The most wonderful time of the year is coming up! Ski and snowboard season will come faster than you can think, and it’s time to start planning a vacation the whole family will love. Across the country, there are resorts with great lodging, incredible slopes, and the best experience waiting for you. If you’re having trouble choosing a place to ski, not to worry — AllTheRooms has got you set for the season with our list of the best ski and snowboarding resorts for your trip.
Vail, Colorado
The most popular ski resort in the United States, Vail, Colorado is the first choice for many avid skiers and snowboarders. Vail Mountain Resort, located in the town of Vail, opened their doors in the 1960s to provide skiers and snowboarders, locals and tourists alike, with an incredible, unique ski and snowboard experience. Today, the resort boasts an extensive 5,289 skiable acres, making it one of the largest ski areas in the entire world. Check out the Northeast Bowl for slopes for all levels and the longest schedule to enjoy the slopes earlier in the morning and later in the evening than all the rest, while Golden Peak houses Vail’s ski school for the beginners of all ages.
Mammoth, California
California’s favorite, Mammoth is an annual trek for a lot of Californians. Mammoth Mountain Resort, in Mammoth Lakes, CA, offers skiers and snowboarders dozens of trails ranging from beginner level to expert level. Plus with terrain parks, kid zones, and adventure zones all around the mountains, you’ll never run out of fun. The resort also has a lodge, so you don’t have to travel far to drop off your ski bags at the end of the day. Mammoth Mountain is fun all year round, from skiing in the winter months, to all the hiking and biking in the warm California summer months.
Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada
Blue waters, beautiful views, fresh powder, what more could you want? Lake Tahoe is full of amazing ski and snowboard resorts. Check out Sierra at Tahoe, on the California side of the lake, for affordable lift tickets and incredible slopes. Sugar Bowl Resort, also on the California side, provides skiers and snowboarders with easy access from some of California’s bigger cities like San Francisco and Oakland, as well as the highest amount of snowfall in the Tahoe region. Don’t forget to check out Kirkwood while you’re in the area! The resort is full of high vertical drops, adventure parks, and great terrain for the whole family to enjoy.
Whistler, Canada
O Canada! We love Whistler. This famous resort is known for moguls, forest runs, glacier slopes, and more at all levels. Whistler Blackcomb has something for every skier and snowboarder but has a larger percentage of intermediate runs — about 55%. If you’re up to test your skills, try out the free, public race course that will measure your ski time for you. Whistler Blackcomb is the largest ski and snowboard resort in all of North America, so what are you waiting for? Pack your boot bags and book your ticket already!
Aspen, Colorado
World class skiing and snowboarding as well as a town for high-end restaurants and galleries — this is Aspen. Aspen Snowmass Ski Area is one of the most famous ski resorts in the United States, and for good reason. Aside from slopes fit for everyone from the earliest beginners to the most experienced experts, Aspen Snowmass’s mountain areas, which include Snowmass, Aspen Highlands, Aspen Mountain, and Buttermilk, are full of unique activities. Take in the views with a snowmobile tour of the mountains or a nature tour of the area. Thrill seeker? Try out the all-new Alpine Coaster. Enjoy dinner on the mountaintop in a snowcat, go tubing down the mountains, or enjoy the resort’s night activities.
Park City, Utah
You better get ready for Utah. Park City Mountain is the resort of your dreams. With over 7,000 skiable acres, Park City has something for everyone. The ski school provides lessons for anyone to get started, while the terrain parks are a great way to try out new skills on the half-pipes and ski jumps. Park City’s lodge is perfect for you to relax and warm up at the end of your long days on the mountains. Check out their rooms, as well as the spa, restaurants, bars, and shopping available at your fingertips.
Big Bear, California
Southern California’s most accessible skiing and snowboarding destination is ready for your visit. Check out Big Bear Mountain, located in Big Bear Lake, California. Family-friendly Snow Summit is perfect for beginners and intermediate level skiers, with easy slopes and 18 miles to ski down. Check out Bear Mountain for the adventure of the terrain parks or the lessons at the ski schools. Plus with tubing, guided tours, and a full events calendar in the winter months, there is so much to be seen and done at Big Bear Mountain.