Best Ski Trips in the U.S.
For those seeking the best ski trips in the U.S., the country offers an array of world-class destinations that cater to all levels of skiing enthusiasts. From the majestic Rockies to the picturesque Sierra Nevada, these locations boast pristine slopes, breathtaking vistas, and top-tier amenities, making them ideal for unforgettable winter getaways.
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Aspen, Colorado stands out for its luxurious resorts and diverse terrain, suitable for both beginners and expert skiers. Vail, also in Colorado, is renowned for its expansive back bowls and charming European-style village. Jackson Hole in Wyoming presents a thrilling challenge with its steep vertical drops and rugged beauty. Utah's Park City, with its Olympic legacy and extensive lift network, offers a blend of history and modernity. Meanwhile, Lake Tahoe straddling California and Nevada, provides a unique experience with its stunning lake views and vibrant après-ski scene. Each of these destinations not only promises exceptional skiing but also a rich cultural experience, fine dining, and various entertainment options, ensuring a memorable vacation for all.
View AllLake Tahoe - Crystal-clear alpine lake, stunning mountainous scenery, year-round recreation.
View AllJackson Hole - Scenic valley, outdoor paradise, Grand Teton vicinity, Wyoming.
View AllTelluride - Scenic mountain town, skiing haven, historic charm, cultural events.
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View AllAspen - Aspen: Ski resort, luxury, scenic beauty, Colorado Rockies.
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View AllVail - Vail: Premier skiing destination, scenic mountain town.
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View AllPark City - Mountain resort town, skiing, Sundance Film Festival, scenic beauty.
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View AllBreckenridge - Scenic mountain town with skiing, hiking, and historic charm.
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View AllSteamboat Springs - Scenic town, hot springs, skiing, outdoor adventures, Colorado charm.
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View AllSun Valley - Idyllic mountain resort town, premier skiing destination in Idaho.
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View AllStowe, VT - Charming mountain town, skiing, fall foliage, outdoor adventures.
Best Ski Trips in the U.S.
1.
Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe, straddling the border of California and Nevada, is a stunning alpine lake renowned for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque mountain scenery. Nestled in the Sierra Nevada, it is the largest alpine lake in North America and the second deepest in the United States. The area is a year-round destination, offering winter sports like skiing and snowboarding at world-class resorts such as Heavenly and Squaw Valley, and summer activities including boating, hiking, and mountain biking. Emerald Bay, with its iconic Fannette Island, is a must-visit spot for breathtaking views. The lake's surrounding towns, like South Lake Tahoe and Tahoe City, offer vibrant dining, shopping, and entertainment options, making it a versatile getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Hotels
- The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe
- Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino
- Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel
- Edgewood Tahoe Resort
- The Landing Resort & Spa
- Harrah's Lake Tahoe Hotel & Casino
- Harvey's Lake Tahoe Hotel & Casino
- Basecamp Tahoe City
- Marriott's Timber Lodge
- Cedar Glen Lodge
Dining
- Edgewood Restaurant
- Lone Eagle Grille
- Riva Grill
- The Boathouse on the Pier
- Gar Woods Grill & Pier
- Sunnyside Restaurant & Lodge
- Christy Hill
- Jake's On The Lake
2.
Jackson Hole
Jackson Hole, nestled in Wyoming's Teton Range, is a stunning destination celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor adventures. The valley, flanked by the Grand Teton National Park and Bridger-Teton National Forest, offers a pristine wilderness experience. Visitors can explore scenic hiking trails, pristine rivers, and verdant forests. During winter, Jackson Hole transforms into a premier ski destination with world-class slopes at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. The town of Jackson provides a charming, rustic atmosphere with art galleries, boutique shops, and gourmet dining. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot elk, bison, and bald eagles, especially at the National Elk Refuge. Jackson Hole's blend of rugged landscapes, rich wildlife, and vibrant local culture make it a must-visit spot in the American West.
Hotels
- Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole
- Amangani
- Hotel Jackson
- The Wort Hotel
- Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa
- Snow King Resort
- Spring Creek Ranch
- The Rusty Parrot Lodge & Spa
- Anvil Hotel
- Mountain Modern Motel
Dining
- The Blue Lion
- Snake River Grill
- Trio
- An American Bistro
- Gun Barrel Steak & Game House
- The Kitchen
- Cafe Genevieve
- Persephone Bakery
- Bin22
- Local Restaurant & Bar
- Glorietta Trattoria
3.
Telluride
Nestled in a picturesque box canyon in the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado, Telluride is a former Victorian mining town turned premier ski resort and all-season destination. Known for its breathtaking alpine scenery, the town is surrounded by towering peaks and lush forests. It boasts world-class skiing and snowboarding in winter, while summer offers hiking, mountain biking, and vibrant cultural festivals. The historic downtown area features charming, well-preserved 19th-century buildings, eclectic shops, and fine dining. The Telluride Film Festival and Bluegrass Festival draw visitors from around the globe. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and diverse recreational opportunities, Telluride provides an enchanting escape for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers alike.
Hotels
- The Peaks Resort & Spa
- Hotel Telluride
- Lumière with Inspirato
- Madeline Hotel & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection
- Mountain Lodge Telluride
- The New Sheridan Hotel
- Fairmont Heritage Place, Franz Klammer Lodge
Dining
- Allred's Restaurant
- 221 South Oak
- The National
- Alpino Vino
- Smuggler Union Restaurant & Brewery
- La Marmotte
- Siam
- The Butcher & The Baker
- Black Iron Kitchen + Bar
- Rustico Ristorante
4.
Aspen
Aspen, nestled in Colorado's Rocky Mountains, is a premier destination renowned for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational activities. Famous for its world-class ski resorts, Aspen Mountain and Snowmass offer pristine slopes for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. During the warmer months, the area transforms into a haven for hikers and bikers, with trails leading to breathtaking vistas and alpine lakes. The charming town itself boasts upscale shops, gourmet restaurants, and vibrant arts and cultural scenes, including the renowned Aspen Music Festival. Historic sites like the Wheeler Opera House add a touch of old-world charm. Surrounded by the White River National Forest, Aspen provides a perfect blend of adventure and luxury, attracting visitors year-round.
Hotels
- The Little Nell
- Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection
- Limelight Hotel Aspen
- St. Regis Aspen Resort
- W Aspen
- Aspen Meadows Resort
- The Gant
- Aspen Square Condominium Hotel
Dining
- Element 47
- Matsuhisa Aspen
- The White House Tavern
- Ajax Tavern
- Casa Tua
- Clark’s Oyster Bar
- Meat & Cheese Restaurant and Farm Shop
5.
Vail
Vail, nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, is a premier destination renowned for its world-class skiing, stunning alpine scenery, and vibrant village atmosphere. Known primarily for Vail Ski Resort, one of the largest and most popular ski resorts in North America, it offers an extensive network of trails catering to all skill levels. Beyond winter sports, Vail transforms into a summer haven with activities like hiking, mountain biking, and golfing amidst breathtaking landscapes. The charming Vail Village, with its European-inspired architecture, is brimming with upscale shops, gourmet restaurants, and lively entertainment options. Festivals, cultural events, and a welcoming local community enhance Vail's allure, making it a year-round magnet for outdoor enthusiasts and luxury travelers alike.
Hotels
- The Sebastian
- Vail
- Sonnenalp
- Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail
- The Arrabelle at Vail Square
- The Lodge at Vail
- Grand Hyatt Vail
- Tivoli Lodge
Dining
- Sweet Basil
- Mountain Standard
- Matsuhisa Vail
- La Tour Restaurant
- The 10th
- Up the Creek
- Almresi Vail
6.
Park City
Park City, nestled in the scenic mountains of Utah, is a premier year-round destination renowned for its world-class skiing and vibrant culture. During winter, its famed resorts, Park City Mountain and Deer Valley, attract skiers and snowboarders from around the globe. The historic Main Street, lined with charming shops, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants, offers a delightful après-ski experience. In summer, the area transforms into a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, scenic gondola rides, and various festivals, including the renowned Sundance Film Festival. Park City's blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and cultural events makes it an ideal getaway for adventurers and leisure seekers alike.
Hotels
- Stein Eriksen Lodge Deer Valley
- Montage Deer Valley
- Hotel Park City, Autograph Collection
- Waldorf Astoria Park City
- The Chateaux Deer Valley
- The St. Regis Deer Valley
- Hyatt Centric Park City
Dining
- Riverhorse on Main
- Handle
- Grappa
- High West Distillery & Saloon
- The Farm
- Fletcher's
- Chimayo
- Tupelo Park City
- Purple Sage
- Yuki Yama Sushi
7.
Breckenridge
Breckenridge, nestled in Colorado's Rocky Mountains, is a charming town renowned for its world-class ski resort and rich history. Established during the mid-19th century Gold Rush, it retains a quaint, historic downtown area filled with Victorian-era buildings, boutique shops, and delightful eateries. In winter, Breckenridge Ski Resort offers diverse terrain for skiing and snowboarding, attracting enthusiasts from around the globe. Summer transforms the area into a haven for hiking, mountain biking, and fly fishing, with scenic trails and alpine lakes. The town also hosts vibrant festivals, such as the Breckenridge International Festival of Arts and Oktoberfest, ensuring year-round appeal. Its blend of outdoor adventure, historical charm, and cultural events make Breckenridge a versatile and attractive destination.
Hotels
- Beaver Run Resort
- The Lodge at Breckenridge
- One Ski Hill Place
- Gravity Haus
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Breckenridge
- Crystal Peak Lodge
- Mountain Thunder Lodge
Dining
- Hearthstone Restaurant
- Relish
- Blue River Bistro
- Aurum Food & Wine
- Twist
- Empire Burger
- South Ridge Seafood Grill
- Modis
- The Canteen Tap House and Tavern
- Giampietro Pasta & Pizzeria
8.
Steamboat Springs
Steamboat Springs, nestled in the Yampa Valley of Colorado, is a picturesque destination famed for its world-class skiing and vibrant Western heritage. Known as "Ski Town, U.S.A.," it boasts the renowned Steamboat Ski Resort, offering diverse trails and the unique Champagne Powder snow. Beyond winter sports, Steamboat Springs captivates visitors with its natural hot springs, like Strawberry Park Hot Springs, perfect for relaxation. The town’s charming downtown area features boutique shops, art galleries, and a variety of dining options, reflecting a blend of rustic charm and modern amenities. Year-round, outdoor enthusiasts can explore scenic hiking and biking trails, fish in the pristine Yampa River, or attend cultural events like the Steamboat Springs Pro Rodeo.
Hotels
- The Steamboat Grand
- Sheraton Steamboat Resort Villas
- Ptarmigan Inn
- Holiday Inn Steamboat Springs
- Rabbit Ears Motel
- Nordic Lodge of Steamboat Springs
- La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Steamboat Springs
Dining
- Aurum Food & Wine
- Mahogany Ridge Brewery & Grill
- Café Diva
- Table 79 Foodbar
- E3 Chophouse
- Harwigs
- Mambo Italiano
- Salt & Lime
- The Laundry
- Winona's Restaurant
9.
Sun Valley
Sun Valley, located in central Idaho, is a premier year-round resort destination renowned for its world-class skiing and breathtaking natural beauty. Nestled in the picturesque Wood River Valley, this charming town offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and rustic luxury. In winter, visitors can enjoy its famed Bald Mountain slopes, known for their consistent pitch and varied terrain. Summer transforms the area into a haven for hiking, mountain biking, and fly-fishing amidst stunning alpine scenery. The town itself is rich in culture, featuring art galleries, fine dining, and upscale boutiques. With its charming ambiance, active lifestyle, and stunning landscapes, Sun Valley captivates visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure in a serene mountain setting.
Hotels
- Sun Valley Lodge
- Sun Valley Inn
- Limelight Hotel Ketchum
- Knob Hill Inn
- Tamarack Lodge
Dining
- The Roundhouse
- Gretchen's
- The Ram
- Ketchum Grill
- Sawtooth Club
- Enoteca
- Pioneer Saloon
10.
Stowe, VT
Stowe, Vermont, is a picturesque New England village renowned for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant outdoor activities. Nestled in the Green Mountains, it is home to the iconic Mount Mansfield, Vermont's highest peak, offering exceptional skiing and snowboarding in winter, and hiking and mountain biking in summer. The charming town center boasts quaint shops, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants, providing a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern amenities. The scenic Stowe Recreation Path is ideal for walking, biking, and enjoying the breathtaking landscapes. Stowe's year-round appeal is enhanced by its rich history, cultural festivals, and warm, welcoming community, making it a beloved destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Hotels
- Stowe Mountain Lodge
- Green Mountain Inn
- Trapp Family Lodge
- Golden Eagle Resort
- The Stowehof
- Topnotch Resort
- Sun & Ski Inn and Suites
- Field Guide Lodge
Dining
- The Bench
- Plate
- Doc Ponds
- Harrison's Restaurant & Bar
- Bistro at Ten Acres
- Michael's on the Hill
- Trapp Family Lodge Dining Room
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