Looking for the best ski resorts in the US? There are many options to consider: North America boasts some of the most renowned mountains in the world with premium powder quality, lift infrastructure, and terrain variety and difficulty. And that’s if we’re just talking technically about the alpine sport itself: several Also are based on historic cities with nice restaurants, luxury shops and renowned museums. Oh, and don’t forget the exceptional views and cozy, rural surroundings.
Below are our picks of eight of the best ski resorts in the US (we’ve given extra points for the aprés-ski scene.)
Aspen, CO
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Aspen-Snowmass Ski Resort combines four different mountains, each with its own atmosphere and difficulty, meaning that everyone of all levels can enjoy the slopes in this iconic mountain destination. Beginner-friendly Buttermilk just completed a $25 million facelift of its base area to make it just as easy for newcomers to navigate, while Snowmass is the largest (and most varied) of the bunch. (You’ll need a few days to ski it all.) Aspen Mountain, whose Silver Queen Gondola starts right in town, is the local mountain that still retains some semblance of old-world charm. The recent addition of Hero’s property atop Aspen Mountain has increased the expanse of the resort by an additional 153 acres. (Before you tackle everything, make time for a stack of pancakes at family-owned Bonnie’s Mid-Mountain.)
Meanwhile, Aspen-Highlands’ Highlands Bowl, a 270-acre powder run that takes about 45 minutes to hike if you’re in shape, is a bucket list item for experienced skiers. Like après ski at Cloud Nine Bistro, if you want a relaxing fondue lunch, especially on a bluebird day, you can reserve a table for the afternoon seating. Those who want to get rowdy (and don’t mind paying a big bill) should make reservations at 2 p.m., which turns into a rowdy, champagne-squirting party. Pro tip…if you’re inside, don’t carry something you mind getting soaked. And keep your ski goggles on.
Off the slopes, Aspen continues to thrive as a stylish hotspot with its range of luxury hotels, glamorous restaurants and a stylish après scene, including The Snow lodgeMatsuhisa, as well as low-key favorite Meat and Cheese.
Where to stay
Keep up Little Nelan elegant, 92-room, five-star retreat, right at the base of Aspen Mountain, with spacious guest bathrooms and crackling fireplaces. But the public areas, including three vibrant restaurants and a cellar available for private wine experiences, are among the most sought-after in the city. A new spa offers results-oriented treatments by Dr. Barbara Sturm. It’s ski-in, ski-out St Regis is another luxurious choice, as is Mollie Aspen. The latter features Japandi-style interiors (the rooms are decorated with Noguchi lamps, while sheepskin-accented chairs line the lobby) and offers a chic, clean alternative to the classic chalet or mountain style. Best of all? The food and drinks program is led by the team behind Death & Co., meaning the cocktails are some of the best in the city.
Sun Valley, Idaho
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