The United States has many different ski resorts all with their own pulling power, from the East Coast peaks across to the majestic Rockies and along the West Coast.
You’ll find big mountains, some of the best snow conditions in the world, and outstanding hotels – with that all-American service and a smile.
Aspen
Renowned as one of the best places to ski in the world, Aspen consists of four separate resorts. Aspen itself – a beautiful Colorado town – is full of boutiques, restaurants and chic bars, but also pubs, cafés and ski shops to get the latest kit. But it is the skiing that brings people in droves each winter. Perfect for both intermediates and experts, with long cruising runs in the Aspen Highlands, and some sublime off-piste and tree-runs. Those looking for a challenge should try the Cirque and The Hanging Valley Glades, which offer some of the steepest chutes in the USA.
Nearest airport: Denver
Breckenridge
Breckenridge is a former gold rush town, and it almost feels like you are stepping back in time, with clapboard shopfronts and Victorian saloons with swinging doors. However, it is an excellent ski resort well within the 21st century. Its old-west charm mixes nicely with the superb skiing on offer, boasting some huge ski parks and off-piste bowls. With runs called ‘Psychopath’ and ‘Boneyard’, expert skiers are well catered for, but you will also find some intimidating intermediate runs too. As the highest resort in the USA, you will find something to keep you entertained on its many peaks.
Nearest airport: Denver
Keystone
Only an hour and a half from Denver, Keystone is high in the Rocky Mountains, and offers the largest night skiing operation in Colorado. Thankfully, Keystone is a well-kept secret, with more people heading to the neighbouring resorts of Breckenridge and Vail. The snow-sure conditions here are legendary, with fantastic powder days which will test even the best skiers. Beginners will enjoy the slow-skiing trails, and the more advanced can head into the trees for easy powder runs. Après ski is good too, with some luxury bars and gourmet restaurants on offer in the two villages.
Nearest airport: Denver
Killington
A few hour’s drive from Boston, Killington is the largest ski resort on the East Coast. Set within the beautiful Green Mountain National Park in Vermont, the skiing here ranges from easy greens to double-diamond black runs. The terrain varies from trails (pistes) to off-piste, with an exciting terrain park at Bear Mountain. The trails are more suited for beginners and intermediates, but with some great runs for the more advanced skier, like the 10k ‘Juggernaut’. Killington comes alive with some fantastic après ski options – it’s not known as ‘The Beast in the East’ for its skiing alone.
Nearest airport: Boston
Lake Tahoe
The picture-postcard beauty of Lake Tahoe is incomparable, and with 14 ski resorts on both sides of the lake, you can see why it is so popular. In North Lake Tahoe, you’ll find resorts for the serious skier, with superb trails, high-altitude snow conditions and less emphasis on nightlife. However, on its south-eastern shore, the resorts sit on the border between California and Nevada – meaning casinos and some bustling nightlife. That said, the skiing is great on both sides, catering for everyone from beginner to expert – for instance the off-piste in Squaw Valley will challenge even professional skiers.
Nearest airports: San Francisco | San Jose
Stowe
Vermont’s premier resort, historic Stowe is a pleasant alpine town with an unmistakable New England charm. The gondola system links Mount Mansfield, the state’s highest peak, with Spruce Peak creating an interesting and varied ski area. Whilst not as large as some other American resorts, it is state-of-the-art, offering a fun but challenging ski holiday on its 65km of skiable trails. It is really not suited to the more raucous skier but those looking for a relaxing trip will enjoy Stowe’s atmosphere. Expect great food over busy après ski, and make sure you enjoy live music at the Rusty Nail bar.
Nearest airport: Boston
Vail
Classed as one of the best resorts in the USA, if not the world, Vail was purpose-built in 1962 to bring alpine charm to the Rockies. The Austrian-inspired village, 300-plus days of sunshine and legendary snow-sure conditions creates an atmosphere like no other. Choose from the miles of groomed pistes and trails, or head to the six huge Back Bowls where fresh powder sits waiting. Vail is great for anyone, but alongside the impressive feather-light Colorado powder, advanced skiers will love the double-diamond black Goshawk and Peregrine runs. Après ski can be found in the centre of town, including Belle’s Camp – an outdoor barbecue with incredible views.
Nearest airport: Denver
