In the 2024-25 season, there were roughly 61.5 million skier visits across America. Skiing and snowboarding are popular activities for people of all ages to be active outside in the cold, winter weather. There is a wide variety of places to ski across the country, ranging from small, local hills like Great Bear to difficult “Black Diamond” mountains in Colorado. Here are some of the most popular ski resorts in the U.S.
One of the country’s most beloved ski destinations is Vail, Colorado, which offers two fantastic ski areas: Vail Ski Resort and Beaver Creek Resort. Vail stands out for its charming atmosphere as well as an aesthetic that will make you feel like you are in Europe. Vail is a more expensive option, but the gorgeous landscape and thrilling slopes are sure to make it worth your money.
Also in Colorado, Telluride Ski Resort offers over 2,000 acres of skiable terrain. Telluride is a very remote town, complete with breathtaking views and scenery. A thrilling 4,425 foot drop as well as 148 trails makes up this top-tier ski resort. Not only are the slopes great, but the ski culture in Telluride also provides an immersive experience, topped with gorgeous chalets in Mountain Village.
Next on the list are two resorts in Park City, Utah: Deer Valley Resort and Park City Mountain Resort. Both of these resorts are very family-friendly and have their own unique perks. Deer Valley is a ski-only resort, providing ski-in and ski-out lodging, which makes for an excellent all-around experience. For snowboarders, Park City Mountain Resort is a better option as it offers terrain parks specifically for snowboarders. Since Park City was home to the 2002 Winter Olympics, you can even visit the Utah Olympic Park.
A great option for all skill levels is Big Sky Resort in Big Sky, Montana. As one of the largest ski resorts in the country, there are plenty of different trails, ensuring you will never be bored. The variety of trails range from bunny hills to triple black diamonds, making it perfect for any level of experience. With an annual snowfall of over 400 inches, fantastic ski conditions are practically guaranteed.
Home to the world’s first chair lift, Sun Valley Resort is full of history. Located in central Idaho, Sun Valley is one of America’s oldest designated ski resorts. This resort is perfect for winter sport enthusiasts looking for shorter lines. In comparison to other top ski resorts, Sun Valley draws a smaller crowd, making for lower prices. Despite a smaller crowd, this resort is full of fantastic trails and expansive terrain.
