The ZRankings’ rankings consider various factors, including snow quality, town scene, and lodging base. These factors are summed up to create a “Pure Awesomeness Factor,” or PAF. This winter has been among the best on record, with ski resorts from Vermont to California having 100% of their terrain open. The winter weather was particularly favorable for ski resorts on the west coast, particularly on the interior ranges.
Keystone Resort
The resort offers more than 1,500 lodging options ranging from bed and breakfast rooms to private homes to large, gourmet condos. Keystone is a great place to stay if you’re looking for a special getaway. The resort offers an Epic Pass program and several special packages, including ski-in/ski-out accommodations.
The resort’s main mountain, Keystone Mountain, features more than a hundred trails during peak conditions. It has two gondolas and surface lifts, including the River Run Gondola and the Outpost Gondola. The Outpost Gondola runs from the top of Dercum Mountain to the main base area. There are also two bowls and a tree skiing area called the Outback.
With its 3,000-acre terrain, Keystone Resort is ideal for families. It offers a signature Kidtopia program where children under 12 can enjoy a day of skiing for free. It also boasts the largest snow fort in the world. The resort also offers a variety of activities for families, including dog sledding, sleigh rides, and ice skating.
Aspen Snowmass
Aspen Snowmass is a Colorado ski resort frequently rated as the best in the US. Aspen Mountain, Snowmass Mountain, and Buttermilk Mountain are four ski mountains. Snowmass is nine miles away from downtown Aspen and is more geared toward families. Snowmass is the best choice for intermediate skiers and intermediates, and Buttermilk is the best for beginners. Both Snowmass and Aspen Mountain are accessible with one lift ticket.
The Aspen Snowmass ski resort has four mountains, each with its distinct personality. The Dumps on Aspen Mountain and the glades beneath the High Alpine Lift are some of the resort’s best features. Other great features include the Highlands Bowl and the Tiehack. The apres-ski scene is also top-notch. There is a daily noon groomer, which is an incredible feature.
Powder Mountain
Powder Mountain, located about an hour north of Salt Lake City, is a world-class ski resort with over 8,484 acres of skiable terrain. Nine lifts can take you up and down the mountain. This resort also features nature trails and a cultural focus. It also offers private lessons on natural snow.
Powder Mountain has 154 trails and nine lifts to get you up the mountain. It also has extensive terrain served by snowcat shuttles. The piste terrain is divided into beginner, intermediate and advanced sections. There are also off-piste areas for expert riders. The number one ski resort in the US has over 2,000 acres of skiable terrain.
The mountain also offers backcountry tours. Its knowledgeable guides know where the best runs are located. One area is called Don’t Mention It and features 3,000 vertical feet of terrain, wide-open bowls, and steep chutes.
Park City Mountain Resort
Park City Mountain Resort is the largest ski resort in the US and is a must-visit for anyone who loves skiing. It offers 330 trails and over 7,000 acres of skiable terrain. The mountain averages 355 inches of snowfall each year. The ski area is also home to a daycare center and a ski school. The resort also has many dining and entertainment options. It offers free shuttle service from various parking lots in town.
The Park City Mountain Resort has two base areas. One is located at the base of Park City Mountain, while the other is in Canyons Village. The Canyons Village area offers a mix of terrain and is home to some of the best on-hill restaurants.
Breckenridge
Breckenridge, Colorado, is a large ski resort that offers a diverse range of terrain. The area includes five peaks and nearly 2,900 acres, with 31 lifts and 155 trails. There is a good mix of expert and beginner terrain and many world-class parks. The mountain also has one of the highest percentages of beginner trails in the world, and it hosts the largest extreme winter event in the world.
Breckenridge is known for its family-friendly atmosphere. The town is easily accessible from Denver, and the resort is highly popular during the holidays. Visitors can experience a wide range of activities, including cross-country skiing.
