15 Highest Ski Resorts In The United States

The United States is home to hundreds of ski resorts, each offering something unique, including varying elevations. I’ve visited resorts with relatively low elevations and some of the highest in the country, and I can confidently say that elevation makes a big difference. 

Higher-elevation resorts receive better snow, have longer ski seasons, and have more exciting runs due to larger vertical drops. If you’re interested in skiing at the highest ski resorts in the US, keep reading as I highlight them below.

1. Silverton Mountain, Colorado

Silverton Mountain is incredibly unique, unlike most ski resorts in the U.S. With only one double chair lift, the terrain is exclusively for advanced and expert skiers and snowboarders. Depending on the season, you can sometimes explore unguided, though guides are often required. Avalanche gear is mandatory for riding the lift, adding to the mountain’s one-of-a-kind experience. 

If you’re up for the challenge and the thrill of legendary runs, Silverton’s summit, at 13,487 feet, offers steep rides, incredible snow, and stunning views.

2. Telluride Ski Resort, Colorado

Telluride Ski Resort is one of my top picks in Colorado. While it’s known for its celebrity appeal, upscale amenities, and charming Western-style downtown, I love the incredible skiing and breathtaking mountain views. 

These standout features are mainly due to the resort’s high elevation, with a summit reaching 13,150 feet. Unsurprisingly, the views are stunning, and the skiing is unforgettable.

3. Arapahoe Basin, Colorado

Are you surprised to see yet another Colorado resort on this list? You shouldn’t be! Colorado is known for its high elevation, after all. That’s why Denver is named the Mile High City. Denver’s elevation is a mile above sea level, so it makes sense that the ski resorts in the mountains are some of the highest in the country. 

Arapahoe Basin is one of my favorite local mountains. It doesn’t have a traditional village area or slopeside accommodations, which tends to keep the crowds away. My other favorite part about this resort is its extremely long ski season. It tends to be one of the first resorts to open and one of the last to close. This is largely because of its high elevation at 13,050 feet and due to its average snowfall of 350 inches. 

4. Loveland Ski Area, Colorado

Loveland Ski Area is a hidden gem in Colorado that is often overshadowed by popular resorts like Breckenridge and Vail, but it has much to offer. With a summit elevation of 13,010 feet, it’s one of the highest ski areas around. 

Plus, it gets an impressive average of 422 inches of snowfall yearly, so powder days are common. If you’re after a local mountain with high elevation and excellent snow, Loveland is definitely worth a visit.

5. Breckenridge Ski Resort, Colorado

One of the most famous resorts in the country, Breckenridge Ski Resort, is one of the highest in the United States. The highest elevation at Breck is 12,998 feet, off of Peak 8. 

This ski resort is also home to the highest lift in North America, the Imperial SuperChair, which is 12,840 feet above sea level. Due to its high elevation, it can get pretty windy on this chairlift, so it can close down frequently to keep riders safe. I recommend checking the forecast and making your way here on a calm day. I’ve personally ridden this lift, and the views are incredible, and the ski slopes, once you hop off, are unreal.

6. Aspen Snowmass, Colorado

Aspen Snowmass is a highly popular Colorado ski resort known partly for its proximity to downtown Aspen, where you’ll find designer shops, amazing restaurants, and upscale dining.

If you’re visiting Aspen primarily for the skiing rather than the luxurious atmosphere, Aspen Snowmass won’t disappoint. With a summit reaching 12,510 feet, the high elevation ensures excellent snow, fantastic slopes, and an unforgettable experience. And keep an eye out for celebrities, who are often spotted hitting the slopes during the winter season.

7. Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico

I love visiting New Mexico. The beautiful scenery, welcoming locals, and delicious food make it a place I could rave about all day long. But many don’t know that New Mexico also offers high-elevation destinations with great snow, perfect for winter getaways. 

Taos Ski Valley, with one of the highest elevations in the country at 12,481 feet, is a personal favorite. I especially love how this resort often flies under the radar. For a large Ikon Pass resort, it’s surprisingly affordable and much less crowded than others.

8. Copper Mountain, Colorado

Next on the list is Copper Mountain, one of Colorado’s largest ski resorts, boasting 2,538 skiable acres and a summit elevation of 12,441 feet. Often overshadowed by nearby resorts like Breckenridge, Vail, and Keystone, Copper Mountain’s quieter atmosphere is part of its charm. It feels more local and less crowded, making it a great option for those seeking a laid-back experience. 

It’s also very family-friendly, with activities like tubing, an alpine coaster, and ice skating for people of all ages to enjoy. With its high elevation, Copper gets plenty of snow, ensuring fun both on the slopes and through various winter activities.

9. Keystone Resort, Colorado

Keystone Resort is another U.S. ski destination known for its high elevation, with a summit reaching 12,408 feet. It’s known for its variety of terrain, offering plenty of groomed runs for beginners, great options for intermediates, and fantastic bowls for advanced and expert skiers. 

However, my favorite thing about Keystone is its night skiing. If you haven’t tried it, I highly recommend it. While the snow can be a bit slick, skiing under the lights and stars is a magical experience that’s definitely worth adding to your bucket list.

10. Crested Butte, Colorado 

Crested Butte is another ski resort known for its impressive elevation, with a peak reaching 12,162 feet. While the height is noteworthy, its local vibe truly sets Crested Butte apart. Its remote location, about 4 hours from Denver and 3.5 hours from Colorado Springs means it attracts fewer out-of-towners, giving it a distinctly local feel. 

The resort also prides itself on supporting local businesses, so you won’t find large chain stores or restaurants here, which adds to the charm. Crested Butte is a great choice if you’re after a high-elevation resort with a welcoming local atmosphere.

11. Ski Santa Fe, New Mexico 

Santa Fe is one of my favorite cities in the world. I could go on for hours about its charming adobe architecture, vibrant local art scene, friendly residents, and fantastic food. However, discovering a ski resort just 35 minutes from downtown was the icing on the cake. 

While Ski Santa Fe is relatively small, with only 660 acres of skiable terrain, its elevation of 12,075 feet ensures excellent snow that lasts a long time, along with breathtaking views of the surrounding area. If you want to enjoy a lively city and great skiing, I highly recommend visiting Ski Santa Fe this winter.

12. Winter Park, Colorado 

Winter Park is likely the Colorado resort I’ve skied at the most. I appreciate that it’s a relatively large resort with 3,081 skiable acres, but what really stands out to me is its high elevation of 12,060 feet and an average snowfall of around 345 inches. While these figures may not be the biggest, they combine to create a fantastic experience. 

Plus, Winter Park tends to be less crowded than some of the more famous resorts, making it my preferred choice for enjoying a welcoming local atmosphere instead of spending the day waiting in lift lines at busier places.

13. Monarch Mountain, Colorado 

Next on the list is Monarch Mountain, which you may not have heard of since it’s a hidden gem. Located in Colorado, about 2 hours and 30 minutes from Colorado Springs, this ski area is relatively small, with just 800 acres of skiable terrain. 

However, it boasts an impressive annual snowfall of 350 inches and a high elevation of 11,952 feet. If you’re seeking a lesser-known mountain with great snow and high elevation, Monarch is an excellent choice for steering clear of the big-name resorts.

14. Ski Cooper, Colorado

Ski Cooper is another resort you might not be familiar with. This small ski area is located in Leadville, Colorado, about 2 hours from Denver, and is known for its friendly local vibe. 

With only 480 skiable acres, it receives an average of 250 inches of snowfall each year and has a peak elevation of 11,700 feet. If you’re seeking a charming local experience close to Denver with a high elevation, be sure to visit this resort this winter.

15. Aspen Highlands, Colorado

Another mountain renowned for its high elevation is Aspen Highlands. With a peak summit of 11,675 feet, it may not be the tallest on this list, but it offers some of the best runs available. 

Aspen Highlands is particularly famous for its hiking terrain, which requires you to hike up before skiing down, and the bowls here are exceptional. You’ll be treated to stunning views, especially magical after a fresh snowfall. This is a must-visit if you’re looking for a resort with high elevation and exciting opportunities to hike and ski.

Have You Been To Any Of The Highest Ski Resorts In The US?

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