Where Is The Best Snowboarding In The US? (By An Expert Snowboarder)

The United States is packed with awesome ski and snowboarding spots all across, from the east to the west and everywhere in between. Choosing where to go for your next snowy adventure can be tough with so many options.

Because we have personally hit the slopes at over 20 ski resorts throughout the United States, you can be confident that we’ve discovered some of the best places for snowboarding.

To make things easier for you and ensure you spend less time researching and more time on the mountain, we’ve compiled a list of the very best snowboarding in the US!

The Best Snowboarding Resorts In The United States

I love hitting the slopes across the U.S. and I’m always planning my next adventure. So, trust me when I say I’ve got the lowdown on the coolest places to snowboard. Keep reading as I share the best resorts for snowboarding in the United States.

1. Steamboat Springs, Colorado

Steamboat Springs Resort is hands down one of the best places for snowboarding in the US, and we’ve hit the slopes there multiple times. It’s got awesome terrain for both newbies and pros, and the Champagne Powder is just unreal, guaranteeing some awesome memories on Colorado’s top-notch slopes.

Make sure to pack your trusty ski wax iron to keep your board (or skis) in top shape for all the fun you’ll have at this amazing resort!

And what’s cool about Steamboat Springs is that it’s not just your typical “ski village.” It’s a fantastic small town with loads of shops, tons of great places to eat and drink, cool galleries, and more. It’s the whole package for a memorable snowboarding getaway!

📍Where To Stay: The Steamboat Grand – If you are looking for an incredible place to stay in the area, this hotel is in a phenomenal location with countless amenities such as a hot tub, pool, fitness area, and spa!

2. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Jackson Hole holds a special place in our hearts, being the destination for our honeymoon! Yet, when it comes to the finest snowboarding in the United States, Jackson Hole Ski Resort stands out as one of the absolute best.

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort boasts some of the most exceptional expert snowboarding and skiing in the country. The resort is renowned for its iconic Corbet’s Couloir, considered one of the most thrilling ski chutes globally. If expert slopes aren’t your preference, no worries! Jackson Hole offers fantastic beginner and intermediate runs for everyone to enjoy.

What makes Jackson Hole Mountain Resort truly spectacular is its close proximity to downtown Jackson Hole, the Grand Tetons, and Yellowstone National Park. If you’re seeking breathtaking mountain views, incredible snowboarding, and an unforgettable town for dining and drinks, Jackson Hole, Wyoming is the place to be!

📍Where to Stay: Teton Mountain Lodge and Spa – If you are searching for a truly memorable place to stay, you must check out this lodge. Not only is its proximity to the ski slopes absolutely incredible but the rustic mountain decor will have you feeling right at home tucked away in the Teton Mountains!

3. Snowbird, Utah

Snowbird Ski Resort is a standout destination for both snowboarders and skiers in Utah, and we’ve enjoyed hitting its slopes on multiple occasions. Snowbird stands out for its impressive features, including some of the deepest powder in the state, with an average annual snowfall of 500 inches!

The resort is also famous for its remarkable Summit Tram, capable of whisking 125 people up the mountain in less than 10 minutes. With fantastic snow, efficient lifts and trams, and a variety of amazing trails, Snowbird is a must-visit for both snowboarders and skiers, unlike some Utah resorts.

In addition to its stellar amenities on the mountain, Snowbird offers excellent lodging and dining options just steps away from the slopes. And if you prefer city vibes, Salt Lake City is only a 40-minute drive from the resort! If you’re planning a Utah snowboarding trip, don’t miss out on the incredible experience that Snowbird has to offer.

📍Where To Stay:  Cliff Lodge and Spa – This lodge is a fabulous place to stay if you are looking to snowboard at Snowbird Ski Resort. Not only is the location impeccable but the amenities and decor are amazing as well. 

4. Mount Bachelor, Oregon

Mt. Bachelor is a go-to spot for both skiers and snowboarders, thanks to its dry snow, long ski season, and huge skiable area. The snow there is different than most in the Pacific Northwest, it’s light and dry, not the wet and heavy kind you find elsewhere.

What’s cool is that Mt. Bachelor keeps the excitement alive with its extended ski season and awesome spring skiing conditions. Picture yourself shredding down the slopes in March and April with plenty of epic bluebird days! I’ve skied in April at Mount Bachelor, and that trip is still one of my favorite skiing memories.

Don’t forget to grab your handy snowboard backpack. It’s perfect for shedding layers and stashing them away while you soak up the fantastic spring skiing vibes!

And guess what? Mt. Bachelor is the 6th biggest ski resort in North America, offering over 4,300 acres to explore. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there’s plenty of terrain to enjoy.

📍Where To Stay: The Oxford Hotel Bend – We highly recommend that you stay at The Oxford Hotel in Bend! The location is absolutely incredible right near many restaurants, bars, and breweries. Plus, Mount Bachelor is only about 30 minutes away by car and the drive is easy and scenic. 

5. Palisade Tahoe, California

Palisade Tahoe Ski Resort, formerly known as Squaw Valley, stands out as one of the largest ski resorts in North America and famously hosted the 1960 Olympic Games! With a rich history, impressive slopes, and a truly captivating village area, Palisade Tahoe offers a unique ski experience.

This resort caters to skiers of all levels, providing an excellent range of terrain for beginners, intermediates, and experts.

I visited Palisade back when I was a beginner, and I can confidently say it’s one of the best places for beginners to ski in Tahoe. However, my husband, who was an advanced snowboarder at the time, absolutely loved the expert terrain it had to offer.

So, whether you’re embarking on your first ski adventure or you’re a seasoned pro, Palisade Tahoe has something for everyone!

And when you’ve had your fill of slopes, don’t miss the chance to head down to the fantastic ski village. There, you can unwind with some après-ski fun at one of the many bars or restaurants within walking distance from the slopes. The perfect way to wrap up a day on the mountains!

📍Where To Stay: The Village at Palisades Tahoe – You cannot beat this hotels location and proximity to the slopes. You must check out The Village at Palisades Tahoe if you plan on skiing in the area!

6. Arapahoe Basin (A-Basin), Colorado

A-Basin, or Arapahoe Basin Ski Resort, is like a hidden treasure for locals in Colorado. It’s got awesome slopes for all levels of skiers and snowboarders, but it’s especially great for experts with lots of black diamond and double black diamond runs, tree skiing, and cool terrain parks.

What makes A-Basin stand out is its laid-back base area. Unlike some of the big ski resorts, there’s no lodging on-site, and it doesn’t have a bustling village. But don’t let that fool you, it’s got a few restaurants, bars, and shops at the bottom.

Now, what locals call “The Beach” is where the real fun happens. It’s the front-row parking facing the slopes and is all about hanging out, cooking up some grub, friendly chats, and tons of dogs on leashes.

Arapahoe Basin’s vibe is something else. It’s one of our favorite Colorado ski spots because of its friendly and local feel.

📍Where To Stay: Best Western Paradise Inn – We cannot recommend this hotel enough in Dillon, Colorado! We have stayed at this inn multiple times and each time we rave about our experience. Not only is it walking distance to a handful of restaurants and bars but its proximity to the ski slopes is awesome too

7. Telluride, Colorado

Telluride Ski Resort is more than just fancy stays and great slopes. It’s got a cool mix of luxury and history. Born as a mining town in 1878, it still has that old charm but with all the modern comforts you’d want in a ski resort.

Imagine skiing right into the lively downtown, finding upgraded dive bars, and enjoying postcard-worthy mountain views on the main street. Telluride isn’t super close to Denver, but a quick layover at Denver Airport can get you to the airport in Telluride just 10 minutes from downtown. It’s a smooth start to your perfect vacation.

📍Where To Stay: Luxury Auberge Madeline Residence Building – If you are looking to ski the unbelievable mountains at Telluride Ski Resort, you must check out this hotel. Not only is its location superb but the amenities and decor are truly outstanding. 

8. Vail, Colorado

Vail stands out as one of the most sought-after ski resorts in the United States, and there’s good reason for it! Vail Ski Resort is renowned for offering some of the country’s legendary snowboarding and skiing experiences, catering to both beginners and expert thrill-seekers with its iconic terrain, including The Legendary Back Bowls.

Step into Vail Village, and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a European ski town. The snow-covered restaurants and chalets create a picturesque scene, with the après-ski experience extending well into the evening.

If you prefer high-end dining, return to your slope-side accommodation where your ski gear will be taken care of, dried, and ready for you by the gondola in the morning. Meanwhile, you can get ready and take a stroll to one of the many fine-dining options in the village!

📍Where To Stay: Four Seasons Resort Vail – If you are in search of a high-end place to stay that is right near the slopes and village, look no further. The Four Seasons Resort in Vail is the perfect place to stay for a memorable vacation in one of Colorado’s most famous mountain towns. 

9. Aspen, Colorado

Aspen is undeniably one of the most upscale and best ski destinations in the U.S., offering superb snowboarding, luxurious five-star hotels, exceptional dining, and high-end designer shopping.

What many might not realize is that Aspen is divided into four distinct mountains. Starting with Aspen Mountain, where you can seamlessly ski directly into downtown for an array of shopping and dining experiences.

Next up is Aspen Highlands, known for its absence of beginner terrain and the renowned hike-to Highlands Bowl.

Snowmass boasts its own village area, fantastic ski-in/ski-out accommodations, and stands as the largest of the four mountains.

For families and beginners, there’s Buttermilk, hosting the most beginner-friendly terrain and serving as the annual venue for the X Games.

If navigating through these mountains seems overwhelming, don’t worry! Aspen is efficiently connected through an outstanding free shuttle system, and a single lift ticket grants access to all four resorts.

And when it comes to getting there, Aspen has its own airport! With direct flights from San Francisco, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Austin, Dallas, Houston, Chicago, Atlanta, and Denver, getting to this luxurious mountain retreat is a breeze.

📍Where To Stay: St. Regis Aspen Resort – For those heading to snowboard or ski in Aspen, you must stay at the St. Regis Resort in Aspen. Not only is this resort in an optimal location but the amenities, interior, and exterior will have you blown away!

10. Big Sky, Montana

Montana is gaining popularity among vacationers, and it’s no wonder why. The state boasts stunning hidden gems, mountain landscapes, authentic western vibes, and a plethora of outdoor activities.

In the winter, Big Sky emerges as the ultimate destination for a unique snowboarding and skiing experience. True to its name, Montana’s bluebird days in Big Sky create an atmosphere where the sky seems a bit bigger, stretching endlessly.

As the largest ski resort in Montana, Big Sky offers ample space for everyone to have a great time. And when you’re in the vicinity, it’s hard to beat the charm of Bozeman, a perfect town to kick off or wrap up your vacation!

📍Where To Stay: Montage Big Sky – We highly recommend staying at the Montage Big Sky! This 5 Star Resort has tremendous dining options, a fabulous spa, and unbelievable views. 

11. Copper, Colorado

Copper often takes a backseat to the more prominent Colorado resorts like Vail, Breckenridge, Aspen, and Telluride. However, I’m here to emphasize that Copper deserves a spot on your bucket list for an unparalleled snowboarding experience in the US.

As the home to the United States Ski Team, it offers an abundance of steep terrain and back bowls to explore. If you’re more into the park scene, don’t miss the Superpipe!

Conveniently situated off I-70, the drive from Denver to Copper is straightforward, and you’ll find a surprising array of accommodations and restaurants at the base. Positioned between Breckenridge and Vail, Copper tends to have smaller crowds and shorter lift lines, a notable advantage for any passionate snowboarder or skier.

📍Where To Stay: Tucker Mountain Lodge – This lodge is a great option for those looking to be near the slopes and near countless restaurants and bars in the area!

12. Sun Valley, Idaho

Idaho might not be the first place that comes to mind for skiing, but that perception is changing for a good reason. Sun Valley Resort in Idaho is gaining popularity for its fantastic conditions, catering to both skiers and snowboarders. The green runs from summit to base are perfect for beginners and kids, while the more challenging Mayday or Sunrise bowls provide thrills for the experts.

With a downtown area just minutes away from the slopes, it’s a good idea to visit before the lack of lift lines becomes a distant memory!

📍Where To Stay: Sun Valley Resort – You must check out this incredible resort if you plan on hitting the nearby slopes! Not only is this resort right near the ski slopes but this lodge has incredible restaurants, a spa, fitness center, and so much more to offer to ensure you have a memorable stay! 

13. Solitude, Utah

Solitude Ski Resort is a fantastic choice for snowboarders seeking a more intimate resort experience. Don’t be deceived by its smaller scale though, this resort boasts an annual average of 500 inches of snowfall and an impressive 1,200 acres of superb skiable terrain!

The village area adds to the charm, featuring an exceptional restaurant called the Honeycomb Grill. Whether you’re looking for lunch or a post-ski drink, it’s a must-visit. And if you’re up for a treat, their Campfire S’mores drink could easily be the best beverage you’ve ever had!

📍Where To Stay: Powderhorn Lodge – You must check out the Powderhorn Lodge when snowboarding or skiing Solitude Ski Resort. This lodge is in a fabulous location and is sure to make for a memorable ski trip!

14. Breckenridge, Colorado

Breckenridge, or Breck, stands as another immensely popular resort in Colorado! It offers an abundance of terrain and trails, catering to skiers and snowboarders of all levels.

One standout feature of Breckenridge Ski Resort is its claim to the highest chairlift in North America, the Imperial Express Superchair.

Beyond its slopes, the town of Breckenridge itself adds to the appeal. Brimming with charm, lively restaurants, bars, and countless boutique shops, Breck is the perfect destination for an idyllic mountain getaway with some truly incredible slopes.

I’ve personally skied Breckenridge on multiple occasions and each time I leave with so many great memories.

📍Where To Stay: Hyatt Residence Club Breckenridge Main Street Station – We cannot recommend this Hyatt enough. Not only can you walk to countless restaurants, bars, and shops but its close proximity to the slopes is unbelievable as well!

15. Keystone, Colorado

One of my personal go-to ski destinations in Colorado is Keystone! Situated just a stone’s throw away from the renowned Breckenridge Ski Resort, Keystone offers a slightly less crowded experience compared to its larger counterpart.

Keystone stands out for a significant reason, it hosts the largest night skiing in the state of Colorado. So, grab your night skiing goggles and head to Keystone for some exhilarating late-night runs!

Additionally, Keystone is actively enhancing its resort experience by introducing a new lift and expanding accommodations in the village, making it a fantastic choice if you prefer slope-side stays.

If you are looking to save a bit on accommodation costs, consider exploring the nearby town of Dillon. This charming mountain town, located on the picturesque Dillon Reservoir, provides a delightful lodging option not far from Keystone.

📍Where To Stay: The Keystone Lodge and Spa – This lodge is a fantastic option for those looking to stay slope-side with some incredible amenities! We love that this lodge has a fabulous spa, fantastic views, and is right near the ski slopes. 

16. Crystal, Washington

Crystal Mountain is the biggest ski spot in Washington state, offering 2,600 acres of terrain for snowboarders and skiers to enjoy! With nearly 500 inches of snow each year and just a 2-hour drive from Seattle, it’s a winter paradise. And on those rare snowless days, you get an awesome view of Mt. Rainier! The base area might be small, but that just means fewer crowds, making the fantastic ski conditions even more worth it.

📍Where To Stay: LOGE Alta Crystal Resort at Mt. Rainier – This is one of the best hotel options near Crystal Mountain and its rustic mountain aesthetic will have you feeling right at home!

17. Heavenly, California

Heavenly Ski Resort is incredibly popular for a multitude of reasons. One of its major draws is the exceptional tree skiing available, catering not only to experts but also providing great options for beginner and intermediate skiers to enjoy the trees.

The resort’s uniqueness and breathtaking views add to its appeal. Situated between the California and Nevada border, you can ski down either side in the same day. Plus, you’re treated to marvelous views of Lake Tahoe below.

Another significant reason for Heavenly’s popularity is its fantastic location near Lake Tahoe. Here, you can master some of the best skiing, soak in magical views, and explore Tahoe’s nightlife, all in a single day. If you haven’t experienced Heavenly yet, it’s a must-add to your bucket list!

📍Where To Stay: Marriott Grand Residence Club Lake Tahoe – Not only is this hotel absolutely adorable with its mountain vibes and rustic decor but its location is fabulous with countless restaurants, bars, and shops within walking distance. Plus, the ski resort is just up the road!

18. Brighton, Utah

Brighton Resort is a standout ski spot in Utah for a few great reasons. Firstly, it’s the only Utah resort where you can reach all the ski areas using high-speed quad chairlifts.

Brighton’s awesome ski school is another big plus for both kids and adults. There are plenty of choices based on age, group or private lessons, and day or night sessions.

And if you’re into night skiing, Brighton has the most trails for it in all of Utah with over 20 of them! Like other Utah resorts, Brighton gets loads of snow, over 500 inches a year. Located just before Solitude, with fewer accommodation options at the base, consider renting one of the cute A-frames nearby, pack a lunch, and explore those hidden powder spots days after a snowstorm!

📍Where To Stay: The Grand America Hotel – One of our favorite things to do when skiing or snowboarding in Utah is to stay in Salt Lake City and drive up to the resorts! We love this because it is a quick drive to phenomenal skiing but gives you the option to stay in the city with countless restaurants and shopping. 

19. Sugar Bowl, California

Sugar Bowl stands out as a fantastic ski resort near Lake Tahoe. Renowned for its substantial annual snowfall and challenging expert ski terrain, it offers a unique experience.

Situated a bit farther from the bustling Lake Tahoe, Sugar Bowl provides all the perks of the area, especially massive amounts of snow, without the large crowds often found at other resorts in the region.

An added advantage is the opportunity to save some money by opting for accommodations a little off the beaten path while still enjoying an incredible mountain getaway!

📍Where To Stay: Gravity Haus Truckee-Tahoe – This hotel is a great option for those looking to snowboard at Sugar Bowl. Not only do we love the aesthetic of this hotel and its rustic yet modern decor but we love that it resides in the town of Truckee as well!

20. Crested Butte, Colorado

Crested Butte, a hidden gem among Colorado’s ski resorts, is renowned for its superb slopes, incredible ski village, and a distinct local vibe. While reaching this resort may require some extra effort, the experience is undeniably worth it.

The scenic views surpass expectations, the ski village exudes a genuinely local atmosphere, with nearby local restaurants and shops. Notably, Crested Butte tends to remain pleasantly uncrowded, adding to its appeal.

📍Where To Stay: Elk Mountain Lodge – You must stay at the Elk Mountain Lodge when snowboarding at the charming Crested Butte Ski Resort. This lodge gives off warm and homey vibes that will have you immediately falling in love with this small Colorado mountain town. 

21. Mammoth, California

Mammoth is a great destination for skiers and snowboarders, thanks to its diverse terrain that caters to everyone from beginners to experts. It’s particularly famous for its Unbound Terrain Parks, offering a choice of 10 different parks with various obstacles, including halfpipes, jumps, and more.

Situated on the eastern side of California, Mammoth is recognized for its consistent supply of dry snow throughout the year. With breathtaking views, incredible trails, and an impressively long season that can extend until July, this ski resort offers an all-around fantastic winter experience.

📍Where To Stay: The Village Lodge – This hotel is a fantastic place to stay when visiting the Mammoth Lakes area on a ski or snowboarding trip! We love that this lodge is right near the slopes and walking distance to several restaurants, bars, and shops. 

22. Wolf Creek, Colorado

Wolf Creek may be less recognized, but it deserves a spot on the list of the best snowboarding destinations in the US. This Colorado ski resort boasts some of the finest hike-to terrain in the state.

Located southwest of Denver in the Pagosa Springs area, about 4 hours and 30 minutes from downtown Denver, Wolf Creek provides a unique experience. If you are traveling from New Mexico seeking a Colorado resort with fewer crowds, Wolf Creek is an excellent choice, offering a closer alternative to the more prominent resorts like Vail or Breckenridge.

📍Where to Stay: Club Wyndham Pagosa – You must check out Club Wyndham Pagosa when snowboarding at Wolf Creek Ski Resort. This is the perfect place to come back and unwind after a long day on the slopes!

23. Brundage, Idaho

Brundage Mountain Resort is known as one of Idaho’s top ski spots, especially for its incredible snow conditions, getting over 300 inches annually. Located in central Idaho, it’s a go-to place for anyone looking for the best backcountry skiing and snowboarding in the state.

📍Where To Stay: Crystal Beach Lakefront Condos – These condos are the perfect place to stay after hitting Brundage Mountain Resort. Not only do you get incredible views of the Payette Lake but it’s also under 20 minutes to get to the ski slopes!

24. Killington, Vermont

Killington is a top spot for snowboarding on the east coast, possibly the best. With over 250 inches of natural snow each year and impressive snowmaking capabilities, the conditions are always fantastic.

I’ve personally experienced skiing at Killington and can attest to the fantastic snow, amenities, views, and trails it offers.

Known as the “Beast of the East,” Killington is also the largest ski resort on the east coast. For snowboarders looking for great snow and plenty of terrain, Killington, Vermont is a must-visit.

📍Where To Stay: Killington Grand Resort Hotel – This hotel is the perfect place to stay after hitting the ski slopes! We love its close proximity to the ski resort and its many marvelous amenities and features. 

25. Taos, New Mexico

Taos Ski Valley boasts some of the finest skiing in all of New Mexico. With over 300 days of sunshine annually, it’s an ideal resort for bluebird ski days, and it receives more than 300 inches of snow each year.

The ski terrain at Taos is diverse, catering to both beginners and experts. While there’s something for everyone, the resort particularly excels in offering challenges for expert-level snowboarders and skiers. Highline Ridge and West Basin Ridge are standout areas if you are looking for an intense experience.

What sets Taos apart from other New Mexico ski resorts is its exceptional amenities, lodging, and dining options. The charming village area hosts numerous shops, cafes, hotels, and more.

If you are in search of top-notch snowboarding in the US, especially if you want to avoid the larger resorts like Vail and Heavenly, Taos is a must-visit for an unforgettable ski trip!

📍Where To Stay: The Blake at Taos Ski Valley – This hotel is the perfect place to stay when snowboarding at Taos! We love that it is ski in/ski out and adore the mountain aesthetic and architecture of this building. 

FAQs About The Best Snowboarding In The US

Keep reading below as I answer a few commonly asked questions about the best snowboarding in the United States.

Where is the best place to snowboard in the US?

The top destination for snowboarding in the US is Steamboat Springs. Noteworthy alternatives include Jackson Hole, Snowbird, and Mt. Bachelor.

What state has the best skiing and snowboarding?

Colorado is the ultimate spot for skiing and snowboarding, with a variety of resorts like Vail, Breckenridge, Keystone, Crested Butte, Aspen, Telluride, and more. Each resort has its own charm, from local vibes to vast back bowls and luxury offerings. For an unforgettable skiing and snowboarding experience, Colorado has it all!

Where is the best snowboarding in Colorado?

The best snowboarding in Colorado can be found at Steamboat Springs, Vail Resorts, and A-Basin.

Where is the best place to snowboard for beginners in the USA?

For the best places to snowboard for beginners in the United States we recommend checking out Steamboat Springs or Palisades Tahoe. Both of these resorts offer incredible terrain for beginners and have incredible mountain towns and ski villages.

Final Thoughts On: Where Is The Best Snowboarding In The US?

The United States offers an abundance of fantastic snowboarding destinations, each with its own unique appeal.

The best snowboarding in the United States is found in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. However, if you’re looking for the popular slopes at Vail Resort, the challenging terrain of Jackson Hole, the snowy trails at Snowbird, or the vast expanses of Mt. Bachelor, there are countless resorts catering to every snowboarder’s preferences.

Whether you’re after local vibes, back bowls, or luxury experiences, the best snowboarding in the U.S. promises excitement and variety for riders of all levels.