Best Ski Trip Destinations to Visit in the US

When it comes to choosing the top ski resort in America, there are plenty of options for a great winter getaway.The best skiing resorts offer a wide range for every ski and snowboard skill level, a vibrant après-ski culture, and hundreds of acres of mountain to explore in addition to challenging runs.

There is a ski resort for every skill level in the United States, with six-mile runs at Big Sky Resort in Montana testing the abilities of even experienced skiers and snowboarders, and Vail Ski Resort in Colorado. A variety of terrains are ideal for beginners.

Best Ski Trip Destinations To Visit In USA

Listed below are the top eight US ski trip destinations for your upcoming winter trip.

Vail Ski Resort, Colorado

Vail, long considered one of the best ski resorts in the country, is what most people picture when they think of American skiing. If you're looking for bowls, glades, groomed runs, fresh snow and expansive landscapes, Vail is the place to go. Vail is a ski resort that covers 5,317 acres and receives about 30 feet of snowfall each year.

The ski area offers any type of challenge you desire and is spread across multiple mountains. You're in for a treat with wide-open groomers, infinite moguls, and seven giant bowls where you can create your own tracks.

Where to Stay: The ArrabelleatVail Square, Grand Hyatt Vail, The Lodge at Vail are top places with great reviews where you can stay.

Best Month to Visit for Ski: While November through April is considered the official ski season in Vail, visitors can expect the best skiing conditions in January or February. The slopes are calm and the weather is ideal for a spectacular ski getaway after Christmas.

Annual Average Snowfall: Vail averages 240" of snowfall per year with 65 days of snowfall per year.

Breckenridge, Colorado

There are five distinct peaks that make up this Colorado ski resort, with varying degrees of difficulty ranging from gentle slopes to challenging steep lines. Its routes extend well above the tree line. Join a break guide for an exciting day trip to discover a behind-the-scenes look at five mountains and gain some essential backcountry skills. If you want a more tranquil experience, a ranger will take you on a free nature tour of the forest.

Where to Stay: The Residences at Main Street Station, Grand Timber Lodge, The Lodge at Breckenridgeare top places with excellent reviews where you can stay.

Best Month to Visit for Ski: Depending on the weather, Breckenridge Ski Resort is usually open from mid-November through Memorial Day. If you want to engage in summer activities like biking and hiking, schedule them from late June to early October. The best months for skiing and participating in winter sports are December through April.

Annual Average Snowfall: Breckenridge is known for receiving over 300 inches of snowfall annually, making for perfect conditions for outdoor recreation all winter long.

Taos Ski Valley

If you're looking for a ski vacation that offers something a little spicier than what you'll find at your typical resort, Taos is a no-brainer. The landscape, amenities and culture will keep you occupied on all fronts. Plus, Orlando's inner-city red and green chile sauces are unmatched. Be aware that there are some very difficult areas in this area. You can discover this for yourself by hiking the High Line or West Basin Ridge, or skiing anything from the Kachina Chair.

Where to Stay: The Blake at Taos Ski Valley, Alpine Village Suites, El Monte Sagradoare top places with great reviews where you can stay.

Best Month to Visit for Ski: Taos is a rocky, mountainous place where the snow falls slowly. It is less than half open by Christmas in about half the season, with an average of 62% open by Christmas. Taos is often 80% open even in January, so experts recommend waiting until February or March for the most coverage.

Annual Average Snowfall: Taos Ski Valley averages 172" of snowfall per year, with 36 days of snowfall per year.

Aspen/Snowmass, Colorado

Over the years, Aspen has attracted a diverse group of skiers from around the world. The main activity takes place in the mountains, although the scene is often discussed in the city. Snowmass, Buttermilk, Aspen Mountain, and Aspen Highlands are Aspen's four ski areas. The communities of Aspen and Snowmass Village are nestled in the foothills of the Rockies.

All these mountains have separate bases. Snowmass is the largest ski area. This is where many visitors who come to ski decide to set up shop. It offers runs for all skill levels and a wide amount of terrain. Several new eateries have revitalized the base area, and once-old buildings have been given a facelift.

Where to Stay: The Inn at Apsen, The Little Nell, Mountain Chalet Aspenare top places with excellent reviews where you can stay.

Best Month to Visit for Ski: December to February are the best time to visit Aspen. The town is full of fascinating events throughout the year, but winter is when it really comes alive. The slopes look the most inviting, the communities seem the friendliest, and the ski areas boast the freshest powder.

Annual Average Snowfall: Aspen Snowmass averages 289” of snowfall per year, with an average of 62 snow days.

Stowe, Vermont

Many backcountry opportunities can be found at Mount Mansfield, Vermont's highest mountain, and Stow Mountain Resort. There are a total of 119 trails, with about 50% for intermediate skiers and riders, 29% for experts, and 16% for beginners. For a quieter way to explore the area, try cross-country skiing on more than 40 miles of groomed trails. After enjoying the fresh mountain air, visit the restaurants and pubs in the town of Stowe. The Matterhorn is a classic après-ski spot with live music; Doc Ponds is famous for its burgers and craft beer. And Cork specializes in natural wines and shared platters.

Where to Stay: The Lodge at Spruce Peak, Trapp Family Lodge, Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spaare top places with great reviews where you can stay.

Best Month to Visit for Ski: The many wonderful ski tracks in the vicinity are one of the main attractions of Stow. Snow usually starts falling between December and January. February, once the powder freezes well, is the best time to go for ideal skiing conditions.

Annual Average Snowfall: Stow Mountain receives an average of 210" of snowfall annually, with an average of 57 snow days.

Snowbird, Utah

Snowbird and Alta are located in the Wasatch Valley, one of the greatest areas in the United States for light, dry snow. The valley is influenced by moist winds, resulting in an average of 41 feet of snow annually. Snowbird's alpine landscape and rugged peaks contribute to its status as one of Utah's most picturesque resorts.

With its exceptional terrain, 2,500 skiable acres, great weather, and family-friendly appeal, Snowbird is the ideal destination for both snowboarders and skiers. Snowboarding is not allowed in Alta. Snowbird also offers the only ski tunnel in North America, which allows you to ski through the mountain and emerge on the other side.

Where to Stay: Iron Blosam Lodge, The Lodge at Snowbird, The Cliff Lodge are top places with excellent reviews where you can stay.

Best Month to Visit for Ski: Most ski vacation offers at Snowbird are valid from mid-December to early April. Although the season has extended well into July in past years, this is probably the best, most consistent time to ski Snowbird Resort, Utah. Arrive in Snowbird in mid-December, and you should find beautiful, early-season snowfall.

Annual Average Snowfall: Snowbird receives an average of 417" of snowfall annually, with an average of 67 snow days.

Sun Valley, Idaho

A trip to Sun Valley is like stepping into a winter wonderland just off the road that has its own magic. From immaculate slopes with breathtaking views of the Wood River Valley to charming yet trendy Ketchum, filled with hip eateries, boutiques and pubs, Sun Valley has it all. With excellent service both on and off the slopes and a variety of accommodation options from the classic Sun Valley Lodge to the modern Limelight Ketchum, this is a destination that truly feels like a vacation. Snowboarding? With 350 acres of new specialist terrain making up Sunrise's expansion, it's better than ever this year with a distinct country feel.

Where to Stay: Sun Valley Inn, Galena Lodge, Hotel Ketchumare top places with great reviews where you can stay.

Best Month to Visit for Ski: February is the perfect time to visit Sun Valley! Sun Valley offers it all, and it's usually the biggest snow of the season! These ski resorts are great because of the steep lines of Bald Mountain, the family-friendly area of Dollar Mountain, and unlimited access to the backcountry.

Annual Average Snowfall: The Sun Valley averages 167" of snowfall per year, with 45 days of snowfall per year.

Park City, Utah

America's largest ski resort is Park City. This huge ski resort, spread across 17, peaks and 7,300 acres, offers almost limitless alternatives. Skiing here leans more towards intermediate and novice levels, although elite terrain is easily accessible. If you enjoy long, well-groomed runs, you've come to the right place.

Park City Mountain Village and Canyons Village are the two core areas of Park City. They still feel like two completely different ski resorts that were once separate entities.

Another advantage of skiing here is visiting the town of Park City. There are many alternatives for après ski activities in this original town, which dates back to 1884 and has a main street lined with shops and restaurants.

Where to Stay: Mariott’s Mountainside, Hotel Park City, Hyatt Centric Park Cityare top places with excellent reviews where you can stay.

Best Month to Visit for Ski: Park City is a favorite winter vacation destination due to its renowned ski resorts and vast snow-covered terrain. Winter, which lasts from December to March, is one of the best seasons to visit Park City.

Annual Average Snowfall: Park City averages 263" of snowfall annually, with an average of 53 snow days.

Final Wordings

Anyone who skis can enjoy all of these benefits and more, whether they're drawn to the sport for its difficulty, breathtaking scenery, or exhilarating thrills. Nothing compares to the excitement of finishing a snow run, the rush of coming down a mountain, or the wind in your face. Additionally, after a day of extreme skiing, enjoying après-ski cocktails at the reception lodge is a nice bonus.

Some of the world's top ski trip destinations in the United States. If you want to create the ultimate skiing bucket list, this is the place to start. The majority of the world's best ski resorts are located in the west, but if your itinerary is east, you can still find some amazing places to ski and snowboard.

READ MORE: How to Get Started with Alpine Skiing: A Beginner's Guide