17 Top Ski Towns in the US

Choosing the ultimate ski town can be quite subjective. Some skiers prioritize the deepest powder, while others seek out the best microbreweries and spas.

As Michael Levine, a skier with nearly 60 years of experience who has visited around 100 resorts worldwide, notes, the mountain is the key factor when picking a ski town.

"A fantastic town means little if the skiing is poor," Levine remarked. "I’d prefer to sleep in my truck by an amazing mountain than stay in a luxurious hotel by a mediocre one."

For those of us who aren't as passionate about snow sports as Levine, the après ski scene is an essential aspect to consider, especially in most seasons.

To determine the premier ski destinations in the country, we sought out mountain towns that cater to diverse interests.

From charming New England hamlets to historic Gold Rush towns, beloved favorites to hidden gems, and resorts with exceptional kids' programs to rugged backcountry areas, here are 17 of the finest locations to park your skis this winter.

Crested Butte, Colorado

While Crested Butte may not be the most frequented ski town in Colorado, its quaint charm and separation from the hustle of Summit County traffic make it a deserving underdog.

Once a coal mining hub, Crested Butte is now a ski haven, boasting an impressive average snowfall of 236 inches each year across over 1,500 skiable acres, with 15 lifts servicing more than 120 trails.

The town, located mere minutes from the base area, features streets adorned with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. A must-visit for dinner is the Sunflower Communal Kitchen, which highlights organic ingredients and expertly curated wine pairings. For accommodations, The Lodge at Mountaineer Square (rates from $299) offers an upscale experience just a short stroll from the lifts, with suites available for families and groups.

Travelers can reach the Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport (GUC) in just 40 minutes from the resort. It connects to a select few major airline hubs and is conveniently located 228 miles from Denver, allowing visitors to skip the lengthy traffic.

North Conway, New Hampshire

Often hailed as the birthplace of skiing in North America, North Conway's rich ski heritage makes it a top contender for one of the finest ski towns in the U.S.

Moreover, it boasts six downhill ski resorts within a half-hour's drive, the tallest peak in the northeast (Mount Washington at 6,288 feet), a diverse selection of restaurants and cafes like the Thompson House Eatery and Frontside Coffee Roasters, and numerous lodging options including the upscale Glen House in Pinkham Notch (rates from $135). It’s an obvious choice for ski enthusiasts.

Thanks to the Granite Backcountry Alliance, dedicated to developing a network of backcountry ski areas across the state, those looking to venture off the beaten path will find ample opportunities to earn their turns.

Taos, New Mexico

In addition to its premier ski resort, Taos features a World Heritage Site (Taos Pueblo), unique culinary offerings, and a vibrant art scene steeped in the rich history of the Southwest.

After enjoying a day on the pristine Rocky Mountain slopes, free from the hustle of Vail and Aspen, wander through the charming downtown area and admire the unique adobe architecture that distinguishes this ski town. When you’re ready to unwind, check into the Edelweiss Lodge and Spa (rates from $392), a ski-in, ski-out retreat.

Before retiring for the night, stop by La Cueva Cafe to savor their chipotle shrimp tacos.

Vail, Colorado

Vail is a must-visit for every skier, whether you’re seeking thrilling steep runs or a vibrant town filled with cocktail bars and shopping options.

After all, everyone deserves a break (or two) after several days of conquering 5,200 acres of slopes and descending 3,450 vertical feet. When it’s time to relax, keep your skiing spirit alive by exploring the Colorado Snowsports Museum and Hall of Fame.

In the heart of Vail Village, you’ll find Alpenrose, a delightful European bakery and restaurant serving authentic Austrian and German dishes in a charming rustic setting.

For a truly European experience, consider spending the night at Sonnenalp (rates from $319), a German-inspired hotel that seamlessly blends Old West charm with traditional European ski town aesthetics.

Bellingham, Washington

While the Pacific Northwest is known for its dreary winters and relentless rain, skiers and snowboarders can escape to the mountains, where that rain turns into glorious snowfall. This is why Mount Baker — Bellingham's local ski area — is famous for its epic powder days.

Although Bellingham is over an hour away from the mountain, it serves as an excellent base for accessing Baker's slopes, thanks to its wide range of lodging and dining options.

Before you hit the slopes, make sure to stop by Lettered Streets Coffeehouse for a cup of locally roasted coffee and a pastry. For a luxurious stay, consider Hotel Bellwether (rates from $228), located right on Bellingham Bay.

Ogden, Utah

Let me take a moment to champion Ogden this ski season.

This mountain destination opens the door to three resorts with a combined 11,600 skiable acres and an impressive 500 inches of snowfall annually. This makes Ogden an underrated gem compared to Park City and Alta.

Ogden holds the title of the oldest city in Utah and serves as the gateway to Powder Mountain, the largest ski resort by area in the U.S., as well as Nordic Valley and Snowbasin Resort, which features a newly updated base lodge known as Earl's Lodge.

All three ski resorts can be easily accessed from downtown using public transport, saving you valuable vacation time that would otherwise be spent driving. While visiting, consider staying at the chic 15-room Compass Rose Lodge (rates from $289 per night) at Snowbasin, which opened its doors in January 2019.

Jackson, Wyoming

Jackson boasts three ski areas renowned for their deep snow and extensive side and backcountry terrain. Among them, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Snow King Mountain, and Grand Targhee Resort, Jackson Hole rightfully stands out as the favorite.

The mountain features 2,500 acres of skiable terrain, rising over 4,100 vertical feet. If you're aiming to sidestep the crowds, consider heading to Snow King or Grand Targhee instead.

Stay overnight at the 96-room Cloudveil, a Marriott Autograph Collection Property (starting at $462 or 70,000 Bonvoy points), which opened in 2021. This hotel offers a delightful blend of rustic cabin charm—featuring birch tree room dividers and carpets with animal footprints—paired with modern, upscale amenities.

When you're not on the slopes, wander through downtown Jackson, where you'll find a variety of cafes, restaurants, bars, boutiques, and art galleries. As night falls, make your way to the iconic Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, where you can enjoy drinks while seated on horse saddles.

Telluride, Colorado

Tucked away among numerous peaks soaring between 13,000 and 14,000 feet in the San Juan Mountains, the heart of this historic Victorian mining town is designated as a National Historic Landmark District.

Today, Telluride's charming streets and buildings are home to a variety of gourmet restaurants, boutique shops, and art galleries, making it an ideal destination for a ski getaway.

While the town offers plenty of shopping opportunities, the resort's exceptional skiing will likely keep your attention on the powder rather than on purchasing a new jacket.

Before you hit the slopes, energize yourself at the locally owned Butcher and Baker Cafe. For lodging with a touch of history, stay at the historic New Sheridan Hotel, just a few blocks from the gondola, or experience the welcoming atmosphere of the well-appointed Dunton Town House.

Bend, Oregon

Situated in Oregon's high desert, Bend is the ideal spot for enjoying several hours of skiing, world-class rock climbing, and even a round of golf all in one day.

Although it's only a short drive from Mount Bachelor, which boasts over 400 inches of snow each year, Bend typically sees much less snowfall.

Craft beer enthusiasts will rejoice in knowing that Bend is nicknamed "Beer City USA," featuring a wide array of breweries like Crux Fermentation Project and Deschutes Brewery.

Waitsfield, Vermont

Located in the picturesque Mad River Valley, Waitsfield serves as a fantastic alternative to the busier ski destinations in Vermont, such as Killington and Stowe. For those looking to avoid driving for the weekend, the Mad Bus usually provides free transportation around the area during winter.

Both Sugarbush and its neighboring resort, Mad River Glen, receive an impressive amount of snowfall each year by East Coast standards.

Consider staying at the Sugarbush Inn (starting at $439), ideally located at the base of Sugarbush and just a short drive from town. Alternatively, The Pitcher Inn in nearby Warren (starting at $600) offers a luxurious lodging experience.

For dining options, head to Blue Stone for delicious pizza and local beers, or visit Mad Taco for some tasty Mexican fare. A trip to Vermont wouldn't be complete without visiting a local brewery or taproom, such as Lawson's Finest Liquids, which opened in Waitsfield in 2018 and is famous for its New England-style IPAs.

Durango, Colorado

Located just north of the New Mexico border, Durango is often overlooked in favor of resorts nearer to Denver. This charming town serves as an excellent gateway to Purgatory, a cozy family-friendly resort that boasts fantastic beginner trails alongside challenging runs for seasoned skiers. Purgatory typically receives around 260 inches of snow annually, covering 1,600 acres and serviced by 12 lifts.

Durango is also home to several breweries, including Carver Brewing Company and Ska Brewing Company, along with a variety of accommodation options. Visitors should consider stopping by now before Durango becomes another one of the overly commercialized ski towns.

Truckee, California

With an impressive 275 days of sunshine, 400 inches of snowfall each year, and 12 downhill resorts (including the renowned Palisades Tahoe) within a mere 10-mile radius, it's no surprise that skiers from all over the nation flock to Truckee and the Lake Tahoe region for their annual family ski vacations.

If you love beer and pizza, make your way to Old Town Tap for their delicious mushroom pie paired with a local brew. For wine enthusiasts, the selection at Uncorked is sure to impress.

The historic Truckee Hotel is conveniently situated within walking distance of numerous shops and dining options, making it easy to leave your car behind for the evening.

Mammoth Mountain ski area is another strong choice, where visitors can enjoy skiing long after the winter season ends, thanks to its northern-facing slopes and high elevation. Plus, Truckee is just a short drive away from a cluster of excellent downhill resorts.

Stowe, Vermont

This quintessential New England ski town is often referred to as "the ski capital of the East."

In addition to receiving an impressive 314 inches of snow each year over 485 acres of skiable terrain, this town proudly hosts one of the country's top microbreweries, The Alchemist.

Pamper yourself with a spa day at Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa (starting at $112), then taste some of Vermont's finest brews at Doc Ponds. If you're craving a bite after a day on the slopes, enjoy a housemade beer and a burger at Idyltime Brewing Company, located just minutes from the village center.

If you're eager to discover new slopes after a few days on the mountain, take a short hour's drive to Smugglers' Notch.

Breckenridge, Colorado

Breckenridge Ski Resort, affectionately known as Breck by locals, is another delightful mining town in Colorado, featuring the highest chairlift in North America. The area boasts a variety of local restaurants, distilleries, galleries, and breweries, making it easy to take a well-deserved rest day.

Mountain Thunder Lodge (starting at $162) is an excellent choice for those seeking the luxury of a ski-in, gondola-out resort nestled in a tranquil environment.

During your stay, be sure to visit the Breckenridge Distillery, touted as the highest distillery on the planet, and check out some of the surrounding mountains. The Summit Stage bus provides complimentary transportation to Copper Mountain and Keystone, the latter being one of the top family-friendly ski resorts in the country.

Whitefish, Montana

Nestled at the gateway of Glacier National Park, Whitefish is a lively small town set against a backdrop of unspoiled nature. Established in the early 20th century due to the Great Northern Railway, it continues to thrive, supported by the expansive 3,000-acre Whitefish Mountain Resort.

While Big Sky Mountain Resort's 5,800 acres often steal the spotlight, Whitefish is a charming, understated destination with superb terrain. The resort has been making steady improvements for nearly a decade, introducing new glading initiatives and updated grooming machines.

The town boasts a variety of fine dining restaurants, ski shops, cafes, distilleries, and breweries. Start your day with a coffee from one of the two Montana Coffee Traders in the area. For your stay, consider the Grouse Mountain Lodge (starting at $99), which provides luxurious accommodations just a mile from downtown.

Killington, Vermont

Famous for its lively nightlife and après-ski culture, Killington also holds the title of the largest ski resort east of the Mississippi River. Aptly nicknamed "The Beast of the East," it features a vertical drop of 3,050 feet and over 1,500 acres of skiable terrain.

This mountain is frequently the first to open and the last to close in the East. The resort began its 2023-24 season on November 3. Be sure to visit the Wobbly Barn Steakhouse and Nightclub, a Killington favorite that regularly hosts live music and parties, extending your experience well into the night.

Aspen, Colorado

While Aspen's reputation might seem exaggerated, this 20th-century mining town continually evolves and reinvents itself.

With four resorts—Aspen Highlands, Aspen Mountain, Buttermilk, and Aspen Snowmass—Aspen Skiing Company provides a variety of terrains, many of which are excellent for children still perfecting their skills. The Aspen/Pitkin County Airport (ASE) is conveniently located just a few miles from the town, making it easily reachable for travelers (as long as the weather is favorable).

Visitors should consider reserving a room (or at least experiencing the atmosphere) at the W Aspen (starting at $899 or 75,000 points), which opened in August 2019 at the site of the former Sky Hotel. Additionally, The Little Nell (starting at $1,009) offers the only ski-in/ski-out access in Aspen. The newly opened Mollie Aspen (rates from $769) is perfect for those seeking a quieter, simple boutique hotel in the heart of town.

After a day on the slopes, savor the Pan-American and French fusion dishes at Betula. Surprisingly, it is possible to enjoy Aspen on a budget — so make the most of the terrain and powder without emptying your wallet.