America is home to some of the best ski resorts on the planet, and skiing the slopes of its world-famous resorts is a right of passage for any winter sports fan. If you’re wondering where to hit the slopes for your ski holidays 2024 – 2025, then wonder no more. We’ve put together a handy guide to some of the best ski resorts in the USA.
When do ski resorts in the USA open and close?
Many top ski resorts start their season in November, and peak in popularity over the festive period. December usually sees the first big dump of good snow, but crowds and lines are the longest during this month. School breaks are the busiest times of all, so book well in advance if you’re going on a family ski vacation. Many resorts stay open until June or July, depending on weather conditions and snowfall during the winter, so if you’re up for a bit of summer skiing, USA resorts are a good bet.
The best ski resorts in the US by interest
Your ski vacation enjoyment rests on choosing the right resort. The good news is that skiing in America is as varied as the country itself, so there’ll be a resort suited to your needs.
Top ski resorts in the USA for families in 2024 and 2025
Family ski vacations are a fantastic way to get the whole gang out and about in the stunning mountain scenery of America. For kids, skiing builds confidence, fitness, and an appreciation for the wonderful outdoors. For adults, there’s a rare chance to let go of daily worries and enjoy the crisp winter air as they zip down the side of a mountain. The best ski resorts in the USA for families include fantastic facilities for all ages, such as classes, family-friendly evening entertainment, and a variety of daytime activities.
Park City Ski Resort, Utah
Opening date: November, 2024
With the title of the largest ski resort in North America, it’s no wonder that Park City Ski Resort covers all bases for an unforgettable family vacation. Park City ski conditions are very reliable because the slopes are protected from strong sun and wind by the steep mountains. The best time to visit Park City for great snow is in February. The snow is thickest and fluffiest during this time before the spring sun begins to warm the slopes.
There is so much to keep families amused and entertained in Park City. On the slopes, Park City ski schools are a great way to learn the secrets of the slopes. Attendees learn from expert instructors and uncover tips and tricks on technique and safety in the beautiful landscape. Kids’ lessons start from the age of 3, and there are also classes for teens and adults. Park City is a renowned place for snowboarding as well as skiing, so there are classes specializing in both disciplines.
There are many other ways to explore the snow on a Park City family ski vacation. Available activities include snowmobiling and horse-drawn sleighs. Off the mountain, there is so much to do in Park City. Ski shops are available for all your winter sports needs, and there are also fantastic family restaurants.
Aspen Snowmass, Colorado
Opening date: November, 2024
Aspen Snowmass is known as one of the best luxury ski resorts in Colorado and the USA. It’s a fabulous destination for families who want a taste of the high life at a high altitude. Aspen ski resort, known as Snowmass, is a beautiful place to learn. For the best snow and ski conditions, January to March is the time to visit. The resort is home to Aspen Snowmass Ski School, which offers comprehensive ski and snowboard lessons for kids, teens, and adults.
There’s also ski trails and zones specially designed for kids, and the popular family hub, Elk Camp. Elk Camp is the place to be for fun activities and events. On selected evenings, Elk Camp honors the Norse god of snow, Ullr, with an unforgettable party including s’mores around a bonfire, night tubing, and fire dancers.
The best ski resorts in the US for beginners
Big Sky Ski Resort, Montana
Opening date: November, 2024
Arguably the best ski resort in the USA, Big Sky in Montana is home to some of the best ski mountains in the US, but that doesn’t mean that it’s for advanced skiers only. Big Sky ski conditions are predictably snowy, making it a great place to practice your skills on soft powder. April is considered the best month for snowfall at Big Sky. Nightly snow storms deposit soft powder on the slopes to be enjoyed on sunny April. The slopes towards the bottom of the mountains are quiet and uncrowded, even at busier times of the season, which makes Big Sky Ski Resort a fantastic place for beginners to learn without the worry of having lots of people around them.
Big Sky ski lessons are a fantastic way to learn how to enjoy the slopes. There are group lessons available, as well as private lessons which can be booked if you prefer a more personal touch. At Big Sky Montana, skiing is fantastic whether you’re an expert or a novice.
Winter Park, Colorado
Opening date: October, 2024
Winter Park ski resort is one of the best places to ski in the US for beginners. With wide, easy-to-navigate slopes, a dedicated beginner’s area, and practice lifts, the resort is set up for learners to build their confidence. Winter Park ski lessons are top-rated and led by expert skiers and snowboarders. For great snow and slightly warmer temperatures, March until mid-April is the perfect time to visit.
The top ski resorts in the USA for expert skiers
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Opening date: November, 2024
Jackson Hole ski resort is one of the top ski resorts in the US for expert and advanced skiers. Averaging 66.1 inches of snowfall annually, guests can test their mettle on 76 advanced runs. To push yourself harder and further, take part in Jackson Holes’ ski camp; Steep and Deep. This intensive course is for confident ski enthusiasts who will settle for nothing but the best, and toughest instruction on the extraordinary slopes of Jackson Hole.
Vail ski resort, Colorado
Opening date: November, 2024
Vail ski resort is one of the all-around top ski resorts in the US, and it has plenty to offer advanced skiers. One of the biggest ski resorts in the US, Vail ski area has expert runs all over the backside of the mountain. The Vail Back Bowls are a hotspot for advanced skiers keen to experience fresh powder in a challenging, but rewarding terrain. January to February is the best time to visit Vail for great overall snow conditions.
The best ski towns in the US for non-skiers
Sun Valley, Idaho
Opening date: (Thanksgiving) November, 2024
Sun Valley ski resort is, of course, an amazing destination for fans of the white stuff. But this pretty Idaho resort has another ace up its snowy sleeve. It’s also a brilliant vacation place for those who don’t want to spend their time on the slopes. There are so many activities to do in Sun Valley Idaho, skiing needn’t even be on your itinerary! Snowmobile trails through the winter wilderness are an unforgettable way to enjoy the stunning scenery. Snowshoeing gets you even closer to the action. If you prefer somewhere warmer and drier, there are indoor attractions galore in Sun Valley. The resort is well known for its art galleries, which are a fantastic way to beat the chill.
Copper Mountain, Colorado
Estimated opening date: November, 2024
Beautiful Copper Mountain is a brilliant Colorado vacation spot for skiers and non-skiers alike. Copper Mountain ski resort is the main draw for winter sports fans, but there are many activities that aren’t skiing to get your teeth into. If you want to experience the thrill of slipping and sliding your way down a mountain without clipping on a set of skis, you can try Copper Mountain tubing. The dedicated sled run has curves, bumps, and bends to make every run unique and fun. It’ll be a hit for visitors of all ages.
If you’d prefer to stay inside, Copper Mountain is home to fabulous cafes, bars, and restaurants, serving up delicious dishes at any time of day or night. Copper Mountain restaurants cater to every taste, from sandwiches and snacks to fine dining.
Best ski resorts in the USA for apres-ski
Breckenridge, Colorado
Estimated opening date: November, 2024
With over 70 bars and restaurants, Breckenridge Ski Resort is the place to find some of the best apres-ski in the USA. Apres-ski in Breckenridge is a pretty unique experience. Breckenridge is a town, rather than a resort and apre-ski takes inspiration from European ski resorts. Expect classy bars, plenty of music, and lively restaurants in the highest ski town in the USA.
Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico
Estimated opening date: November, 2024
Taos Ski Valley resort is a great place for a more relaxed brand of apres-ski. The town is an easy drive away from the slopes, and visitors can find authentic restaurants, cocktail bars, and craft beers. Apres-ski in Taos also involves some pretty fun activities, from ice skating to bowling, and live music 7 days a week in venues all over town.
The prettiest ski resorts in the USA
Lake Tahoe, California
Opening date: From November, 2024
Lake Tahoe is one of the world’s oldest lakes, and in 20 million years it’s had plenty of time to cement its place as one of the most beautiful places for skiing in California. Lake Tahoe skiing is fantastic, with incredible runs and slopes for all ages, but it’s the awesome views that make it really special. Mountain, lake, and desert views are all within your reach from Lake Tahoe ski resorts. Once you’re finished on the slopes, take a trip around (or on) the lake to get a taste of the beautiful California wilderness.
Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Opening date: November, 2024
If you like your ski vacations with a side order of natural splendor, then Steamboat Springs is the resort for you. Steamboat Springs occupies a particularly beautiful region of Colorado, in the valley of the Yampa River. Famous for its awesome skiing as well as Steamboat Hot Springs, there’s a real variety of landscape and mountain views here. The slopes are not the only thing to explore in the Colorado mountains. Steamboat Springs hiking is also a fantastic way to explore this amazing destination.
Why choose Top Villas for your US ski vacation in 2024/2025?
Top Villas is the place to book your vacation rentals for your ski break in winter 2024/2025. Not only are our luxurious villas a stunning place for your family to spend a vacation, but we also offer a whole host of Travel Extras to make your ski adventure unforgettable. Airport transfers, car hire, equipment hire, as well as assistance organizing ski passes and insurance are all available.* Contact our awesome Guest Experience team or visit our Help Center for more information.
*The booking of Travel Extras depends upon availability and individual property allowances. See vacation home listings for more details.
