Skiing in the United States offers something for everyone — from steep expert terrain in the Rockies to scenic glades in New England. Whether you’re chasing deep powder, long groomers, or just the perfect après-ski scene, America’s top ski resorts offer it all. Below is a detailed list of 20 top-rated ski resorts in the U.S., along with lodging recommendations for each destination.
1. Vail, Colorado
Why It’s Great:
Vail is one of the largest and most popular ski resorts in North America. Known for its wide-open bowls, meticulously groomed runs, and upscale village, it’s a skier’s paradise. Vail offers over 5,000 acres of terrain with something for every ability level.
Where to Stay:
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Sonnenalp Hotel – An elegant, alpine-inspired luxury hotel located in Vail Village with ski valet services and top-tier dining.
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Hotel Talisa (now Grand Hyatt Vail) – Offers slope-side access and its own lift, with ski-in/ski-out convenience and modern luxury.
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The Sebastian – Vail – A boutique hotel with a cozy mountain vibe and proximity to lifts.
2. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Why It’s Great:
Jackson Hole is legendary among expert skiers. With steep terrain, deep powder, and iconic runs like Corbet’s Couloir, it’s an adrenaline lover’s dream. But it also offers groomers and beginner-friendly areas for a well-rounded experience.
Where to Stay:
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Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole – Slope-side luxury in Teton Village, complete with ski concierge and fine dining.
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Alpenhof Lodge – A charming, European-style lodge near the base of the mountain.
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Hotel Terra – Eco-luxury hotel offering contemporary amenities right by the lifts.
3. Aspen/Snowmass, Colorado
Why It’s Great:
Aspen Snowmass is actually four ski mountains: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass. Each has a distinct feel, with everything from family-friendly groomers to hardcore steeps.
Where to Stay:
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The Little Nell – The only ski-in/ski-out hotel in Aspen proper, with five-star service and unbeatable access.
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Viceroy Snowmass – Luxury accommodations right at the base of Snowmass.
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The Gant – A condo-style resort with hotel services in downtown Aspen.
4. Telluride, Colorado
Why It’s Great:
Telluride combines jaw-dropping scenery with world-class skiing. It’s less crowded than Vail or Aspen, but just as luxurious. The terrain is varied, offering long cruisers and serious expert chutes.
Where to Stay:
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Madeline Hotel & Residences – A modern luxury hotel in Mountain Village with ski-in/ski-out access.
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The Peaks Resort & Spa – Offers stunning mountain views and top-notch wellness facilities.
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Hotel Telluride – A boutique hotel closer to the historic downtown area.
5. Deer Valley, Utah
Why It’s Great:
Deer Valley is known for its impeccable grooming, top-tier guest services, and luxurious experience. Skiers love its uncrowded slopes — no snowboarding is allowed here, preserving a specific ski-only atmosphere.
Where to Stay:
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Stein Eriksen Lodge – One of the premier ski hotels in the country, offering true slope-side luxury.
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Montage Deer Valley – Nestled high up on the mountain with a ski-in/ski-out location and all-inclusive amenities.
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The Chateaux Deer Valley – A warm, inviting lodge just steps from the lifts.
6. Breckenridge, Colorado
Why It’s Great:
Breckenridge combines one of the largest skiable areas in Colorado with a historic mining town full of charm. The resort has great beginner terrain, epic high-alpine bowls, and a thriving nightlife scene.
Where to Stay:
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One Ski Hill Place – Luxury condo accommodations at the base of Peak 8.
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Gravity Haus Breck – A boutique hotel with an emphasis on fitness and outdoor adventure.
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The Village at Breckenridge – Ski-in/ski-out convenience with family-friendly amenities.
7. Big Sky, Montana
Why It’s Great:
With over 5,800 acres of terrain, Big Sky is one of the largest resorts in the U.S. It offers uncrowded slopes, big vertical drops, and excellent snow quality. Great for intermediate and advanced skiers looking for wide-open terrain.
Where to Stay:
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Montage Big Sky – One of the finest luxury resorts in the Rockies, offering ski-in/ski-out access and top-tier service.
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Summit Hotel – Centrally located in the Mountain Village with ski-in/ski-out access.
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Huntley Lodge – A comfortable mid-range option with rustic mountain vibes.
8. Sun Valley, Idaho
Why It’s Great:
Sun Valley is the original American destination ski resort, combining refined tradition with modern amenities. It’s known for its high-speed lifts, well-maintained slopes, and scenic ambiance.
Where to Stay:
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Sun Valley Lodge – Historic, classy, and renovated with luxury in mind.
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Knob Hill Inn – A boutique hotel with European flair and a short drive from the slopes.
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Limelight Hotel Ketchum – A modern and trendy base near downtown.
9. Snowbird, Utah
Why It’s Great:
Snowbird is one of the snowiest places in the U.S., with steep terrain and big vertical. Ideal for advanced skiers and powder hounds. It’s also one of the closest major resorts to a major airport (Salt Lake City).
Where to Stay:
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The Cliff Lodge – The main hotel at Snowbird, offering ski-in/ski-out access, a spa, and rooftop hot tubs.
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Lodge at Snowbird – A comfortable, rustic lodge with easy access to lifts.
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Iron Blosam Lodge – Timeshare-style condo accommodations perfect for groups.
10. Alta, Utah
Why It’s Great:
Alta is a skier’s mountain — no frills, no snowboarding, and all about deep powder and technical lines. It’s a favorite among purists and traditionalists.
Where to Stay:
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Alta Lodge – Classic ski-in/ski-out lodge with communal meals and a tight-knit vibe.
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Rustler Lodge – Offers fine dining and on-mountain access.
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Goldminer’s Daughter Lodge – Right at the base, offering ski lockers and hearty meals.
11. Keystone, Colorado
Why It’s Great:
Keystone is one of the most family-friendly ski resorts in Colorado. It offers night skiing, terrain parks, and a wide range of slopes for all abilities.
Where to Stay:
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Hyatt Place Keystone – Centrally located with shuttle access to lifts.
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River Run Condominiums – Great for families and groups, within walking distance of the gondola.
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Keystone Lodge & Spa – Offers beautiful lake views and a full-service spa.
12. Heavenly Mountain Resort, California/Nevada
Why It’s Great:
Heavenly straddles the California–Nevada state line and offers unbeatable views of Lake Tahoe. The terrain is diverse, with tree runs, open bowls, and steep chutes.
Where to Stay:
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The Landing Resort & Spa – A luxury lakeside hotel near the gondola.
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Heavenly Village Condos – Centrally located with walkable access to shops and lifts.
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Hotel Azure – A comfortable, modern hotel in South Lake Tahoe.
13. Palisades Tahoe (formerly Squaw Valley), California
Why It’s Great:
Site of the 1960 Winter Olympics, Palisades Tahoe is famous for its steep terrain, deep powder, and vibrant ski culture. Combined with Alpine Meadows, it’s now one of the largest resorts in California.
Where to Stay:
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The Village at Palisades Tahoe – Steps from the lifts with restaurants and shops below.
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Resort at Squaw Creek – A true ski-in/ski-out luxury experience.
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Basecamp Tahoe City – A fun and funky boutique hotel.
14. Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico
Why It’s Great:
Taos offers a unique blend of Southwestern culture and big-mountain skiing. The resort has challenging terrain and an artsy, off-the-beaten-path vibe.
Where to Stay:
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The Blake at Taos Ski Valley – A luxury lodge inspired by local culture with ski-in/ski-out access.
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Edelweiss Lodge & Spa – Cozy and convenient accommodations at the base.
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Hotel St. Bernard – A long-standing favorite for families and groups.
15. Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Why It’s Great:
Steamboat is famous for its “champagne powder” snow and genuine cowboy town vibe. The tree skiing here is some of the best in the country.
Where to Stay:
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The Steamboat Grand – A full-service resort right near the base.
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Sheraton Steamboat Resort Villas – Ski-in/ski-out accommodations with resort-style perks.
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Holiday Inn Steamboat Springs – A solid, affordable option with shuttle access.
16. Park City Mountain Resort, Utah
Why It’s Great:
The largest ski resort in the U.S., Park City offers everything from beginner slopes to massive bowls and terrain parks. Plus, the historic town of Park City is packed with restaurants, bars, and shopping.
Where to Stay:
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Waldorf Astoria Park City – An elegant, luxury hotel near the Canyons Village side.
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Marriott’s MountainSide – Ski-in/ski-out and family-friendly.
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Main & Sky – A boutique hotel in the heart of town.
17. Beaver Creek, Colorado
Why It’s Great:
Beaver Creek offers a luxury ski experience with impeccably groomed runs, complimentary cookies at the base, and high-end service. Great for both families and couples.
Where to Stay:
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The Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch – Ski-in/ski-out luxury with private lift access.
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Park Hyatt Beaver Creek – Slope-side elegance with a spa and outdoor pool.
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The Osprey – One of the closest hotels to a lift in North America.
18. Killington, Vermont
Why It’s Great:
Killington is the largest ski resort in the eastern U.S. and offers a long season thanks to robust snowmaking. It’s a favorite among East Coast skiers for its terrain variety and nightlife.
Where to Stay:
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Killington Grand Resort Hotel – On-mountain lodging with pools and dining.
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The Mountain Inn – Boutique charm with slope shuttle access.
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Killington Mountain Lodge – Comfortable rooms and après-ski atmosphere.
19. Stowe Mountain Resort, Vermont
Why It’s Great:
Stowe combines traditional New England charm with excellent skiing. The terrain is challenging and scenic, and the nearby village is filled with cozy inns and restaurants.
Where to Stay:
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The Lodge at Spruce Peak – Slope-side luxury right at the base.
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Topnotch Resort – A high-end resort with spa and mountain views.
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Green Mountain Inn – Historic lodging in downtown Stowe.
20. Whitefish Mountain Resort, Montana
Why It’s Great:
Whitefish is a quieter, less commercialized resort with big terrain, great snow, and spectacular views of Glacier National Park. A hidden gem for those looking for authenticity and solitude.
Where to Stay:
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Lodge at Whitefish Lake – A beautiful lakeside resort with luxury touches.
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Firebrand Hotel – A modern hotel in the heart of Whitefish town.
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Kandahar Lodge – A European-style lodge near the lifts.
Whether you’re planning a romantic ski getaway, a family vacation, or a hardcore powder-chasing expedition, the U.S. has a resort that’s right for you. From the luxury slopes of Aspen and Deer Valley to the steep drops of Jackson Hole and Snowbird, the mountains are calling. Pairing a world-class resort with the right hotel can turn a good ski trip into an unforgettable one.