Best Peaks Overall in
The rank-order of ski resorts we’ve been to based on overall mountain experience.
#1 Overall
Whistler BlackcombWhistler, BC
Whistler, BC
MOUNTAIN SCORE
82
- Size
- Diverse terrain for all ability levels
- Extremely demanding expert runs
- Lift infrastructure
- Stunning aesthetic
- Relatively variable conditions, especially in lower mountain areas
- Crowd flow during peak times
Despite somewhat variable snow conditions, this massive resort delivers one of the most well-rounded experiences we’ve seen anywhere.
#2 Overall
AltaAlta, UT
Alta, UT
MOUNTAIN SCORE
80
- Top-tier snow quality and accumulation
- Breathtaking mountain aesthetic
- Terrain diversity
- Local feel
- Lack of reasonably-priced lodging
- Ban on snowboarders
This Utah resort prohibits snowboarding and offers limited slopeside lodging, but it receives some of the best, most consistent snow anywhere in North America.
#3 Overall
Jackson HoleTeton Village, WY
Teton Village, WY
MOUNTAIN SCORE
80
- Extremely demanding terrain
- Snow quality
- Crowd flow on non-tram lifts
- Breathtaking scenery
- Limited beginner and low intermediate terrain
This Teton resort lives up to its extremely demanding reputation. Beginners need not apply.
#4 Overall
SnowbirdSnowbird, UT
Snowbird, UT
MOUNTAIN SCORE
79
- Top-tier snow quality and accumulation
- Diverse terrain, including extremely demanding expert runs
- Innovative mountain logistics
- Limited beginner and low intermediate terrain
- Limited on-site lodging
It’s hard to beat this Utah resort’s top-tier snow quality, innovative mountain logistics, and expert terrain.
#5 Overall
Banff Sunshine VillageBanff, AB
Banff, AB
MOUNTAIN SCORE
78
- Snow preservation
- Top-tier views
- Diverse terrain for all abilities
- Extraordinarily long season
- One-of-a-kind upper-mountain village
- Value
- Occasional extreme cold spells
- Long morning lines at base gondola
- Terribly designed trail map
This absolutely striking resort has consistent snow and terrain for everyone, although frigid spells are common during the core season.
#6 Overall
VailVail, CO
Vail, CO
MOUNTAIN SCORE
78
- Size
- Lift infrastructure
- Terrain diversity
- One-of-a-kind Back Bowl and Blue Sky Basin aesthetics
- Lack of truly extreme terrain
- Ease of navigation
With expansive, diverse terrain and modern lifts, this top-of-the-line resort competes well with the best in the country.
#7 Overall
SnowmassSnowmass Village, CO
Snowmass Village, CO
MOUNTAIN SCORE
78
- Striking, expansive footprint
- Diverse terrain for all abilities
- Considerable lift-serviced vertical drop
- Widespread on-mountain facilities
- High-speed lifts in most areas
- Lift logistics at the main base
- Most demanding expert lines hard to find
The largest resort in the Aspen conglomerate is one of the best in Colorado, delivering a well-rounded experience worthy of the asking price.
#8 Overall
TellurideTelluride, CO
Telluride, CO
MOUNTAIN SCORE
77
- Diverse terrain for all ability levels
- Striking resort scenery
- Relatively low crowds
- Unique variety of lodging options
- Lower average snowfall than some other Colorado resorts
- Variable openings and long hikes required for some extreme terrain
- Slow lifts in some areas
Despite its modest size and reputation for extreme terrain, this beautiful, remote resort delivers an experience that can be enjoyed by everyone.
#9 Overall
SnowbasinHuntsville, UT
Huntsville, UT
MOUNTAIN SCORE
76
- Top-of-the-line facilities
- Striking topography
- Diverse intermediate and advanced terrain
- Crowd flow
- No on-site lodging
- Long, slow lifts in some areas
- Less extreme terrain than some competitors
Despite a lack of on-site lodging, this Utah resort stays competitive thanks to diverse hills, striking peaks, and top-of-the-line facilities.
#10 Overall
Beaver CreekBeaver Creek, CO
Beaver Creek, CO
MOUNTAIN SCORE
76
- Diverse below and near-treeline terrain
- Exceptional longevity of certain expert runs
- Modern lift infrastructure
- Thoughtfully-designed on-mountain facilities
- Price
- Lack of true above-treeline terrain
- Flagrantly moneyed atmosphere in some areas
Despite its family-centric reputation and lack of above-treeline terrain, Beaver Creek delivers an experience that visitors of all ability levels will enjoy. Just don’t expect anything to be cheap.
#11 Overall
Lake LouiseLake Louise, AB
Lake Louise, AB
MOUNTAIN SCORE
75
- One-of-a-kind mountain aesthetic
- Extraordinarily long season
- Incredible advanced, expert, and freestyle terrain
- Crowd management
- Value
- Occasional extreme cold spells
- Poorly-placed upper-mountain facilities
- Slow lifts in some mountain zones
- Arduous traverses in many areas
While it sees the occasional extreme cold spell, this Banff resort’s jaw-dropping vistas and varied terrain distinguish it from competitors.
#12 Overall
Big SkyBig Sky, MT
Big Sky, MT
MOUNTAIN SCORE
73
- Snow quality
- Size
- Diverse terrain for all ability levels
- Extremely demanding expert runs
- Breathtaking scenery in upper mountain areas
- Ease of navigation
- Slow or issue-prone lifts in some areas
- Crowd flow under stress-case conditions
- Inconvenient or impractical on-mountain facilities
- Limited or difficult extreme terrain access
- Tram access an extra-cost add-on
This massive resort offers one of the most well-rounded terrain experiences in North America, but a number of logistical problems persist.
#13 Overall
RevelstokeRevelstoke, BC
Revelstoke, BC
MOUNTAIN SCORE
73
- Unparalleled vertical drop
- High-elevation snow quality
- World-class advanced and expert terrain
- Astounding views in upper-mountain areas
- Value
- Underbuilt lift network
- Half-baked beginner and intermediate experience
- Variable conditions in lower-mountain areas
- Perennial fog
- Nearby lodging in short supply
- Much more difficult to reach than other destinations
This one-of-a-kind Canadian Rockies resort should be on every expert’s bucket list, but it feels like it hasn’t been developed to its full potential.
#14 Overall
Arapahoe BasinDillon, CO
Dillon, CO
MOUNTAIN SCORE
73
- Snow quality
- Extremely demanding expert terrain
- Lower crowds than other Colorado resorts
- Season regularly extends into June
- Hiking required for some trails
- No on-site lodging
- Slow lifts in some areas
- Altitude that can be overwhelming for some
While slow lifts and a lack of on-site lodging may turn some people away, this local favorite offers some of the most extreme terrain in Colorado.
#15 Overall
BreckenridgeBreckenridge, CO
Breckenridge, CO
MOUNTAIN SCORE
73
- Terrain diversity
- Conveniently accessible high-alpine bowls
- Well-placed mountain facilities
- Top-notch terrain park experience
- Ease of navigation
- High wind exposure in some areas
- Altitude that can be overwhelming for some
This high-elevation resort offers diverse terrain, including conveniently accessible alpine bowls. However, the altitude and navigation logistics will be overwhelming for some.
#16 Overall
CopperCopper, CO
Copper, CO
MOUNTAIN SCORE
73
- Excellent high-alpine terrain experience
- Natural insulation for skiers of different ability levels
- Relatively local feel
- Slow, difficult-to-load lifts outside base areas
- Altitude that can be overwhelming for some
- Lack of lodges in backside areas
This Colorado favorite offers very competitive terrain, but many lifts outside base areas are slow.
#17 Overall
Aspen HighlandsAspen, CO
Aspen, CO
MOUNTAIN SCORE
72
- Snow quality
- Isolated feel
- Extensive selection of long, demanding expert terrain
- Iconic bowl skiing
- Modest footprint
- No beginner runs
- Scant single-black terrain
- Lack of lower-mountain lift redundancies
While modestly sized, this Aspen resort offers a surprisingly local feel and a diverse, demanding expert footprint.
#18 Overall
KeystoneKeystone, CO
Keystone, CO
MOUNTAIN SCORE
72
- Solid mix of groomed, mogul, and tree terrain
- High-alpine bowl terrain for all ability levels
- Uniquely-designed footprint
- Night skiing
- Long travel time to and from furthest mountain areas
- Smaller lift-served footprint than many competitors
- Very limited true expert features
This Colorado resort offers unique, enjoyable slopes and finally boasts lift-serviced high-alpine bowls, but it still falls somewhat short in its lift-served footprint size and expert terrain.
#19 Overall
Winter ParkWinter Park, CO
Winter Park, CO
MOUNTAIN SCORE
72
- Snow quality
- Wide variety of tree terrain
- Long, demanding mogul runs
- Available intermediate bowl terrain
- Expansive footprint
- Lack of easily accessible advanced and expert bowl terrain
- Crowd flow in some popular areas
Although it can get crowded, this conveniently located Colorado destination has a lot to offer for a wide variety of visitors.
#20 Overall
MammothMammoth Lakes, CA
Mammoth Lakes, CA
MOUNTAIN SCORE
72
- Substantial footprint
- Diverse variety of terrain
- World-class terrain park setup
- Breathtaking rock-lined landscapes
- Phenomenal spring-skiing experience
- Variable weather patterns resulting in inconsistent conditions
- Poorly-designed on-mountain signage
- Lift chokepoints at some junctions
This massive resort offers a highly competitive experience only hours from Southern California, although variable weather patterns may not make it the best place to fly to.
#21 Overall
Palisades TahoeOlympic Valley, CA
Olympic Valley, CA
MOUNTAIN SCORE
72
- Wide variety of demanding expert terrain
- Unique topography
- Lively base village
- Top-notch spring skiing experience
- Large overall footprint
- Wind exposure, especially on beginner and low-intermediate terrain
- Serious congestion issues in some areas
- Variable openings for lower-elevation expert terrain
- Impractical lift link between Palisades and Alpine sides
- Considerable access road traffic on weekends and holidays
Two of Tahoe’s best ski areas have now been linked as one continuous lift-served destination, but the resort still functions as two separate mountains in many ways.
#22 Overall
Sun ValleyKetchum, ID
Ketchum, ID
MOUNTAIN SCORE
72
- World-class family-oriented terrain
- Stunning upper-mountain bowls
- Top-of-the-line facilities
- Lower crowds than other Rockies resorts
- Charming slopeside town
- Less reliable snowfall and conditions than other Rockies resorts
- Very little consistently open expert terrain
- No lodging directly on-site
This Idaho mountain offers a world-class terrain experience for families, but snow and conditions are not as consistent as at other Rockies resorts. Despite a recent terrain expansion, the mountain still isn’t ideal for experts.
#23 Overall
Grand TargheeAlta, WY
Alta, WY
MOUNTAIN SCORE
71
- Excellent snow quality
- Incredible glade terrain
- Consistent conditions
- Limited crowds
- Local feel
- Modest footprint and vertical drop
- Perennially foggy conditions
- Limited expert terrain
This Wyoming resort isn’t the largest or craziest out there, but it offers incredible snow and a distinctive, remote vibe.
#24 Overall
SteamboatSteamboat Springs, CO
Steamboat Springs, CO
MOUNTAIN SCORE
71
- Distinctive glade terrain
- Snow quality
- Sizable footprint
- Lively local town
- Less striking footprint than some competitors
- Underwhelming bowl terrain
- Ease of access to expert terrain
While it’s not the most striking ski resort in the world, standout tree terrain and significant recent lift and terrain improvements help this northern Colorado resort hold its own against the other destinations.
#25 Overall
Big WhiteKelowna, BC
Kelowna, BC
MOUNTAIN SCORE
71
- Distinctive tree terrain
- Family-friendliness
- Diverse beginner and intermediate terrain
- Well-designed crowd flow
- Convenient ski-in/ski-out village
- Perennially overcast, low-visibility conditions
- Facilities hard to access from upper-mountain areas
- Inconveniently slow lifts in some areas
- Lower quantity of extreme terrain than some competitors
- Ease of travel from most U.S. cities
It may not be as tough or striking as the best in the Canadian Rockies, but this British Columbia resort still has a lot to offer.
#26 Overall
Kicking HorseGolden, BC
Golden, BC
MOUNTAIN SCORE
70
- Snow quality and preservation
- Incredible advanced and expert terrain
- World-class mountain aesthetic
- Long vertical drop
- Value
- Poorly-designed lift network
- Lackluster beginner and intermediate terrain
- Modestly-sized lift-serviced footprint
- Incredibly long laps required to ski or ride key terrain
- Much more difficult to reach than other destinations
This Interior British Columbia resort exemplifies the best natural traits of the Canadian Rockies but won’t be for everyone.
#27 Overall
WhitefishWhitefish, MT
Whitefish, MT
MOUNTAIN SCORE
70
- Distinctive glade terrain
- Reasonable crowds
- Lively nearby town
- Available night skiing
- Value
- Perennial low-visibility conditions
- Modest vertical compared to other destinations
- Flat terrain in certain areas
- Occasional extreme cold spells
This northern Montana resort isn’t the biggest out there, but as far as independent ski resorts go, it’s hard to beat.
#28 Overall
Deer ValleyPark City, UT
Park City, UT
MOUNTAIN SCORE
70
- Outstanding guest services
- Top-tier mountain facilities and infrastructure
- Crowd-mitigating cap on ticket sales
- Built-up, artificial mountain aesthetic
- Less diverse terrain than other Utah resorts, especially for experts
- Inconvenient navigation experience
- Ban on snowboarders
While this ski-only Utah resort gets high marks for its top-tier hospitality, the overall mountain experience is unbecoming of its expensive ticket price.
#29 Overall
Crested ButteCrested Butte, CO
Crested Butte, CO
MOUNTAIN SCORE
70
- Extremely demanding expert terrain
- Iconic topography
- Isolated feel
- Natural insulation for skiers of different ability levels
- Reasonable ticket prices
- Modest, ordinary footprint for beginner-to-advanced visitors
- Lower snow totals than other Colorado resorts
- Hiking required for some expert trails
- Altitude that may be overwhelming for some
This striking Colorado resort is an expert’s paradise. Reasonable ticket prices counterbalance limited terrain offerings for other demographics.
#30 Overall
Park CityPark City, UT
Park City, UT
MOUNTAIN SCORE
69
- Enormous footprint
- Terrain diversity
- World-class freestyle experience
- Severely frustrating navigation logistics
- Outdated lifts in some areas
- Lack of truly extreme terrain
This uniquely expansive resort offers diverse terrain and a world-class freestyle setup. Despite recent improvements, navigation logistics are still a major sore point.
#31 Overall
PanoramaPanorama, BC
Panorama, BC
MOUNTAIN SCORE
69
- Incredible vertical drop
- Stunning surroundings
- Strong lift-served snow preservation
- Available backcountry-like snowcat experience
- Lower snowfall than other mountains
- Narrow footprint
- Small on-mountain facilities
- Difficult to lap certain areas
This remote Canadian resort brings impressive vertical and a ton of character, but it may not offer quite as well-rounded of an overall mountain experience as some competitors.
#32 Overall
SchweitzerSandpoint, ID
Sandpoint, ID
MOUNTAIN SCORE
69
- Standout off-piste near-treeline terrain
- Limited lift lines
- Local feel
- Value
- Frequent low-visibility conditions
- Occasional rain spells
- Extremely limited beginner terrain
- Convoluted backside lift setup
Despite its remote location and modest size, this Idaho panhandle resort offers a few solid advantages for destination-goers, especially during peak times.
#33 Overall
Mount BachelorBend, OR
Bend, OR
MOUNTAIN SCORE
69
- One-of-a-kind 360-degree footprint
- Substantial acreage
- High-speed lift service across all areas
- Distinctive freestyle experience
- Easy to get between front-facing mountain areas
- Proximity to town of Bend
- Extremely inconsistent openings for upper mountain, backside, and expert terrain
- No on-site lodging
- Variable conditions across different mountain areas
- Arduous hikes or runouts from backside terrain
- So-so facilities
- Annual snow totals have decreased considerably in recent years
Inconsistent openings for its most unique terrain seriously hurt this massive Oregon resort’s practicality as a destination ski area.
#34 Overall
HeavenlySouth Lake Tahoe, CA
South Lake Tahoe, CA
MOUNTAIN SCORE
69
- One-of-a-kind mountain aesthetic
- Diverse terrain, including an abundance of glades and intermediate groomers
- Ample mountain facilities
- Size
- Frustrating navigation logistics
- Long, painfully slow lifts in some areas
- Lackluster beginner terrain
- Difficult egress from some expert terrain
This Lake Tahoe area offers some of the most beautiful slopes we’ve seen anywhere. A few logistical problems diminish the resort’s size advantage.
#35 Overall
Sun PeaksSun Peaks, BC
Sun Peaks, BC
MOUNTAIN SCORE
68
- Massive footprint
- Impeccable grooming
- Convenient ski-in/ski-out base village
- Modest crowds
- Ticket value
- Relatively ordinary footprint for the size
- Limited out-of-base facilities
- Grueling 21-minute ride time up Burfield Quad
- Difficult to get between Mt. Tod and Mt. Morrisey sides
- Ease of out-of-province travel
This massive Interior British Columbia resort offers impeccable grooming and a family-friendly footprint but falls short in particularly distinctive terrain.
#36 Overall
KirkwoodKirkwood, CA
Kirkwood, CA
MOUNTAIN SCORE
68
- One-of-a-kind extreme terrain
- Local feel
- Breathtaking mountain aesthetic
- Low crowds
- Snow quality for Lake Tahoe
- Slow lifts in most areas
- Serious wind exposure that leads to regular wind holds
- Many resort areas inaccessible for beginners and intermediates
- Limited on-mountain facilities
- Subpar resort signage
This relatively undeveloped mountain isn’t for everyone, but its striking aesthetic, local feel, and extreme terrain are tough to match.
#37 Overall
Aspen MountainAspen, CO
Aspen, CO
MOUNTAIN SCORE
68
- Stunning town views
- Enjoyable intermediate cruisers
- Demanding advanced and expert terrain
- Long vertical drop for the size
- Poorly designed lift system in lower-mountain areas
- Modest footprint
- No beginner or above-treeline terrain
- Lack of lodges on Shadow Mountain side
The oldest Aspen ski area offers incredible views of town on a relatively compact footprint, but the resort could use logistical enhancements in lower-mountain areas.
#38 Overall
Powder MountainEden, UT
Eden, UT
MOUNTAIN SCORE
67
- Incredible snow preservation
- No crowds, even on powder days
- Substantial footprint
- Available snowcat and bus-serviced skiing
- Unique upside-down layout
- Majority of terrain not serviced by lifts
- Slow, fixed-grip chairs in lift-serviced areas
- Less expert terrain than competitors
- Extremely limited snowmaking
- Long journey to facilities from remote resort areas
This Utah resort’s upside-down layout, minimal lift infrastructure, and significant capacity restrictions result in one of the most unusual destination experiences out there.
#39 Overall
SolitudeSolitude, UT
Solitude, UT
MOUNTAIN SCORE
67
- Excellent snow quality
- Stunning upper-mountain footprint
- Unique terrain options for experienced visitors
- Extremely demanding expert lines
- Small footprint compared to destination resorts
- Lackluster beginner and intermediate options
- Limited on-site lodging
- Less-than-ideal lift logistics
The modestly-sized Utah mountain packs a demanding footprint and excellent snow, but true beginner and intermediate terrain offerings are limited.
#40 Overall
BrightonBrighton, UT
Brighton, UT
MOUNTAIN SCORE
67
- Excellent snow quality
- High-speed lifts
- Distinctive tree terrain for all abilities
- Access to lift-serviced backcountry
- Available night skiing
- Ease of navigation between mountain areas
- Lift logistics that result in major chokepoints
- Modest footprint and vertical drop
While it isn’t the biggest and can be annoying to get around, this Utah mountain offers exceptional Cottonwoods snow for a bargain—especially for families.
#41 Overall
Wolf CreekPagosa Springs, CO
Pagosa Springs, CO
MOUNTAIN SCORE
66
- Top-tier snow quality
- Excellent glade terrain
- Unparalleled early season
- Lack of crowds
- Meager vertical drop
- No on-site lodging
- Limited or impractical beginner terrain
This local ski area offers the highest average snow totals in Colorado, although its vertical drop is short compared to the destinations.
#42 Overall
Silver StarSilver Star Mountain, BC
Silver Star Mountain, BC
MOUNTAIN SCORE
66
- Family-friendly terrain
- Vibrant ski-in/ski-out base village
- Standout tree terrain, especially for intermediates
- Lower crowds than other similarly-sized resorts
- Value
- Unintuitive, traverse-heavy trail network
- Lack of high-alpine bowl terrain
- Shorter vertical drop than some competitors
- Limited expert terrain
- Ease of travel from most U.S. cities
While it doesn’t offer the same terrain distinctiveness as several competitors, this Western Canada resort stands out with one of the most accessible ski-in/ski-out setups on the continent.
#43 Overall
Red MountainRossland, BC
Rossland, BC
MOUNTAIN SCORE
66
- Sizable footprint
- Extremely demanding off-piste terrain
- Lack of crowds
- Local feel
- Slow lifts in every resort area
- Lower snowfall totals than some competitors
- Limited beginner and low intermediate terrain
While it lacks creature comforts that typical travelers might expect from a destination ski resort, this Western Canada resort offers a raw, authentic big mountain experience.
#44 Overall
TaosTaos Ski Valley, NM
Taos Ski Valley, NM
MOUNTAIN SCORE
66
- Superb snow quality
- Extremely demanding expert terrain
- Striking, distinctive footprint
- Intuitive layout
- Modest footprint
- Variable conditions throughout the core season
- Limited beginner and intermediate terrain
- Slow lifts in many areas
- Summit lift rarely open
This New Mexico resort is no substitute for the larger destinations, but it brings a distinct vibe that adventurous travelers will appreciate.
#45 Overall
CrystalCrystal Mountain, WA
Crystal Mountain, WA
MOUNTAIN SCORE
66
- Remarkable annual snowfall
- Wide variety of demanding expert terrain
- Available on-site lodging
- Sizable footprint for Washington state
- Striking surrounding scenery
- Wet, inconsistent snow
- Poorly designed crowd flow logistics
- Low-visibility conditions throughout winter months
- Hiking required to reach several expert areas
- Limited or impractical on-mountain facilities in some areas
Despite some notable lift capacity shortcomings, this decently-sized resort offers one of the most well-rounded experiences in Washington state.
#46 Overall
Sierra-at-TahoeTwin Bridges, CA
Twin Bridges, CA
MOUNTAIN SCORE
66
- Diverse bowl and tree terrain
- Excellent freestyle experience
- Local feel
- No on-site lodging
- Expert terrain is unpatrolled and subject to particularly variable openings
While it can’t boast the same crazy lake views, striking terrain, or expansive base village as some other Tahoe areas, this moderately-sized resort offers reasonable prices and a local feel.
#47 Overall
Mount BakerDeming, WA
Deming, WA
MOUNTAIN SCORE
65
- Top-tier snowfall
- Remote, local feel
- Extraordinary surrounding scenery
- Truly demanding in-bounds terrain
- Easy sidecountry access
- Very limited groomed terrain
- No lodging within 30 miles of the area
- Heavier powder than some other resorts
- Somewhat variable early-season conditions
- Terrain, lifts, and base facilities partially closed on weekdays
- Overcast skies most days
While it doesn’t even try to offer a true resort experience, this remote Washington area receives truly astounding snowfall totals each season and offers some of the most extreme terrain in the state.
#48 Overall
NorthstarTruckee, CA
Truckee, CA
MOUNTAIN SCORE
65
- Excellent grooming operations
- Easily skiable woods
- High-speed lifts
- Unique terrain park experience
- Merely ordinary terrain diversity
- No expert or above-treeline slopes
- Variable glade terrain openings
- Commercialized, moneyed feel
This family-friendly resort offers excellent grooming and a top-tier terrain park, but expert and above-treeline terrain is lacking.
#49 Overall
FernieFernie, BC
Fernie, BC
MOUNTAIN SCORE
64
- Incredible snow quality on good days
- Distinctive high-alpine bowl terrain
- Striking, remote footprint
- Non-existent lift lines outside holidays
- Variable conditions, especially in March
- Lackluster lift network
- Outdated facilities
- Resort summit almost never open
It’s hard not to love this remote Canadian resort on a good day, but a combination of variable weather, wide-ranging logistical shortcomings, and outdated infrastructure put it at a major disadvantage compared to its cutthroat Rockies competition.
#50 Overall
LovelandDillon, CO
Dillon, CO
MOUNTAIN SCORE
64
- Easy access from Denver
- Heavy annual snowfall
- Wide variety of bowl skiing
- Price
- Inconsistent conditions due to wind exposure
- Slow lifts in many areas
- No on-site lodging
This local Colorado ski area doesn’t deliver the same well-rounded experience as destination resorts, but it’s hard to beat the quality for the price on a powder day.
#51 Overall
PurgatoryDurango, CO
Durango, CO
MOUNTAIN SCORE
64
- Striking, remote location
- Family-friendly terrain
- Limited crowds
- Cozy base village
- Free tickets for kids 12 and under
- Modest footprint
- Lower snowfall than some other Colorado resorts
- Some terrain zones difficult to find or reach
- Poorly placed backside lodge
This San Juan resort’s local feel, stunning vistas, and decent variety of terrain make it a strong regional choice for those in the southwest.
#52 Overall
Bear ValleyBear Valley, CA
Bear Valley, CA
MOUNTAIN SCORE
63
- Varied and surprisingly challenging terrain
- Impressive views
- Isolated feel with low crowds
- Unique and interesting mountain layout
- Dated lift infrastructure and facilities
- Poor resiliency in key mountain areas
- Large proportion of terrain footprint is not lift-served
This Northern California resort has interesting terrain for skiers and riders of all ability levels as well as a unique and isolated feel, but it lacks the infrastructure to fully compete with the best resorts in the state.
#53 Overall
Sugar BowlNorden, CA
Norden, CA
MOUNTAIN SCORE
63
- Terrain for all ability levels
- Extremely demanding expert footprint
- Unique, rock-formed landscapes
- Snow quality for Tahoe
- Vintage gondola
- Short vertical drop
- Modest footprint
- Flat runouts in some areas
- Some expert terrain almost never open
This California resort can’t match the acreage and vertical drop of competing Tahoe mountains, but it stands out with trails for all ability levels and an extremely demanding expert footprint.
#54 Overall
Mount RoseReno, NV
Reno, NV
MOUNTAIN SCORE
63
- High-quality snow
- Unique glade terrain
- Demanding Chutes expert terrain
- Views of Reno
- Horrendous wind exposure, leading to lift shutdowns and scoured slopes
- Modest footprint
- Limited lake views
- Variable openings for Chutes expert area
Despite its high elevation, a number of shortcomings detract from this Nevada mountain’s appeal as a destination resort.
#55 Overall
SundanceSundance, UT
Sundance, UT
MOUNTAIN SCORE
63
- Stunning views
- Low crowds
- Upscale, rustic ethos
- Available night skiing
- Small skiable acreage
- Lack of long runs
- Limited parking
- Value
This modestly-sized Utah mountain boasts a striking, rustic feel, but most other competitors offer better overall values.
#56 Overall
Mount Hood MeadowsMt Hood, OR
Mt Hood, OR
MOUNTAIN SCORE
61
- Unique high-alpine terrain for all ability levels
- High-speed lift service
- Progressive freestyle setup
- Extremely challenging expert footprint
- Striking mountain vistas
- Available night skiing
- Windswept, icy conditions at times
- Extremely inconsistent openings for high-alpine terrain
- Large crowds, especially when high-alpine areas are closed
- Extensive hiking required to reach some terrain
- Arduous catwalk out of expert Private Reserve area
Mount Hood’s largest ski resort boasts diverse terrain and a reasonably large footprint. High-alpine areas are subject to extremely variable openings.
#57 Overall
Brian HeadBrian Head, UT
Brian Head, UT
MOUNTAIN SCORE
61
- Stunning red rock topography
- Among the most affordable of Utah resorts
- Great for advanced-intermediate skiers
- Family-friendly terrain and areas
- Available night skiing
- Out of the way for a ski-only trip
- Short vertical drop
- Later daily opening time than most resorts
- Crowd flow issues during peak times
- Base elevation can be overwhelming for some
This under-the-radar southern Utah destination offers striking terrain at an affordable price.
#58 Overall
KillingtonKillington, VT
Killington, VT
MOUNTAIN SCORE
61
- Size for Vermont
- Terrain diversity
- Lift infrastructure
- Snowmaking operations
- Lift logistics that lead to large crowds in popular areas
- Ease of navigation
Size, snow quality, and terrain diversity make this East Coast mountain incredibly appealing, but navigation could be easier.
#59 Overall
TremblantMont-Tremblant, QC
Mont-Tremblant, QC
MOUNTAIN SCORE
61
- Terrain diversity
- Ease of navigation
- Modern lift infrastructure
- Spectacular base village
- Frigid temperatures
- Crowd flow on busy days
This busy, frigid resort offers a well-rounded East Coast experience and spectacular base village.
#60 Overall
StoweStowe, VT
Stowe, VT
MOUNTAIN SCORE
61
- Demanding expert terrain
- Snow quality for Vermont
- Modern lifts in most major areas
- Ease of navigation
- Crowd flow
- Impractically placed Mansfield base facilities
Despite a few logistical flaws, this classic Vermont resort holds its own against the best on the East Coast.
#61 Overall
49 Degrees NorthChewelah, WA
Chewelah, WA
MOUNTAIN SCORE
60
- Local feel
- Low crowds
- Lighter snow than Washington resorts further west
- Modest vertical drop
- Limited true beginner terrain
- Slow lifts in most areas
Despite its dated lift infrastructure and rural setting, this Northeast Washington resort offers impressive intermediate and advanced terrain at a reasonable price.
#62 Overall
KimberleyKimberley, BC
Kimberley, BC
MOUNTAIN SCORE
60
- Family-friendly terrain
- Straightforward footprint
- Low crowds
- Ticket and nearby accommodation value
- Modestly-sized, ordinary footprint
- Lower snowfall totals than competitors
- Misleadingly difficult beginner terrain
- Ease of travel from most U.S. cities
This Western Canada resort doesn’t have the footprint or snow totals to compete with the best destinations, but it offers a great value and family-friendly setup.
#63 Overall
Snow KingJackson, WY
Jackson, WY
MOUNTAIN SCORE
60
- Formidable tree and mogul terrain
- Local feel
- Spectacular town views
- Low lift ticket prices
- Small footprint
- Lackluster beginner and intermediate terrain
- Inconsistent snow conditions on back side
This small, local Wyoming resort offers cheap lift tickets and demanding slopes—and has seen significant revitalization for the 2021-22 season. But a number of shortcomings still make the mountain less than ideal for beginner and intermediate visitors.
#64 Overall
Mount NorquayBanff, AB
Banff, AB
MOUNTAIN SCORE
59
- Local feel
- Incredible views
- Lack of crowds
- Sheltered footprint
- Small footprint
- Lack of extreme and high-alpine terrain
- Limited intermediate terrain
- Less consistent late season than other nearby resorts
Banff’s town hill is way too small to be a destination in its own right, but it offers a local vibe and empty slopes.
#65 Overall
Stevens PassSkykomish, WA
Skykomish, WA
MOUNTAIN SCORE
59
- Generous snow accumulation
- Diverse advanced and expert terrain
- Competitive terrain park experience
- Available night skiing
- Local feel
- Perennial foggy, low-visibility conditions
- No on-site lodging
- Limited parking and inconvenient overflow lots
- Short vertical drop
- Very little beginner terrain
- Limited on-mountain facilities outside base area
Despite limited parking and a short vertical drop, this modestly-sized Washington ski area punches above its weight thanks to generous accumulation and demanding terrain. Clear skies are rare due to perennial fog.
#66 Overall
Jay PeakJay, VT
Jay, VT
MOUNTAIN SCORE
59
- Top-tier East Coast snow accumulation
- Excellent glade terrain
- Extraordinary expert chutes
- Striking footprint
- Fewer crowds than resorts further south
- Frequent wind holds
- Lackluster snowmaking and grooming
- Extraordinary cold spells throughout the core season
- Slow or uncomfortable lift rides aside from tram
- Long drive from major metropolitan areas
Vermont’s northernmost resort offers class-leading snow and expert terrain, but resiliency issues hurt it against more convenient competitors.
#67 Overall
China PeakLakeshore, CA
Lakeshore, CA
MOUNTAIN SCORE
59
- Low crowds
- Sunny slopes
- Solid intermediate-to-advanced terrain for the size
- Easy access from Fresno
- Slow lifts
- Limited beginner terrain
- Variable snowfall totals
- Lift ticket prices
While it’s no substitute for a true destination ski resort, this Central California mountain offers admirable terrain variety within a convenient driving distance of Fresno.
#68 Overall
SugarbushWarren, VT
Warren, VT
MOUNTAIN SCORE
59
- Diverse terrain, including demanding expert and backcountry runs
- Breathtaking mountain aesthetic
- Local feel
- Lack of snowmaking on some trails, especially expert terrain, that leads to inconsistent conditions
- Limited beginner terrain
- Long distance between the two resort sides
This charming Vermont resort offers diverse, demanding terrain and a local feel. However, the best expert runs aren’t always open.
#69 Overall
ButtermilkAspen, CO
Aspen, CO
MOUNTAIN SCORE
58
- Top-tier terrain park experience
- High-speed lifts
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Colorado snow
- Similar-feeling terrain with very little in the way of challenge
- No lift redundancies
- Best large terrain park features closed to public for large portions of the season
- Value
Aspen’s beginner-centric mountain offers a good learning environment and excellent terrain parks, but the area is otherwise uncompetitive and overpriced.
#70 Overall
Timberline LodgeGovernment Camp, OR
Government Camp, OR
MOUNTAIN SCORE
58
- Year-round ski season
- World-class terrain parks
- Distinctive high-alpine snowfields
- Rustic, historic lodge
- High-speed lifts
- Available night skiing
- Resort never spins 100% of lifts, with high-alpine areas closed during the winter and lower elevations closed during summer
- Inconsistent conditions during winter months
- Very little true advanced and expert terrain
- Lift logistics that result in chokepoints and long lines
North America’s only four-season outdoor ski resort provides a one-of-a-kind summer experience but fails to stand out during the core winter season.
#71 Overall
NakiskaKananaskis, AB
Kananaskis, AB
MOUNTAIN SCORE
58
- High-speed lifts
- Straightforward footprint
- Enjoyable intermediate and advanced terrain
- Convenient location close to Calgary
- Lower snow totals than many competitors
- Modest footprint
- Peak-time crowds
- No on-site lodging
- Mandatory paid parking
This Alberta resort offers convenient slopes close to Calgary and higher-quality terrain than a typical local hill, but it’s no match for nearby destinations further west in the Canadian Rockies.
#72 Overall
SugarloafCarrabassett Valley, ME
Carrabassett Valley, ME
MOUNTAIN SCORE
58
- Size
- Intuitive layout
- One-of-a-kind East Coast bowl and sidecountry terrain
- Local feel
- Advance-purchase value
- Extremely variable openings for most unique terrain
- Frequent wind holds and cold spells
- Ordinary-feeling terrain on main resort face
Maine’s largest ski area is a competitive East Coast choice, but it’s a hard sell against more conveniently-located alternatives.
#73 Overall
Bretton WoodsBretton Woods, NH
Bretton Woods, NH
MOUNTAIN SCORE
58
- Upscale feel and resort infrastructure
- Family-friendly slopes, including glade terrain
- Modest crowds
- Stunning Mount Washington views
- Short vertical drop
- Lackluster advanced and expert terrain
This Mount Washington-adjacent ski area offers the most upscale ski resort experience in New Hampshire, but its lack of advanced and expert terrain is a serious drawback.
#74 Overall
EldoraNederland, CO
Nederland, CO
MOUNTAIN SCORE
57
- Convenient location
- Good snow preservation
- Strong terrain park offerings
- Lower snowfall than competing mountains
- Small footprint and vertical drop
- Lackluster beginner terrain
- No on-site lodging
- Extremely limited parking
This small Colorado resort is seriously outclassed by destination competitors, but its convenient location makes it a decent day trip option.
#75 Overall
Diamond PeakIncline Village, NV
Incline Village, NV
MOUNTAIN SCORE
57
- Excellent lake views
- Superb grooming operations
- Lack of crowds
- Impressive freestyle terrain
- Unique off-piste glade areas
- Small, exceptionally narrow footprint
- Slow lifts in many areas
- Somewhat limited on-mountain facilities
- Variable conditions, especially in glade terrain
- Day ticket prices
This Tahoe mountain will impress many visitors with breathtaking lake views, but its terrain and amenities are no match for the area’s better-known destination resorts.
#76 Overall
HomewoodHomewood, CA
Homewood, CA
MOUNTAIN SCORE
56
- One-of-a-kind mountain aesthetic, including astonishing lake views
- Excellent glade terrain
- Extraordinary accumulation in good seasons
- Low wind exposure compared to other Tahoe resorts
- Inadequate resiliency measures for bad seasons
- No direct lift operations in some areas on weekdays
- Slow lifts, some of which don’t have safety bars, in many areas
- Very limited on-mountain facilities
- Frustrating traverses to get to or from many trails
While this Tahoe hill can’t hold its own overall against the destination resorts, it boasts an astonishing, one-of-a-kind mountain aesthetic.
#77 Overall
Sunday RiverNewry, ME
Newry, ME
MOUNTAIN SCORE
56
- Size
- Reliability for East Coast
- Unique-feeling mountain pods
- Available chondola and bubble lifts
- Lack of long terrain
- So-so expert footprint
- Slow lifts in some areas
One of New England’s largest, most reliable ski resorts is held back by a so-so vertical drop and less intense terrain than some competitors.
#78 Overall
StrattonStratton Mountain, VT
Stratton Mountain, VT
MOUNTAIN SCORE
56
- Lift infrastructure
- Impeccable resort signage
- Size and terrain for southern Vermont
- Snowmaking and grooming operations
- Crowds
- Commercialized feel
- Inconvenient overflow parking
- Lack of true expert terrain
This southern Vermont mountain delivers an ideal family experience thanks to excellent grooming and easy navigation, but you’ll be giving up some snow and terrain quality for the location.
#79 Overall
WhitefaceWilmington, NY
Wilmington, NY
MOUNTAIN SCORE
56
- Terrain diversity
- Truly extreme, naturally formed Slides runs
- Long vertical drop
- Phenomenal resort views
- Extraordinary susceptibility to wind problems and lift shutdowns
- Inconsistent trail openings in some places, especially the Slides
- Slow, wind-exposed lifts in some areas
- Frigid on-mountain conditions
Severe wind problems and unreliable trail openings detract from one of the most unique, challenging resorts on the East Coast.
#80 Overall
Dodge RidgePinecrest, CA
Pinecrest, CA
MOUNTAIN SCORE
55
- Ease of access from Bay Area
- Family-friendly footprint
- Lower traffic than Tahoe resorts
- Primitive snowmaking system, leading to inconsistent terrain openings
- Slow lifts
- No on-site lodging
#81 Overall
SaddlebackRangeley, ME
Rangeley, ME
MOUNTAIN SCORE
55
- Striking aesthetic for the East Coast
- Natural insulation for skiers of different ability levels
- Lack of crowds
- Small footprint
- Underwhelming facilities
- Limited on-site lodging for smaller groups
This remote Maine mountain delivers a combination of natural beauty, empty slopes, and reasonably well-rounded terrain that’s tough to match elsewhere in the Northeast.
#82 Overall
MonarchSalida, CO
Salida, CO
MOUNTAIN SCORE
54
- Local feel
- Distinctive glades
- Continental Divide views
- Unique, hike-to Mirkwood expert zone
- Small footprint with diminutive vertical drop
- Outdated, low-capacity lift infrastructure
- No on-site lodging
- No directly-lift-accessed expert terrain
- Crowds on Saturdays
This Colorado ski area is way too small and underbuilt to be a destination mountain, but several facets make it a strong regional choice.
#83 Overall
AlpentalSnoqualmie Pass, WA
Snoqualmie Pass, WA
MOUNTAIN SCORE
54
- High annual snowfall
- Convenient location from Seattle
- Incredible advanced and expert terrain
- Striking on-mountain scenery
- Limited lower-mountain night-skiing
- Small footprint
- Extremely limited beginner and intermediate terrain
- No lift redundancies, leading to horrendous weekend and holiday crowds
- Limited, capacity-constrained facilities
- Wet, inconsistent snow quality
- Perennial fog during peak winter months
This small resort offers incredible advanced and expert terrain close to Seattle. However, weekend crowds are a major problem.
#84 Overall
Waterville ValleyWaterville Valley, NH
Waterville Valley, NH
MOUNTAIN SCORE
54
- Local feel
- Unique upper mountain setup
- Ski racing and freestyle culture
- Convenient on-mountain lodges
- Close proximity to Boston
- Limited beginner and expert terrain
- No true ski-in/ski-out lodging
- Lower snow totals than some competitors
- Upper mountain accessed only by t-bar
Despite a modest footprint size, this New Hampshire resort offers a compelling set of strengths for those driving up from Boston.
#85 Overall
Sun Valley - Dollar MountainSun Valley, ID
Sun Valley, ID
MOUNTAIN SCORE
53
- Beginner-oriented experience
- Competitive terrain parks
- High-speed lift service in most areas
- Unconventional treeless topography
- Lack of crowds
- Small footprint
- Very short vertical drop
- Extremely variable openings for advanced trails and Elkhorn zone
Sun Valley’s beginner zone is way too small and variable to warrant a trip to on its own. But for those in town already, its unconventional footprint may be worth stopping by.
#86 Overall
Smugglers' NotchJeffersonville, VT
Jeffersonville, VT
MOUNTAIN SCORE
53
- Remote, beautiful footprint
- Local feel
- Variety of distinctive terrain
- Reasonably-priced lift tickets
- Archaic, low-capacity lifts
- Lackluster snowmaking operations
- Beginner zone poorly connected with other resort areas
- Long drive from major Northeast cities
Ancient lifts and lackluster resiliency measures hold back a staple of the northern Vermont skiing scene.
#87 Overall
PicoMendon, VT
Mendon, VT
MOUNTAIN SCORE
53
- Low crowds
- Local feel
- Straightforward footprint
- Available ski-in/ski-out lodging
- Modest footprint
- Secondary lifts that don’t operate consistently
- Closed on most Tuesdays and Wednesdays
- Intermediate trail congestion at summit
This central Vermont mountain gets overshadowed by bigger competitors, but it offers decent terrain and an escape from the crowds.
#88 Overall
CannonFranconia, NH
Franconia, NH
MOUNTAIN SCORE
53
- Local feel
- Modest crowds
- Striking surrounding scenery
- Extremely demanding expert runs
- Profound wind exposure
- Inconsistent expert terrain openings
- Limited beginner terrain
- Slow lifts in some areas
- Very limited on-site lodging
While it lacks the most modern infrastructure and sees inconsistent conditions, this state-owned New Hampshire ski resort offers unique terrain and low crowds.
#89 Overall
Ski CooperLeadville, CO
Leadville, CO
MOUNTAIN SCORE
52
- Snow quality
- Lack of crowds
- Great views of multiple 14ers, and near a great mountain town
- Some of the best beginner terrain in the state
- No high-speed lifts
- Short vertical drop
- Lack of expert terrain
- Some frustrating navigation logistics
- Altitude that can be overwhelming for some
While most folks won’t want to plan a weeklong vacation here, this modestly-sized hill stands out from the destinations with an easy-to-handle footprint and lack of crowds.
#90 Overall
Mount Shasta Ski ParkMcCloud, CA
McCloud, CA
MOUNTAIN SCORE
52
- Views of the Southern Cascades, especially up toward Shasta itself
- Surprisingly reliable cover thanks to large snowmaking system and deep snowpack
- Diverse selection of intermediate terrain, including glades and short bowls
- Easy access to great backcountry
- Lack of true advanced and expert terrain
- Slow lifts
- So-so grooming
- Separate peaks make for short lappable vertical drop
- Major hassle to get to and from new expansion area
The only decently-sized California ski area north of Tahoe offers limited lift lines and stunning views of the Southern Cascades, but it’s hurt by uncompetitive infrastructure and a bizarrely-integrated recent expansion.
#91 Overall
OkemoLudlow, VT
Ludlow, VT
MOUNTAIN SCORE
52
- Lift infrastructure in most major areas
- Wide variety of beginner and groomed terrain
- Size for southern Vermont
- Lack of expert terrain
- Lift logistics at the main base area
- Crowds during peak times
This family-friendly mountain boasts modern lifts and a wide variety of groomers, but expert terrain is lacking. Crowding has gotten worse in recent seasons.
#92 Overall
Mount SnowWest Dover, VT
West Dover, VT
MOUNTAIN SCORE
52
- Intuitive physical layout
- Challenging terrain for southern Vermont
- Unique freestyle mountain face
- Snowmaking operations
- Crowds
- Outdated lift infrastructure in some areas
- Less unique terrain and lower snowfall than resorts further north
This popular resort delivers a lot for southern Vermont but struggles to handle crowds in some areas.
#93 Overall
Mount AshlandAshland, OR
Ashland, OR
MOUNTAIN SCORE
52
- Surprisingly extensive advanced and expert terrain
- Local feel, both on the mountain and at the base lodge
- Great views of surrounding area
- Ease of access from Ashland
- Tiny size
- Comparatively small annual snowfall for region
- Difficult progression from beginner to intermediate slopes
This southern Oregon resort suffers from its tiny size and dated infrastructure, though surprisingly extensive advanced terrain and great views help it stand out among local resorts.
#94 Overall
WildcatGorham, NH
Gorham, NH
MOUNTAIN SCORE
52
- Stunning Mount Washington views
- Long, consistent vertical drop
- Straightforward layout
- Profound wind exposure
- Small footprint
- No on-site lodging
One of the tallest, most stunning ski resorts in New Hampshire is held back by a modest footprint size and significant wind exposure.
#95 Overall
Eagle PointBeaver, UT
Beaver, UT
MOUNTAIN SCORE
51
- Distinct, remote footprint
- Strong advanced terrain
- Low crowds
- Value
- No lift connection from western to eastern half of the resort
- Slow lifts
- Modestly-sized footprint
- Lower snowfall than resorts further north
Utah’s most remote ski area is also arguably its quirkiest, with some frustrating logistics but a unique, local feel that’s hard not to appreciate.
#96 Overall
Mount Hood SkibowlGovernment Camp, OR
Government Camp, OR
MOUNTAIN SCORE
51
- Local feel
- Low crowds
- Extensive night-skiing footprint
- Advanced bowl terrain
- Beginner terrain off every lift
- Ancient, difficult-to-load chairlifts
- No daytime operations on weekdays
- Limited acreage and vertical drop
- Lower-quality snow than higher-elevation Hood resorts
- Variable openings for expert Outback area
This small, no-frills mountain offers less crowded slopes and extensive night skiing close to Portland.
#97 Overall
Summit at SnoqualmieSnoqualmie Pass, WA
Snoqualmie Pass, WA
MOUNTAIN SCORE
50
- High annual snowfall
- Convenient location from Seattle
- Extensive selection of bunny hills
- Available night skiing
- Wet, heavy snow
- Meager vertical drop
- Slow lifts with no safety bars in many areas
- I-90 highway background noise
- Summit East closed on weekdays
Really more of a large hill than a mountain, this area offers a solid learning environment for Seattle-area residents. Destination-goers should look elsewhere.
#98 Overall
LoonLincoln, NH
Lincoln, NH
MOUNTAIN SCORE
50
- Strong snowmaking
- Modern lifts
- Wide variety of intermediate terrain
- Close proximity to Boston
- Packed on weekends
- Cramped gondola cabins
- Limited advanced and expert terrain
- No trail connection between North and South Peak sides
This popular New Hampshire resort offers a competitive lift fleet and excellent snowmaking, but other mountains offer more unique terrain and better crowd management.
#99 Overall
Mad River GlenWaitsfield, VT
Waitsfield, VT
MOUNTAIN SCORE
49
- Extremely demanding expert terrain
- Local, uncommercialized feel
- One-of-a-kind single chair
- Small footprint
- Extremely limited snowmaking, leading to large terrain closures throughout the season
- Slow, low-capacity lifts
- Ban on snowboarders
With very limited snowmaking and a ban on snowboarders, this small Vermont mountain is about as raw as it gets for the Northeast.
#100 Overall
GoreNorth Creek, NY
North Creek, NY
MOUNTAIN SCORE
49
- Standout glade terrain
- Lower crowds than other East Coast resorts
- Value
- Lackluster on-mountain maintenance
- Strange resort layout
- Lower snowfall than Vermont resorts
- No on-site lodging
New York State’s largest ski resort stands out with excellent glade terrain, but it can’t match the snow quality or on-mountain infrastructure of the best East Coast mountains.
#101 Overall
BromleyPeru, VT
Peru, VT
MOUNTAIN SCORE
49
- Ease of navigation
- Sunny, south-facing slopes
- Local feel
- Low crowds
- Small footprint
- Lack of difficult terrain
While much smaller and less diverse than Vermont’s major destinations, this local-feeling hill will satisfy families thanks to easy navigation and low crowds.
#102 Overall
Bolton ValleyRichmond, VT
Richmond, VT
MOUNTAIN SCORE
47
- Strong regional snowfall
- Lack of crowds
- Excellent tree terrain
- Available night skiing
- Easy access to lift-accessed backcountry terrain
- Small footprint
- Limited vertical drop
- Slow lifts
- So-so snowmaking, leading to unreliable trail openings throughout the core season
This Vermont mountain is too small and undeveloped to compete with the state’s most popular destinations, but its combination of local, uncrowded slopes and strong natural snowfall may do the trick for some.
#103 Overall
Holiday ValleyEllicottville, NY
Ellicottville, NY
MOUNTAIN SCORE
46
- Strong snow totals and snowmaking
- Diverse layout for the size
- Value
- Short vertical drop
- Some crowd flow and navigational issues
Strong natural snowfall and varied terrain make this Western New York resort a strong local option, but a short vertical drop and complicated layout prevent it from competing with bigger East Coast destinations.
#104 Overall
Magic MountainLondonderry, VT
Londonderry, VT
MOUNTAIN SCORE
46
- Diverse slopes for the size
- Demanding terrain for southern Vermont
- Low on-piste skier density
- Value
- Limited snowmaking across all levels of trails, leading to widespread thin cover
- Modest footprint
- Utilitarian, run-down vibe
- Slow lifts
- Closed on most off-peak weekdays
This modestly-sized mountain doesn’t have the refinement to compete with the destinations, but it’s hard to beat for the challenge and value in southern Vermont.
#105 Overall
AttitashBartlett, NH
Bartlett, NH
MOUNTAIN SCORE
46
- High-speed lifts
- Strong intermediate terrain
- Available ski-in/ski-out lodging
- Lackluster snow totals
- Inconsistent grooming
- Limited beginner and expert terrain
This New Hampshire resort offers pleasant terrain and fast lifts, but it doesn’t especially stand out when it comes to the overall experience.
#106 Overall
WindhamWindham, NY
Windham, NY
MOUNTAIN SCORE
45
- Strong regional snowfall
- Lack of crowds
- Excellent tree terrain
- Available night skiing
- Easy access to lift-accessed backcountry terrain
- Compact, basic footprint
- Crowds hard to avoid on weekends and holidays
- Freeze-thaw cycles can disrupt conditions throughout the season
- Value
This Catskill resort can’t beat out the true East Coast destinations in snow, acreage, or terrain diversity, but it lacks some of the major issues that plague nearby competitors. Peak ticket values are among the worst of any North American ski area.
#107 Overall
HunterHunter, NY
Hunter, NY
MOUNTAIN SCORE
41
- Reliable snowmaking
- Ease of navigation
- High-speed lifts in major areas
- Horrendous crowding issues on weekends and holidays, even at bunny hill lifts
- Small, relatively basic footprint
- Some mountain areas almost never open
High-speed lifts, reasonably varied terrain, and proximity to New York City make this Catskill mountain an appealing choice on paper. However, poor crowd management really hurts the overall experience.
#108 Overall
BelleayreHighmount, NY
Highmount, NY
MOUNTAIN SCORE
40
- Strong snowmaking
- Only gondola in the region
- Fewer crowds than some competing mountains
- Vanilla footprint, even for the Catskills
- Scarce advanced and expert terrain
- Inadequate facilities for the demand
- No on-site lodging
This Catskill mountain offers family-friendly terrain and reasonable crowds for the region, but a few factors make it a tough sell for those planning a weekend getaway.
#109 Overall
Peek'n PeakClymer, NY
Clymer, NY
MOUNTAIN SCORE
39
- Impressive snow totals and snowmaking
- Charming, Tudor-style hotel and facilities
- Available night skiing
- Strong lift redundancies
- Value
- Small footprint and short vertical drop
- Undistinguished slopes
- Lack of even remotely challenging terrain
- Aging lifts in need of a refresh
- For such a small resort, requires a surprising number of lifts to traverse from end to end
This Western New York ski resort offers a good value for beginners, but the mountain lacks the challenge or aesthetic to compete with many other East Coast resorts.
#110 Overall
PlattekillRoxbury, NY
Roxbury, NY
MOUNTAIN SCORE
38
- Exceptionally low crowds
- Local feel
- Strong advanced terrain for the region
- Small footprint and vertical drop
- Limited grooming and snowmaking
- Lackluster beginner terrain
- Ancient lifts
- Closed on off-peak weekdays
The Catskill region’s northernmost ski hill offers surprisingly strong advanced terrain, but infrastructure and grooming operations are severely lacking.
#111 Overall
Big Snow American DreamEast Rutherford, NJ
East Rutherford, NJ
MOUNTAIN SCORE
36
- One-of-a-kind indoor skiing complex
- Year-round skiing and riding
- Learning-oriented slope setup
- Proximity to New York City and suburbs
- Extremely small, repetitive footprint
- Lack of even modestly challenging terrain
- Crowd management
- Commercialized feel
North America’s only indoor ski resort can’t provide terrain that’s remotely close to a real mountain, but it offers unparalleled reliability, year-round skiing, and a great environment to learn.