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Skiing Destinations

Skiing Destinations

The best ski resorts and skiing destinations in the US and worldwide, with 2026-27 opening days, Epic vs. Ikon pass tips, family ski resorts and things to do besides skiing.

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Best Ski Resorts & Skiing Destinations: US Ski Towns, Opening Days, Passes & Tours

Quick answer: Some of the best skiing destinations include Colorado's Breckenridge, Vail, and Aspen, Park City, Utah, Jackson Hole, Wyoming, Lake Tahoe, the Swiss, French, and Austrian Alps, Whistler in Canada, and Japan's powder-filled resorts. For 2026–27, Breckenridge is set to open November 6, Vail November 13, and Park City November 20, weather permitting.

Planning a ski trip and comparing the best ski resorts in the US or around the world? This guide covers top ski towns like Breckenridge, Vail, Aspen, Park City, Jackson Hole, and Lake Tahoe, the best ski resorts for families and kids, when resorts open for the 2026-27 season, whether to buy an Epic or Ikon pass, and what to do at ski resorts besides skiing.

Start Here: Your Ski Trip Planner

Quick Links: USA Ski & Snow Tours • Colorado Ski & Snow Tours • Utah Outdoor Activities • Colorado Snowmobiling Tours

Ski Season 2026–27: Opening Days to Know

Opening dates always depend on weather and snow conditions, so check each resort before you book.

Explore: Breckenridge Outdoor Activities • Colorado Ski & Snow Tours • Utah Outdoor Activities

Best Ski Resorts in the US

  • Colorado: Breckenridge, Vail, Aspen Snowmass, Keystone, Beaver Creek, Steamboat, and Telluride.
  • Utah: Park City, Deer Valley, Snowbird, and Alta, many within an hour of Salt Lake City's airport.
  • Wyoming: Jackson Hole's legendary steep terrain.
  • California and Nevada: Lake Tahoe resorts and Mammoth Mountain.
  • Vermont and New England: Stowe, Killington, and classic East Coast skiing.

Explore: Colorado Ski & Snow Tours • Utah Outdoor Activities • Jackson Hole Outdoor Activities • Lake Tahoe Outdoor Activities

Best Ski Resorts Around the World

  • The Alps: Zermatt, St. Moritz, Chamonix, Courchevel, St. Anton, and the Dolomites combine huge terrain with charming alpine villages.
  • Canada: Whistler Blackcomb, Banff, and Lake Louise.
  • Japan: Famous for deep, light powder in Hokkaido and the Japanese Alps.
  • Southern Hemisphere: Chile, New Zealand, and Australia offer skiing during North America's summer.

Explore: Alps Ski & Snow Tours • Switzerland Ski & Snow Tours • Japan Ski & Snow Tours

Should You Buy an Epic Pass or an Ikon Pass?

If you plan to ski more than a few days, a multi-resort pass can save money. The Epic Pass covers Vail Resorts mountains like Vail, Breckenridge, Park City, and Whistler, while the Ikon Pass covers resorts like Aspen Snowmass, Steamboat, Jackson Hole, and many more. Compare which resorts you'll actually visit, and watch for blackout dates on lower-priced passes, such as holiday weeks.

Explore: USA Ski & Snow Tours • Colorado Snowmobiling Tours

Things to Do at Ski Resorts Besides Skiing

  • Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing
  • Snowmobile and dog sled tours
  • Gondola rides and scenic lifts
  • Tubing, ice skating, and sleigh rides
  • Hot springs, spas, and après-ski
  • Winter festivals and holiday events in mountain towns

Explore: Colorado Snowmobiling Tours • Colorado Ski & Snow Tours • USA Ski & Snow Tours

Best Ski Resorts for Families & Kids

Look for resorts with strong ski schools, gentle beginner terrain, easy village access, and plenty of non-ski activities. Breckenridge, Keystone, Park City, Deer Valley, and Whistler are popular family picks.

Explore: Breckenridge Outdoor Activities • Utah Outdoor Activities • Lake Tahoe Outdoor Activities

Plan Your Ski Trip Today

Trying to decide where to ski this season?

Get Your Ticket makes it easy to explore ski towns, winter events, and tours. Our goal is simple: help you spend less time searching and more time on the mountain.

Browse Now: USA Ski & Snow Tours • Breckenridge Tours & Activities • Aspen Tours & Activities • Jackson Hole Tours & Activities

Popular Ski Trip Questions

When does Breckenridge open for the 2026–27 season?

Breckenridge is scheduled to open November 6, 2026, weather permitting.

When does Vail open for the 2026–27 season?

Vail Mountain is scheduled to open November 13, 2026.

When does Park City open for the 2026–27 season?

Park City Mountain is targeting November 20, 2026.

What is the best month to go skiing?

Late January through early March usually brings the deepest snow and best conditions in North America. Early December and April can offer lower prices and smaller crowds.

What is the best ski destination for beginners?

Resorts with large beginner areas and top ski schools, like Breckenridge, Keystone, Park City, and Deer Valley, are great places to learn.

Is an Epic Pass or Ikon Pass worth it?

If you'll ski more than a few days at partner resorts, a multi-resort pass often pays for itself. Compare resort lists and blackout dates first.

Where can I ski in the summer?

Head to the Southern Hemisphere, like Chile, New Zealand, or Australia, where the ski season typically runs from about June to September.

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Plan Your Ski Trip

Carve fresh corduroy in Colorado, ski Utah powder, explore the Alps, chase Japanese snow, or plan a cozy family trip to the mountains.

Start exploring skiing destinations with Get Your Ticket and discover your next winter adventure.

Keep Exploring the Mountains: Breckenridge Tours & Activities • Aspen Tours & Activities • Jackson Hole Tours & Activities • Lake Tahoe Tours & Activities

More Ski Destinations: Alps Ski & Snow Tours • Switzerland Ski & Snow Tours • Japan Ski & Snow Tours

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