10 Best Ski Resorts in the U.S. and Canada, According to Experts

Explore Whistler Blackcomb Now

Whistler Blackcomb — named for two side-by-side mountains located in Canada’s westernmost province, “Beautiful British Columbia” — is a multi-award-winning destination revered by skiers from all over the world.

The largest ski resort in North America, thanks to its unique location in the Pacific Coast Mountain Range, it boasts features that are hard to find anywhere else: almost 8,200 acres of skiable terrain (including an expansive backcountry), three glaciers and heli-skiing for expert downhillers who crave extreme thrills, as well as great snowfall and moderate temperatures. It also enjoys North America's second largest vertical drop, after nearby Revelstoke in British Columbia’s interior.

Note that conditions can be unpredictable at the very beginning and the end of the season, with a high potential for rain or unusually warm weather further down the mountain. The other standout at Whistler Blackcomb is the picturesque European-style village at the base of Whistler Mountain. You can finish your ski day, take off your gear and walk right into any number of pubs, restaurants or shops. “I love the vibrant après ski scene complete with firepits and DJs right at the base of the mountain,” one GH tester said. “Use the Peak 2 Peak Gondola to travel between the two mountains. It offers truly memorable views that aren’t to be missed.”

Getting there: Fly into Vancouver International Airport (YVR). From there, it’s about a two-hour drive on the Sea-to-Sky Highway. If renting a car, make sure you get one with the appropriate snow tires; otherwise the highway patrol could turn you away.

Where to stay: Consider the Fairmont Chateau Whistler for grand, chalet-style luxury at the base of Blackcomb. To be in the main village stroll, Aava offers great rates.

Basic snapshot:

• 200+ trails (20% beginner, 50% intermediate, 30% advanced)
• One-day lift tickets from $173 when you buy ahead online
• Part of Epic Pass network
• Ski season ends in late April or early May

Explore Jackson Hole Now

Spread over two mountains, Après Vous and Rendezvous, Jackson Hole is known for great powder, challenging terrain and sparse crowds — all things avid skiers dream about. The resort offers 2,500 on-property skiable acres as well as an expansive backcountry that opens up an additional 3,000 acres, so there’s no shortage of terrain to cover.

With only 10% of the resort aimed at beginners, Jackson Hole might not be the best choice for first-timers, though maybe that’s exactly why it’s a destination of choice for experienced longtime ski buffs. “Make sure you take the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram up to Corbet’s Cabin for warm mountainside waffles,” recommends one GH tester.

Our sustainability experts also noted that the resort runs its buildings, lifts and snowmaking operations on 100% wind energy, a plus for any visitor concerned about their environmental impact. Head to nearby Teton Village for shopping and dining options along with non-downhill winter fun like cross-country skiing, dogsledding and ice-skating, or book a visit to Yellowstone National Park. Tip: Lift tickets can sell out, so be sure to book well in advance to secure your dates and the best prices.

Getting there: If you live near New York City, Chicago, Los Angeles, Seattle, Denver, Houston, Dallas, Miami or the other several cities from which you can fly nonstop into Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), you’ll be rewarded with a less-than-an-hour drive to the resort. Alternatively, you can fly into Salt Lake City International Airport, but then you have a five-hour drive ahead of you.

Where to stay: You’ll get deluxe accommodations near the mountain at Teton Mountain Lodge and Spa. For a nicer price, check out The Lodge at Jackson Hole, which is about 30 minutes away and offers a free shuttle in addition to an hourly town shuttle.

Basic snapshot:

• 131 trails (10% beginner, 40% intermediate, 50% advanced/expert)
• One-day lift tickets from $203 when you buy ahead online
• Part of Ikon Pass and Mountain Collective networks (reservations required)
• Ski season ends in mid-April

Explore Vail Now

Vail offers almost everything anyone could want when choosing a ski destination — abundant snow, a plethora of varied terrain and an amazing slope-side town. But because it is the largest ski resort in Colorado (and the second largest in North America after Whistler Blackcomb), the sheer magnitude of it can be intimidating, especially for first-time visitors.

“I highly recommend getting familiar with the map before you arrive,” said our tester. “It’s the best way to avoid headaches and not miss anything.” Vail also offers complimentary mountain tours to help you learn about the mountain and find the best runs for your comfort level.

When hitting the mountain, you can usually avoid long wait times if you steer clear of Mid-Vail at peak times. Getting around is easy thanks to the exceptional lift network. And you can’t beat the 300+ days of blue skies or the exceptional grooming operations: Each night, groomers tackle the equivalent of 1,288 American football fields! But this place really is a winter wonderland, so give yourself time to hang out in the village (day and night!) and try other activities like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice-skating and snow tubing.

Getting there: Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) is only about 35 minutes from Vail by car. Flight options into and out of this airport are limited and often require a connection. For better nonstop direct flight options, consider Denver International Airport (DEN) and arrange a shuttle service to drive you the two hours to Vail.

Where to stay: The Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail puts you smack in the heart of the village and steps from the mountain. “It’s a magical place, with rooms that are equal parts stunning and luxurious and warm and cozy," noted GH's tester. "We also loved the Four Seasons ski lounge at the base of Gondola One that’s for hotel guests only.”

Basic snapshot:

• 195 trails (18% beginner, 29% intermediate, 53% advanced)
• One-day lift tickets from $229 when you buy ahead online
• Part of Epic Pass network
• Ski season ends mid-April

Explore Alta Now

Alta is very up front about its mission “to provide authentic skiing experiences in a natural mountain environment.” And it shows in the area’s sustainable approach to expansion and operations. There’s no bustling village with rows of designer shops or Michelin-rated restaurants, no snowboarders (it’s a skiers-only mountain), no night skiing and no gondola up the mountain (only high-speed chairlifts, at least for now).

But none of this matters, because any hardcore skier will tell you Alta is a dream to visit. “It’s big and challenging, with incredible terrain and the deepest powder I’ve ever seen,” said one of our testers who has skied all over the U.S. for more than 40 years. “Yet — and this is the best part — it maintains that unmistakable vintage vibe that’s made it a favorite of mine since the ’70s.”

What you will find is more snow than you’ve ever seen — annual snowfall averages in the 550-inch range (last season there was a record 903 inches). Add to that natural scenery that takes your breath away. “Driving through, Little Cottonwood Canyon boasted some of the most magnificent sunsets I’ve ever seen in my life,” said another tester. “Just don't expect anything too fancy. People here are looking to do one thing, ski really well or go pro.” You can also try snowshoeing, do a winter birding tour or head into nearby Salt Lake City for some nightlife.

Getting there: Fly into Salt Lake City International Airport; then it’s about a 45-minute drive to Alta Ski Area by car or shuttle service. If you’re driving a rental car or your own car, state law requires that you carry chains or have snow tires on your vehicle in Little Cottonwood Canyon during winter.

Where to stay: With limited options, be prepared to spend more than you might expect on accommodations. The newly opened Rustler Lodge sits at the base of the mountain and offers award-winning accommodations and dining, plus top-notch amenities.

Basic snapshot:

• 119 trails (15% beginner, 30% intermediate, 55% advanced)
• One-day lift tickets from $164 when you buy ahead online
• Part of Ikon Pass and Mountain Collective networks
• Ski season ends mid-to-late April
  

Explore Steamboat Now

Located in the northwest corner of Colorado, Steamboat is a unique ski resort in the state thanks to its rich history as a ranching town. Even now, genuine Western hospitality — and tangible cowboy energy — is everywhere. Walking down Main Street feels like taking a trip back in time, from the food and the atmosphere to the decor and the fashion.

When it comes to actual skiing, people love Steamboat for the expanse of the mountain, the purity of the snow, well-lit night trails and the low-key yet vibrant après ski scene. “The snow is incredible — that champagne powder is real!,” raved one GH tester. “The whole resort doesn’t feel like a cookie-cutter corporate venture, which is refreshing.” Beyond that, everyone will enjoy other one-of-a-kind draws such as soaking in the natural hot springs.

When comparing Steamboat to other ski resorts, the biggest factor that might affect your choice could be airline schedules. “Steamboat is super-easy to get to if you live near an airport that flies to Yampa,” says one of our testers. “But if flying to Denver is your only option, it’s just safer to choose something with a shorter drive.”

And while the long distance from an international airport doesn't make it the most ideal pick for families, GH tester Jennifer Nied, a fitness editor at Women’s Health and a snow sports enthusiast, still thinks Steamboat is hard to beat. “Lessons for all ages are excellent and really focus on kids having fun and allowing parents to play as well. There are a lot of ski in/ski out accommodations at a range of prices.”

Getting there: Steamboat offers a complimentary shuttle from Yampa Valley Regional Airport (HDN), which is just a 30-minute drive away. If you fly into Denver International Airport (DEN), expect a four-hour or longer drive in potentially unpredictable weather.

Where to stay: Consider Residence Inn by Marriott for affordable accommodations and collect those Marriott Bonvoy points.

Basic snapshot:

• 183 trails (13% beginner, 44% intermediate, 49% advanced)
• One-day lift tickets from $177 when you buy ahead online
• Part of Ikon Pass and Mountain Collective networks
• Ski season ends mid-April
  

Explore Telluride Ski Resort Now

Telluride Ski Resort hovers over Telluride Mountain Village in the San Juan Mountains of Southwest Colorado, and both lure skiers and outdoor adventure seekers from all over the world with their special charms.

Often described as having the most European-style terrain in the U.S., Telluride offers some of the highest peaks in all of Colorado along with over 2,000 skiable acres (many situated above the tree line), a sweeping backcountry and exhilarating hike-to terrain. It also boasts more than 300 days of sunshine, milder weather, few or no lift lines, and jaw-dropping scenic views of the valley below. No wonder it’s often ranked by skiers as one of their favorite ski resorts in North America.

But like Steamboat, Telluride can be hard to get to if you don’t live in a city serviced by one of two smaller airports nearby. It’s also expensive — and even if you have an Epic Pass, Telluride imposes restrictions other resorts don’t — so plan accordingly. But once you’re there, it’s heavenly and you can easily get around on foot, on skis, by public transportation or even in a horse-drawn sleigh.

Getting there: If you’re flying to the area, try to get a flight to Telluride Regional Airport (TEX), which is a mere 10 minutes away, or Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ), about 90 minutes away. You can grab a shuttle from either one. You can also drive from Denver in about six hours, depending on the weather.

Where to stay: Getting to Telluride is expensive enough, so consider skipping the bougie slope-side hotels and staying in the village, where the locals roam. Hotel Telluride offers good value right in the middle of town.

Basic snapshot:

• 148 trails (23% beginner, 36% intermediate, 41% advanced/expert)
• One-day lift tickets from $215 when you buy ahead online
• Part of the Epic Pass network (with limitations)
• Ski season ends early April

Explore Killington Now

Killington, in central Vermont, is a behemoth for the East Coast thanks to its more than 1,500 skiable acres, seven distinct mountain areas, tall peaks (including Killington Peak, the second-highest point in the state at 4,241 feet) and steep vertical drop. It is also renowned for having the longest ski and snowboard season in the Northeast.

“Skiing Killington is just awesome,” said our GH tester, who rates it as one of his top two resorts in the U.S. (the other being Telluride). “I also love that nightlife options like Wobbly Barn, Pickle Barrel and JAX mean there’s no shortage of bars and restaurants to keep the fun going after hours.” Between runs, we recommend grabbing a seat and a bite at the new K-1 Lodge. Located near the base of the K-1 Express Gondola, it offers a food court, a café and multiple bars over three floors.

Beyond skiing, you can take advantage of scenic gondola rides, free mountain tours, a tubing park and snowmobile adventures. Tip: You must plan ahead to visit Killington. All lift tickets, rentals and lessons must be purchased online. Even on the same day, there are no in-person sales.

Getting there: Killington sits in relatively close proximity to several small airports, including Rutland Regional Airport (RUT), which is just 35 minutes away. You may also consider flying to Burlington International Airport (BTV) followed by a two-hour drive, or Boston’s Logan International Airport (BOS) followed by a three-hour drive. From New York City the drive is about five hours when there’s no traffic.

Where to stay: While you can stay closer to the mountain, the Killington Mountain Lodge, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, offers modern comfort and amenities. If you don’t have a car, plan ahead to catch the free local bus, which passes by hourly.

Basic snapshot:

• 155 trails (17% beginner, 40% intermediate, 43% advanced)
• One-day lift tickets from $119 when you buy ahead online
• Part of the Ikon Pass network
• Ski season ends late May/early June
  

Explore Palisades Tahoe Now

Palisades Tahoe is a mountain playground in Northern California with world-class ski terrain and an Olympic pedigree. (It hosted the 1960 Winter Games.) The resort boasts access to more than 6,000 skiable acres over two mountains (Palisades and Alpine), an average annual snowfall of 400 inches and more than 300 days of sunny blue skies per year, as well as the longest ski season of any resort on this list.

As the largest ski and snow destination in California, Palisades Tahoe strives to keep skiers of all levels happy with a high standard of grooming, even on its notoriously steep trails. Designated learning zones are great for first-timers, who might otherwise be intimidated by the mountain’s reputation for uncompromising expert terrain.

“Be prepared for crowds and more congestion than at some other much-loved resorts,” said our tester. “It’s the price you pay for a convenient location.” If the Palisades mountain gets too busy, you can always take a short shuttle ride to the Alpine area for equally good skiing without the hassle of people everywhere.

Testers also noted the high-energy vibe, the jam-packed events calendar and the great dining, along with shopping and off-mountain activities in the base village.

Getting there: The closest airport is Nevada’s Reno-Tahoe International Airport. From there the resort is about a 45-minute drive. You can also drive from Sacramento, California, in about two hours. Make sure to make a reservation for parking if you come by car; pre-reserved paid parking is mandatory on winter weekends and holidays.

Where to stay: Palisades has a great selection of ski-in/ski-out hotels. We like that the Village at Palisades Tahoe has a full kitchen in almost every room and is steps away from the mountain as well as all the village action.

Basic snapshot:

• 170+ trails (25% beginner, 45% intermediate, 30% advanced)
• One-day lift tickets from $179 when you buy ahead online
• Part of the Ikon Pass network
• Ski season ends in late July
  

Explore Deer Valley Now

Located in the snow mecca of Park City, Utah, Deer Valley is one of the easiest ski resorts to access from a major airport in North America. With a reputation for catering to skiers — and skiers only, as snowboarding is not permitted — it sets a luxurious tone from the minute you arrive.

“Deer Valley is super high-end, with impeccable service and next-level attention to detail. They even limit crowds by capping the number of skiers on the mountain,” said a GH tester. “The après ski at the Stein Eriksen Lodge is simply the best, and the grooming and maintenance of the mountain is outstanding,” he added.

A high ratio of beginner and intermediate terrain make it a great place to learn — and it has an award-winning ski school for kids and adults. But with more than 2,000 skiable acres spread out over six mountains, all types of skiers will find something to love. Tip: Be sure to book everything, from lift tickets to lessons to dining, well in advance, especially at peak times, as everything can — and does! — sell out.

Getting there: Fly into Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), which has nonstop, direct flights from most major cities in the U.S. From there it’s about an hour’s drive to Deer Valley, with a wide variety of transportation options.

Where to stay: Deer Valley is dotted with some of the most exquisite names in high-end hospitality, including Montage, St. Regis and Waldorf-Astoria, and equally luxurious on-mountain accommodations. If paying over $1,500 per night isn’t part of your plan, consider staying at a Marriott property in nearby Park City.

Basic snapshot:

• 103 trails (27% beginner, 41% intermediate, 32% advanced)
• One-day lift tickets from $239 when you buy ahead online
• Part of the Ikon Pass network
• Ski season ends mid-April
  

Explore Lake Louise Now

Consider Lake Louise our “hidden gem” pick, as you won’t find it on most other lists. Located in Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies, it is one we are including because it’s a ski resort that deserves some attention, especially as climate change and lower-than-normal snowfall amounts affect more ski resorts across the northwestern U.S. Plus, the natural scenery there is some of the most breathtaking you’ll ever lay eyes on.

Visitors are greeted by 4,200 acres of skiable terrain over four mountains, an exceptional snowmaking system on top of the natural snowfall and easily accessible terrain for all levels from every lift — along with reliable conditions and sparse crowds. And while it can get cold, that is nothing compared with the frigid temperatures you might find in the Northeast, where you also often have to deal with icy runs.

On non-ski days, consider a snowshoe tour, a sightseeing gondola tour up to the glacier or fun-filled snow tubing. Fuel your adventures with lunch at the on-property Whitehorn Bistro, enjoy the amazing views at the Fairmont Chateau's Lakeview Lounge or treat yourself to Canadian-inspired eats at Lake Louise Railway Station & Restaurant, a dining destination in a vintage train car!

Getting there: Fly into the Calgary International Airport (YYC). From there, the Village of Lake Louise and Lake Louise Ski Resort are about a two-hour drive. Rent a vehicle or hop on one of any number of private shuttle services from the airport.

Where to stay: For a completely luxe experience, stay at the world-famous Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Or reserve more affordable accommodations with great amenities at the nearby Lake Louise Inn, which offers a complimentary shuttle to the ski resort.

Basic snapshot:

• 131+ trails (25% beginner, 45% intermediate, 30% advanced).
• One-day lift tickets from $105 when you buy ahead online
• Ski season ends in early May