12 Best Ski Resorts in the USA
If your perfect winter day swings from face shots to hot-tub steam—with a detour for gooey nachos—you’re in the right place. America’s ski map is gloriously varied: tram laps in the Tetons, high-alpine bowls in Montana, Sierra bluebirds, and New England forests where the trees feel like old friends. Consider this your invite to chase first chair across the best ski resorts in the USA without overthinking the plan.
And because you asked for the good stuff, we’ve narrowed it to 12 resorts that deliver the whole arc, including big-mountain thrills, confidence-building cruisers, and stays that make mornings frictionless. Last season drew 61.5 million visits (the second-best on record), and for good reason. From Park City’s ~7,300 acres to soulful, steeper corners of the map, these picks keep you moving (and grinning) till last call at the hot tub.
Jackson Hole (Wyoming, USA)
Why go
A bona fide big-mountain icon: 4,139 feet of continuous vert, the 100-passenger Aerial Tram (“Big Red”) to 10,450 ft, and terrain that ranges from long groomers to legendary steeps (hello, Corbet’s). Consistent Tetons snowfall and a compact base village make it a bucket-list destination for strong skiers and mixed-ability groups alike.
The ski area in numbers
~2,500 acres on Rendezvous & Après Vous; 4,139 ft vertical; base 6,311 ft, summit 10,450 ft; 131 named trails (10% beginner / 40% intermediate / 50% expert); Aerial Tram + 2 gondolas + 10 chairlifts + 3 surface lifts (2 carpets + 1 handle tow). Average seasonal snowfall ~458".
Getting there
Fly into Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) inside Grand Teton National Park. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is roughly a 20–35 minute drive to Teton Village depending on conditions. There’s also a START Bus route between the Town of Jackson and Teton Village for car-free access.
Best time to go
For storm chasing and cold snow, target late December–mid-February. By Christmas the mountain is usually close to 100% open, and meaningful storms continue into spring. March often brings more bluebird days but sun on east-facing aspects can firm up surfaces between cycles.
Where to stay:
- Teton Mountain Lodge and Spa, a Noble House Resort (Teton Village) — Upscale alpine lodge a short walk from the Aerial Tram and base lifts, pairing a warm mountain aesthetic with big-resort amenities. The three-story SpaTerre is a true wellness playground, including indoor and outdoor pools, multiple hot tubs (including a scenic rooftop), a fitness center, and treatments inspired by the Tetons, so you can recover properly after tram laps. On-site Spur Restaurant & Bar keeps evenings easy, and the base-area location means painless starts for lessons and first chair. Being at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort also puts you a quick hop from village dining and the shuttle network for car-free days.
- The Hostel (Teton Village) — The valley’s best value play right at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, offering private rooms with en-suite bathrooms and a laid-back, slopeside vibe. In winter, this hotel with ski-to-door access offers true ski-in/ski-out convenience (depending on snow and lift operations) and the property’s game room and common areas make it easy to swap beta with other skiers after a storm day. It operates more like a no-frills hotel than a traditional backpacker hostel, offering fast Wi-Fi, practical storage, and an unbeatable location that puts you a quick stroll from lifts, après spots, and village buses, all at wallet-friendly rates for Teton Village.
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Big Sky (Montana, USA)
Why go
One of the best ski resorts in the USA, as well as one of North America’s heavyweights for sheer scale and lift tech. Big Sky pairs 5,850 acres with the new Lone Peak Tram, Madison 8 and Ramcharger 8 (heated seats, bubbles, and huge uphill capacity) so you can range from wide-open bowls to steep, high-alpine routes off Lone Peak without feeling crowded.
The ski area in numbers
5,850 acres; 4,350 ft vertical (11,166 ft summit / 7,500 ft base); ~400" average snowfall; 40 lifts including 1 tram; 320 named runs with a broad ability split (from beginner to extreme).
Getting there
Fly into Bozeman Yellowstone International (BZN), then it’s about 50 miles / ~1 hour by car or pre-booked shuttle through the Gallatin Canyon to Mountain Village. The resort recommends arranging transport before arrival. Car-free travelers can use local transport operators.
Best time to go
For cold, consistent winter snow, January–February are reliable; March often delivers the season’s biggest storms and longer bluebird windows. The resort even touts April as a “secret season,” with much of the terrain still open and milder deck-après temps. Peak visitation runs Christmas/New Year through Presidents’ Week, so book early if targeting those dates.
Where to stay:
- Summit Hotel at Big Sky Resort (Mountain Village, ski-in/ski-out) — Big Sky’s flagship slopeside address at the foot of Lone Peak, steps from the lifts and village core. Expect complimentary ski valet and in-room gear delivery from Big Sky Sports Rentals, so mornings are plug-and-play. Après the tram, head to the Refuge wellness circuit (Himalayan salt sauna → cold rinse) or the heated pool & hot tubs with Lone Peak views. Dining is available on-site—Peaks Chophouse & Wine Lounge and Carabiner—and room types span standard kings to multi-bedroom penthouses for families or small groups. It’s the polished option when you want zero-hassle access plus full-service perks.
- Huntley Lodge at Big Sky Resort (Mountain Village, slopeside hub) — The resort’s original landmark lodging, set right in the heart of Mountain Village since Big Sky’s early days, now refreshed with modern comforts. Rooms range from classic doubles to loft configurations sleeping 6–7, ideal for families. Stays include convenient touches—breakfast with most rates, complimentary ski valet, and access to an outdoor pool & hot tubs and fitness center—all a short stroll to the main lifts and village amenities. A great value-for-location pick with authentic Big Sky heritage.
Aspen Snowmass (Colorado, USA)
Why go
Four distinct mountains on one lift ticket—Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk—add up to one of North America’s most complete resort experiences. You can lap groomers with the family at Buttermilk in the morning, hike Highland Bowl for hero turns at lunch, and finish on long, fall-line cruisers at Snowmass, the largest of the four. The variety, dining scene, and polished lift network make it a slam-dunk for mixed-ability groups who still want high-alpine thrills.
The ski area in numbers
5,700+ acres across four mountains; Snowmass alone offers ~3,342 acres and 4,406 ft vertical. The four-mountain network totals 300+ trails and 40+ lifts (varies seasonally), with an average snowfall around ~300".
Getting there
Fly into Aspen/Pitkin County (ASE)—it’s roughly 3 miles to Aspen and about 6.5 miles to Snowmass Village; Denver (DEN) is ~220 miles / ~3.5 hours in good conditions. Local tips: Independence Pass (east of Aspen) is closed in winter, and there are plentiful shuttles from ASE/Denver plus RFTA buses linking Aspen, Snowmass, and the other mountains for car-free travel.
Best time to go
For the widest terrain choice and consistent cold snow, aim for mid-January through early March. March often brings a great storm/sun mix, while the Snowmass season typically stretches Thanksgiving to mid-April, depending on conditions.
Where to stay:
- Viceroy Snowmass (ski-in/ski-out, Snowmass Village) — A polished, slopeside base with a ski-in/ski-out lounge, on-site rentals & valet, and an inviting slope-side pool for sunny spring après. Expect multiple dining options (from a Latin-inspired restaurant to casual café), a full spa sanctuary, and rooms/suites with kitchenettes that suit families or longer stays. Location-wise, you’re steps to Elk Camp and Village Express access, so first chair is refreshingly frictionless.
- The Little Nell (Aspen Mountain, ski-in/ski-out) — Aspen’s only Five-Star, Five-Diamond hotel sits at the base of Aspen Mountain, just steps from the Silver Queen Gondola, with true ski-in/ski-out access and a dedicated Ski Concierge team to warm boots, tune skis, and set up lessons. Après is effortless: fine dining at Element 47 (MICHELIN-recommended; Grand Award wine program) or the lively Ajax Tavern right by the gondola. Service feels boutique and seamless, delivering luxury without the faff right on the snow.
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Telluride (Colorado, USA)
Why go
A spectacular box-canyon setting, an authentic Old West town linked by a free pedestrian gondola to Mountain Village, and in-bounds terrain that comfortably spans from long greens to legit steeps. With 2,000+ skiable acres and a lift-served vertical of ~3,790 ft (4,425 ft including hike-to), you’ll find playful groomers, wide bowls, and hike-to alpine pitches—minus the mega-resort sprawl.
The ski area in numbers
~2,000 acres, 148–149 trails (season/metric dependent), 19 lifts (including gondolas and high-speed quads), longest run 4.6 miles (Galloping Goose), and average ~280" seasonal snowfall. Base elevation 8,725 ft; lift-served summit ~12,515 ft.
Getting there
Fly into Telluride (TEX)—about 10 minutes to town and Mountain Village—or into Montrose (MTJ), then plan on roughly 65–69 miles / ~1.5 hours by shuttle or car (longer in storm cycles). Several operators run scheduled and private transfers; once you’re in Telluride/Mountain Village, you can comfortably go car-free.
Best time to go
For consistent coverage and storm frequency, January–early March shine; late March often brings sunnier windows (and those San Juan views) with softening on solar aspects between storms. With ~300" of average annual snow and a broad elevation range, spring can ski beautifully most years.
Where to stay:
- The Peaks Resort and Spa (Mountain Village, ski-in/ski-out) — Mountain Village’s full-service flagship with doorstep access to the lifts, while it's the hotel with the largest spa in Colorado—a ~42,000-sq-ft wellness complex featuring indoor-to-outdoor pool, 3-lane lap pool, Roman hot & cold tubs, full salon, and robust fitness/yoga programming. Many accommodations are condo-style or residences with kitchens, and the on-site Altezza makes post-ski dinners effortless. Views over the San Juans are the cherry on top.
- The Hotel Telluride (Downtown Telluride, shuttle to gondola) — A cozy, boutique-style chalet in the heart of town, perfect if you want Main Street energy with quick access to the lifts via the free seasonal hotel shuttle to the Telluride–Mountain Village gondola. You'll find outdoor hot tubs on the sundeck, spa services, a fitness center, complimentary ski/snowboard valet & storage, and on-site dining at West End Bistro (breakfast/dinner seasonal). It’s a walk-everywhere base with mountain views, then an effortless 12-minute gondola ride to the slopes.
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Palisades Tahoe (California, USA)
Why go
Two distinct mountains—Palisades (Olympic Valley) and Alpine—now linked by the Base to Base Gondola, unlocking a combined, roam-all-day playground with everything from iconic steeps off KT-22 to wide, confidence-building groomers. The connection means you can chase morning chalk on one side, then slide to a different aspect for afternoon sun, without moving your car. Recent planning shifts also point to a more conservation-minded future for the base area.
The ski area in numbers
~6,000 acres total across Palisades + Alpine (Palisades alone: ~3,600 acres, 170+ trails, 29 lifts); vertical ~2,850 ft; average snowfall ~400". Longest run: Mountain Run ~3.2 miles.
Getting there
Fly into Reno–Tahoe International (RNO); Palisades lists Reno at roughly 45 minutes by car in normal conditions. Truckee is about 11 miles away and can be your rail/bus hub. Base addresses: The Village at Palisades Tahoe, Olympic Valley and Alpine Lodge, Alpine Meadows.
Best time to go
Storm frequency is solid January–March; April often delivers Palisades’ famed spring-skiing (corn laps + patio après) when coverage is deep and days are longer. Keep an eye on the resort’s daily conditions feed to time post-storm bluebirds.
Where to stay:
- Everline Resort and Spa, Lake Tahoe (ski-in/ski-out at the Palisades base) — A full-service, mountainside resort with direct winter access to the slopes, a broad mix of rooms and suites (400+ keys), multiple dining options, and a signature spa/fitness program. It’s the “everything in one place” choice for families and groups who want frictionless mornings (ski valet, on-site rentals) and easy evenings (bars, restaurants, heated pools) without leaving the property. In summer, the doorstep golf course and trail access make it an all-season hub.
- The Village at Palisades Tahoe (condo-style, steps to lifts & gondola) — Apartment-style lodging right in the pedestrian village, with full kitchens (in most units), gas fireplaces, private balconies, and 8 outdoor hot tubs, making it an ideal hotel for families and longer stays. Walk to rentals, ski school, shops and dining. During winter you’re a few boot-steps from the Funitel, Base to Base Gondola and key chairs, which makes mid-day breaks and kid shuttles painless. Heated underground parking simplifies storm days.
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Mammoth Mountain (California, USA)
Why go
California’s highest lift-served summit (11,053 ft), a reputation for long seasons (typically Nov–June), and ~3,500 acres of varied terrain, from wind-buffed upper bowls to sheltered trees off Canyon and Eagle, making it one of the best ski resorts in the USA. Mammoth’s altitude and Sierra storm track regularly stack ~400" of annual snowfall, and its spring skiing is the stuff of legend.
The ski area in numbers
~3,500 acres, summit 11,053 ft, avg. snowfall ~400", season often Nov–June; multiple base areas (Main, Canyon, Eagle) with village connectivity via the Village Gondola to Canyon Lodge.
Getting there
Primary winter air gateway is Eastern Sierra Regional Airport – Bishop (BIH), about 45 miles south. United typically operates seasonal service with connections via DEN and SFO. From BIH, prebook shuttles or rent a car; self-drivers commonly approach via US-395.
Best time to go
For storm-chasers, January–February deliver coldest temps and frequent refreshes. March–April often bring big Sierra cycles punctuated by bluebird spells, and Mammoth’s elevation helps preserve quality into late spring. Local conditions can swing fast during atmospheric river events, so make sure to time arrivals around road/chain advisories.
Where to stay:
- Mammoth Mountain Inn (at Main Lodge, ski-in/ski-out) — The classic slopeside address directly across from Main Lodge and the Panorama Gondola, with hotel rooms, condos and cabins for groups that want maximum convenience. You’ll roll out to lessons, rentals, and multiple lifts in minutes. Come afternoon, big windows and the on-site Mountainside Bar & Grill make for easy, warm-up laps between après and nightfall. If first-and-last chair is your priority—especially on storm cycles—this is the “no commute” base you want.
- The Westin Monache Resort, Mammoth (The Village, condo-style suites) — A polished, all-suite base near the Village Gondola (complimentary ride up to Canyon Lodge), pairing kitchenettes with hotel service (24-hour fitness, outdoor pool & hot tubs, room service). Steps from dining, coffee and après in the Village at Mammoth, it’s perfect for families who value space and an easy, car-free routine: gondola to ski, stroll back for lunch, then hot-tub with mountain views.
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Park City Mountain (Utah, USA)
Why go
The largest ski resort in the United States—a vast, lift-linked playground that spreads from Canyons Village to Park City’s historic Old Town. With 7,300 acres, 348 trails and 41 lifts, there’s truly something for every level, plus a lively town scene and an airport just down the road.
The ski area in numbers
7,300 acres; 348 trails; 41 lifts; 13 bowls; 6 terrain parks; 1 halfpipe & 1 minipipe. Park City’s long stats sheet is the backbone of its broad-appeal reputation, making it one of the best ski resorts in the USA. Average annual snowfall trends ~286".
Getting there
Fly into Salt Lake City International (SLC) and it’s roughly 35–45 minutes by shuttle or rideshare to Park City, weather-dependent. Once in town, free buses crisscross the resort and Main Street.
Best time to go
For cold snow and full terrain, aim for mid-January through early March. March often blends storms and bluebird days; base-area aspects can soften between cycles. If you’re date-flexible, use snow-history tools and storm patterns to time a refresh.
Where to stay:
- Grand Summit Lodge by Park City - Canyons Village (Canyons Village, ski-in/ski-out) — The flagship slopeside address at the Orange Bubble/Red Pine hub, this hotel with ski-to-door access offers a year-round heated pool and hot tubs, a fitness center, on-site dining, spa treatments, ski storage, and a 24-hour front desk. Families and groups will appreciate on-site garage parking and quick walks to rentals, ski school, and the village core, so first chair is genuinely low-friction even on storm mornings. Suites add living areas and kitchenettes for longer stays.
- Pendry Park City (Canyons Village, ski-in/ski-out) — A contemporary luxury base in the center of Canyons Village with true slopeside access, residence-style rooms/suites, and polished service. The resort’s rooftop Pool House doubles as Canyons Village’s only rooftop lounge, a favorite for aprés with mountain views. Expect ski valet, multiple restaurants & bars, a kids’ program, and an easy stroll to lifts, rentals, and the village shuttle, ideal for travelers who want design-forward spaces without sacrificing convenience.
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Snowbird (Utah, USA)
Why go
A Little Cottonwood Canyon legend: steep, sustained fall-line terrain, big alpine bowls, and storms that regularly bury the place. Snowbird touts 500"+ annual snowfall, high elevation, and quick access from Salt Lake City, making it a powder chaser’s staple that still serves intermediates with long groomers off Gad and Mineral.
The ski area in numbers
~2,500 acres; base 7,760 ft; summit ~11,000 ft; 14 lifts. Average snowfall is often cited in the ~500" range, with deep mid-winter cycles and a spring that can ski late in good years.
Getting there
From SLC, plan on roughly 35–45 minutes by car/shuttle to Snowbird (Little Cottonwood Canyon), road & weather permitting. Seasonal UTA Ski Bus service connects valley transit hubs to Snowbird; schedules vary by winter. Always check the resort’s website and UTA’s seasonal notices before you travel, especially during storm cycles when canyon controls are common.
Best time to go
For consistent powder and cold temps, January–February shine in Little Cottonwood. March often mixes bluebird windows with refreshing storms; late season can deliver excellent corn on solar aspects when coverage is deep. Keep an eye on canyon traffic/closure advisories during big cycles.
Where to stay:
- Cliff Lodge and Spa (ski-in/ski-out) — Snowbird’s icon, plugged directly into the village with complimentary ski lockers steps from the snow. The headline is the Cliff Spa—a rooftop pool & hot tub circuit with Wasatch views, saunas/steam, and a full treatment menu, perfect for deep-day recovery. Multiple on-site restaurants (including the long-running Steak Pit) and easy access to the Aerial Tram/Gad lifts make this the most convenient all-in-one base for powder missions.
- The Lodge at Snowbird (condo-style, short walk to the Tram) — A flexible, value-friendly base with condominium-style units (studios to multi-bedroom) plus kitchens/kitchenettes, making it great for families and longer stays. You’re a brief walk to the Snowbird Center and Tram, with on-site amenities and balconies that look straight at the cirque, so you can sip coffee while scoping Mineral Basin’s morning glow.
Steamboat (Colorado, USA)
Why go
Home of “Champagne Powder,” Steamboat blends a friendly, ski-town vibe with a modernized base and big, tree-skiing terrain that couldn't miss from a list of the best ski resorts in the USA. The mountain sprawls across multiple peaks with long, confidence-building cruisers for families, glades that hold soft snow after storms, and a spring scene that regularly runs into April with corn laps and quirky events.
The ski area in numbers
3,741 acres, 3,668 ft vertical (6,900–10,568 ft), 181 named trails, 23 lifts; longest run “Why Not” ~3+ miles; average seasonal snowfall commonly reported around 300".
Getting there
Fly to Yampa Valley Regional (HDN)—the resort notes it’s ~30–40 minutes from Steamboat with year-round nonstop options and easy airport shuttles. Denver (DEN) is the main alternative (about 4 hours in good conditions) if you prefer a road trip over Rabbit Ears Pass.
Best time to go
For cold storms and fewer crowds, target mid-January to late February; many locals also love March–early April for bluebird/corn cycles and festive events like Springalicious. If you’re date-flexible, aim a few days after a storm for refreshed glades and mellow temps.
Where to stay:
- The Steamboat Grand (base area, walk to lifts) — A classic, full-service base with hotel rooms, condos and penthouses steps from the gondola zone. It features a year-round heated pool & hot tubs, a health club/fitness center, and an on-site Steamboat Sports rental shop so you can fit boots and grab skis without leaving the property. The Rocky Mountain Day Spa and practical touches (ski storage, desk staffed 24/7, on-site dining) make this an easy home base for families and groups that want maximum convenience at the end of a powder day.
- Sheraton Steamboat Resort Villas (true ski-in/ski-out) — Sitting right at the Christie Peak Express in the heart of the base, this vacation-ownership resort is the area’s full-service slopeside option. Studios and multi-bedroom villas bring kitchens, living areas and in-unit laundry (select layouts), while property amenities cover on-site dining, spa services, and direct snow access so you can clip in outside and slide to lifts. A strong pick for multi-gen trips that want condo space without losing hotel-style services.
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Taos Ski Valley (New Mexico, USA)
Why go
High-alpine soul with serious terrain and a sustainability ethos (it’s a certified B-Corp). Off Kachina Peak you’ll find hike-to steeps and big views; across the lower mountain there’s an improving network of blues and learning areas. Taos blends Southwest culture with Rocky Mountain powder, delivering a focused, ski-first experience that feels refreshingly uncrowded compared with mega-resorts.
The ski area in numbers
~1,294 acres, 3,131 ft vertical, 110 trails, 13 lifts, and ~300" average snowfall. Numbers vary slightly by source/seasonal reporting; these are the resort’s current headline figures.
Getting there
Taos notes multiple air gateways: seasonal/direct options into Taos (TSM/JSX) when operating; otherwise Santa Fe (SAF ~89 miles / ~2 hours) or Albuquerque (ABQ ~150+ miles / ~3 hours) followed by rental car or private shuttle up the valley. Once in-resort, you can go largely car-free.
Best time to go
January–February generally deliver the coldest storms; March often marries bluebirds with fresh snow, and late-season cycles can be excellent across northern New Mexico (spring 2025 brought notably deep totals). Aim mid-week if you want near-empty hike-to laps off Kachina between resets.
Where to stay:
- The Blake at Taos Ski Valley (center-village, ski-in/ski-out) — The resort’s flagship slopeside hotel: true ski-to-door access, on-site spa & wellness center, heated salt-water outdoor pool & hot tub, and the cozy 192 at The Blake for dinner and wine after big Kachina days. With on-site snowsports rentals and a location steps from Lift 1, it’s the frictionless choice for couples or families who want boutique polish without sacrificing proximity to first chair.
- Alpine Village Suites (base village, steps to lifts) — A friendly, suite-style property right in the heart of the village, known for kitchenettes or full kitchens, many units with gas fireplaces and private balconies, and convenient outdoor hot tubs for post-ski soaks. It’s a sweet spot for longer stays or budget-savvy groups who want space to cook and a literal short walk to the lifts.
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Killington (Vermont, USA)
Why go
“The Beast of the East” earns its nickname with six interlinked peaks, a huge lift network, and one of the longest seasons back East, often running well into May thanks to extensive snowmaking. Intermediates get mileage on Snowshed/Ramshead, experts can chase steeps and bumps on Bear/Outer Limits, and everyone loves the top-to-bottom wander from Killington Peak to the Skyeship base.
The ski area in numbers
~1,509 acres, 155 trails, 22 lifts, 3,050 ft vertical, average snowfall ~250". Pico sits on the same ticket but operates separately.
Getting there
Closest air gateway is Rutland Southern Vermont Regional (RUT), about 30–35 minutes; larger hubs include Albany (ALB), Bradley/Hartford (BDL) and Burlington (BTV), each roughly ~2 hours in normal conditions.
Best time to go
For cold snow and maximal coverage, target mid-January to early March. Spring is a Killington specialty, as sunny soft-snow laps and lively base vibes are common into April and, in good years, May.
Where to stay:
- Killington Grand Resort Hotel (mountainside; ski-bridge access in winter) — The resort’s only full-service mountainside hotel, linked to the slopes by a winter ski bridge (conditions permitting). Expect a year-round heated outdoor pool, two hot tubs, sauna/steam, and a health club; there’s also on-site dining at Preston’s and a Grand Spa for post-ski recovery. Room types range from traditional hotel rooms to studios, suites, and penthouses, giving families and groups flexibility without sacrificing walkability to lifts, shuttles, and the base area.
- Mountain Inn at Killington (base area; walk to Snowshed) — A refreshed, boutique-rustic hotel that’s an easy 5-minute walk to Snowshed Lodge, ideal for first-chair days or lessons with kids. Guests get a year-round heated outdoor pool, free parking, and the on-site Killington Distillery, a handy, no-drive après option. Rooms span simple doubles to larger layouts; many travelers like the quick shuttle access to other base lodges when they want to roam the full mountain.
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Smugglers' Notch (Vermont, USA)
Why go
A Vermont original with a family-first vibe, and the terrain to back it up. “Smuggs” spreads across Morse, Madonna, and Sterling with classic New England woods, legit steeps (try the Black Hole), and excellent ski school programming. It’s a perennial East favorite when storms line up on the Green Mountains.
The ski area in numbers
~1,000 acres, 78 trails, 8 lifts, 2,610 ft vertical, average natural snowfall often cited at ~300".
Getting there
Fly into Burlington (BTV), then it’s roughly 35 miles / ~45 minutes by car to the resort via VT-15 to Jeffersonville and VT-108 up to the base. Check VT-108 seasonal status; the Notch road over to Stowe closes to through traffic in winter.
Best time to go
January–February for the most reliable cold temps and storm cycles; March can be superb—big snow years regularly deliver deep totals into late season at Smuggs.
Where to stay:
- Club Wyndham Smugglers' Notch Vermont (on-resort, condo-style) — A convenient slopeside base in the main resort village with suite/condo units (kitchens, living areas) that make family logistics painless. Guests have access to designated Community Centers in their association, along with seasonal amenities and on-property activities, so non-ski time is easy to fill without getting in a car. Great for week-long stays where cooking a few meals saves budget.
- Smugglers Notch Inn (Jeffersonville; ~5–10 min to the mountain) — A historic country inn with 11 rooms at the foot of the Notch on scenic VT-108, with an on-site tavern and dining room and a cozy, small-inn feel that’s rare so close to the lifts. It’s a straight shot up to the base each morning; at day’s end you can trade the bustle for a quieter village setting and hearty pub fare downstairs.
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From Jackson Hole’s tram laps and Big Sky’s high-alpine bowls to Palisades Tahoe’s Base-to-Base roaming and Vermont’s family favorites, these picks are about feel as much as figures, boasting reliable snow, terrain you’ll actually ski, and bases that are easy to navigate. Consider this your springboard for planning at the best ski resorts in the USA—pick the mountains you’ll love and pair them with stays that make first chair easy.
Prefer a base that fits the way you actually travel? Dial in lodging with Travelmyth’s 60 smart categories—mix Ski-in/Ski-out, Spa, Dog-Friendly, Boutique-Style, EV Charging, and more—to uncover places that match your vibe from a database of millions of hotels. Start exploring the full categories list and lock in your perfect stay for the next storm cycle.
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