Unearth The Voyage
Planning your next powder-chasing adventure? The United States is home to some of the world’s most exciting ski resorts, each offering its own blend of terrain, snow conditions, and mountain culture. Whether you crave steep couloirs, family-friendly groomers, or après-ski dining with jaw-dropping views, this list covers the must-visit destinations for the 2025–26 season. Get ready to add these incredible mountains to your winter travel plans.
1. Vail, Colorado — big terrain, iconic Back Bowls
Vail has earned its reputation as one of North America’s premier ski destinations, and for good reason. Spread across roughly 5,300 acres, this Colorado giant delivers everything from perfectly manicured groomers on the front side to the legendary Back Bowls that open up when conditions allow. The resort keeps pouring resources into enhancing the guest experience, ensuring every visit feels fresh.
Intermediate skiers will feel right at home cruising the long, flowing trails, while advanced riders can explore endless bowls and glades. The sheer size means you can ski for days without repeating a run. When hunger strikes mid-mountain, head to The 10th at Mid-Vail for modern alpine cuisine with stunning Gore Range views—just be sure to book ahead.
2. Aspen Snowmass, Colorado — four mountains, one ticket
Four distinct mountains under one lift ticket? That’s the magic of Aspen Snowmass. Snowmass caters to families with wide-open terrain and gentle learning zones, while Aspen Highlands draws experts to the legendary Highland Bowl, a hike-to paradise for those seeking serious bragging rights. Ajax and Buttermilk round out the quartet, each bringing unique character to your ski week.
Beyond the slopes, Aspen’s cultural scene rivals any major city, with world-class dining, galleries, and events year-round. On-mountain, you won’t go hungry either. Check out Alpin Room, Sam’s, or Elk Camp on Snowmass for solid refueling spots. The variety here means every family member finds their perfect run and favorite mountain.
3. Telluride, Colorado — dramatic scenery and hike-to steeps
Telluride sits in a box canyon so stunning it almost distracts you from the skiing—almost. Once you strap in, the real show begins. In-bounds hike-to terrain like Palmyra Peak and Black Iron Bowl offers genuine big-mountain lines without needing a helicopter or backcountry permit. These zones separate casual visitors from committed skiers willing to earn their turns.
The town itself blends Old West charm with modern mountain luxury, creating an atmosphere unlike anywhere else. After conquering those steep chutes, treat yourself to lunch at Alpino Vino, North America’s highest-elevation restaurant. Accessible only by gondola, it serves up gourmet fare and special evening experiences. Telluride rewards those who seek both adventure and refinement in equal measure.
4. Jackson Hole, Wyoming — legends, tram laps & couloirs
Jackson Hole doesn’t just talk the talk—it walks the walk when it comes to serious skiing. With the Tetons as a backdrop, this resort delivers massive vertical and terrain that has humbled many confident skiers. Recent efforts to manage daily mountain capacity mean you get more quality runs without battling endless lift lines, refining what was already an exceptional experience.
The iconic tram whisks riders to the summit, where couloirs and steep faces await those brave enough. Even strong intermediates find plenty of challenges here, though beginners might want to spend extra time at the base. Refuel at Piste Mountain Bistro, perched atop the Bridger Gondola with panoramic views. Jackson Hole remains the ultimate proving ground for skiers ready to test their limits.
5. Big Sky, Montana — huge, high, and modernized
Big Sky just keeps getting better. A decade-long transformation culminated in the spectacular new Lone Peak Tram, crowning a resort that already boasted some of the country’s most spacious, least-crowded terrain. The numbers tell part of the story—massive acreage spread across multiple peaks—but the real magic is how uncrowded it feels even during peak weeks.
High-alpine bowls, tree skiing, and groomers all coexist here, giving every ability level room to roam. The modernization efforts have polished the infrastructure without sacrificing that Montana laid-back vibe. When you’re ready for something special, book a table at Everett’s 8800, the mountaintop tasting-menu experience that runs December through April. Big Sky delivers big experiences with surprisingly few lift-line hassles.
6. Park City Mountain, Utah — the largest lift-served ski area in the U.S.
Size matters, and Park City Mountain claims the crown as America’s largest lift-served ski area. Over 7,300 acres stretch across two base areas, connected by lifts that let you explore varied terrain all day long. The proximity to Salt Lake City—just a quick drive up the canyon—makes it incredibly accessible for weekend warriors and week-long visitors alike.
From gentle learning slopes to challenging steeps, the mountain handles every skill level with ease. Families appreciate the abundance of options that keep everyone happy. Mid-mountain, stop by the historic Mid-Mountain Lodge, an 1896 miners’ boarding house turned charming slopeside restaurant. Park City’s combination of size, variety, and convenience explains why it remains one of Utah’s most popular destinations season after season.
7. Deer Valley, Utah — skier-only, service-forward (and bigger than ever)
Deer Valley has built its reputation on impeccable grooming and white-glove service, and the 2025–26 season marks a historic milestone. A major terrain and lift expansion debuts, including the East Village Express gondola, adding significant acreage and opening new zones to explore. The skier-only policy keeps things smooth and controlled, exactly how regulars prefer it.
Expect valet parking, gourmet on-mountain dining, and grooming so perfect you’ll think the corduroy was painted on. This isn’t the place for rough-and-tumble powder hounds—it’s where families and those who appreciate refinement come to ski in style. Sample the resort’s polished lodges, and watch for new dining options opening with the East Village expansion. Deer Valley continues raising the bar for what a luxury ski experience should feel like.
8. Alta, Utah — powder purist’s paradise (skier-only)
Alta guards its traditions fiercely, maintaining its skier-only policy for 88 years and counting. Purists love it for exactly that reason—plus the legendary Little Cottonwood Canyon powder that piles up deep and stays light. Steep shots pepper the mountain, from mellow cruisers to expert-only zones that demand respect and skill.
The vibe here is old-school skiing, focused on the mountain rather than glitzy amenities. Locals and die-hard visitors return year after year, drawn by consistent snowfall and terrain that never gets old. When you need a break, head to Collins Grill for elevated European-style bistro fare, open for lunch Wednesday through Sunday during the season. Alta proves that sometimes sticking to your roots creates something truly special and timeless.
9. Snowbird, Utah — tram laps, big snow, big vert
Snowbird earns its hardcore reputation honestly. Consistent snowfall dumps on this Little Cottonwood Canyon resort, and the terrain takes full advantage of every flake. The iconic tram hauls riders up for big vertical drops, while the resort continues investing in improvements—including a brand-new mid-mountain restaurant debuting for the 2025–26 season.
Unlike neighbor Alta, Snowbird welcomes both skiers and snowboarders, creating a more diverse mountain culture. The steeps here aren’t for the faint of heart, though intermediates find plenty of terrain to progress their skills. After a hard morning of laps, head to The Aerie on the top floor of Cliff Lodge for modern alpine cuisine paired with stunning views. Snowbird delivers that raw mountain experience Utah’s Wasatch Range is famous for.
10. Palisades Tahoe, California — Olympic heritage meets modern connectivity
Olympic glory still echoes through Palisades Tahoe, host of the 1960 Winter Games. The game-changing Base-to-Base Gondola now seamlessly connects Palisades and Alpine sides, letting you explore both mountains without the old hassle of driving between bases. Continued investments in snowmaking and guest amenities for 2025–26 keep this Tahoe icon competitive and comfortable.
Expert terrain abounds, from the legendary KT-22 to steep chutes and cliffy zones that demand technical skills. But intermediates also find plenty of cruising terrain, especially on the Alpine side. The village buzzes with energy both on and off the mountain. Stop by Rocker, a village staple that celebrates the resort’s rich ski culture with good food and better stories. Palisades Tahoe honors its past while constantly evolving.
11. Mammoth Mountain, California — high-alpine laps and long seasons
Mammoth lives up to its name in multiple ways—massive terrain, big snowfall, and impressively long seasons that often stretch into May or even June. The high-alpine setting means reliable snow coverage when other resorts are already closing, giving you extra weeks to chase turns. Mid-mountain refuel options keep you energized for those marathon ski days.
The volcanic landscape creates unique terrain features you won’t find elsewhere, with everything from wide-open bowls to tight tree runs. Families and experts alike find their happy place somewhere on this sprawling mountain. When you’re ready to kick back, head to The Mill at the base of Chair 2, a barbecue and après favorite that perfectly captures the California ski vibe. Mammoth delivers quantity and quality in equal measure.
12. Steamboat, Colorado — Champagne Powder® with a modern lift network
Steamboat’s famous Champagne Powder trademark isn’t just marketing hype—the dry, light snow really does feel different here. Recent major upgrades, including the Wild Blue Gondola running top-to-bottom and the Mahogany Ridge expansion adding hundreds of advanced and expert acres, have elevated Steamboat into Colorado’s heavyweight league. The modern lift network efficiently spreads skiers across the expanded terrain.
Tree skiing through aspen glades ranks among the best in Colorado, while groomers satisfy cruisers of all levels. The Western town atmosphere at the base adds authentic charm without feeling touristy. Refuel at Hazie’s in Thunderhead Lodge, where alpine dining comes with sweeping valley views. Steamboat successfully blends old-school Colorado ski culture with modern infrastructure and terrain expansion.
13. Stowe, Vermont — the East’s classic big-mountain feel
Mount Mansfield towers over Stowe, delivering 2,360 feet of vertical that puts most Eastern resorts to shame. Classic New England fall-line trails plunge straight down the mountain, rewarding strong skiers with sustained pitches and genuine challenges. The lively base village scene blends Vermont charm with enough dining and nightlife to keep things interesting after the lifts close.
Stowe captures that authentic East Coast ski experience—icy mornings that soften by afternoon, tight tree lines, and a community that takes winter seriously. When conditions align, the skiing rivals anywhere in the country. Ride the gondola to Cliff House for lunch with floor-to-ceiling mountain views. Stowe represents everything great about Eastern skiing, from the terrain to the town to the tight-knit mountain culture that welcomes visitors warmly.
14. Killington, Vermont — long seasons at the “Beast of the East”
Killington earned its “Beast of the East” nickname through sheer size and determination. Big acreage for an Eastern resort means more variety than most competitors, while aggressive snowmaking typically delivers one of the nation’s longest ski seasons. First chair in October and last runs in May? That happens here more often than anywhere else in the East.
Six mountain areas connected by lifts give you plenty of terrain to explore, from gentle learning zones to legitimate expert challenges. The extended season means you can plan trips with confidence, knowing Killington will be open and operating. Check out Peak Lodge at the summit for made-to-order food—just verify daily operations on the mountain schedule before heading up. Killington’s commitment to maximizing your ski season sets it apart from the competition.
15. Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico — soulful steeps with Euro flair
Taos stands alone in American skiing, blending technical terrain with Southwestern soul and a surprising European influence. The steeps here demand respect—this isn’t a mountain for casual intermediates looking to cruise. Progressive terrain management opens up challenging zones while maintaining safety, and the unique cultural blend on and off the hill creates an atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else.
German heritage runs through the resort’s DNA, evident in everything from architecture to dining choices. The skiing focuses on substance over flash, attracting those who prioritize the mountain experience above luxury amenities. Grab authentic German alpine fare at The Bavarian, conveniently ski-in/ski-out at the foot of Lift 4. Taos rewards adventurous skiers willing to explore beyond the usual Colorado and Utah destinations with something genuinely different and memorable.
