acres of terrain
500+ inches of snow yearly
Skier-only mountain
Snowbird, Utah
Snowbird delivers consistent snow and has one of the best trams in North America. It’s a must-visit for advanced skiers who want big vertical and serious runs.
3,240 ft vertical drop
Tram-served terrain
Advanced skier focus
Big Sky, Montana
Big Sky provides vast terrain and challenging expert zones. The Lone Peak Tram offers access to some of the most iconic skiing in North America.
5,800+ acres of terrain
Lone Peak descents
Ikon Pass access
Telluride, Colorado
Telluride pairs dramatic steeps with wide-open runs, giving expert skiers plenty to explore. Its uncrowded slopes keep conditions excellent.
2,000 acres of ski terrain
Remote location reduces crowds
Ikon + Epic (limited)
Best ski resorts in the US for beginners
Keystone, Colorado
Keystone makes learning easy with wide, gentle slopes and excellent beginner programs. They are so friendly to beginners, it's possible to higher a motivational coach along with the ski instructor to keep you skiing! Families love its approachable terrain and relaxed vibe. It's also close to Denver and can be done on a day trip pretty easily.
Highly rated ski school
Wide beginner runs
Epic Pass access
Deer Valley, Utah
Deer Valley combines luxury service with impeccable grooming, making it ideal for first-time skiers. The safe, uncrowded feel helps learners progress quickly, and sooner rather than late,r you might find yourself chasing your kids down the slopes!
Groomed, easy slopes
Skier-only resort
Ikon Pass access
Sun Valley, Idaho
Sun Valley offers consistent, forgiving terrain perfect for building confidence. Its ski school has been introducing people to skiing for decades.
Long beginner-friendly runs
Historic ski school
Independent resort
Okemo, Vermont
Okemo is one of the best choices for East Coast beginners. Smooth, wide runs and patient instruction make it a go-to for learners.
632 acres of terrain
Excellent beginner programs
Epic Pass access
We can help plan a trip to any ski resort in the US, and any ski resort abroad for that matter. We specialize in making dreams come true....on the ski slope!
FAQ
What’s the difference between skiing in the West and the East?
Western resorts generally have bigger mountains, more snowfall, and deeper powder. Eastern resorts tend to be smaller but rely on excellent snowmaking and offer easier access for large populations.
Which ski pass is best for US resorts?
Most major resorts are on either the Epic Pass (Vail, Breckenridge, Park City, Heavenly, etc.) or the Ikon Pass (Aspen, Jackson Hole, Big Sky, Mammoth, etc.). The right choice depends on which resorts you want to visit.
When is the best time to ski in the US?
Prime ski season runs from late December through March. Western resorts often have strong spring skiing through April, and some—like Mammoth—stay open well into summer.
Are US ski resorts expensive?
Yes, many large resorts are pricey, especially in Colorado, Utah, and California. That said, smaller mountains in New England or independent resorts like Sun Valley can offer better value while still delivering great experiences.