America’s 13 Most Scenic Ski Resorts To Visit This Winter

I’ve skied at more than twenty resorts across the United States, from the East Coast to the West Coast, and I’m always adding new spots to my bucket list with plans to hit more this season! While I’m always searching for the best powder and epic slopes, I also love finding resorts with breathtaking mountain views and charming ski towns. 

If you’re like me and appreciate stunning scenery while skiing, this curated list of the most beautiful ski resorts in the US has got you covered.

1. Telluride Ski Resort, Colorado 

Telluride Ski Resort is hands down my top pick on this list. While it’s known as a celebrity hotspot, the real highlight is the incredible scenery. I’ve skied at many resorts across the U.S., including Telluride, and let me tell you, the views here are truly one-of-a-kind. 

You’re surrounded by stunning mountain peaks, with the town nestled off in the distance, which creates a truly magical feeling.

And when you’re in downtown Telluride, walking along Main Street, you can look up and appreciate towering mountain and slope views that are just as amazing. It’s easily one of the most beautiful places I’ve been, and it definitely deserves the number one spot. You’ve got to experience it.

2. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Wyoming

Next up on the list is Jackson Hole Mountain Resort in Wyoming. While many people know Jackson Hole for its charming downtown square filled with shops, restaurants, and rustic cowboy-style accommodations, just 20 minutes away sits Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. 

Famous for its challenging expert terrain, like Corbet’s Couloir, the resort also offers incredible views from the top. Having visited personally, I’ve taken the gondola to the summit, and there’s nothing quite like standing up there, looking down at the base and out to the distant Teton Mountains. The scenery is truly spectacular.

3. Diamond Peak Ski Resort

Diamond Peak Ski Resort is a hidden gem in the Lake Tahoe area. It often gets overlooked by resorts like Heavenly and Palisades Tahoe but it definitely deserves time in the spotlight thanks to its gorgeous views, fantastic runs, community spirit, and convenient location.

The ski resort is fairly small with just 655 skiable acres of terrain but that’s what sets this resort apart. It’s not as big and crowded as others in the area and the local spirit really shines. If you are looking for an intimate experience with magical views, this is the place to be.

4. Heavenly Mountain Resort, California

If you’ve never been to Lake Tahoe, it must be added to your ski bucket list ASAP. There’s something magical about skiing on snowy peaks with views of the massive Lake Tahoe, surrounded by mountains, trees, and lively towns below. While all the ski spots in Lake Tahoe are great, Heavenly Mountain Resort offers the best scenery by far. 

From the summit, you not only get the classic snowy mountain views, but you can also see Lake Tahoe. It’s often snow-covered in winter, but if you visit during spring skiing, you might catch a glimpse of the snowy slopes and the sparkling blue lake below. It’s truly unforgettable and easily earns a top spot on this list.

5. Aspen Highlands Ski Resort, Colorado

I’ve visited Aspen several times across different seasons, and honestly, there’s no bad time to go. Whether it’s the spring with vibrant wildflowers, the summer when it’s warm and surrounded by greenery, or the fall with its stunning yellow Aspen leaves, each season has its charm. But Aspen in the winter is truly something special covered in snow. 

While there are several resorts to choose from, I recommend Aspen Highlands for its legendary terrain and breathtaking views.

From the summit and higher trails, you can see the snow-covered Maroon Bells, which is absolutely stunning. You can also catch a glimpse of downtown Aspen from the top, offering a mix of scenery. It’s one of those places I always look forward to returning to for the skiing, views, and shopping.

6. Vail Ski Resort, Colorado

Vail is one of the most iconic ski resorts in the United States, drawing visitors from all over the world. People come for the massive ski terrain and the vibrant Vail Village, which is packed with shops, dining options, and hotels.

But the beauty of the area is a big draw as well. The resort itself, along with the picturesque village, surrounding mountains, and charming homes, make it one of the most stunning resorts in the country. 

Located just about 2 hours from Denver, it’s also incredibly easy to reach. I’ve been to Vail more times than I can count, and I’m always amazed by the atmosphere and views. While you can enjoy breathtaking sights throughout the resort, if you’re an advanced skier, you definitely shouldn’t miss the Legendary Back Bowls. This area offers some of the best skiing in Colorado and views that are truly out of this world.

7. Park City Mountain Resort, Utah

Park City is the second largest ski resort in North America, with 7,300 skiable acres of terrain. It boasts an extensive number of runs and a variety of incredible views. Beyond its impressive size, I also love that Park City has two ski villages: Park City Mountain Village and Canyons Village. 

From the top of the slopes, you can admire mountain views as far as the eye can see, but you can also see both villages with their sparkling lights and charming architecture.

Meanwhile, when you are down in the villages wandering around, you can glance up and gain fantastic views of the surrounding mountains and ski slopes. No matter where you are in Park City, you’re guaranteed an amazing experience with breathtaking scenery.

8. Breckenridge Ski Resort, Colorado

Breckenridge Ski Resort is easily one of the most popular resorts in the U.S., drawing visitors from all over the world for its fantastic ski slopes and charming town. What really sets Breckenridge apart for me is its local, small-town feel.

Unlike Vail, known for its classic ski village, Breckenridge has a town filled with local businesses, restaurants, shops, and homes. It offers a cozy, homey atmosphere paired with a world-class ski resort, creating a truly unique experience. 

The views are another highlight. From the summit, you get stunning sights of the mountains and town, while from the base and around town, you’re treated to views of the slopes. I could go on about how much I love Breck, but the welcoming vibe and beautiful scenery keep me coming back (almost) every ski season.

9. Big Sky Resort, Montana

Big Sky Resort is another vast destination, offering countless amazing views from its various trails. Even if you’ve never been to Montana, you’ve likely heard about the state’s natural beauty and the pride locals take in their land, which is reflected in the atmosphere at Big Sky. 

The resort itself is stunning, from the architecture to the ski slopes, but what truly stands out are the views from the summit. On clear days, you can see numerous mountain ranges and take in the seemingly endless wilderness of Montana. It’s a surreal experience where the mountains feel like they stretch on forever.

10. Mount Bachelor Ski Resort, Oregon

Mount Bachelor is, in my opinion, one of the most underrated ski resorts. I feel like it doesn’t get nearly the recognition it deserves. Located in Oregon, not far from Bend, it’s one of the best resorts in the state and offers stunning mountain views from the top.

What makes it even more unique is that Mount Bachelor is a dormant volcano, giving you a unique experience with incredible views from the summit and the base, looking back up at the slopes. 

My favorite time to visit is in April, when you still have excellent skiing conditions paired with the spring skiing vibe and plenty of sunny bluebird days that make the snowy slopes even more beautiful with the bright blue skies behind them.

11. Stowe Mountain Resort, Vermont

The state of Vermont has some of the best skiing on the East Coast, and Stowe Resort always stands out to me. I’ve skied in Vermont a few times, but Stowe’s location in the Green Mountains makes it special. While you won’t see the greenery in winter, the snow-covered peaks are stunning. 

Stowe is unique because it combines the feel of a world-class resort, much like those out West, with excellent skiing, amenities, après-ski options, and more, but it still retains that New England charm.

The welcoming atmosphere and classic architecture of the area’s homes and buildings reflect the region’s character. It’s definitely one of the most scenic resorts, not only on the East Coast but in the entire country.

12. Taos Ski Valley, New Mexico

I absolutely love New Mexico. From my first visit to my most recent, this state has always amazed me. While it’s often known for its adobe buildings, vibrant art scene, and incredible food, it’s also a hidden gem for skiing. Among the few ski options in the state, Taos Ski Valley stands out as number one. 

What I love most about Taos, besides the fantastic terrain and powder, is that it’s not overly crowded like the major resorts, giving it a special hidden gem vibe.

The resort itself is stunning, surrounded by breathtaking mountains, and showcases traditional New Mexican architecture with its adobe and Pueblo-style buildings, reflecting the unique culture and beauty of the area. It’s truly a unique skiing destination.

13. Sun Valley Resort, Idaho

Sun Valley Resort in Idaho has been gaining popularity in recent years, and it’s easy to see why. Known for its excellent skiing, powder, and luxurious amenities like shopping, dining, and high-end accommodations, the resort offers everything you need for a memorable trip. 

But what truly stands out for me are the breathtaking views of the Sawtooth Mountains. From the summit, you can also catch glimpses of Ketchum, which is an incredible sight. Another thing that sets Sun Valley apart is its local feel, you’ll meet countless Idaho locals, which adds to its unique appeal and beauty.

Have You Skied At Any Of These Gorgeous U.S. Ski Resorts?

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