The United States boast any number of ski areas. It’s also home to lots of great ski towns. But where can you discover the perfect blend of high-quality skiing with charming locales boasting exceptional amenities? Keep reading to learn about eight US ski destinations that stand above the rest.
1. Aspen Snowmass, Aspen, Colorado
This ski resort may be notable for its luxury, but the skiing here ranks among the best in the world. Consisting of four distinct mountains, Aspen Snowmass offers something for skiers of every level. While experts can venture to the vertiginous slopes of Aspen Highlands, beginners will find plenty of options in Buttermilk.
Even non-skiers will find lots to do, as Snowmass Village is home to a variety of activities, among them ice skating and indoor rock climbing. The town of Aspen, meanwhile, is a cultural hub replete with entertainment options.
2. Deer Valley Resort, Park City, Utah
Deer Valley’s reputation for customer service precedes itself. Each year, travelers flock to this Utah destination to find some of the most welcoming staff in the industry. Similarly exceptional is the food. Both Deer Valley and the town of Park City, the latter of which hosts the annual Sundance Film Festival, are home to top-quality food and restaurants.
As for the skiing, it’s also of the highest quality. From groomed trails to tree skiing, the resort offers options for skiers of all levels. Experts in particular should check out Empire Mountain’s Daly Chutes, which along with being challenging tends to draw little in the way of crowds.
3. Steamboat Resort, Steamboat Springs, Colorado
If you prefer a less glitzy resort where the skiing is no less fantastic, look no further than Steamboat Resort. Located in the Western-style ski town of Steamboat Springs, Steamboat Resort attracts skiers with 182 trails that are covered in the resort’s signature ultra-fine powder.
Just because Steamboat Resort is not as luxurious as some of the other resorts doesn’t mean the amenities are lacking, however. After a long day of outstanding tree skiing, you can relax in Steamboat’s mountain village or in Steamboat Springs, where there are numerous dining options. To maximize your entertainment, plan your trip to align with the Winter Carnival, which occurs each January.
4. Sugarloaf Resort, Carrabassett Valley, Maine
Cross-country skiing, cat skiing, alpine skiing—you can do it all here at a resort that sits in an isolated part of Maine. Owing to the unpredictable weather and far-flung location, Sugarloaf tends to draw those who are serious about skiing. And with 176 trails across 1,360 acres, there’s plenty of skiing to be had.
When you need a break from the slopes, Sugarloaf offers a number of other winter activities, which include ice skating on an NHL-sized rink. Given how long it takes to get here from much of New England, it makes sense to stay the night. Fortunately, Sugarloaf Mountain Hotel puts you in the center of the resort’s village, making it easy for guests to access the slopes, as well as the resort’s dining and activities.
5. Sun Valley Resort, Ketchum, Idaho
If you like some art to go with your skiing, Ketchum is your place. The mountain town’s rich culture includes more than a dozen art galleries, as well as several theaters. After you’re done viewing art, pop into any of the town’s many boutique shops, then grab dinner or drinks at one of the array of restaurants and bars.
As for the skiing, Sun Valley Resort consists of two mountains where skiers will find diverse terrain. Bald Mountain offers myriad options for intermediate and advanced skiers, while Dollar Mountain is the perfect place for beginners. If you get hungry, the resort’s lodges are the ideal place to refuel.
6. Taos Ski Valley, Taos, New Mexico
Once the home of Georgia O’Keefe, Ansel Adams, and other writers and artists, Taos boasts a rich cultural scene. Art galleries and museums line the downtown streets, and a nearby UNESCO cultural site gives a glimpse of the was life was like for the area’s original inhabitants.
Of course, the skiing here is also worth the trip. Taos Ski Valley maintains approximately 110 trails, approximately half of which will test the skills of even the most advanced skier. Conditions are optimal here approximately 300 days a year, meaning there are plenty of opportunities to pay a visit to this high desert town.
7. Telluride Ski Resort, Telluride, Colorado
When it comes to beauty, it’s difficult to match Telluride. Situated in the shadow of multiple 14,000-foot peaks, this former mining town has no shortage of breathtaking views. For the best sightseeing, hop on the scenic gondola.
The skiing at Telluride Ski Resort is likewise difficult to match. Its 149 trails offer something for every level of skier. And with 280 inches of average annual snowfall, the slopes are consistently covered with light, but dense powder that’s so perfect for skiing it’ll make you feel as if you’ve instantly leveled up your skills the second you start descending.
8. Whitefish Mountain Resort, Whitefish, Montana
Spanning more than 3,000 acres of terrain, Whitefish Mountain Resort offers a wide array of skiing terrain that’s some of the best in the northern United States. Groomed runs, tree skiing, and everything in between—you can enjoy it all here at a resort that’s slowly gaining acclaim as a destination for serious skiers.
With its northerly location, its undeniably cold here, so be sure to come prepared. Fortunately, a free shuttle bus spares visitors from having to make the 7 mile trek into town on their own.