Members of the mountain rescue service “Snow Patrol” ensure safety on American ski slopes every winter. Real snow bunnies appreciate the commitment of the volunteers and look forward to an unforgettable winter holiday in the USA. Join us on a journey of discovery through America’s best ski resorts.
Intense skiing pleasure
In the United States of America there are a total of 527 ski resorts. They are spread over some of the 50 states. The two most famous and largest ski resorts are located in the states of Utah and Colorado. Lots of snow and perfectly groomed slopes promise intensive skiing pleasure. But tourists will also find first-class ski resorts in other parts of the country, often unexpectedly. By the way, American ski resorts became famous, or rather infamous, because of the spectacular deep snow and the extremely steep cliffs. But even beginners can pursue their passion in the USA . However, with the large selection, it is often difficult to decide, so we will now inform you in more detail about some ski resorts.
USA: The most popular travel destinations in winter
Aspen, US-Bundesstaat Colorado
The US state of Colorado is home to several world-famous winter sports resorts. One of them is Aspen. The sophisticated village is nestled in the impressive mountain world of the Rocky Mountains. Towering mountain peaks form bizarre works of art in the sky above the small town. A breathtaking backdrop that attracts guests from all over the world to the area. Aspen has several ski slopes: beginners will find suitable slopes at the Aspen Snowmass Resort. Professionals, on the other hand, use the much more challenging terrain in the Aspen Highlands.
Another winter sports resort is Beaver Creek. Here, too, everything revolves around skiing. 146 ski slopes are available for winter guests. 17 lifts transport visitors to the highest peaks in the region. The village is the venue for numerous sporting events. The most famous are certainly the Alpine Ski World Cup races. Other winter sports enthusiasts travel through the Rocky Mountain National Park to Vail and enjoy varied days on the mountain. By the way, the Rocky Mountains are part of the Cordilleras, which stretch from Tierra del Fuego to Alaska . Every year, several million tourists visit the well-known holiday region. Especially in winter, the area is an important attraction. Three other ski resorts in Colorado are: Keystone, Breckenridge and Copper Mountain.
- Location: Near Aspen, Colorado
- Km of slopes: 241 km (spread over 4 mountains)
- Elevation: 2,422 m – 3,813 m
- Highlights:
- Four different ski resorts: Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk
- Perfect mix of beginner slopes, challenging descents and freestyle parks
- High-quality gastronomy and legendary nightlife in Aspen
- Special feature: Aspen combines luxurious lifestyle with first-class skiing pleasure.
Vail, Colorado – The Classic
Vail in Colorado is one of the most famous ski resorts in the USA and inspires winter sports enthusiasts with over 230 kilometers of slopes and the legendary “Back Bowls”, extensive deep snow areas for experienced skiers. The resort is located in the majestic Rocky Mountains at an altitude of up to 3,527 meters and offers guaranteed snow as well as varied terrain for all skill levels. In addition to the world-class slopes, Vail offers luxurious accommodation, a charming pedestrian street and exclusive restaurants. State-of-the-art lifts ensure short waiting times, and the lively après-ski rounds off the day perfectly. The many hours of sunshine are particularly appealing, making the ski area a popular destination. Vail is the epitome of premium skiing in the USA.
- Location: Rocky Mountains, Colorado
- Km of slopes: 234 km
- Elevation: 2,476 m – 3,527 m
- Highlights:
- The largest ski resort in Colorado with varied terrain
- Famous “Back Bowls” – extensive deep snow areas
- Luxurious accommodation and first-class après-ski offers
- Special feature: Vail is the epitome of a first-class ski resort and is known for its excellent service and infrastructure.
Park City, US-Bundesstaat Utah
Park City is one of the most famous winter sports resorts in the USA. On the east side of the Wasatch Range in Utah are the three ski resorts: Park City Resort, Deer Valley and The Canyons. They are easy to reach. Winter sports have always played an important role in Park City. In 2002, as part of the Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, the city hosted slalom, giant slalom and snowboard competitions. Even today, international bobsleigh and luge competitions regularly take place in the Park City ice track. The US Ski Association also has its headquarters in the city.
- Location: Near Salt Lake City, Utah
- Km of slopes: 348 km
- Elevation: 2,103 m – 3,048 m
- Highlights:
- State-of-the-art lifts and extensive slopes
- Venue of the 2002 Winter Olympics
- A wide range of offers for families and advanced skiers
- Special feature: Through the merger with the adjacent Canyons Resort, Park City became the largest ski resort in the USA.
Killington, US-Bundesstaat Vermont
Vermont is known for the production of maple syrup. A really sweet treat – especially after long winter days on the mountain. Holiday guests are welcomed in Vermont with perfectly groomed ski slopes. Where extensive hiking trails lead through the forests of the “Green Mountains” in summer, skiers draw their lines through the white powder snow in winter. This is also the case south of the small town of Killington. This is where the “Killington Mountain Resort” is located. It is the largest ski resort in the eastern United States and bears the title “Beast of the East”. Combine your stay in Vermont with a visit to the capital city of Montpelier. Here you will find shops, bars, cafes and restaurants, as well as high-quality art galleries. You can also visit one of Vermont’s many small cheese factories where cheddar, which is known far beyond the country’s borders, is produced. Other places to visit include: Lake Champlain, Burlington and Rutland.
- Location: Green Mountains, Vermont
- Km of slopes: 116 km
- Elevation: 355 m – 1,293 m
- Highlights:
- Largest ski resort on the East Coast of the USA
- Family-friendly slopes and modern lift system
- Lively après-ski scene
- Special feature: Ideal for winter sports enthusiasts from the east of the USA who do not want to travel to the Rockies.
Mammoth Mountain, California
A ski holiday in California? Tourists are more likely to associate the well-known US state with a summer vacation on the Pacific Ocean and the major cities of Los Angeles and San Francisco. Nevertheless, there is also the possibility of skiing in California. In search of snow, winter sports enthusiasts drive all the way to eastern California. In the high-altitude “Inyo National Forest” is the ski resort “Mammoth Mountain”. At 3,000 meters above sea level, an average of 10 meters of snow falls from November to June.
The former volcanic area is spread over a total area of 1,400 hectares. There are 28 lifts. The rooms in the valley are quickly occupied. There are plenty of hotels and vacation homes around Mammoth Lake. In the morning you wake up to a fantastic view of the white-covered peaks and mountain slopes; then the anticipation is great. Catering is also provided: employees in four large ski huts take care of the physical well-being. By the way, as the only North American ski resort, there are three perfectly groomed halfpipes in addition to downhill and mogul slopes. As early as the 1930s, the expansion of the “Mammoth Mountain” ski area, which is so popular today, began. The first lift system was built in the 50s, followed in 1966 by the construction of large gondola systems. They were intended to transport skiers to higher ski resorts. Today, the inhabitants live exclusively from tourism. Around the lake there are countless accommodation facilities, restaurants, pubs and shops for ski accessories.
- Location: Eastern Sierra Nevada, California
- Km of slopes: 150 km
- Elevation: 2,424 m – 3,369 m
- Highlights:
- Guaranteed snow until well into spring
- Excellent snow parks for freestylers
- Easy access from Los Angeles and San Francisco
- Special feature: Mammoth Mountain is known for its long seasons and diverse offerings.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming – For Adventurers
Jackson Hole in Wyoming is considered a paradise for experienced skiers and adventurers. The ski resort is located in the Teton Range and offers one of the most challenging runs in the world with its famous “Corbet’s Couloir”. On over 130 kilometres of slopes, winter sports enthusiasts will find varied terrain with excellent freeride opportunities and deep powder snow. The altitude of up to 3,185 metres guarantees the best snow conditions. Jackson Hole is known for its unspoiled nature, nestled in the spectacular backdrop of Grand Teton National Park. In addition to challenging slopes, there are also family-friendly offers and excellent ski schools. The authentic western flair of the nearby town of Jackson makes your stay unforgettable. This is where adventure meets unforgettable mountain landscapes.
- Location: Teton Range, Wyoming
- Km of slopes: 133 km
- Elevation: 1,924 m – 3,185 m
- Highlights:
- Legendary “Corbet’s Couloir” – one of the most challenging runs in the world
- Excellent opportunities for off-piste and off-piste skiers
- Scenic location in Grand Teton National Park
- Special feature: Jackson Hole is a paradise for experienced skiers and freeriders.
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada – Ski with a lake view
The Lake Tahoe ski area, located on the border of California and Nevada, combines fantastic runs with breathtaking lake views. The region offers more than 300 kilometres of slopes, spread across renowned resorts such as Heavenly, Squaw Valley and Northstar. Winter sports enthusiasts appreciate the variety of slopes, which range from beginner slopes to challenging deep-snow runs. The mild climate and guaranteed snow make Lake Tahoe a perfect destination for families and adventurers. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, there are numerous activities such as snowshoeing and sleigh rides. The combination of crystal clear waters, picturesque mountain scenery and a lively après-ski scene is what makes Lake Tahoe unique. Particularly appealing: The good accessibility from San Francisco and Reno. A winter sports destination that perfectly combines nature and luxury.
- Location: Sierra Nevada, on the border of California and Nevada
- Km of slopes: More than 300 km (spread over several resorts)
- Elevation: 1,897 m – 3,060 m
- Highlights:
- Ski resorts such as Heavenly, Northstar, and Squaw Valley
- Stunning views of Lake Tahoe
- Mild climate and varied leisure activities
- Special feature: Ideal for winter sports enthusiasts who want to combine skiing with outdoor activities such as hiking and snowshoeing.
A winter holiday in the USA – the conclusion
A winter and ski holiday in the USA is a first-class decision. The selection of ski resorts is as huge as that of accommodation providers. Here everyone – whether beginner or professional – will find the perfect slope for their talent. There are also countless experiences and well-known sights away from the slopes that bring you closer to the country and its people in a unique way.
