For skiing and snowboarding lovers, choosing the right destination can make all the difference. Some have their favorite spots they go back to every winter while, for others, the thrill of visiting a new resort and exploring different slopes is what all the experience is about.
With Colorado and its Rocky Mountains topping the list of favorite resorts, we’ve gathered a list of the top 5 ski destinations in the US for you to choose from. Whether you’ve been up in the mountains all your life or can’t decide the right destination for this winter, we’re certain you’ll find a resort that’s right for you:
1. Vail, Colorado
Since it was established in 1962, Vail has had the largest ski resort in Colorado. For decades, Vail was the chosen destination for celebrities. In recent years, however, it’s become more and more popular among snowboarders.
Even if you’re not a big fan of the slopes, Vail is still a good destination to go hiking, mountain biking or simply to enjoy the beautiful landscape year round.
2. Park City, Utah
After linking two of North America’s greatest resorts, Park City has become the largest ski destination in the United States according to their official website. Park City is conveniently located 35 miles away from Salt Lake City’s airport, and there are 7,300 acres of skiable area with renovated gondolas and new restaurants.
The area served as home to several of the major skiing and snowboarding events during the 2002 Winter Olympic Games. While the season at Park City is shorter than in other places, its convenient location and easy access make it the perfect destination for families.
3. Aspen, Colorado
Best known as the playground of the rich and famous, this world-known ski resort located in the Rocky Mountains offers much more than miles and miles of skiable slopes. Just like their website states, you can truly visit this mountain town all year to enjoy their multiple outdoor activities.
Visiting is one thing; living there, however, is another story. Due to its popularity, Aspen has some of the most expensive real estate prices in the country and middle-class residents have had to move to other parts of Colorado because they cannot afford to stay there.
On a brighter and musical note, as one of the top 5 ski destinations in the US, Aspen even has two popular songs written by John Denver who penned the hits once he settled in the area.
4. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
This valley located between the Teton Mountain and the Gros Ventre ranges, Jackson Hole is one of the most iconic places to go skiing or snowboarding in North America. The place is named after the historically significant valley and it offers some of the steepest and most challenging slopes in the country.
However, if you’re starting out as a skier, don’t let Jackson Hole’s fame keep you from visiting this iconic place. There are dozens of open trails for beginner and intermediate skiers, or those just looking for a picture perfect destination to spend this winter.
Additionally, and depending on when you visit, you could also take a side trip to Yellowstone National Park.
5. Telluride, Colorado
This list of top 5 ski destinations in the US started in Colorado and it also ends in the Rocky Mountain-state. Due to its location, Telluride is a year-round destination for skiing and snowboarding lovers.
If you’re a first-time skier, you can rest easy as 50% of the slopes are for beginner and intermediate people. Telluride has been ranked the #1 resort by Condé Nast on numerous occasions and the city itself is one of the best for its size in the country.
There are several other destinations you can visit this Winter to go skiing or snowboarding. Regardless of your level of expertise on the slopes, it’s always best to stay safe and travel with your auto insurance up-to-date.
Our friendly agents can help you find the right auto insurance policy to meet your needs and budget. Call 1-800-INFINITY for a quick quote.