The Greatest Ski Resorts within the US and Canada: 2026 Readers’ Alternative Awards

Whether you’re a powder hound or après devotee, these ski resorts from Alaska to the Poconos tick all the boxes. [#cneaudio: https://embed-audio.cnevids.com/script/narrated/dd2ed3d0-fb4d-4f24-a733-b63e1ea56806] For our 39th annual Reader’s Choice Awards, voters weighed in on their favorite ski resorts in North America—including the US and Canada. Big Sky’s decade-long transformation has paid off, landing the Montana resort in the top spot this year.

But Colorado reigns as the top US ski destination, with 10 resorts making our top 30. Meanwhile, six East Coast resorts were recognized, including Mont-Tremblant in Quebec, Canada. And in the western US, new enhancements at Alyeska Resort helped get Alaska back on the list. From Taos to Telluride and Stowe to SilverStar, these ski resorts were picked by our readers as the best in North America for their trails, lodges, lifts, and après-ski scenes.

Whether you’re a powder hound or après ski devotee, these ski resorts ticked all your boxes. View the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards winners for best ski resorts as a list with scores for the United States here and Canada here. Aspen-Snowmass’s four mountains are each wildly unique, and Buttermilk might be the most playful. More like one giant terrain park, it’s home to seven different parks for everyone from beginners to pros.

Its 22-foot Zaugg-cut Superpipe is the stage

Its 22-foot Zaugg-cut Superpipe is the stage for star-studded sporting competitions including X Games Aspen and The Snow League. But Buttermilk is also the mountain for easygoing beginner terrain and awesomely intense trails for uphillers—those showoffs practicing the cardio-busting trend of trekking up a mountain on skis. Where to stay: Just a free, five-minute shuttle ride away in downtown Aspen at your pick of great hotels, including the Little Nell, Limelight Aspen, St.

Regis Aspen, and Hotel Jerome. Stats: 8 lifts and 44 trails. One-day lift tickets average from $189; on the Ikon Pass and Mountain Collective. Parrys Peak One of the most luxe ski experiences in the United States, Beaver Creek takes pampering to the extreme, with perks big and small—think complimentary, just-baked chocolate chip cookies handed out in the base area daily at 3p.m.

The culinary experience is unparalleled, with three on-mountain fine dining cabins—Beano’s, Zach’s, and Allie’s—a fantastic Mediterranean restaurant, Citrea, in the village, and the kid-favorite Candy Cabin at the top of the Strawberry Park Express lift. The grooming is immaculate. Families love McCoy Park, a learning area with 17 trails of natural, groomed glades, plus snowshoe and cross-country areas.

Beaver Creek’s frills get all of the attention,

Beaver Creek’s frills get all of the attention, but the mountain boasts serious steeps, like its famous Birds of Prey, which will host the men’s and women’s Audi FIS Alpine Ski World Cup races December 3-13, 2026. Where to stay: The Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort and Spa is fresh off a $20 million renovation. Other favorites include The Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa Avon, Vail Valley, The Osprey, a RockResort, and the Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch.

Stats: 24 lifts for 167 trails. One-day lift tickets from $116; on the Epic Pass. Skiing in Alaska is a different experience than anywhere in the lower 48. Located just 40 miles southeast of Anchorage, Alyeska’s terrain is uniquely Alaskan, boasting everything from high alpine to the steep faces the 49th state is known for. Experts can push their limits, but with over 55 percent intermediate terrain, tree skiing, wide open groomed runs, and a lower mountain venue perfect for beginners, Alyeska caters to all ability levels.

Aside from resort skiing, Alyeska serves as a backcountry basecamp offering guided ski touring, cat skiing, or heli skiing with top-notch outfits like SMG Alaska. And when it comes to après-ski, a trip to the mountaintop Bore Tide Bar for an off-menu Fizz cocktail is an Alyeska ritual. Where to stay: The 299-room Alyeska Resort has eight dining venues, including stellar sushi spot Sakura and fine dining restaurant, Seven Glaciers, with its panoramic views.

The eighth-floor Black Diamond Club feels like

The eighth-floor Black Diamond Club feels like a hotel-within-a-hotel thanks to perks like a private lounge that serves complimentary breakfast and après bites. The resort’s 50,000-square-foot, indoor-outdoor Nordic spa is the perfect place to spend a down day. Stats: 7 lifts for 76 runs, with an additional 1,400 vertical feet accessible

One-day lift tickets from $77; on the Ikon Pass. Tamarack’s primarily east-facing slopes receive an average of 300 inches of snowfall annually. Readers love the diversity of terrain, which welcomes everyone from beginners and families to experts and powder chasers. The resort’s 2,000 mountain acres and 2,800 feet of vertical deliver everything from open bowls, steeps and signature cornice drops to high-speed corduroy groomers, natural tree-skiing glades and three terrain parks.

At 6,700 feet, the new Mid-Mountain Lodge crowns the top of Tamarack Express with panoramic dining and event space, while a vibrant alpine-style village anchors the base with lodging, dining, and après. And Tamarack’s Nordic trail system winds through open meadows and forested terrain for classic and skate skiing, snowshoeing, and fat biking. Where to stay: Tamarack Resort has accommodations ranging from studios to four-bedroom penthouses plus amenities such as a pool, hot tubs and gear valet.

The Lodge at Osprey Meadows is steps

The Lodge at Osprey Meadows is steps from the lifts and has studios and two- and three-bedroom condos. Stats: 7 lifts for 59 runs. One-day lift tickets from $99; Ikon Pass Bonus Mountain
Founded by the late Robert Redford in 1969, Sundance Mountain Resort is a beloved escape tucked into Utah’s Wasatch Mountains at the base of the 12,000-foot Mount Timpanogos in Provo Canyon. Steep bowls give experienced skiers a thrill, while a third of the runs are green and beginner-friendly.

Just an hour from Salt Lake City (hello, easy airport access!), the 5,000 acres of protected wilderness that surround the resort will help you find solitude. This season’s debut of Electric Horseman, a high-speed quad, marks the first phase of Sundance’s back mountain expansion, adding 60-plus acres of terrain and bringing the resort to 605 skiable acres. At the heart of the terrain expansion is Storyteller, a new signature ridgeline run carved from the terrain formerly known as the Far East Ridgeline.

An additional 100 acres of terrain are planned for the 2027-2028 winter season. Off the slopes, guests can explore the resort’s renowned Art Studio & Gallery (think silversmithing and pottery classes), or unwind at the Spa and The Springs. Where to stay: The Inn at Sundance Mountain Resort, which opened in January 2026, introduced ski-in/ski-out hotel accommodations to the resort for the first time, with 63 thoughtfully designed rooms in the heart of the village.

Stats: 10 lifts for 72 trails

Stats: 10 lifts for 72 trails. One-day pass is $169. Spanning six peaks and over 3,000 acres in the Yampa Valley, Steamboat is revered for its tree skiing, trademarked Champagne Powder snow, and family-friendly amenities. But many folks keep coming back for its deep Western roots and a down-home vibe that extends from the mountain to the town. A multiyear, multimillion-dollar redevelopment has reimagined Steamboat.

The base area now features Wild Blue, a high speed ten-person gondola that takes skiers and riders from the base to the top of Sunshine Peak in 13 minutes, plus Skeeter’s ice rink, and the Range Food & Drink Hall. Beginners can hone their skills mid-mountain at Greenhorn Ranch with natural feature-based instruction, while experts can test their mettle on 655 acres of challenging terrain in Mahogany Ridge and Fish Creek Canyon.

One of the most accessible resorts in the Rockies, Steamboat is served by 18 major U.S. cities including Portland, Austin, and Houston. Where to stay: The Steamboat Grand is a favorite for its massive heated pool and hot tubs. Ski-in/ski-out Sheraton Steamboat Resort Villas is conveniently located next to Christie Peak Express. Gravity Haus is an affordable, slopeside boutique stay.

The Amble opened this summer and has 42

The Amble opened this summer and has 42 residences and resort amenities. Stats: 23 lifts for 184g trails. One-day lift tickets from $131; on the Ikon Pass. Of the four mountains that make up Aspen Snowmass, the ultimate rite of passage is here at Aspen Highlands’ massive Highland Bowl. Here’s how to do it: Hike some 45 minutes to the top of the bowl, soak in rewarding 360-degree views that include the twin-peaked Maroon Bells and own the drop into almost 2,500 feet of steep bowl skiing.

Reward yourself at mid-mountain with the Merry-Go-Round’s signature Boomerang Burger, topped with onion rings, pastrami bacon and grilled cheese buns. Where to stay: The Little Nell for five-star service and a great spa or its more casual sister property, Limelight Aspen. That Gant for apartment-style residences with full kitchens. Stats: 5 lifts for 144 trails. One-day lift tickets from $189; on the Ikon Pass and Mountain Collective pass.

With nearly 5,000 acres of diverse terrain, Heavenly offers the best of both California and Nevada skiing and riding including wide-open groomers, glades, and 1,600-foot mogul runs. Sparkling Lake Tahoe views, an average of 300 days of sunshine a year, and high-energy events and après make Heavenly a dream getaway for your party crew that is always looking for the next adventure.

The unique Skyline Trail is a must-do run,

The unique Skyline Trail is a must-do run, taking in majestic mountain landscapes, flat valleys, and lake panoramas while crossing from California to Nevada. Plus, the Heavenly Village is located in the heart of South Lake Tahoe, surrounded by snow-based activities and restaurants, and fun events throughout the winter season. If the views of Lake Tahoe inspire you on the slopes, a trip to the shore is just minutes away.

Where to stay: Basecamp Tahoe South is just a four-minute walk to the gondola and offers a variety of rooms from bunks to luxe tents. Zalanta Resort at the Village is steps away from Heavenly Village and residence-style rooms include gourmet kitchens and private balconies. Lakefront Edgewood Tahoe Resort has a partnership with Ski Butlers to have gear delivered directly to your room.

Stats: 27 lifts for 111 trails. One-day lift ticket from $115; on the Epic Pass. A winter haven for East Coasters, this Poconos resort’s snow-making capacity could cover the George Washington Bridge with one foot of snow in 24 hours. The mountain’s 900-foot vertical drop is great training before venturing to bigger mountains in the West. More than half of the mountain, however, is covered in beginner-friendly greens.

Families love the amenities, including one

Families love the amenities, including one of the country’s largest snow-tubing park, an indoor water park, and a plethora of dining options including ski-in/ski-out Trail’s End Pub & Grille, known for its creative burgers and craft beer, and Alpine Outpost, a new grab-and-go spot along the Coolmoor teaching trail. Where to stay: Camelback Lodge, the only ski-in/ski out resort in the Poconos, recently refurbished 453 guest rooms that come in 16 different configurations including bunk rooms and a suite that can sleep up to 14 guests.

Stats: 14 lifts for 45 trails. One-day lift tickets from $78; on the Ikon Pass. Hard-core skiers who live for hike-to terrain and super steeps have always been fans of Taos Ski Valley. But a revitalized base area with an ice-skating rink, improvements to beginner and intermediate terrain, and $3 million in glading and expanding snowmaking capacity have made this New Mexico mountain destination way more family friendly.

Taos Ski Valley leans into sustainability, equity, and inclusivity as the first ski resort in the world to have been B-Corp certified, and one of a few to be Certified CarbonNeutral®. The challenging terrain of Kachina Peak and the moguls of Al’s Run are the big draw for experts. This season ups the resort’s luxury appeal with the introduction of Taos by Belvedere, a fully hosted, all-inclusive mountain experience that features slopeside penthouse accommodations, a private chef, privately guided skiing, restorative wellness therapies, and insider access to local experiences.

For dining, the Bavarian is an institution known

For dining, the Bavarian is an institution known for its brats and German beers (they also host a sleigh ride dinner during the winter), and newcomer Corner Office gives the state its first natural wine bar. Down days are far from dull thanks to surrounding cultural attractions including the Taos Pueblo UNESCO World Heritage Site. Where to stay: Located adjacent to Lift 1, The Blake offers a variety of accommodation options that include hotel rooms, suites, penthouses, and condos; decor blends rustic European architecture with one of North America’s finest collections of Southwestern art, including original works by Georgia O’Keeffe.

Stats: 13 lifts for 110 trails. One-day lift tickets from $75; on the Ikon Pass and Mountain Collective pass. The largest of the SkiBig3 resorts in UNESCO-designated Banff National Park earns its keep with 4,200 acres spanning four different mountain faces and a solid mix of beginner, intermediate, and expert runs from every chair. Here’s what else makes it a dream for all walks of skiers: steeps backed by an awe-inspiring wilderness, bowls dusted in famously dry powder, four terrain parks for beginners to experts, and long cruisers—one of which winds on for five miles.

The ‘West Bowl’ is a freeride playground with some 480 wilderness acres to explore. And the recent addition of the Juniper Express Quad provides an ideal learning zone for beginner and intermediate skiers and riders looking to advance their skills. This season, Lake Louise is enhancing its recently opened Richardson’s Ridge terrain with new groomed runs, glades, and improved snowmaking, alongside a major Top of the World chair upgrade designed to increase capacity and reliability.

Where to stay: Located lakeside in Banff National

Where to stay: Located lakeside in Banff National Park, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise looks like a fairytale castle and its new Basin Glacier Waters Thermal Wellness Spa will have you wishing for a down day to spend soaking in its healing waters. A member of Relais & Châteaux, Post Hotel & Spa has a saltwater pool and is known for its extensive wine cellar and talented culinary team.

Stats: 13 lifts for 169 runs and back bowls. One-day SkiBig3 lift tickets from $172; on the Ikon Pass and Mountain Collective pass. Silverstar ski resort at Dusk. Originally known as Little Gap Ski Area when it opened in 1977, the resort changed its name in 1989 to better reflect the grandeur of our mountain. With a vertical drop of 1,082 feet, Blue Mountain boasts the highest elevation in Pennsylvania.

Whether you’re a beginner or expert, you’ll find the perfect challenge on the mountain’s 171 acres. You can conquer 15 green, 6 blue, 16 black diamond, and 3 double black diamond trails across the region’s most varied terrain. Home to the East Coast’s largest snowmaking system, the mountain delivers some of the most consistent conditions all season long in the mid-Atlantic region.

For lunch with gorgeous views, pop into Slopeside

For lunch with gorgeous views, pop into Slopeside Pub & Grill for wood-fired pizzas and hearty sammys like chicken cheesesteaks. For a quick, grab-and-go bite, swing by the new spud truck, serving up loaded baked potatoes. Where to stay: Blue Mountain-area Airbnb rentals are the way to go here. Stats: 15 lifts for 40 trails; One-day lift ticket from $48; on the Ikon Pass. Stowe celebrates 90 years of skiing this season.

Set on Vermont’s highest peak, the resort’s 485 acres delivers a quintessential New England mountain experience.Mount Mansfield’s legendary terrain, and Spruce Peak’s approachable feel offer terrain for every ability, from easy greens and intermediate cruisers to challenging double black diamonds, including the iconic Front Four, making Stowe an all-around favorite for some of the best skiing in the Northeast.

Stowe’s two peaks are easily connected by the Over Easy Gondola, which means even more options before ending the day in one of Vermont’s most picturesque ski towns. For après drinks and bites that celebrate Vermont’s bounty, head to Alpine Hall, located in Spruce Peak Lodge in the center of the village. Where to stay: The authentically Austrian Trapp Family Lodge (yes, owned by the actual Von Trapp family of the Sound of Music), where the hills are really alive with the resort’s own backcountry and cross-country ski trails.

Field Guide Lodge from Lark Hotels has

Field Guide Lodge from Lark Hotels has a great location in the heart of downtown. Stats: 12 lifts for 116 trails. One-day lift tickets starting at $98; on the Epic Pass. Aptly nicknamed the Big One, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort has some of the most challenging skiing in all of North America. Despite its deserved hard-core reputation, there are plenty of intermediate runs off the Bridger Gondola, and the Eagle’s Rest lift whisks beginners to the mid-mountain Solitude Station Learning Center.

Be sure to ride the legendary red tram up Rendezvous Mountain, where you’ll be rewarded with see-forever views and a waffle from Corbet’s Cabin. In addition to lessons, the Mountain Sports School holds multi-day, small-group camps that help take your skiing and snowboarding to the next level. Both Teton Village and the nearby town of Jackson offer a ton of honky tonk après-ski diversions (the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar is legendary) as well as seriously good dining options.

And the hotel scene has never been hotter. Getting there is a breeze, with nonstop service from 14 key U.S. markets, including the addition of Boston this season. Where to stay: The newcomer in Teton Village is Faraway Jackson, a chic reimagination of the former Snake River Lodge & Spa. The Hoback Club, a new luxury residential club, now competes with eight-suite, tram-side Caldera House for bragging rights of being the most exclusive slope-side stay.

Teton Village stalwarts include the Four Seasons Resort

Teton Village stalwarts include the Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole and Hotel Terra, and hotel-membership club Gravity Haus is a more affordable option a short walk from the tram. In town, Hotel Jackson, known for its city-level sophistication, opened the Retreat, an intimate, all-suite outpost with a serious spa. Alpine House, a European-inspired B&B just off the Town Square, recently got a remodel from Arbus Hospitality.

Trailborn has taken over the historic hotel at Snow King Resort (aka “the Town Hill”) and turned it into a family-friendly adventure base steps from the ski lift. Stats: 16 lifts for 131 trails. One-day lift tickets from $85; on the Ikon Pass and Mountain Collective pass. Banff Sunshine Village sits on the Continental Divide at an altitude of 7,200 feet and readers rave about the uninterrupted mountain views that make you feel like you’re in the Alps.

The resort boasts one of Canada’s longest non-glacial ski seasons, starting in early November and lasting all the way through to late May. With over 3,300 acres of skiable terrain, there’s no shortage of runs to explore. From cruisy groomers off the Strawberry Express to the world-famous freeride zones of Wild West and Delirium Dive, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Après takes centre stage at Banff Sunshine this winter, with the return of the Goat Club and debut of the Coco Lounge f, expanded cocktail experiences, and live music and DJ events.

Where to stay: Sunshine Mountain Lodge

Where to stay: Sunshine Mountain Lodge is the only ski-in/ski-out hotel in Banff National Park, and offers great value. In the town of Banff, a 20-minute drive away, the Kenrick is a boutique option with a hydrotherapy area and buzzy Italian restaurant, and the reimagined Rimrock Banff reopened this summer as the first Emblems Collection property in North America. Stats: 13 lifts for 137 runs.

One-day SkiBig3 lift ticket from $172; on the Ikon Pass and Mountain Collective pass. Perhaps the winning ticket for 5,317-acre Vail isn’t just that it’s big, but that 3,000 of these acres span the mountain’s seven legendary Back Bowls, made up mostly of intermediate-to-advanced and ungroomed terrain, plus some killer vertical—the Forever trail in Sun Down Bowl, for example, drops a thrilling 1,850 feet.

On bluebird days, head to the huge outdoor space at Belle’s Camp in Vail’s Blue Sky Basin, where outdoor picnic tables provide the perfect sun-soaked lunch break experience. The spot is a local favorite for pairing a bring-your-own backpack lunch with panoramic views of the nearby Tenmile and Sawatch mountain ranges, and Mount of the Holy Cross, one of Colorado’s tallest peaks.

Avanti Vail, a $4 million food hall concept

Avanti Vail, a $4 million food hall concept at the Golden Peak base, serves everything from burgers to gyros. And Bistro 14 has been refreshed with a retro-inspired design and Spritz menu. Venues like Eagle’s Nest Rooftop and Talon’s Deck will continue to host intimate and energetic music performances throughout the winter. On a bluebird day, pop by the new Ice Bar near the Back Bowls Gate.

Where to stay: Perennial favorites include the Bavarian-inspired Sonnenalp Hotel; the Hythe, a Luxury Collection Resort, in Lionshead Village; The Arrabelle at Vail Square, a RockResort; and The Lodge at Vail, a RockResort. Gravity Haus Vail is a more affordable option with an athlete-worthy gym and co-working areas, while the high-touch Four Seasons Resort Vail has upped its game with a new spa and outpost of hit Denver restaurant, Tavernetta.

Stats: 32 lifts for 278 trails. One-day passed from $104; on the Epic Pass. Northwest of Montreal in the gorgeous Laurentian Mountains, Mount Tremblant rises 2,116 feet, covers 762 acres, and, even with its gladed terrain, seems quaint compared to most contenders on this list. But Tremblant brings exactly what you wish for from a European-inspired ski resort in French-speaking Quebec: a pedestrian village with boutiques at the foot of the mountain, ski events like Tremblant’s 24h and the Tremblant World Cup, and Le P’tit Caribou, a rowdy après-ski hotspot with a lake-facing terrace and bars upon which people are known to dance until 3 a.m.

Major snowmaking investments mean the slopes are guaranteed

Major snowmaking investments mean the slopes are guaranteed to be good. Where to stay: For ski-in-ski-out access, stay at the 312-room Fairmont Tremblant is fresh off a $9 million revamp, including a renovated outdoor terrace, with year-round heated pools and outdoor fireplace areas. Request a balcony room at The Sommet des Neiges hotel to enjoy spectacular views. If you prefer to be close to the shops and restaurants of the village, book Le Westin Resort & Spa, Tremblant.

All 122 rooms and suites are undergoing a glow up and readers gush over the spa facilities. Stats: 14 lifts for 102 trails. Multi-day lift ticket from $149; on the Ikon Pass. Located in the heart of the Green Mountains, Killington Resort—aka “The Beast of the East”—is a winter mecca thanks to its diverse selection of snow sports terrain, state-of-the-art snowmaking, and the most expansive lift system in eastern North America.

Since 2024, Killington has committed over $80 million towards capital improvement projects, including new lifts, elevated dining experiences, upgraded snowmaking equipment, and much more. Home of the highest lift-served peak in Vermont, Killington holds the distinction of offering the longest season in the East, firing up its snow guns early and offering lift-accessed skiing and riding on the man-made “Superstar Glacier” regularly into June.

From endless cruisers like Great Eastern to legendary

From endless cruisers like Great Eastern to legendary bump runs like Outer Limits, skiers and riders of all ability levels can find something to love. The world-class terrain park network also boasts features for beginners and dedicated freestyle athletes alike. In addition to Killington’s six peaks, visitors can also explore nearby Pico Mountain on the same lift pass. Readers also love Killington’s sustainability efforts, including investments in low-energy snowmaking equipment, on- and off-site solar installations, and an expansive EV charging network.

Where to stay: Killington Grand Resort Hotel is the closest accommodations to the slopes, with a convenient ski-bridge to the chairlift, heated outdoor pool and cafe where guests can purchase samples of honey from Killington’s own on-site apiary. The Mountain Inn is also a popular option and has lovely views. Down the road, the Killington Mountain Lodge is part of the Tapestry Collection by Hilton, or book one of the action-sports themed rooms at the Mountain Sports Inn.

Stats: 19 lifts for 155 trails, plus 7 lifts for 58 trails at Pico. One day lift tickets starting at $69, when purchased in advance; both Killington and Piko are on the Ikon Pass. Part of Omni Mount Washington Resort, Bretton Woods touts the largest ski area in New Hampshire with 464 acres of skiable terrain, including a terrain park and a summit elevation of 3,100 feet, all surrounded by the woods of the White Mountain National Forest.

Reader’s love features including the state’s only eight-passenger

Reader’s love features including the state’s only eight-passenger gondola and stunning on-mountain Rosebrook Lodge with its killer views of the Presidential Range. New investments in grooming and snowmaking technology will ensure the slopes are always perfect this winter. Bonus points for Bretton Woods come with award-winning snowmaking and grooming, a robust 62-mile Nordic trail network for skiing and snowshoeing, a year-round canopy tour with 9 ziplines and a dedicated system of winter fat bike trails.

Where to stay: The historic Omni Mount Washington Resort recently completed an extensive, property-wide renovation including updates to all 200 rooms in the hotel’s historic wing, a new coffee shop, and newly enhanced public spaces. Stats: 9 lifts across 97 trails and glades. One-day lift tickets from $107. In recent years, Whistler Blackcomb has grown into the largest destination ski resort in North America, known for unmatched big mountain skiing and snowboarding.

With 8,171 acres of skiable terrain, including 16 alpine bowls and three glaciers, there’s easily enough mountain to keep you on new runs through the entire six-month regular season. The pistes offer a wide range of difficulty, making this the perfect place for beginners, adrenaline junkies, and everyone in between. This season, the new Showcase Chair will deliver faster access to Blackcomb Mountain’s premier alpine terrain, including the Showcase and Blackcomb Glacier zones.

Whistler’s après-ski scene is just as legendary

Whistler’s après-ski scene is just as legendary as its slopes. The Roundhouse Umbrella Bar is the hot spot on the slopes; in the village, head to the Garibaldi Lift Company for outdoor drinks around a firepit. This season sees the debut of On the Rocks at Christine’s, an outdoor cocktail terrace with caviar and champagne service on the covered patio of Steeps. Where to stay: The 519-room Fairmont Chateau Whistler at the base of Blackcomb Mountain hosts live music in its buzzy Mallard Lounge, and has outdoor barrel saunas and a heated pool.

The all-suite Westin Resort & Spa is a short walk from Whistler Village gondola and FireRock Lounge is a cozy spot for après ski. A short walk to the Creekside lifts, Nita Lake Lodge is known for its top-notch spa and rooms that feature basalt-rock fireplaces, heated floors, and double soaker tubs. Stats: 36 lifts for more than 200 marked trails. One-day lift tickets starting at $167; on the Epic Pass.

America’s largest ski area, Park City Mountain is also one of its most accessible: Its 7,300 acres, six terrain parks, and 330-plus trails are only half an hour from Salt Lake City International Airport. Park City continues to be rated one of our readers’ favorites, thanks to its varied terrain spread across two mountains and a buzzy downtown that has top-notch après-ski spots like ski-in High West Distillery.

During the peak winter season, serious overnight grooming

During the peak winter season, serious overnight grooming efforts ensure that approximately 130 trails are pure corduroy every morning. This season, guests will enjoy a new arrival experience at neighboring Canyons Village, anchored by the 10-person Canyons Village Skyway Gondola. And with the return of Park City’s 22-foot superpipe, the resort will host superstar snowboarder Shaun White’s halfpipe snowboarding and freeskiing competition, The Snow League, January 21-24, 2027.

Where to stay: The 153-room Pendry Park City has the only rooftop pool and bar in town, while the Waldorf Astoria Park City is the place to be for five-star service. For something more intimate, the stylish 12-room Washington School House Hotel is less than a five-minute walk from the Town Lift and serves a heavenly breakfast. Stats: 43 lifts for 330-plus trails. One-day lift tickets from $194; on the Epic Pass.

Telluride rises above the rest with its unrivaled allure. It encompasses a healthy mix of adventurers, artists and entrepreneurs, and a gorgeous location set within a box canyon of 13,000 and 14,000-foot peaks. Its nearly 2,100 acres of terrain includes 44 acres of expert and advanced-level terrain, and this season Lift 4 got an upgrade. Skiers looking to finesse their turns can sign up for cutting-edge biomechanics camps, which take a science-based approach to ski instruction.

Ever wanted to heli-ski

Ever wanted to heli-ski? Telluride Helitrax can take you to more than 200 square miles of high alpine skiing. Or, grab the kids and shake things up with some guided snowshoeing. A free, eight-mile pedestrian gondola eliminates the need for a vehicle, connecting the quaint mountain village and historic downtown in a 13-minute ride, while also providing ski access. Where to stay: The Madeline Hotel & Residences, an Auberge Collection Hotel is the most stylish stay on the mountain.

Dunton Hot Springs has a cozy townhouse a five-minute walk from the gondola in town and also operates Lumière, a ski-in/ski-out boutique hotel at the base of Lift 4. Stats: 19 lifts for 149 trails, with Galloping Goose being the longest at 4.6 miles. One-day lift tickets from $164; on the Epic Pass. Welcome to a slice of history. Developed by businessman and politician W. Averell Harriman in the mid 1930s, Sun Valley Resort marked the first destination winter resort in the U.S., and beginner-friendly Dollar Mountain was the first in the world to install chairlifts.

Now entering its 91st winter season, Sun Valley continues to invest heavily in its legendary mountains. For 2026–27, two new high-speed lifts are scheduled to open in December, increasing uphill capacity on Bald Mountain, the larger of the resort’s two hills. The resort is also adding 50 acres of newly gladed terrain, bringing more than 390 acres of new glading to Bald Mountain over the past six years.

Families and beginners can return to the second

Families and beginners can return to the second season of Sunny’s Adventure Park on Dollar Mountain, an interactive learning area designed to make progression more approachable. This season, the Stifel Sun Valley Finals returns, March 20–25, 2027, bringing the world’s top alpine racers to Bald Mountain. And in a major nod to its environmental stewardship, Sun Valley recently became the first U.S.

resort certified by DarkSky International. Reaching Sun Valley is easier than ever, with nonstop flights from eight cities. Where to stay: The well-heeled crowd stays at iconic Sun Valley Lodge. For a downtown address, look to Limelight Hotel Ketchum, which boasts a lively après scene, or the Hotel Ketchum, a motel turned modernist mountain stay. The big hotel news this season is the fall opening of the Observatory, A Viceroy Resort.

With 73 rooms, 12 penthouse residences, a 5,000-square-foot spa, rooftop observatory, and three new dining concepts, it raises the bar for luxury hotels in Sun Valley. Stats: 12 lifts for 109 trails on Bald Mountain and 5 lifts and 22 trails on Dollar Mountain. One-day lift tickets from $264; on the Ikon Pass and Mountain Collective pass. For the skier and rider who wants it all, it’s hard to do better than Breck, where vintage-cool ski town charm meets big-mountain views and terrain.

The connection between mountain and town is ever

The connection between mountain and town is ever present, with the resort’s Five Peaks serving as the backdrop to historic Main Street. Plus, with an abundance of walk-to-lift accommodations, the BreckConnect Gondola, making it easy to go car-free. On-mountain, there are nearly 3,000 skiable acres spread across the resort’s Five Peaks, and some of the country’s best lift-accessible high-alpine terrain, including the highest chairlift in North America.

With a base elevation of 9,600 feet above sea-level, Breck consistently offers great snow conditions well into the spring, with a season that runs into May. This season, TBar, will introduce the Ullr Time Mega Shotski for over-the-top après celebrating. Town has become a foodie mecca with spots like new tasting menu restaurant Forage, James Beard Award winner Rootstalk, cult bakery Threefold.

Where to stay: Geared to the modern adventurer, Gravity Haus offers easy access to the slopes on Peak 9 and Main Street, plus a Japanese-inspired onsen, performance-focused gym, and in-house adventure company. For slope-side luxury, the original ski-in/ski-out stay at the base of Peak 8, One Ski Hill Place, has roomy condos and kid-friendly amenities like a two-lane bowling alley.

The Carlin, a Euro-style inn, has just four,

The Carlin, a Euro-style inn, has just four, Scandi-minimalist suites set above two of the town’s best eateries. Newcomer Alpenrock boasts the only speakeasy in town. Stats: 35 lifts for 187 trails. One-day lift tickets from $149; on the Epic Pass. The most expansive of Aspen Snowmass’s four mountains also has the most lift-served vertical feet of terrain in the U.S., with a 4,406-foot elevation drop and enough variation to make it an all-around hit with families.

Snowmass Base Village is a buzzy social hub complete with an ice-skating rink and great dining venues like the Crepe Shack by Mawa’s Kitchen. On-mountain dining options rival what you’d find in Europe. Sam’s transports skiers to the Italian Dolomites with a menu featuring rigatoni Bolognese and Negroni spritzes, while Alpin Room features French-inspired fare and the Cabin channels a French alpine bistro with a Chamonix-worthy après scene.

And Ullrhof, a beloved mid-mountain restaurant, reopens this winter season as Aspen Snowmass’ first fully electric restaurant with a menu of gourmet burgers and shakes. Where to stay: Located in the Base Village, Limelight Snowmass is known for its lively après scene and boasts the state’s highest indoor climbing wall, while the Viceroy Snowmass the most luxe stay on the slopes, with a serious spa and a restaurant from star chef Richard Sandoval.

Viewline Resort Snowmass, Autograph Collection has a prime

Viewline Resort Snowmass, Autograph Collection has a prime slopeside location steps from the Snowmass Mall and is one of the area’s more affordable stays. The Timberline Condominiums and The Stonebridge Inn are both fresh off major renovations. Stats: 21 lifts for 98 trails. One-day lift tickets from $189; on the Ikon Pass and Mountain Collective pass. While the Aspen Mountain ski area is only one-fourth the size of Snowmass (without a single beginner run), it’s beloved by intermediate and advanced skiers who say it skis like a much bigger mountain once you know its secrets.

Even hardcore locals score first tracks just so they can nab oatmeal pancakes at Bonnie’s, Aspen’s legendary mid-mountain eatery. New this season, the Nell Bell high-speed quad chairlift will provide unprecedented fast access to the core of Aspen Mountain and some of its best terrain from the base. The après-ski scene is hotter than ever now that NYC’s beloved pizzeria Rubirosa has opened an alpine outpost with a sprawling terrace on Gondola Plaza, just across from après institution Ajax Tavern.

Where to stay: The East Coast’s beloved White Elephant brand now has an alpine outpost in downtown Aspen. The St. Regis Aspen Resort, The Little Nell, the Limelight Aspen, and Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection, remain area favorites. The Gant Aspen, tucked just a few blocks from the gondola plaza, offers apartment-style lodging with kitchens. The Mollie has a rooftop pool and bar and great restaurant from chef Ludo Lefebvre.

Stats: Six lifts for 127 trails

Stats: Six lifts for 127 trails. One-day lift tickets from $189 for guests who book early and bundle lodging; on the Ikon Pass and Mountain Collective Pass. One of three “ski-only” resorts in the country, Deer Valley is made for families who love to ski together and are willing to spend top dollar for the experience. It’s also easy to access, located under 40 miles from the Salt Lake City International Airport in Park City.

The resort’s “your wish is our command” customer service is worth the splurge. Major investments are underway to ensure the experience keeps getting better. As part of the ambitious Expanded Excellence initiative, the resort will open a new chairlift this season, Hail Peak Express, which will add 200 skiable acres and 7 new runs. The resort now boasts 32 chairlifts, including a 10-passenger gondola, 4,500 skiable acres, 209 ski runs, and 1,200 additional day skier parking spots in the Deer Valley East Village.

The resort’s world-class dining rivals its exceptional skiing. You’ll want a reservation to secure a table at the one-of-a-kind Fireside Dining experience in Empire Canyon Lodge, where a four-course meal features dishes like raclette cheese served from stone fireplaces. Après offerings continue to grow, from the vintage Sticky Wicket at Silver Lake Lodge to Chute Eleven, a slopeside champagne yurt featuring oysters, ca

Where to stay: Montage Deer Valley remains

Where to stay: Montage Deer Valley remains the epitome of luxury with its 35,000- square-foot spa and rooms and suites that feature fireplaces and soaking tubs. The ski-in/ski-out St. Regis Deer Valley is known for its one-of-a-kind funicular which transports people to The Vintage Room, an après spot located slopeside off the Deer Hollow Run. Goldener Hirsch, an Auberge Resorts Collection, features 18 Bavarian-themed rooms and 40 modern two and three-bedroom residences designed by Tom Kundig.

Year-old Grand Hyatt Deer Valley is an affordable option in the newly expanded Deer Valley East Village area and Canopy by Hilton Deer Valley adds another East Village option, with 180 rooms and a mountain-view lounge. Stats: 32 lifts for 209 trails. One-day adult lift tickets from $99; on the Ikon Pass. Big Sky is fresh off a decade of ambitious updates. Four of the resort’s core chairlifts, including the Madison 8, now feature weatherproof bubbles and heated seats.

Last season also brought two debuts: Explorer, the world’s fastest 10-person gondola, and Kircliff, a striking all-glass observatory with Louvre-like architecture perched at 11,166 feet at the top of the Lone Peak Tram. The mountain has the most consistent powder dumps in the Northern Rockies, which blanket 4,350 vertical feet from Lone Peak and more than 2,300 acres of beginner and intermediate slopes.

Its 5,850 skiable acres add up to about

And its 5,850 skiable acres add up to about an acre per skier on average, so it’s not uncommon to have an entire run to yourself. Big Sky’s culinary cred gets a boost this season when superstar chef Grant Achatz descends for a second season of his residency, M by the Alinea Group. Where to stay: The Summit Hotel in Mountain Village is steps from the resort’s base area and has a front-row seat for the morning alpenglow on Lone Mountain.

The Montage Big Sky, located in the Spanish Peaks area, boasts a massive spa and Northern Italian restaurant. One&Only Moonlight Basin—the brand’s first hotel in North America—features an exclusive heated gondola that provides direct access to Madison Base, plus a 10,000 square-foot spa and speakeasy. For a more budget-friendly stay, boutique hotel-membership club Gravity Haus recently opened an outpost in town that has a killer taco restaurant.

Stats: 40 lifts for 320 trails and 6 terrain parks. One-day lift tickets from $84; on the Ikon Pass and Mountain Collective Pass.

Source: www.cntraveler.com